I landed Hong Kong at around 12:30 pm and the immigration process was quite easy so everything got over by 1:00 pm and I left for my Hotel in an Urban Taxi. In Hong Kong you get to see three types of taxis. Red coloured ones are the Urban Taxi which operates in the entire city apart from Tung Chung Road on Lantau Island, Green taxis only serve the New Territories and the Blue Taxis are exclusively for Lantau Island. The taxi drivers can charge you a high meter rate if they find you new which happens probably in every country. So, I would advise you to book Uber wherever possible because its straightforward and the drivers mostly speak English. Trust me, you would have a hard time in explaining the Taxi drivers your route because the drivers are mostly old and speak only Cantonese. So, after my hotel check-in, I took a nap for 2 hours and started planning my day. Going down you will get to see my places I travelled during my stay in Hong Kong.
The Great Circus of Europe – The AIA Carnival
The tickets I booked for this show was from Klook. The tickets from Klook is really cheap and convenient. The circus takes place in a traditional ‘big top’, meaning the action happens in the circus ring with seats all around. I was in ‘premium’ seating ($250), but the layout means that there are no ‘bad seats’. Prices start at $150 for the rear seats, through to $400 for the VIP ‘ringside’ seats which are literally inches away from the action! I arrived 15 mins before the show started and were lucky to get seats right on the front row (there’s no reserved seating), so we had a fantastic view.
The show runs everyday and for around an action-packed hour, so not too long for younger kids’ attention spans, and the diverse circus performances which is also linked together with a Greatest Showman theme.
The acrobatic and aerial action exhibit zestful and impressive skills with plenty of jaw-dropping moments. The Polish Duo and their graceful and romantic display of aerial flying skill and strength entertained me so much. The lively opening performance by the Havanna Troupe and their aerial cradle, with upbeat salsa music and dramatic casting and catching got the show off to a prominent start. I enjoyed the elegant ‘cloud swing’ act high above the circus floor with just a slender line was a superb display of strength, artistry and courage. But the ultimate show stopper was the final act, the ‘Double Giant Space Wheel’. Two scary looking metal contraptions were constructed in the ring and span at alarming speed and great height while the daring performers defied gravity to ride their bike inside the ring and gradually there were 8 riders riding inside the small ring at very high speed and without hitting anyone. It was very organised. Impossible to look away for a second.
And a special mention has to go to the clown Andreea I remember who entertained between the other performances, including some fun audience participation, and giving almost everyone a high-five was highlight of the day! One good thing about this circus ticket is that the tickets to the circus include entry to the AIA Carnival, so it’s easy to make a longer day out if you combine both activities.
In the AIA Carnival you get to experience numerous carnival games where you can test your luck and skill and hope to win a prize. The games were popular because I saw many parents preparing their kids to desperately get the toys they want out of those big cuddly toys!
I didn’t eat at the event because I am not a big fan of non vegetarian food but did check out the selection on offer and there were numerous options available, with various cuisines offering something for everyone.
I enjoyed the circus, I would highly recommend it and think it’s great value for money too. The carnival was also entertaining with activities for all age groups.
THE OBSERVATION WHEEL
I chose to go at night to see the Hong Kong night view. It was a short wait and I chose to have the whole cabin to myself but it wasn’t possible because they said you get to have minimum 4 people to balance.
Once you’re inside your cabin, the wheel moves at a gentle pace through the air, circling high above the city. Even for those nervous about heights, it shouldn’t be taxing or worrisome. It was comfortable, air-conditioned, and gave good views of both Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. The whole ride took about 15 mins (3 rounds).
This is way cheaper than other ferris wheels around the world which was like HK$22 per person. I booked the tickets again from Klook. You can convert the amount to US dollar for your convenience from XE currency coverter.
VICTORIA HARBOUR NIGHT
The show timing for Harbour night on cruise was at 7:30 pm and was told to come around at 7:25pm. But I missed my cruise so I had to book another cruise the next day to see the the laser show at 8pm. I observed the Harbour activities from various view points.
