Hong Kong: Once a Fishing Village, Now a Thriving Metropolis
As an international business center, Hong Kong is a thriving place to visit. At one time, it was just a lowly fishing village, but is now a place any world tourist must visit. Also, Hong Kong is a place with a focus on both Western and Chinese cultures, and it has the best of both worlds. Located near jungles both concrete and natural, and plenty of water, Hong Kong is the perfect destination.
Breakfast:
Lin Heung Tea House
Very traditional Dim Sum/ Yum Cha place. Waitresses will push out a trolley with several stacks of dim sum. Ideally, bring a friend who can speak Cantonese, or learn a few words for the dishes. Then start fighting for your favorite dumplings. Siu Mai, shrimp dumplings and steamed vermicelli rolls are the typical choices. Not everyone like these traditional dishes, but surely no one won’t mind their tea.
160-164 Wellington Street, Central, Hong Kong. 2544 4556.
Morning Activity:
Take the longest outdoor covered escalator in the world: Central’s Mid-levels escalators.
If the tea house doesn’t fit your personal taste for breakfast or the little dumplings weren’t enough, hit up the Brunch Club.
70 Peel Street, Central, Hong Kong.
Near to the SoHo area, Central Market (a traditional wet market) is another cool spot.
The Peak You can either take a cab to The Peak from Central, or go up via the tram station. It is interesting to take the tram, but don’t do it unless you have plenty of time and money. It is famous for its beautiful view of busiest part of Hong Kong surrounding the Victoria Harbour. At The Peak, you can have a walk in the park, where you will find the best spot for taking picture and for free.
Want to see more things to do in Hong Kong and beyond? Visit Trip Tipping for more.
Lunchtime:
Causeway Bay
Sogo Department Store (Causeway Bay), Hennessy Road, Hong Kong. Experience how crowded and hustling bustling at this huge intersection in Hong Kong. This is probably the widest zebra crossing line in Hong Kong.
Yu (Si Chuan Bistro). It is behind the Time Square Mall. Must-try: flaming red spicy chicken and mint colored cucumber soya milk (their own invention). Si Chuan food in Hong Kong is less greasy/oily than those in Mainland China. According to foreign visitors I encounter, most of them enjoyed Si Chuan food the most compare to the rest of Chinese food, for its strong taste, and the thrilling spices. Desserts are delicious too!
4 Yiu Wa Street, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.
Afternoon Acitivity:
Ladies’ Market Most likely, you won’t buy anything. Just have a look and take pictures, as there’s a wide variety of tourist and local fare on offer.
Tung Choi Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon.
Yuen Po Street Bird Garden Before the Avian Flu epidemic, there was a street full of bird stalls. Redeveloped by the government, these stalls are moved to this Bird Garden. There is also a Flower Street nearby, which you’ll find fragrantly pleasant.
Dinner:
Chungking Mansion (Indian Curry)
Chungking Mansions is very diverse and very sketchy- and therefore interesting. There, you will meet a concentrated population of ethnic minorities in Hong Kong. You’ll get service centers for immigrants, motels for backpackers and African and Indian bistros. I call it sketchy because of its safety concerns. Illegal immigrants and drug dealers were arrested in this building. Accidents happened due to poor maintenance of the building.
BUT THE INDIAN CURRY you will get there, is another story. It is heavenly made with an earthly price. Khyber Pass was one of the best. They are famous for Cheese Naan. The minute when you get to the building, you’ll be surrounded by salespeople trying to drag you to their restaurants. Don’t panic. Avoid eye contact. Get to the elevators of Block E, head to 7th floor, Room E2. FYI, next to the restaurant is a Canadian Motel. 2 Canadian girls once disappeared in Hong Kong, and Chungking Mansions was the last place they went.
Chungking Mansion, 36-44 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui.
Evening Activity:
Have a walk along the Tsim Sha Tsui Ferry Pier/Victoria Harbor. Simply Gorgeous. There is a light show at 8PM every night. But not very special, honestly.
Ozone @ Ritz Carlton, International Commercial Center (ICC) Kowloon, Hong Kong.
ICC is the tallest building of Hong Kong. 100 levels above the ground, you will get to see a stunning view of Hong Kong. At the same time enjoy a drink or two in the terrace. Prepare some more money (2000HKD) if you are planning to have a seat and table indoor. It’s a bar of Ritz Carlton. A really CLASSY one.
Night Activity:
Oi Suen Guesthouse It’s a tiny but equipped motel. The concierge is full of brochures and pamphlets for guests. Awards for their great service. Decent price as well. It is located in Mong Kok, so you will get very convenient transportation.
Need more things to do around the world? Visit Trip Tipping for more.
***Thanks Adam M. for the photo***
