Article /
Tourism /
Travel
Vibrant Hong Kong beyond Disneyland and Ocean Park! |
Vibrant, urbane, extraordinary - Hong Kong is all
of this and more. Combining eastern and western influences, Hong Kong has a rich
history that blends seamlessly with its modernistic city scapes and lifestyle. Located in southeastern China, Hong Kong is an autonomous territory and was formerly a British colony.
When people think of holidaying in Hong Kong, the first things that come to mind
are usually Disneyland and Ocean Park. But there is so much more that this
bustling city has to offer beyond theme parks and skyscrapers.
From breathtaking views of the skyline and the harbor front from rooftop
restaurants and the magnificent Victoria Peak to enjoying a saunter along scenic
walking trails and or the variety of culinary options found in every corner, the
city has something for everyone. If you are planning a vacation in Hong Kong
this summer, make sure you experience these with your kids after you are done
with Disneyland and Ocean Park.
Get into the festival spirit
Spring, summer, autumn or winter - no matter which time of the year you visit,
you're guaranteed to be enthralled by one of Hong Kong's many vibrant festivals
and ancient cultural celebrations. Two of the biggest cultural festivals
celebrated in the month of May and June are the Cheung Chau Bun festival and
Dragon Boat festival. The Cheung Chau Bun festival is one of the liveliest
festivals set in picturesque Cheung Chau island just a short ferry ride from the
city. The week long celebrations include parades, lion dances and traditional
ceremonies and culminates in the 'bun scrambling' competition. The Dragon Boat
festival is equally exciting where 1000s of paddlers from around the world
battle it out over three days of racing. Set against the iconic skyline, the
festivals also include food trucks serving local delicacies such as the festive
rice dumplings, colourful artistic and musical performances and concerts for
completely fun-filled carnival celebration.
Meet the Big Buddha atop a cable car
Picture Courtesy : Nathaniel Parker , Pixabay
A must see attraction in Hong Kong is the Tian Tian Buddha also known as a Big
Buddha which sits hidden atop a hill in the scenic Lantau Island. The gigantic
statue is situated near the Po Lin Monastery, an ancient Buddhist monastery, and
represents the harmony between man and nature. The route to get to the Big
Buddha is as gripping as the statue itself. A few steps outside the Tung Chung
MTR on Lantau Island you will find the entrance to Ngong Ping 360 cable car ride
which leads up to the Big Buddha. The crystal cabin car with a glass bottom
offers breathtaking view of the lush green mountain, deep blue sea and even the
airport. As you step out of the cable car, you are treated with culturally
themed Ngong village which is lined with shops and eateries. If you want to end
your day on a perfect note, take the ride back during sunset and enjoy the
scenic beauty of Hong Kong.
Explore the city on a tram ride Picture Courtesy : Andy Leung, Pixabay
One of the best ways to explore the city are the trams, also affectionately
called by the locals as 'Ding Ding'. These double-decker joyrides run through
the heart of the city and provide excellent vantage points, especially from the
upper deck, to take in all the sights and views. The trams have been an
essentially part of Hong Kong for over a century and the oldest among these is
the Peak tram which goes up to the highest point of Hong Kong, Victoria Peak.
You can enjoy the majestic bird's eye view of Hong Kong city and the harbor from
this point. On your way to Victoria Peak, you can also drop by is Madame
Tussauds with your kids and catch a glimpse of Michael Jackson and Bollywood
heartthrob, Varun Dhawan.
Hop aboard the Star Ferry
Picture Courtesy : Andy Leung, Pixabay
There is a different thrill in experiencing Hong Kong's beauty from the water.
The Star Ferry is Hong Kong's best loved icons and has been functioning with its
original fleet since it was founded by a Parsi cook, Dorabjee Naorojee
Mithaiwala in 1880s. An hour long ride from Tsim Sha Pui aboard the Star Ferry
is one of the best value for money activities with spectacular views of Victoria
Harbour and the ocean. You can also enjoy the 'Symphony of Lights' show at 8pm
which sets Central into a frenzy of flashing color. Once you disembark from the
ferry ride, the Hong Kong space museums is just a few steps away from the Pier
where kids can enjoy interactive activities and learn about science and
astronomy.
Visit a Floating Palace in Jumbo Kingdom
Picture Courtesy : http://www.jumbokingdom.com/en/main.html
The Jumbo Kingdom is one of the two floating palace restaurants in Hong Kong and
a must visit on any trip. The iconic attraction has been featured in movies and
is frequented by stars and royalty. The multi-storey structure designed with
traditional Chinese murals including dragons, pagodas and red and gold
decorations representing prosperity and good fortune, will immediately take your
breath away. It is also the world's largest floating boat with seating that can
cater to over 2000 diners at one time. The best seats in the house are outside
or on the top deck, if the weather is good, where you enjoy the scenic views and
authentic, local food, which it is known for. Dining in a floating boat in Hong
Kong is a once in a lifetime experience you will never forget.
Ride high on the Hong Kong Observation Wheel
Picture Courtesy : Andy Leung HK, Pixabay
If you can't make it to Victoria Peak, a great way to get panoramic views of the
famous skyline and harbor is on the Hong Kong Observation Wheel. Similar to the
London Eye, the ferris wheel is 60 meters high and offers 15 minute ride where
you can get 360 degree views of Hong Kong Island with Kowloon on one side and
the bridge to Lantau Island the other. The 42 gondolas are all air conditioned,
making for a cosy and comfortable ride. One of the best time to get on a ride
would be sunset when the city lights up and all the skyscrapers look their
sparkling best. After the ride you can also take a walk on the Central
Waterfront Promenade or enjoy games, drinks and snacks at the plaza in the same
area.
TAGS:
Hong Kong travel,
Places to visit in Hong Kong,
Hong Kong,
tourist destinations Hong kong,