Absolutely fascinating to be in amongst the cruise. The pace of water life is fast and it is amazing that there are no accidents a float. The cruise was so nice. You can feel the cool breeze with the laser lights and some really cool songs. It actually looks like the city is throwing colours as buildings are illuminated and music plays, and asking us to dance to the tune of the music. This place can be so romantic for a night out. It sails from Central across to Kowloon on a Cruise and offers drink and some sort of snacks in the spectacular views of the impressive Hong Kong skyline. I enjoyed the drink and the views and relax.
Overall it was one of my best experience in Hong Kong and I would highly recommend you to try this! I can assure that you will love it.
(Tip: better be on time)
TIAN TAN BUDDHA AND PO LIN MONASTERY IN LAN TAU ISLAND
I took the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to get here, It’s a short walk from Ngong Ping Village. By the entrance at the bottom of the stairs there is a booth where you may assume that you have to pay to see the Buddha. But the fee is actually for VIP ticket inside the monument and a meal at the Monastery later. However that turns out to quite a bargin and enjoyable in itself. There were plethora of dogs and cows walking and sleeping around the temple. Most of them are very friendly but still its better to be careful.
Remember its not worth to take a cab to the Lantau Island. And yes, you can easily do this attraction in half a day, you can take the train from MTR station right to Lantau Island and take the cable car to the village where Big Buddha is held. Bring comfy shoes because it is a hike to get up to the Buddha, but very worth it! The cable ride is a lot of fun, you can see the people hiking below you. The Village itself is very quaint as well.
It was good to see but the area was quite touristy. The steps to get up to the Buddha was bit of a challenge, even for those who were fit like me :P. The view from the Top of the stairs was amazing. You get to see the green vegetation, Long hills and the blue sky.
The set out inside the Buddha was engrossing so I got inside the Tian Tan Buddha with my VIP entry ticket and there was a museum where photography and videography was strictly prohibited. I took time there, not only to see the view but to read the historical information presented inside the monument of Lord Buddha. I also checked out the gift shops which were not that expensive and had some really nice stuff like the chopstick sets and jewellery.
I tried the mango and pineapple fruit ice cream which tasted like they kept those two fruits inside the freezer and gave us to eat.
Well once you are back down, be sure to visit the numerous buildings that make up the compound of this functioning monastery! They are breathtakingly beautiful! We were fortunate enough to witness part of a service on our visit. I got a chance to try the Chinese vegetarian food being served in the vegetarian restaurant by the Po Lin Monastery was also a bonus with a tasty meal included in our VIP ticket. The displays inside were interesting and looked great.
The return trip down the mountain on the top of a double decker bus was in and of itself an adventure as we descended the winding and steep mountain road.
Transportation and facilities are well organised and more than adequate to handle the visitors! I was freezing in the Lantau island because of its cool breeze and ended up buying a jacket and cap. So, I would really advise that its good to carry warm clothes here.
WISDOM PATH
The Wisdom path is just ten minutes on foot beyond Po Lin Monastery and Big Buddha a trail leads to a monumental calligraphic installation, a collection of thirty eight wooden columns erected on the side of a hill in the formation of a figure eight, the symbol of infinity. A visitor can walk the narrow figure eight path up and down the slope of the hill. Each of the columns has the text of the Heart Sutra craved into it, treasured by Confusians, Buddhists and Taoists. It’s a nice place to take a photograph with the peak of Lantau Mountain in the background away from the crowds.It is such a beautiful, peaceful, calm, and you can have the whole place for yourself if you’re lucky. It’s very worth a visit.
Since it’s a woodland path, so I would suggest trainers of stouter shoes are best, but you’d be fine in sandals without heels. I followed the signs to the Lantau Trail which pointed around the back of the monastery.
The Wisdom Path itself is off to the left of the trail path and a short circular uphill walk. You could actually go past of it easily and it is not well sign-posted, so I had to keep looking towards the right of the trail &I spotted the tall wooden posts. The Wisdom Path itself takes about 10 mins – so allow just under an hour to do the whole thing from the Big Buddha. (It’s a very peaceful thing to do after all the crowds and not many people bother to go there – there was no-one on the Wisdom Path when I went and only very few people walking along the trail).
