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Tag: Hong Kong travel

  • More Affordable Attractions in Hong Kong – Hidden Gems in Chinese City

    Most visitors to Hong Kong spend their time shopping up a storm or hitting the casinos in nearby Macau. These tourists leave the Chinese region with a large hole in their finances, and little sense of Hong Kong’s culture. We’ve looked at some great tourist attractions in Hong Kong before, but in this article we highlight some more of Hong Kong’s hidden gems, the affordable experiences that offer a true taste of the region.

    Hong Kong might be famous for its high-tech buildings, but it’s also a sanctuary for nature lovers. Nearby Lantau Island is an oasis located just a short bus trip from Hong Kong International Airport. Make sure you take the trail all the way up to Lantau Peak, a stunning lookout with views of the Shek Pek reservoir below. It’s a favorite spot to see sunrise, but you’ll need to set off early as it takes around two hours to reach the summit! The island is also rich in history, with ancient temples, forts, and other architectural remnants.

    A trip to Wetland Park is another treat for admirers of the natural world. The 60-hectare reserve is home to herons, egrets, and kingfishers, so it’s a must-see for bird watchers. The salt-water crocodile Pui Pui is another crowd favorite. Admission costs $30HK, which is the equivalent of roughly $3.80US.

    Hong Kong’s beaches are also often overlooked in favor of the city’s sights. However they’re a must for frugal tourists, as you can spend a few days wiling away the hours without spending a cent! The water at Deepwater Bay and Stanley Beaches is quite polluted, so you’re best enjoying time on the sand and the free BBQ pits. If you insist on a dip, head to cleaner waters at Lo So Shing and Silvermine Bay Beaches.

    History buffs will love the Hong Kong Museum of History, a museum which teaches visitors about the city’s history from the Stone Age through to the handover from the United Kingdom to the People’s Republic of China in 1997. Standard tickets cost just $10HK, or $1.30US, but that fee is waived every Wednesday!

    If you’re an early riser, make sure you start the day off like the locals with a Tai Chi class. This peaceful form of exercise is the perfect way to relax in the middle of the bustling city. It might seem daunting to master the fluid movements, but they’re much simpler than they look! The Hong Kong Tourism board runs free beginners Tai Chi classes at the Tsim Sha Tsui Waterfront and The Peak Tower every weekday except Tuesday from 8 am. Bookings are essential though; call the Hong Kong Tourism Hotline on +852 2508 1234 to reserve your place.

    Riding an escalator doesn’t sound very thrilling on paper, but the Hong Kong Central-Mid-Level Escalator is no ordinary escalator. Set above the street level, the escalator system is around 2625 feet long and rises some 443 feet! A one-way trip takes around 25 minutes, making it one of the longest escalator journeys you’re likely to take. Best of all, it’s completely free to ride!

    Hong Kong's Lantau Island
    Hong Kong’s Lantau Island

    And no matter what time of year you visit, the locals are probably celebrating one of China’s many festivals. From Chinese New Year in February through to the hiking holiday dubbed the Cheung Yeung Festival in October, there’s likely to be a party happening in Hong Kong. It’s usually free or close to it to join in the celebrations.

  • Frugal Travel in Hong Kong – Cheap Attractions in Asia

    Hong Kong is regarded as one of the jewels of the East, a vacation destination where you can shop up a storm and live in luxury. However it’s still possible to enjoy this exotic Asian country on a budget with several free or frugal tourist attractions.

    One of Hong Kong’s greatest quirks is the world’s longest escalator. You can take it from Victor Harbor right up into the hills. It runs in a different direction depending on the time of day, but if you’re only there for the journey you won’t mind too much where it takes you!

    The Man Mo Temple will help you get your culture and history fix. This holy place at Central features statues of Chinese gods, coiled incense rings, and a wood-fired oven where worshippers burned money to send it to their relatives in the afterlife. While entry is free, small donations are gratefully accepted.

    Public transport is an affordable way to get from point A to point B, but Hong Kong’s more unusual transport options can also be enjoyed for the experience. A ride on the Star Ferry is one of the best ways to see Victor Harbor, and one of the cheapest. The ten-minute voyage will set you back just 30 cents.

    Riding Hong Kong’s historic trolley cars can also be a real thrill, especially if you take a prime position on the top deck. For just 25 cents you can enjoy a great view from high above the buzzing Admiralty and Central districts. The ride is particularly beautiful at night when the city is illuminated with neon and street lights.

    Victor Harbor in Hong Kong
    Victor Harbor in Hong Kong

    While you’re out in the evening make sure you don’t miss the free light show, which brightens the buildings of Central at 8 pm nightly.  The music is a bit corny, but the synchronized lights should mesmerize children and adults alike. Arrive at the Avenue of Stars or Hong Kong Cultural Center early for the best view.

