Overview of Hong Kong

The more you try to discover in Hong Kong, the more you’ll come across. There is the dazzling array of skyscrapers, the pervasive ancient traditions and the mouth-wateringly delicious food to catch your attention, not to mention a deeper, more engaging cultural experience beneath the typical tourist hot-spots to keep your attention and draw you closer. Before you know it, you may find yourself swept up into the culture and drama of this territory.

Things to See and Do

Ride the Ngong Ping 360

The Ngong Ping 360 cable car travelling between Tung Chung Centre and Ngong Ping on Lantau Island is one of the most popular activities for people visiting this territory. While on the cable car that runs 5.7km, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the countryside and various attractions like Tung Ching Bay, North Lantau Country Park and the giant Tian Tan Buddhist statue. Once you arrive in Ngong Ping, you can visit the small theme park that is chock-full of family-friendly activities.

Play at Hong Kong Disneyland

Head to Asia’s only Disney theme park, Hong Kong Disneyland, to enjoy the company of iconic Disney characters, ride on exhilarating rides and take part in special events within the park. If you are looking for an extra dose of the Disney magic? Fret not, there are two themed hotels on site for anyone who wants to stay in the park among the magic and fun that are always available in Disney.

Admire Statue Square

Statue Square is on a lot of must-see lists—and for good reason. This is the part of Hong Kong that brings modern and traditional together in the truest sense of the world. The modern HSBC headquarters is on the south side of the square and shares space with the colonial remnants of St. John’s Cathedral. This is a great place to spend an afternoon, looking at the buildings, enjoying the cultural activities that have popped up around it, enjoying a movie at the cinema, or relaxing with a cup of coffee at any of the fine cafes and restaurants around the square.

Climb Victoria Peak

There are actually two peaks referenced in this to-do: the first is a climb into “The Peak”, an economic stratosphere in Hong Kong where the influential and exclusive hang out and the second is an actual geographical peak that juts an additional 140m above the first peak. Victoria Peak is accessible by a quick ride on the Peak Tram – a funicular that’s been operating since 1888. Once you’re at the summit you’ll be treated to a viewing platform that looks down into central Hong Kong and across the water where the views really are unbeatable by day or night.

Visit Wong Tai Sin Templ

The Wong Tai Sin Temple is located in the heart of Kowloon and is an excellent example of Buddhist, Confucian and Taoist traditions. Wong Tai Sin was an alchemist who supposedly concocted an almost magical cure-all. To honour his achievements, this statue was built in the main building, although the building itself is a sight to be seen. It is a colourful masterpiece with golden ceilings, bright red pillars and latticework throughout. This is the number one temple in this territory for Chinese New Year celebrations, and located in their arcade are an assembly of fortune tellers available to the throngs of worshippers that flock to the Wong Tai Sin Temple.

Seasonality

Both Hong Kong and neighbouring Macau generally have hot, humid summers and cool, dry winters. Avoid travelling in this region from June through mid-September as these are the hottest months and when the humidity levels seem to have no limit. If you are a planning a visit, aim for March-April or October-December as temperatures are moderate, the skies are clear and the sun shines during this time of the year.

Travel Tips

• There are no required vaccinations to enter Hong Kong.
• There is no visa required to enter Hong Kong as long as your holiday will not exceed 90 days.
• Medical care in Hong Kong is generally high-quality but expensive, so be sure to take out travel insurance with health cover before you leave.
• Hong Kong is a relatively pricey destination, especially when it comes to accommodation and entertainment, so plan your budget accordingly.
• In terms of tipping—round up to the nearest dollar for a cab, always tip hotel staff HK$10-20 and if you use the porters at the airport tip them HK$2-5 per piece of luggage.

A visit to this territory can be one of the most unexpectedly engaging holidays you take and regardless of the amount of time spent in the country, you are sure to emerge with a different perspective and better understanding of the energetic, extravagant and extreme urban landscape you just travelled to. As a smart traveller, you already know that travel insurance is essential for international travel, but be sure to do some research before settling on one policy. Compare insurance plans from youGo and determine which level of coverage fits your Hong Kong holiday needs. With a heady mix of urban and rural, modern and traditional, Hong Kong sets itself up as “Asia’s world city”, and for such a small city, it manages to deliver on its reputations for packing big punches and surprises.