I actually crossed the fence to click photos which sounds funny and people were giving me a weird look but trust me it was worth it. I really got some nice pics out in there.
The trail itself is not steep, almost flat, but you need to watch your footing that you don’t stumble on tree roots etc. The Wisdom Path is a little steep but even older people could just take their time
THE PEAK
The Peak in Hong Kong is actually one of a kind. You get to travel in a Tram which goes upwards on the hill and you get to experience a new thrill. So, I took the tram up and down which isn’t that cheap but once you are at the top it’s worth every penny. I was amazed at the restaurants and shops at the top and the viewing platforms are amazing. The photo booth inside the place was so innovative and creative. Thats a must try.
When you go to the top you see a deck and from there you could see the entire Hong Kong peak and that’s why it is known as the Hong Kong peak. When I went it was raining so they said the view won’t be that great but I didn’t listen to them, I paid them and directly went up and actually got see a nice view and the picture.
There was a heart shaped deck as well where you can step and give poses. Well I would really advise you to not book the tickets in advance because of the weather change and its convenient.
DRAGON’S BACK
Hiking in Hong Kong is generally advised in late autumn – winter as the finally the temperature becomes suitable for walking. Dragon’s back has a big chunk with stairs, but the trail itself isn’t very hard or very long. Once you reach the top there’s a big flat portion that allows to appreciate the view.
Hiking the Dragon’s Back was fun as while hiking there were some moments where you had great view on both sides. I did the trail solo on a Saturday afternoon, despite what the other reviews may tell you – it really was not overly crowded (or maybe I was just lucky). Yes there were a lot of other hikers but you can easily overtake or undertake them and enjoy the surroundings on your own. The hike itself is pleasant and not too difficult, easily suitable for a beginner. There are a lot of steep steps at the beginning, something to consider if you are a beginner.
It’s easy to get there – Take the MTR (Island line) to Shau Kei Wan, get out at exit A3. There will be a bus terminus on your left, so look for the Bus No.9. and take it until the “To Tei Wan, Dragon’s Back” (11 stops). (there’s also an option of taking a minibus, however if you’re not familiar with the stops order or don’t know how to ask for a stop, I wouldn’t advise this). I took Uber which I always find easy and recommend someone whose confuse to take a cab because its peaceful and not much of a head ache as language is an issue. There’s also a public toilet at the start of the trail.
Your hike will end either by going to Big Wave Beach, which is known for surfing or you can go out on the road and take Bus 14 to Stanley, which is another spot worth visiting in Hong Kong.
OCEAN PARK
I booked the tickets for Ocean park from the ocean park website for the first day and for next day I took it from the counter. If you wish you can buy the tickets even from Klook to get better discounts. You can also meet the penguins and dolphins and feed pandas. And it is difficult to get info about this from the website or the desk. So, if you wish meeting them and feed pandas better go for the package from Klook, I took the package to meet the penguins from Klook and there is a help counter inside the Ocean park who can help you if have any further confusion. I missed meeting the penguins on the first day because of the time issues. They haven’t mentioned anytime on the ticket but after going to help desk and making them understand about my situation of not knowing the exact time to see the penguins, they understood and tried helping me to offer a change ticket to the very next date.
It takes more than one full day to finish all the attractions at the Ocean park. So big place with unique animals like the Giant Panda, Sea lions and an amazing grand aquarium and shows of sea seals and more. I loved the Grand Aquarium and many of the animal exhibits. The grand aquarium was very well maintained and they have given lot of space to the sea animals to swim around. The manta rays, sharks looked magnificent. Also some very good roller coasters and many other facilities of a very big amusement park. It’s open till 7 pm and its like heaven for adventure enthusiasts.
The Park is divided into 4 semi-separate areas so don’t forget to pick up the free map on the way in. There are performers, numerous animal exhibits, including a Giant Panda, seals, penguins, birds, monkeys, insects, reptiles,and more types of goldfish than I ever knew existed!. This is an all day attraction. The back side of the park has amusement park and other attractions like 4-5 roller coasters and shark tank, etc. The whole back part is again divided into various sections like North Pole, Rainforests, etc and has rides and attraction in the same theme
You get two way transport to reach uphill for further rides and a view of other animals. One way is the Ocean Express Summit Station and another one is the cable car. The Ocean Train is very quick as it comes in every 4 mins and reaches very soon. The queue for the Ocean Express Summit Station Train is still very less as it leaves in about every 4 mins whereas the going via cable car is next level thrilling with a magnificent view of the blue sea, green grass and the city with tall buildings.
