Hong Kong has it all. It is easy to get around by ferry, taxi, or metro and there are many sights to visit, from panoramic views and adventurous hikes to quiet sandy beaches and a wide range of museums. Moreover, the varied Asian cuisines make this city the ideal place to introduce you to the Asian lifestyle.
Hong Kong has something to offer for every kind of traveler. Western luxury is all over the place, but if you search a little, you’re likely to find a ridiculously cheap hostel as well. If you like the metropolitan city life, this is the ultimate place to be. However, the surrounding area outside of the central city is also perfect for adventurous hikes.
Main Island
The Main Island is the area that everyone pictures when thinking of Hong Kong. Within this urban jungle, you will recognize skyscrapers and landmarks, such as the World Trade Centre, the Bank of China, A mini Times Square, luxury hotels, enormous shopping malls, and other financial centers. When you walk up to Victoria Peak (or take the Peak Tram), you will be awarded with a panoramic view far more beautiful and more breathtaking than anything else you have seen before. The view of this sprawling, man-made concrete jungle is simply awe-inspiring, especially at night. When you are standing in the darkness, you can see all of the light reflecting from the city, almost as if it is putting on a beautiful display of color and brightness just for you. The nighttime view of Hong Kong's central district from the Victoria Peak can easily be one of the most vived and memorable sights of an entire lifetime.
Kowloon
Kowloon is the part of the city that is located on the mainland. If you are a shopaholic, you might consider yourself in heaven. Apart from the many bars, restaurants, hotels, nightclubs, and shops, there are a few markets that are worth visiting. The Ladies Market, located in Mong Kok, is a great outdoor market with tons of nice, cheap, and fun goods. If you are prepared to bargain, you can easily get some amazing deals there! On the other hand, if you are searching for a luxury experience, as well as the most incredible view of your life, head to the Ozone bar in Kowloon. Located on the 118th floor of the Ritz Carlton Hotel, Ozone holds the prestigious title of "Highest Bar in the World". Though prices are a little high, this beautiful bar is worth a visit, even if only for one drink. The incredible view of Central Hong Kong on the other side of the water is enough to make you fall in love with the city forever. Kowloon also has a lot of museums and historical sites, making this area very interesting for cultural enthusiasts as well.
Nightlife
Hong Kong is easily one of the best cities in the world for nightlife. Whether you're looking for cheap pubs, luxury lounges, ultramodern bars, techno clubs, or hookah cafes, you will find whatever you are looking for in Lan Kwai Fong. Known as "LKF", this pedestrian area is teeming with people every night of the year as they go in and out of different bars and nightclubs. Be sure to check out Dragon-I, Hyde, and many of the other bars throughout the area. If you want to change it up, head to Wan Chai, another famed party district on Hong Kong island.
Hiking Hong Kong
Although you might not expect it, Hong Kong is a very nice place for a good hike. Several trails begin just outside of the central city area, the longest of which is 100 kilometres. Your tour might lead you through forests, interesting bird spotting places, and idyllic white beaches. Rent a surfboard, jump in the water, and enjoy the city's lush nature.
Macao
A little to the east of the city, you will find a real taste of Mediterranean Asia. By boat, the gambling capital of Macao is only one hour away. This former Portuguese colony has a relaxed and pleasant ambience and is scattered with well-preserved or restored historical sights.
Global City
Hong Kong is a vibrant city with so much to do and see. But remember, when you travel to China from here, you’ll enter a whole different world. You can easily access China on a train to Shenzhen or Guangzhou. When you arrivem you will suddenyl notice that no one speaks English anymore and the streets have transformed into chaotic traffic frenzies. It is really interesting to note the differences between Hong Kong and China, mainly because Hong Kong was part of Great Britain until 1997. Since joining China, the territoroy still maintains quite a bit of independence and a strong separatist identity. Therefore, to experience Hong Kong is to experience a truly global and unique Asian city.