    And it’s always free to explore Hong Kong’s alleyways and wander around Hong Kong Park. This is a country best enjoyed on foot, so why not set off and see where your travels take you?

  • Counterfeit Shopping in Asia – Where To Buy Cheap Designer Fakes

    We all know that counterfeit goods are bad, but those affordable handbag copies and super-cheap pirated DVDs hawked in Asian marketplaces are mighty tempting.

    While we'd never encourage loading up your suitcase with these faux products, if you can't help yourself we suggest frequenting the following cheap and cheerful shopping centers. Thailand is the king of the counterfeiters, with most of them doing a roaring trade in Bangkok. The latest bootlegged albums and even fake IDs are available on Khao Sarn Road. Factory seconds and other cheap gadgets are sold at Pantip Plaza. Quality does vary, and you won't get any of those shiny warranties, but you might just find a bargain. Just make sure that your preferred language is switched from Thai to English before you depart with your new toys. If your needs are less specific, then the Chatuchak Weekend Market is ideal. It's the world's largest market, selling everything from live chickens to handicrafts. You might spot Coach and Gucci logos on the accessories, but if they're sold here don’t expect authenticity. If Thailand's capital is a little hectic for you, then enjoy life at a slightly slower pace at Chiang Mai. The city is famous for more than its elephant nature park; its night bazaar has a diverse array of goodies including many impressive designer copies. Shop from sunset each night for these treats, but be prepared to haggle. Prices typically start higher than they do in Bangkok, so you'll need to do some work to get a bargain. Hong Kong loves to shop for fine designer goods, but if you want them you'll need to frequent the country's malls. For the same looks at much cheaper prices, the markets are your best bets. The Ladies Market in Hong Kong is great for a girl's night out, with vendors selling handbags, apparel, and other items targeted at fashion-forward females. While you're spending up, your other half can busy himself at Mongkok Computer Shopping Center around the corner, or the tech-focused Sai Yeung Choi Street South located one street over. The underperforming dong allows most Western travelers to live the high life in Vietnam, which makes it a great shopping destination. For the best bargains head to Ben Thanh Market, just outside Ho Chi Minh city. I'm not sure any of the Nike shoes, Ray-Bans sunglasses, and Tag watches are genuine, but they certainly look it. The dollar DVDs are also a big attraction for movie buffs. But before purchasing designer replicas and counterfeit goods, it's important to remember that you get what you pay for. Often that's watches that will turn your wrists green, sunglasses that won't protect your eyes, films that are barely watchable, and apparel that will fall apart quickly. It could also land you a nasty fine when you return home, so make sure you research your own country's rules on counterfeit goods before shopping up a storm.

  • Affordable Tailored Suits in Asia – Fine Fashion for Less

    A tailored suit is one of life’s luxuries that those of us on a budget can rarely experience. But if you’re planning a trip to Asia, there’s no better time to indulge.

    Tailors in cities around the continent can create fully lined suits in your choice of fabric for a fraction of the price you'll pay back home. And best of all, they'll do it in as little as a day. Despite the quick turnaround, it's advisable to give your tailor as much time as possible. Second or even third fittings may be required for the perfect fit, so it’s best to plan your trip to the tailor early in your vacation. It's also smart to have some idea of the suit you'd like. Bringing photographs from fashion magazines or the internet will help the tailor create your dream garment. Once you're organized, you're ready to find your tailor. Ask your hotel concierge or some friendly locals who they recommend, and seek them out. Make sure you negotiate a fair price up front, including hotel delivery costs, to ensure you're treated justly. Thailand is the home of some of the world's finest silks, and in Bangkok it comes at a relatively affordable price. Rajawongse Clothier is one of the city's best, with more than 30 years experience in the business. Father and son owners Jesse and Victor have even made suits for American presidents George Bush and his son George W. Bush!tailored suit photo When in Vietnam, forget the bustling shopping districts of Hanoi and the action packed Vietnamese markets. Instead travel to the casual coastal town of Hoi An, where tailors will handcraft suits and a wardrobe to wear with it! Master craftsman will make dresses, shoes, and even handbags. Yaly Couture is regarded as one of the town's best tailors for its high quality garments and fast, friendly service. Staff will even keep your measurements on file in case you want to order something else once you arrive home. Custom suits in Hong Kong are a bit more expensive than in other Asian centers, but they're still a fraction of the cost you'll pay on the High Street back home. There's also plenty of choice with many tailors of distinction. Bill Clinton chose Sam's for several suits during his presidency, and he's still a popular choice for travelers today. But don't overlook other tailors in the city. The family-owned Roger Concepts has been another good option for Western travelers as it specializes in suits and shirts for larger men. So why travel to Milan or Paris for fine fashion? You'll find it for far less in Asia!