The view from the cable car, the breeze is just icing on the cake. This belt is suitable if you have time and want to have time enjoying the scenic beauty of Hong Kong. Basically you get the view of the entire island in that cable car and the pictures are admirable. The cons of the cable car is that the queue is very long and it actually wastes time while waiting in the queue. Tip: If you are in hurry take the train but if you wish to enjoy it slowly take the cable car. The cable car to the top of Ocean Park is a once in a lifetime experience that should not be missed.
The Steep climb and views out over the island and towards Repulse Bay and Stanley are spectacular. Every step had designated volunteers who time and again help in explaining the map n shows next on chart. Their raisin soft attitude throughout whether sunny or rainy is commendable. They make sure they drop you at the point you are unable to reach. I had a very sumptuous lunch. I ate at the Indian restaurant on the Waterfront deck and it was the best food I ever ate in a theme park. Recommend the fries and the biryani.
On my first day of experience in Ocean Park, I took a ride in the Hair Raiser which was Pure, unfiltered joy. The best ride in the park by a mile. Not to put down the others, it’s just that the Hair Raiser is that much fun. It’s impossible to not exit this ride with your heart out. Being the only ‘bottomless’ ride in the park (basically, your feet are left dangling) and reaching speeds of up to 88kph, it’s a perfectly measured thrill-ride of peaks with no matter how many times you ride it but yes, you need to wait in the queue for long because the demand for this ride is way too much.
After this thrilling ride, I got to see the Penguins from the restaurant, whose name is Tuxedos Restauran and I got super excited. So, I started making videos in that place as the penguins were swimming. One thing is for sure, you get to see so many photo booths in the Ocean park but ready to pay a good amount for the pictures you are clicking in the selected rides. So many food stalls to get the authentic Chinese food and ice cream parlours.
While looking for the Penguins Encounter programme I went inside the Arctic Fox den in the Polar Adventure land and saw the staffs who were feeding them birds and eggs. They were inside the cold room jumping for their share of bird. They were so white and they had different names. There were 5 Arctic Fox in there and after eating there food, they played for a while and slept in there wooden circle shaped box.
Next day when I visited the Penguin encounter in North Pole to “Meet the Penguin Programme” brought me to have an interactive game with the penguin. I could also feed the penguin and listened to the trainer’s professional sharing. The maintained the room temperature was 8 degree celsius and I took photos with the penguin since camera was and phone wasn’t allowed in the penguin encounter room so they got a photographer to capture the moment from his camera! This was one of my memorable event and also having to learn more about penguin and being vegetarian. The gardens on the uphill area was so colourful with the view of sunset and the blue ocean.
After this I directly went to see the dolphin show. This is a 20-minute Ocean Wonders show whereby sea animals perform for spectators at Ocean Theatre. Two Sea Lions came with their masters to greet everyone “HI” and the sea lion was so well trained that they kept on waiving their hand. The dolphins will dance and play with the ball will give a very spectacular view. I was amazed at every moment and wasn’t bored even for once. They will exhibit a show where the dolphins will protect the mentors who are drowning (part of play) in the water and seeking for help from the dolphins. The dolphins will make them sit on their back and get them on the deck.
The Dolphins and the Sea Lion kept on inspiring everyone to help protect the oceans and marine ecosystems through up-close observations, educational presentations and interactive programmes themed around marine conservation.
The Pandas you get to see in the “The Hong Kong Jockey Club Sichuan Treasures”. The pandas were lovely, there are 3 Giant pandas and a few red pandas. The pandas were sleeping in the park and couldn’t see them that well as they were hidden somewhere inside. One of them was sitting 4-5 meters away from the public but asleep. It was so funny. The red panda kept on calling the other red panda which was really very cute to see. The enclosures are large but not too large that you can’t see them.
