Finding Balance in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is the perfect balance of Eastern mysticism with Western dynamism. This contrast makes Hong Kong a very special and unique city with plenty of culture, nature and shopping!

Hong Kong is a leading travel destination with over 5 million visitors annually. It is one of the most densely populated cities in the world and has more skyscrapers than any other metropolis.

Hong Kong is an embodiment of yin and yang, the Chinese concept of balance. Within the bustling city, you will find green parks with beautiful gardens that bring you right back into the present moment. Alongside the city, skyline are rolling hills offering their natural beauty. Victoria Park has famous paths where hikers are surrounded by the verdant lushness. Architects take Feng Shui, or the energy of the elements, into consideration when constructing the buildings giving the city precision that can be felt.

 There is so much to see and do in Hong Kong, here are some of my favourite attractions:

• Tian Tan Buddha – Sitting 34 metres above Po Lin Monastery in Ngong Ping, this gigantic bronze Buddha statue symbolizes the balance between man and nature. It is accessible by glass-bottom cable car accessed from the airport, or you can hike the 268 steps to the top.
• Victoria Peak –  This is the highest hill on Hong Kong Island. You can take the Tram to the top where you will find the Peak Tower and Sky Terrace and some amazing views!
• 10,000 Buddhas Monastery – Although no monks actually live here, this one of Hong Kong’s most unique Buddhist temples and home to more than 10,000 Buddha statues.

Tian Tan Buddha working on that tan!

• Star Ferry – This historical ferry runs between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. Not only is it a practical and economical mode of transportation, it offers movie-worthy views of the skyline.
•  Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Art – Once a 150 year-old police station, this independent art space now exhibits all different types of art, from theatre to history.
• Lamma Island – With just a quick 20-minute ferry ride, you can take a time out from the city and enjoy some fresh seafood and pristine beaches.

 

On the way to some amazing views.

Hong Kong International Airport, at Chek Lap Kok Island, is one of the best airports in the world with excellent shopping, leisure facilities, and restaurants. There are plenty of ways to travel to the city from the airport. The airport express train, public buses and taxis are the most popular. Hotel coaches and ride-shares are available as well. Once in the city, the best way to travel is by the Mass Transit Railway (MTR). Although it can be crowded, it is one of the safest ways to travel throughout the city. Taxis, public buses and the ferry are alternative safe and efficient transportation methods.

Being one of the worlds most visited cities, Hong Kong offers an array of fabulous accommodation. The bright Hotel ICON offers accommodating service and excellent style while The Peninsula is a regal classic with spectacular views of Victoria Harbour. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel is one of my favourite places to stay in the city because of its great location, incredible top-floor M Bar and relaxing spa services. The Conrad and Hotel 108 are near electrifying shopping centres and restaurants so you can rest assured that a good time is just outside.

Yum, get in my tum!

Caprice, Lung King Heen and Sushi Saito in The Four Seasons Hotel are only scratching the surface of the amazing food in Hong Kong. Wagyu is an Australian-rooted steakhouse that offers some of the best beef in the city. Mott32’s impressive interior design is only a detail in the culinary experience offered.  Man Wah has incredible views to enjoy over great traditional Cantonese food while Tim Ho Wan offers exquisite authentic cuisine and is named the lowest – priced Michelin-star restaurant in the world.

Here’s a Pro-Tip: Ding Dim 1968 is a Sunday Dim Sum tradition, however it is hard to obtain a reservation, so be sure to ask your hotel concierge to call well in advance!

When the sun sets, make your way to Lan Kwai Fong, a bustling section of streets containing over 100 bars and clubs. While in the area, check out the Tazmania Ballroom, and Havana for a great time. Stop by The Old Man, An Ernest Hemingway themed bar for a cool drink that will remind you of warm nights in Havana.  For a luxurious atmosphere, Aqua, and the rooftop bar OZONE, one of the highest bars in the world, are two of my favourite hangouts. Be sure to dress to impress!

Shopping in Hong Kong is not to be taken lightly, it is one of the city’s main attractions! You can find luxury brands, antiques and electronics throughout the many markets and malls. Some of my favourite shopping spots include Central Street, Ladies’ Market and the Temple Street Night Market which comes alive after sunset.

The Temple Street Night Market looks inviting!

Finding balance isn’t hard in the glorious city of Hong Kong, in fact, it seems to come naturally. Take your time to enjoy the city and don’t forget to stop and smell the incense!

Love,

Isabella