Hong Kong Primer

Hong Kong is commonly described as “East meets West” because of its Chinese roots having influenced by the British colony. It is composed of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula , New Territories and Lantau Island. The population is around 7.03 million with which 95% are of Chinese descent. The official language of Hong Kong is Cantonese and approximately, the forex rate is 1 HKD = 5.30 PHP

With my extensive research, the places that paved way to my itinerary were are as follows, and this is in order of my interest;

1. Hong Kong Disneyland
2. The Peak
3. Avenue of Stars
4. Ngong Ping/ Giant Buddha
5. Nan Lian Garden
6. City Gate
7. Mongkok

Getting Around

Hong Kong’s transport network is highly developed which makes it easy to tour around. With Octopus Card, you’ll never have problems riding their MTR (Mass Transit Railway), Tramways, Public Buses. Taxi’s are always available as well.

Where to Stay

If you’re on a tight budget, there are tons of hostels available. The best place, as suggested in PinoyExchange.com (PEX), is to stay within (TST) Tsim Sha Tsui area. With the help of tripadvisor, I chose between Golden Crown Court and Cosmic Guesthouse. My first choice was Golden Crown Court but due to unavailability of the room, I ended up with Cosmic Guesthouse. But if you have enough money to splurge, then by all means, and for one’s convenience, hotels are another option.

Tips & Things to Do

• Grab a map available at the airport
• Visit The Peak in the afternoon and stay until evening to view the wonderful skyline of Hong Kong, both at day and night
• Leave The Peak at 7:30PM then ride Star Ferry to get back to TST, just in time for the Symphony of Lights
• Watch Symphony of Lights in Avenue of Starts.
• Never miss the parade and fireworks display of Hong Kong Disneyland
• Take a picture with Mickey Mouse in Disneyland and Bruce Lee in Avenue of Stars
• Walk around TST
• Bring USD and change your money to Wing Hoi Money Changer for competitive rates. This is located at ground floor of Mirador Mansion
• Macau is just one hour ferry ride from Hong Kong; allot one day to travel to Macau
• Eat
• Shopping