We need to walk a lot, a lot, as it is a very big park. But if you are actually seeking for rides there then please try to look for the fast track coupons available because it takes a lot of time waiting in the queue.
The front end of the park where the closing ceremony where you get to see the musical fountain show, unlike you will ever see, anywhere. That closing ceremony is the best good bye gift, the park has to offer. Whatever you do, do not miss it. Also be prepared to walk a lot, a lot, as it is a very big park. Also, do not pay for coin lockers for your stuff as almost all rides/attractions have temporary storage to store your belongings while you are in the ride/attraction. Lastly I picked up a few souvenirs to remember my time in Ocean Park and found there were some good specials on offer.
DISNEYLAND- The happiest place on Earth
I spent my new year in Hong Kong Disney Land which is worth a visit. I stayed in the Disneyland resort and hotel for 3 days. The staffs were amazing and had no issues in communicating as most of them are well versed with English.
First day I spent in the Disneyland Resort and the room had a sea view. After checking in and keeping my luggages in the hotel I went to the Disneyland directly with the shuttle provided by hotel. If you’re keen to take it slow and make it a two-day affair at Disneyland, There’s a choice of the classic Victorian-style Disneyland Hotel, the Tinsel town-themed Hollywood Hotel and the newly opened Disney Explorer’s Lodge. You’ll find Mickey and friends in all corners of the room – even on shampoo bottles! The benefit of staying in the Disneyland’s own resort and hotel is that you get fast track coupons to try on the rides for which you don’t need to stand in the queue.
After reaching the Disneyland, I took so many pictures near entrance, Navigating through the Park Entrance is in itself an attraction. First you come to the main gate, where Mickey greets all arriving visitors and the the Mickey with the fountain.
After getting inside I went to watch the Lion King show which was in the Adventure Land and the show was for 30 minutes. This production brings the well-loved story of The Lion King to life featuring lively dances, aerial performances, giant floats and fire dancing. Sing along to all your favourite songs like Hakuna Matata and A Circle of Life. It got me to my childhood days.
After the Lion King Show I went down and saw the Mystic Manor and took some photos outside, the mystic manor was all about hopping on a carriage and travelling through a collector’s house as exotic artifacts came to life. I even saw the talking paintings, sculptures and even weapons. Expect enchanting moments with the help of air and sound effects. And yeah, there’s also an adorable animatronic monkey named Albert accompanying you through the journey. It can be bit scary for kids as I heard some kids crying after coming out of there.
I went to the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh and this was such a darling ride! You get your picture taken on this ride! When you are in the heffalumps and woozles room there is a giant mirror with a countdown to 3 on it and then it snaps your picture! You can also read the book of Winnie the Pooh while sitting in the cart. I couldn’t meet Pooh because of time constraints.
While going to the Toy Story Land I saw the Slinky dog spin there and went to take the ride but the queue was too long and it took approximately 45 mins to get in the ride. I didn’t enjoy this ride much. I mean it was kinda okay!
Star Wars Tomorrowland Takeover – Hyperspace Mountain (newly reopened indoor coaster ride, revamped with Star Wars theme–be prepared for darkness, laser lights, chills, crazy fast maneuvers with amazing sound and light effects! The day of my visit on 31st Jan was actually crowded, took 2 rides and didn’t wait for more than 15 minutes! It was a superb experience!)
After this Star Wars Tomorrowland Takeover I went to the Mickey’s Storybook Adventure and this was a 28-minute musical show is set in a magical library, where the adventurous hero Mickey and his trusty side kick Goofy (both with an articulated head) coming upon a magical book that can usher stories to life. When curious Mickey opens the book, the comical snowman Olaf (puppet perform) from Frozen falls out. While trying to get Olaf back inside, Mickey is magically drawn into the book.Following this, Mickey will look for Olaf’s story after ascertaining the magic of the book and the ability of its first six stories, presenting The Jungle Book.
