Tips for visiting Hong Kong
Created | Updated May 18, 2006
Getting Around
Hong Kong has a fantastic public transport system. Buses have internal matrix signs giving details of not only the next stop, but the ETA and major landmarks and hotels near to it. The MTR (HK's equivalent of the Tube) is clean and runs like clockwork, and the ferries between Hong Kong island, the mainland and the outlying islands are cheap and offer great views. Here's some handy hints on getting around:
It is possible to find just about any kind of cuisine in Hong Kong. From noodle bars that are little more than a hole in a wall to big, posh restaurants, you can get pretty much any kind of food you like. You could even find yourself sitting in a wood panelled room with stuffed deer heads on the walls, eating haggis and mash. However, if you want to try out the local dishes, here are a few useful nuggets for eating out in Honkers:
When you've finished stuffing yourself silly, take a saunter down Gascoigne Road on the Kowloon peninsula (take the MTR to Jordan, then head north up Nathan Road; Gascoigne Road is on your right). It is rammed with the cheapest clothes shops you have ever seen. There are many bargains to be had if you are prepared to root around a bit.
The Temple Street night market is largely full of tat and rip-off designer goods. By all means take a look, but don't expect to find much worth buying, unless you like fake LV bags...
Things to see and do
Besides wandering around the city and marvelling at the huge glassy skyscrapers, you may also want to check out the following:
Hong Kong has a fantastic public transport system. Buses have internal matrix signs giving details of not only the next stop, but the ETA and major landmarks and hotels near to it. The MTR (HK's equivalent of the Tube) is clean and runs like clockwork, and the ferries between Hong Kong island, the mainland and the outlying islands are cheap and offer great views. Here's some handy hints on getting around:
- As soon as you can, buy an Octopus card (a regular one, not a tourist keepsake). You can load these up with credit and then all you have to do to pay for travel is swipe the card over the conveniently placed pads. You can even use them to pay for goods in some shops.
- Taxis are plentiful, but if you're planning a night out, make sure you have something with your hotel name and address on it, preferably in Cantonese and English. Otherwise, you may end up on a magical mystery tour...
- The Star ferry (between Kowloon and Hong Kong island) is extremely cheap and gives you some of the best views of the city.
It is possible to find just about any kind of cuisine in Hong Kong. From noodle bars that are little more than a hole in a wall to big, posh restaurants, you can get pretty much any kind of food you like. You could even find yourself sitting in a wood panelled room with stuffed deer heads on the walls, eating haggis and mash. However, if you want to try out the local dishes, here are a few useful nuggets for eating out in Honkers:
- 'Beef', especially in a cheaper establishment, doesn't necessarily mean the meat from a cow; it may also include offal.
- 'Vegetarian' meals sometimes include chicken.
- Don't wear pale colours until you've got the hang of chopsticks.
- If in doubt, go for things you can point at.
- Alcohol tends to be very expensive, but most hotels and bars have a happy hour with two for one deals and similar.
- Watch the locals - they will hold their bowls of noodles close to their mouths and shovel the food in. Not always attractive, but so much easier.
- Although you can't go two feet without tripping over someone trying to sell you food, noodle bars at lunchtimes are exceptionally busy.
- Some places may look tatty, but don't let this put you off - the food is usually very good (and very cheap).
- Finally, don't be afraid to try it. It won't taste like your usual Chinese take-away - it'll be much, much better!
When you've finished stuffing yourself silly, take a saunter down Gascoigne Road on the Kowloon peninsula (take the MTR to Jordan, then head north up Nathan Road; Gascoigne Road is on your right). It is rammed with the cheapest clothes shops you have ever seen. There are many bargains to be had if you are prepared to root around a bit.
The Temple Street night market is largely full of tat and rip-off designer goods. By all means take a look, but don't expect to find much worth buying, unless you like fake LV bags...
Things to see and do
Besides wandering around the city and marvelling at the huge glassy skyscrapers, you may also want to check out the following:
- The giant Buddha on Lantau island is a ferry ride and a bus journey away, but it is a staggering sight. However, there is a massive flight of stairs to climb if you want to get up close and personal with him!
- No trip to Hong Kong is complete without a tram ride up to Victoria Peak. Pick a clear day (or night) for classic views over the city.
- The old Man Mo temple on Hollywood Road, HK Island, nestling between hundred-storey blocks of flats.