    [Image Source: Teodora Vlaicu/Stock.Xchng]

  • Hong Kong Disneyland Celebrates Halloween – Spooky Fun at Family Theme Park

    Halloween tends to be regarded as an American holiday, but Hong Kong’s Disneyland Resort is getting into the spirit with its Haunted Halloween celebrations.

    Maleficent, the devilish queen of Sleeping Beauty, is behind the event.


    She's furious that she's never been invited to a Halloween party, so she's taking matters into her own evil hands. Once the sun goes down each Thursday to Sunday until the end of the month, Maleficent promises to give families visiting Hong Kong Disneyland a thrill. Main Street U.S.A. is ordinarily full of life, but this month it's transformed into a Ghost Town. Specters will walk the eerily lit streets, so look out for those ghostly gatherings! Adventureland's also had a spooky makeover. It's now a tribal burial ground, where zombies and long forgotten tribal warriors are on hand to give their evening guests a chilly reception. Tomorrowland will be jumping though with the Inferno Dance Party. Some of Disney's creepiest villains, including the Queen of Hearts and Snow White's witch, will boogie with the crowds to everyone's favorite retro hits. [caption id="attachment_4416" align="alignright" width="150" caption="The evil Maleficent"]The evil Maleficent[/caption] Even the most famous rides have been touched by Maleficent's hands. The Adventureland Jungle is a little more demonic, and the park's most popular roller coaster has been newly christened Space Mountain Ghost Galaxy. But of course, Maleficent has saved her best work for Sleeping Beauty's Castle. Once the sun goes down, onlookers will be treated to a stunningly spooky pyrotechnic show known as Nightmare in the Sky. The castle will seem to be engulfed by thorns and red hot flames as digital projections, lights, and music come together in one spectacular show. So why only celebrate on October 31? At Hong Kong Disneyland they think the whole month deserves a good scare!

  • Family Fun in Hong Kong – Kid-Friendly Tourist Attractions in Asia

    Most of us think of Hong Kong as a fast-paced destination designed for adults with cash to splash or healthy dim sum sized appetites.

    But it's actually a great family vacation spot. Here are a few tourist attractions that kids and their parents will enjoy. Hong Kong's most popular tourist attraction is Victoria Peak, a summit which offers more than picturesque views. Little ones will probably enjoy the ride on the hair-raising funicular railway more than the view at the top, but don't let that worry you. Once they're tired of the scenery you can let them burn off some energy in the playground or virtual sports zone. Once they've worked up an appetite visit one of dozens of onsite restaurants. Make sure you don't miss Ocean Park, which is regarded as one of the best amusement parks in the world. Once a humble aquarium, it's now home to roller coasters and giant pandas! The marine animals still draw crowds though, especially the Sea Jelly Spectacular. Bright lights and classical music add a sense of theatre to the graceful movements of more than 1000 stingers. [caption id="attachment_4213" align="alignright" width="150" caption="Happy girl at Hong Kong Disneyland"]Happy girl at Hong Kong Disneyland[/caption] You’ll find more animals at Hong Kong Wetland Park. The 60-hectare space has crocs, birds, and butterflies. The kids won’t even realize their learning as they engage with the interactive games dotted around the park. Of course, a list of children's tourist attractions wouldn't be complete without mentioning Disneyland in Hong Kong. If you've been to any of the Disneyland's around the world you'll know what to expect, with all of the familiar lands populated by the iconic characters. While it's formula is tried and true, it's easy to get swept up in the magic of this theme park. So don't leave the children at home when you head to Hong Kong. This Asian metropolis has plenty of attractions to keep them entertained.

    [Image Source: Tommy Wong/Flickr]

  • Explore Asia’s National Parks – Natural Paradises in the East

    When international travelers think of Asia they think of technological innovation, a bustling lifestyle, and all that delicious food.

    While Asia's cities buzz, its national parks are a real draw card for tourists looking to get back to nature. The following parks, many of which are UNESCO World and Natural Heritage sites, are amongst Asia's best. The Three Parallel Rivers Protected Areas in China's Yunnan Province is somewhat of a lost paradise. Here 16 indigenous groups live simple lives, free of the stresses of the modern world. Many offer accommodation for visitors who come to the area to see the gorges, glaciers, and enormous rivers. While much of Hong Kong is a thriving metropolis, one fifth of the nation belongs to the trails of Tai Tam Country Park. This area is steeped in history; tourists can explore ancient forts and towers while admiring the ocean views and diverse flora. There are also several areas for barbecues and picnics, so why not make a day of it? Many ecological experts consider Shiretoko National Park to be Japan's last surviving wilderness. It's a haven for marine and land animals, so make sure you keep your eyes peeled for the brown bears, dolphins, and seals that live there.
    Sightseeing boats regularly leave from the mainland to take tourists closer to the warm Kamui Wakka Falls. Or you could travel to the falls on foot and soak yourself in the hot springs. You might not know it, but if you're a James Bond fan you're already acquainted with Thailand's Ao Phang Nga National Park. This gorgeous natural oasis was featured in the spy flick The Man with the Golden Gun. You can hire small boats to explore the area and its natural rock formations and limestone pillars which emerge almost mythically from the ocean. It's the kind of locale you'll want to linger at, and with bungalows and camping sites available you can. The buzzing cities of Asia are alluring, but if you'd like a change of pace the continent's national parks can deliver it.