Let me take you to the streets starting from entrance: First thing you see upon entering the park as in all other Disney parks, is the Railroad Station which sits above the Park Entrance. Before entering the park there is also a Guest Services desk on your left, there are ATM machines and luggage storage services available. The Railroad is a “regular” at all Disney parks and one of the best ways to get an overview of the entire complex. The Railroad goes through all the “lands” and gives you the grand circle tour of the grounds.
City Hall is at the heart of the Town Square on your left. Town Square and City Hall are the Guest Services Hub where you find everything you need from changing money, ATM machines, Lost and Found, and the stroller and wheelchair rental as well.
Make sure you pick up a Park Guide Map and a Times Guide to check show and parades times. They are provided in several different languages.At Guest Services at City Hall you can also make reservations for the many restaurants in the park.
Opposite the City Hall is the Opera House, which houses Art of Animation and next to it is Animation Academy. I thought of learning how to draw Disney Characters. At this Art of Animation we get to learn how animation is born from sketches and drawings, and how it all comes together in the movies. I couldn’t try this because I had to eat my lunch as I was starving to death hahaha. So, the cafeteria in Disneyland Hong Kong has all country cuisines including Indian, Chinese, Japanese, Malaysian, Western, Arab etc. And after coming back from the cafeteria the animation academy got closed.
ON MY SECOND DAY VISIT TO THE DISNEYLAND
I had in my mind on my second day that today I have to take pictures with the Disney Characters. So, I got in the queue to take picture with Minnie Mouse and Pluto. I was just like a kid waiting for his chance to take photo.
After this I directly went to the Big Grizzly Mountain Runaway Mine Cars was such an electrifying adventure which looked so scary at first as everyone in that keep screaming but it was one of the best ride I had in my entire life. It has got plenty of big twists, dips, faux explosions and a, spoiler alert, was surprised by the reverse backward drop and where they took a cheeky photograph. I didn’t have to wait in the queue as I had fast track coupons and entered just like a VIP. Took 3 rides there and came back to the streets of the Disneyland.
The Jungle cruise in Disneyland was full of surprises. The Jungle Cruise is basically a boat ride through a man-made jungle, with each tour led by a skipper who follows a script. I sat on the boat and saw the crocodiles, piranhas, monkeys, elephants, rhinos, cannibals, hippos and of course the infamous back side of water, and mysterious fire in the water.
The Iron Man Experience was like putting on a pair of 3D glasses just like Robert Downey Jr. and hopping on board with stationary ride and experiencing the flying around Hong Kong with the metal-garbed superheroes. There was plethora of drops, rapid motion manoeuvres and exciting sensory effects. It wasn’t upto my expectation, I didn’t like it that much.
Disney’s Sparkling Christmas was all about sparkling festive ornaments hanging from Christmas trees and storefronts, carolers singing and atmospheric white snow – okay, it’s more like foam, There was a 20-minute-long Mickey and Friends Christmastime Ball.
The place was all about magic with the brand new Fantasy Gardens Wintertime Market where I snacked and shopped for exclusive Christmas treats and gifts.
The parade is a must catch, this is like one parade at Disneyland, which is known as Paint the Night parade. I watched flurry of performers and Disney characters lighted up the night with glowing outfits to dance alongside all neon-light floating and greeting everyone as they parade down the Main Street.
Main Street USA is also in the daily Flights of Fantasy Parade Route, and is a good place to watch the Disney in the Stars Fireworks, the fireworks was still less in Hong Kong because of the protest in Hong Kong.
The Fireworks Spectacular is a dazzling array of laser, multimedia, music and pyrothecnics, all beautifully coreographed with favourite Disney themes playing, it is quite impressive as it should be considering where fireworks originated from! Enjoy!
While leaving Hong Kong from Disneyland Hotel, I took the Disney train to the Hong Kong Lantau Linc Toll Plaza bus stop to Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge Zhuhai port and reached my next destination on a double decker bus as I wanted to see the bridge which is is a 55-kilometre or 34 miles bridge also known as Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge–the tunnel system consists of a series of three cable-stayed bridges, an undersea tunnel and also four artificial islands. It is also both the longest sea crossing and the longest open-sea fixed link on earth. You should definitely experience this once.
“If you’re too free, you’re like the way Hong Kong is now. It’s very chaotic.” – Jackie Chan