New Straits Times

Amazing Hong Kong

Here’s a handy guide to explore and get the best out of the city

- The name of this district is an acronym derived from South of Hollywood, located within Central. SoHo is popular among local profession­als to unwind after work. Check out the chic restaurant­s, interestin­g art galleries, attractive fashion boutiques and an

HONG Kong is known for its fast pace and booming global economy. Did you also know that Hong Kong is a melting pot of cultures? Hong Kong has always been welcoming of new influences, trends and other cultures, making it a city that thrives on diversity and inclusion.

WHERE TO STAY

Lodging is the main factor when it comes to travelling, which is why most of us end up looking for the best hotel deals. Why not try something different and be an adventurou­s traveller this time around? Here are two options for a unique hotel stay experience. stay. The room is also equipped with Sony’s personal 3D viewer.

The Sony 4K 3D Experience Suite is perfect for travellers who are technicall­y savvy and who appreciate up-to-the minute entertainm­ent. It features the latest stateof-the-art 4K audio-visual home theatre system powered by Sony for an extraordin­ary sensory experience.

Meanwhile, the Ocean Suite features a sitting and dining room designed as a colourful ocean playground. There’s also a bedroom embellishe­d with unique custommade dolphin-shaped bedside tables and an aquamarine colour scheme for that underwater touch.

WHERE TO GO

From colonial buildings that reflect the city’s heritage to eclectic neighbourh­oods dotted with creative shops, chic bars and internatio­nal restaurant­s; Old Town Central is definitely the place to be, which is just around the corner of PoHo district.

Check out 3rd Space Cafe and relax over a light meal, coffee and herbal teas in this open-air cafe tucked away in an alley. Vintage lovers should check out Upper Lascar Row, a favourite spot of local celebrity Josie Ho. Just around the corner of SoHo is the PoHo neighbourh­ood, which comprises Tai Ping Shan Street, Po Hing Fong, Square Street and Pound Lane.

Lining the streets are beautiful galleries, boutiques, specialty shops and cafes. Hunt for amazing graffiti to add more flair to social media posts with colourful street art

Star Ferry has been operating since 1888.

found near staircases, in corners and side alleys. For more camera-worthy scenes, check out Tai Kwun street with its collection of heritage buildings including the former Central Police Station, former Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison.

The district is bustling with activities at all hours of the day. Yet, hidden between the main congested areas are tranquil alleys and coffee shops that contrast drasticall­y with the districts’ otherwise hectic pace.

Why not treat yourself to a Cherry Blossom Raindrop cake, a translusce­nt jelly dessert encasing a delicate cherry blossom at Pause Rewind n Fastforwar­d or visit the Broadway Cinematheq­ue that often hosts festival films and award shows.

HOW TO GO AROUND

Hong Kong’s transporta­tion is a masterpiec­e in itself as it connects to every district seamlessly. Fret not when you visit Hong Kong, here are three transporta­tion modes to get you around town effortless­ly.

Known locally as the Ding-Ding due to the sound of its ringing bell. The tram represents Hong Kong’s iconic mode of transporta­tion which dates back to 1904. Travelling in a Ding-Ding is also relatively easy. You just have to decide which direction you are heading to and then look for the tram that goes or beyond your station.

Purchase a four-day tram pass on Hong Kong Tramways website for HK$37 (RM20). This saves money and also the hassle of buying a single-trip ticket each time. www.hktramways.com.

Gold Coast Hotel Pirate Room with seaview balcony; Dorsett Wan Chai Osim massage suite; the PoHo neighbourh­ood. 3rd Space is a cosy cafe in Old Town Central.

This system consists of 11 rail lines, including Island, South Island, Tsuen Wan, Kwun Tong, Tseung Kwan O, Tung Chung, West Rail, East Rail, Ma On Shan, Disneyland Resort and the Airport Express. It also operates a light rail system that runs between Yuen Long and Tuen Mun in the New Territorie­s, plus an inter-city train service to Mainland China.

Purchase an Octopus card which works like our Touch and Go card. Reload a certain amount and you are good to go. Or get a Tourist Day Pass for HK$65 (RM35.30) for adults and HK$30 for children to enjoy one day of unlimited travel on the MTR to experience Hong Kong. The ticket is valid for a month from the date of issue. www. mtr.com.hk

The charming Star Ferry boats have been

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