The thought of moving to a place like Hong Kong can be thrilling yet intimidating for any expat. From its colonial past to its imposing modern skyline, this island city can be called Asia’s melting pot of culture and diversity. Apart from its “East Meets West” reputation, many visitors consider Hong Kong a place of extremes.
Nevertheless, this vibrant and dynamic city has plenty to offer in terms of opportunities, night life, safety and living standards, and it is no surprise that thousands of expats are choosing to move here each year. Here are five unique experiences that all expats must try during their stay in Hong Kong:1. Visit Victoria Peak:
The panorama from Victoria Peak can encapsulate Hong Kong in a single image for you. This famous vantage point gives you a clear, 360-degree view of the city’s harbors, skyline and mountains.
Also known as The Peak, this is not just another tourist attraction with great dining and shopping facilities. In fact, even the most cynical locals don’t tire of its phenomenal vista. Art lovers get an additional bonus, as they can take a tour through the Sky Gallery, which showcases some of the city’s most talented artists.
Getting to The Peak via the Peak Tram is an unforgettable experience in itself, as the 120-year old funicular railway car rises 1,300 feet (396 meters) above sea level.
While the Peak is open to the public from 10:00AM to 11:00PM, it is best to plan your visit during sunset. For more details, visit www.thepeak.com.hk/en/
2. Watch The Symphony Of Lights On The Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
While in Hong Kong, don’t forget to stroll down the promenade at Tsim Sha Tsui, which begins at the colonial era clock tower and goes right up to Hung Hom. On the way, you will come across many other interesting spots like The Hong Kong Cultural Center, Hong Kong Space Museum, Hong Kong Art Museum and The Avenue Of Stars.
To further enhance your walk, plan your visit at around 8:00PM, so that it coincides with the spectacular light and sound show called The Symphony of Lights. This nightly multimedia show involves 44 buildings on the island’s skyline and is indeed a sight to behold, with its laser beams, searchlights, music and compelling narration. The Guinness Book of World Records has named this event as the “World’s Largest Permanent Light & Sound Show”.
3. Make A Trip To Ocean Park
Situated in Wong Chuk Hang & Nam Long Shan, Ocean Park is one of the largest themed-parks in Hong Kong. This attraction is a marine mammal park, an animal theme park, an amusement park and an oceanarium.
The two main attractions of Ocean Park are The Summit and The Waterfront. Both points are connected by a 1.5KM long cable-car. The 8-minute ride will give you a spectacular view of the South China Sea.
The Summit is made up of Marine World, Thrill Mountain, Adventure Land, Polar Adventure and The Rainforest. At the Waterfront, you can experience Aqua City, Amazing Asian Animals and Whiskers Harbor. The Escalators and Ocean Express are enjoyable experiences too.
For more details, visit www.oceanpark.com.hk
4. Take A Hike
Most of us associate Hong Kong with fast-paced city-life and spectacular skyscrapers. However, Hong Kong also boasts of some great outdoors. You can explore this wild side of Hong Kong by hiking through the trails of Peak Circle Walk, Dragon’s Back, Lung Yeuk Tau, Nam Sang Wai, Lamma Island, Lantau Peak and many more places of great natural beauty. These easily-accessible diversions from your typical urban excursions can add great variety to your Hong Kong experience.
5. Go Shopping
Hong Kong has gained a reputation for being one of Asia’s most expensive places. You will be reminded why every time you go shopping to its numerous high-end stores for branded clothes, accessories and cosmetics.
However, in addition to the high-end stores in malls, department stores, and shopping districts, there are numerous street markets in Hong Kong. If you are in the mood to bargain, you can head for the Ladies’ Market on Tung Choi Street. This market contains more than 100 stalls selling clothes, accessories and souvenirs, and even goldfish. Shopping enthusiasts can also get some great deals on everyday items at the Temple Street Night Market, and on antiques at the Cat Street market.