  • Bag a Bargain at Hong Kong’s Shopping Sales

    We all know Hong Kong is one of the world’s best shopping destinations.

    But how do you ensure you don't return home with maxed out credit cards?
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    Just follow our tips to help your dollar go further, and make the most of your spending spree, in this Asian shopping mecca. Treat yourself to a few extra presents; after Christmas it seems like every store in Hong Kong is having a sale. Look for bargains at the major shopping malls rather than markets and family-owned boutiques; The Landmark, The Galleria, Alexandra House, and Prince's Building should offer up some great bargains, particularly on designer goods. Hong Kong celebrates its annual Shopping Festival from the end of June to the end of August. Keep your eyes peeled for stores displaying the Hong Kong Festival signs. You can expect to save more than 50% on plenty of goods in these stores, especially on end-of-season fashion items. And that's just the prices on the shelves. For even bigger savings, get your hands on a promotional brochure released by Hong Kong Tourism. It's filled with discount coupons to help you save even more. With most stores extending their trading hours during the festival until at least 10 pm, you'll have even longer to snap up those bargains. If you are planning a Hong Kong shopping spree it's important to be prepared. Make sure you dress comfortably and wear sensible shoes. Take a good handbag stocked up with a list of stores you hope to hit, a bottle of water, your discount coupons, and of course a well stocked wallet. And most of all, remember to have fun! Don't let the crowds or too-small stilettos discourage you, because shopping in Hong Kong is meant to be enjoyed.

  • Live the Luxurious Life in Hong Kong

    Many Asian locations are about the culture and rich history, but not Hong Kong.

    A visit to this thoroughly modern country is simply an excuse to spoil yourself! Get yourself into holiday mode with a trip to The Oriental Spa at the Landmark Mandarin Oriental. Measuring a whopping 2300 meters square, it's not surprising to hear the spa claims to have more treatments than any other in Asia. There's a lot of hype about this place, but the locals claim it's all worthwhile. Don’t leave without enjoying a foot bath, a warm scrub, and a luxurious four-hand massage. If you want to eke out the spoiling, sign up for the spa's signature treatment, known as the Oriental Harmony. It lasts for 110 minutes, which should be just enough time to get you in the right frame of mind.hong kong cheap Nothing says luxury like Prada, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton. You can shop for all of these European designer labels in Hong Kong, and as there is no sales tax you'll get them for less than anywhere else in the world. Of course, the big name brands are never cheap, but if you shop in the midyear or pre-Christmas sales you could easily save between 40 and 70%. IFC Mall, Pacific Place, and Harbour City are some of the largest and most popular malls in Hong Kong. But what's the point in pampering yourself if you're staying in a dive? For ultimate luxury, make sure you spend a night or two in The Peninsula. Rooms have environmental controls, plasma screen televisions, and white marble bathrooms. You can enjoy a treatment in the spa, or dine at one of nine restaurants. You probably won't have a lot of cash at the end of all that, but you will return home feeling rejuvenated and refreshed!

  • Innercity Tranquility at Hong Kong Park

    Hong Kong is a buzzing metropolis, the kind of place where nothing sits still for every long. Yet in the center of the city is Hong Kong Park, a green oasis which takes you back to nature and provides respite from the thrumming city outside.

    The eight hectare park was opened in May 1991. From its cascading waterfalls to tranquil manmade ponds, it was clearly created for visitors who want to enjoy simpler pleasures than Hong Kong typically provides.

    Hong Kong Park Aviary
    One of the feathered residents of Hong Kong Park Aviary

    Children run about the playgrounds as their parents watch on, and young couples fall a little deeper in love as they pose for wedding photos in the grounds. Sporting enthusiasts enjoy the squash and sports centers, while those looking for a less stressful pursuit head to the Tai Chi garden. Seasonal celebrations bring art and musical performances to the people of Hong Kong.

    At its heart you’ll find the aviary, a large space which is home to hundreds of species of birds, flowers, and other plants. Entry is free and the area is open from 9 am to 5 pm daily, so you can spend as much time as like watching the feathered creatures play.

    You can explore Hong Kong Park at your own pace, but if you’d like to learn more you could join a guided tour of the conservatory or aviary. Both tours run every Saturday at 9:30 am.

    [Image Source: Charles Lam/Flickr]