ENTER THE Dragon
In Hong Kong, old meets new and East meets West, as Peter Davenport discovers
The Year of the Dragon is upon us, and where better to celebrate Chinese New Year than in one of China’s most iconic cities… Hong Kong, with its unique East meets West history. Dive right into a city famed for fabulous food, stunning skylines and Chinese/British culture.
From hiking spectacular mountain trails to exploring Kowloon’s classic neon-lit streets, Hong Kong’s a city of custom and cultures old and new, with endless experiences. Explore ancient temples and shimmering skyscrapers, bustling markets and seaside villages, and piece together your own version of this enigmatic city. The only question is... where will you start?
HONG KONG HARBOUR & KOWLOON: Views from The Peak
For picture postcard skyline views that would rival any from around the globe, a must is taking the Peak Tram, one of the world’s oldest and most famous funicular railways, travelling 1300ft above sea level to the upper levels of Hong Kong Island, all the while enjoying stellar views as you climb to the top. Alight at the Peak for spectacular views of the entire city. Alternatively, come at sunset to see the sky turn from red above to the sparkling lights below.
THE STAR FERRY: Kowloon and the World of Susie Wong
Throughout Hong Kong’s history, the city’s grown skywards on both sides of Victoria Harbour, however there’s always been one constant – the Star Ferry – voyaging seamlessly between Kowloon to Hong Kong Island for over 120 years. Whether crossing by day or night, travel back in time with an unrivalled viewpoint from which to experience the drama of the harbour.
Arriving in Kowloon, relive the romance of the classic 1960 movie ‘The World of Susie Wong’ and explore a town that feels more like a film set, with classic James Bond and Bruce Lee movies shot here.
If you love a bargain, visit Kowloon’s Temple Street Night Market. A bustling myriad of street sellers offering everything from jade, antiques, electronics and clothing, to sizzling street food and fortune tellers.
ON THE BOARDWALK: Stanley Market & Beach:
Less than 30 minutes by taxi, get some sand in your shoes and escape the hustle and bustle of the city for an afternoon in Stanley, a picturesque seaside town with a sandy beach, an enticing daily market – including paintings by local artists - and popular waterside restaurants and bars.
Stop for lunch at one of the many eateries looking out across Stanley Bay, take a stroll along Blake Pier and on to Murray House, an imposing site on Stanley’s waterfront –
A ROOM WITH A VIEW
Those familiar ar with
Hong Kong will also be well aware of the city’s spectacular fireworks displays, which light up the harbour for both Chinese New Year and New Year’s Eve. One of the best places to see this dazzling display is from the comfort of your own hotel.
And one of the best hotels for views (and located centrally in Wan Chai), is the Grand Hyatt. It’s a five star luxury hotel with an Asianinspired design, cleverly managing the home-from-home feel of an urban resort, with its own outdoor pool and terrace that overlooks the harbour. Perfect for not only watching the fireworks, but the sunsets too.
TOP TIP: Book a room with Grand Club lounge access to watch the sun go down with nightly cocktails AND CANAPES ON THE 31ST flOOR. hongkong.grand.hyatt.com
DIM SUM DELIGHTS
Dim sum means to ‘touch the heart’ in Chinese and nothing unites Hong Kong like this cuisine. No visit to the city is complete without indulging in these delicious deliciou parcels of pleasure, pleas very much mu part of the cic city’s unique culture and heritage. You’ll find dim sum on every street in Hong Kong, in restaurants r big and a small. But ag great choice for some of the tastiest tastie in town, and with wit a view to die for, is One O Harbour Road. R dS Set in i a split-level dining room capturing the elegance of a Taipan mansion in the 1930s, and with spectacular harbour views, the restaurant serves authentic dim sum daily.
TOP TIP: Get there early or request a window table to make THE MOST OF THOSE INCREDIBLE VIEWS. hongkong.grand. hyattrestaurants.com