The Philippine Star

Wallet-friendly Hong Kong for the entire family

- By ALIYYA SAWADJAAN

START the New Year by discoverin­g fun and memorable activities experience­s for the entire family in exciting Hong Kong.

Hong Kong is more than Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park, and shopping. It comes with multiple personalit­ies, fascinatin­g medley of the ancient and modern wonders, flanked by influences from East and West.

It is a city that has much to offer; the sophistica­tion of an internatio­nal city, cultural diversity and cosmopolit­an lifestyle are at the very core of Hong Kong’s attraction­s.

HONG KONG, THE MOST EXPENSIVE CITY IN THE WORLD?

Since Hong Kong is very close to the Philippine­s, airfares are generally cheaper compared to fares to other countries. Additional­ly, non-stop flights are only two hours long, meaning, shorter flights and more manageable trips for elderly parents and kids.

While the city has always been perceived as an expensive, visitors can actually make Hong Kong as affordable as they want, from food, shopping to accommodat­ion.

In terms of lodging, there are numerous wallet-friendly options where families can stay comfortabl­y as hotel service in Hong Kong is one of the best in the world.

The Dorsett Wan Chai Hong Kong is an award-winning hotel famed for its Asian-style courtesy and efficiency. Located between Causeway Bay and Wanchai, the hotel is only an eightminut­e walk away from the nearest MTR station and the vibrant Causeway Bay shopping and entertainm­ent belt.

Another possibilit­y is the Best Western Tsim Sha Tsui. Families can look forward to its comfortabl­e amenities and, best of all; the property is only five minutes away from Nathan Road and Jordan MTR station.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES

When traveling with kids, it is important to select activities and tourist spots that they can appreciate and remember for a lifetime. The Symphony of lights located along the Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui is a classic spot worthy of your Instagram feed. The audio-visual spectacula­r uses the dramatic Hong Kong skyline as a fitting backdrop to display laser and firework shows with music. The show lasts 15 minutes and is best seen from the Avenue of Stars promenade on Kowloon.

The Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery in Lantau Island is home to the famous Big Buddha, which measures more than 100 feet high. The statue is made of bronze and seated in the mythical cross-legged repose. The view of the countrysid­e is spectacula­r and the excellent vegetarian cuisine served by monks in the canteen seals the deal.

Spend a hands-on and engaging afternoon with your kids at The Hong Kong Science Museum located on Science Museum Road in Tsim Sha Tsui. The Museum has around 500 exhibits, most of which are interactiv­e to encourage exploratio­n. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Wetland Park in Tin Shui Wai is a fun, interactiv­e and educationa­l center, showcasing the region’s fragile ecosystem and plethora of wildlife. The park is stroller-friendly so it makes for an excellent outing for family with younger children.

SAFETY IN HONG KONG

Parents need not fear regarding the safety of their children while visiting Hong Kong because it is one of the safest places in the world. The little state has one of the lowest crime rates. One of the reasons for this is the local police force. The policemen are described as very helpful, polite and omnipresen­t, giving people a general feeling of safety and security.

IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY

Busy careers, school schedules, and gadgets make it harder for some families to bond and establish closeness. This is why family travel is more important than ever. Placing importance on family togetherne­ss offers children unique experience and learning, helping them become openminded and successful later on in life.

Plan your next family vacation in Hong Kong for a fun-filled and memorable experience!

Want to explore Hong Kong with your family? For more informatio­n, visit Travel Tour Expo - Booth No. 356-360, 373-377 at SMX Convention Center from Feb. 8 to 10, 2019. #discoverHo­ngKong

 ??  ?? The Avenue of Stars at Tsim Sha Tsui
The Avenue of Stars at Tsim Sha Tsui

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