Skylines and Cuisines : Hong Kong Travel Guide

The region of Southeast Asia is well known among travelers for some beautiful natural landscapes varying from majestic volcanoes, lush green forests, serene countryside and pristine white sand beaches. However, there are quite a few metropolitan cities across the region that are a major attraction for travelers here. Hong Kong is one of those cities. A major financial and economic hub in Southeast Asia, the city of Hong Kong is a concoction of stunning skylines and delectable cuisines. The presence of a significant expat crowd along with the native Chinese population, gives this place a multicultural facet that is quite similar to cities like Singapore, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur. As a traveler, experiencing the city life of Hong Kong is as exciting as exploring the natural landscapes in the outskirts of the city. There is plenty to absorb within the city of Hong Kong whether it is the never ending skyscrapers or the amazing range of culinary delights on offer here. In Skylines and Cuisines, here is a short Hong Kong Travel Guide listing the highlights that makes the time spent here a memorable one.

Victoria Peak

They say “A trip to Hong Kong is incomplete without a visit to The Peak”. Once you are at Victoria Peak taking in the stunning views of the city’s skyline from the top, you realize how true that is. Victoria Peak or The Peak as people in Hong Kong call this place, is one of the most visited places here. A trip to the peak is a fascinating experience owing to the journey on the Peak Tram where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the city while ascending up the hill. At the summit, there are two viewpoints – The Sky Terrace 248 and The Peak Galleria – from where you can enjoy the far reaching views of the changing skyline of the city and the faraway region of New Territories. There are quite a few shopping establishments, supermarkets and a few restaurants at the Peak Galleria too where you can spend a good amount of your time. Interestingly, the Victoria Peak has one of the most expensive real estate markets in the world and is home to some of the wealthiest folks around. The enviable location and cooler weather makes this place worth a visit anytime. An insider tip : Take the walk up to the Peak during the morning hours to get a feel of the natural beauty and the greenery along the entire hill up to the top.

Tsim Sha Tsui

If there is one place where all the facets of Hong Kong converge, that is Tsim Sha Tsui. To call this place a mere district would be a disgrace as it is a stunning amalgamation of high-end branded stores, modest stalls, tall skyscrapers, glittery and humongous shopping malls and restaurants. You can also find hole-in-the wall style cafes and small bars that are a stark contrast to the upbeat shine around this area. The hustle and bustle of Hong Kong city can actually be felt at Tsim Sha Tsui in full flow as the vibrant energy here just engulfs you. One of the highlights here is the Harbourfront Promenade that is a host to quite a few interesting venues such as the Avenue of Stars, the Clock Tower and the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. The harbourfront itself is one of the most beautiful sights you will see especially as the sun goes down and the lights shine up the skyline on both sides of the waterway. Cuisines are a plenty along the entire stretch of Nathan Road where you can find numerous food choices ranging from authentic Chinese restaurants, hip cafes, food courts, street food stalls and multicultural eateries without breaking your budget. Your tired feet would have plenty of reasons to just keep exploring this district that is full of energy at every minute of the day.

Cruises across the Harbour

The views across both sides of the harbour in Hong Kong is something your eyes will never get tired of. Especially during sunsets and while cruising along the waters as shades of pink, yellow, red and orange lights take over the entire skyline of the city, you would be nothing short of amazed. There are a few sunset cruises available from Tsim Sha Tsui harbour, the most memorable one is the Aqua Luna Symphony Of Lights Cruise. Step on to one of the only remaining traditional Chinese junk boats and experience moments of past while you spend the present admiring the spectacular light show emancipating from the tall skyscrapers across the harbour. Surely, your stay in Hong Kong would be worthwhile with a cruise around the beautiful harbour at night.

Temple Street Night Market

My personal favourite in the city limits of Hong Kong, the Temple Street Night Market is a pop-up bazaar that exudes of local flavour from every corner. Located along a single lane in the vicinity of the Tin Hau temple, this market is where vendors showcase their diverse wares such as Trinkets, tea ware, electronics, watches, menswear, jade and antiques. Lately there have been a few vendors selling the usual souvenirs catering to the foreign tourists but nothing can overshadow the quintessential local vibe of this market. An event in itself, here you will find some of Hong Kong’s best local and seafood on offer. Walk in to one of the local restaurants – all are crowded – in the market lane and try any of the noodles this city is famous for. This place is where you satisfy your sensory and culinary palette. The Temple Street Night Market is definitely one of the most unique experiences to be had in Hong Kong.

The city state of Hong Kong basks in its own uniqueness that is quite unparalleled. From natural landscapes to gorgeous cityscapes, Hong Kong is truly one of the most wonderful cities in the world. What really attracts travelers to Hong Kong, can be debated but to me the unmatched combination of Skylines and Cuisines is what made me admire the city so much.