Yahoo Lifestyle A Long Weekend Guide to Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a city that leaves you buzzing well after you’ve boarded the plane for the return trip home. There’s something intoxicating about the destination that overflows with options to indulge the senses. From the foodie scene to the shiny shopping malls, street markets and the natural beauty of The Peak, Hong Kong will satisfy every taste and this list should be enough to whet the appetite for an indulgent long weekend in the vibrant and ever-changing city.
Location, location, location
While there are planes, trains, cars and ferries to transport you around the busy streets and waterways, the traffic jams are notoriously bad. I always choose a hotel in or near Central, with cafes, shopping and the major sights a stroll away. This time, I stayed at the Four Seasons Hong Kong. The 5-star luxury hotel is just a few minutes walk (or shuttle) from the MTR in the International Financial Centre, where the Airport Express drops you off. The hotel sits right on the famous Victoria Harbour so you can take in the view from the comfort of your room or peruse the Kowloon skyline while cooling off in the rooftop pool.
Fasten your Foodie Seatbelt
Hong Kong is a foodie’s paradise. The only problem you will encounter is which bars and restaurants to prioritise and which to leave for the next visit. Here are the Hong Kong hot spots that should be at the top of your list.
Traditional
For a no-frills bowl of noodles, soup or dim sum, head to the popular Lin Heung Tea House. Book a table and prepare yourself for a chaotic scene as the place is always heaving with locals and tourists. For golden, crispy skinned roast goose Yat Lok in Central is a crowd favourite, earning it a Michelin star.
Trendy
The Continental brings a taste of Europe to the heart of Hong Kong. The bistro setting styled with gorgeous hunter green leather booths, retro detailing and immaculately dressed wait staff welcomes diners into the bright and airy space in Admiralty. This is the perfect spot to indulge in one of Hong Kong’s favourite weekend foodie past times; brunch, high tea or a long lunch. They have set menus that cater to each occasion with dishes celebrating fresh local ingredients with a French or British twist. Don’t forget a glass of french bubbly!
My House is the cool new culinary kid on the block in Wan Chai. Start your evening at this slick New York style bar and restaurant with a beautifully built cocktail from the bar and stay to savour Spanish and Italian style share plates. Ask owner and sommelier Alison Christ to optimise your experience by pairing your meal with matching natural wines. Don’t leave without trying the 48 hour slow cooked short rib.
Top End
A team of chefs at Caprice serve up artful dishes that are almost too beautiful to eat. The two Michelin star formal fine dining experience is ideal for those looking to splurge on a French culinary feast. It’s easy to see why it’s a popular choice with couples celebrating important milestones. As expected, the food and service was faultless. The Langoustine with ravioli with Wild Mushrooms, Watercress Coulis and Kristal Caviar was a stand out dish but don’t forget to save room for the incredible desserts and cheese tasting plate.
Cocktail Hour
The cocktail scene is competitive in Hong Kong and a rooftop tipple is a must during your stay. While Sevva has long been a favourite, CÉ LA VI is the latest luxury drinking destination. Jump in the jacuzzi at the SkyBar and enjoy your designer drink with 360 degree views of the city.
The gentrification of Wan Chai’s Ship Street means the area has become a hipster haven with edgy bars and restaurants drawing foodies and cocktail aficionados to the Ship strip. Head to Ham and Sherry’s, The Back Bar and ask manager and mixologist Ryan Nightingale whip you up a Ron Burgundy or a What’s Eating Gimlet Grape?
Give Your Wallet a Work Out
For the die hard shopper, put on your comfortable shoes, hydrate and head to Causeway Bay. The list of brand names is endless from GAP to Zara and H&M. Don’t miss the narrow laneway markets for cheap trinkets.
If you are short on time, walk Queen’s Road Central for Top Shop, Zara, Abercrombie & Fitch to name a few. Head to the IFC (International Financial Centre) on the way to the airport for all the usual designer suspects.
The Stanley Market is a great place to buy souvenirs, artworks, electrical goods or some local designer fashion. A taxi or mini bus will take you to the market in about 40 minutes. Wander the market and grab some lunch on the main beach or walk the foreshore to the quieter coves.
Climb The Peak
Work off some of those extra calories by walking up to The Peak. The incline coupled with the humidity can be challenging, but you are rewarded with beautiful tropical surroundings, a rare moment of peace and quiet and stunning views of the skyline as you climb. If you aren’t very physically fit, another fun way to get to The Peak is via the tram. Get to the station early to beat the heat and the crowds.
There is only one guarantee when planning a long weekend trip to Hong Kong; it will leave you craving more. The city is so dynamic, no visit is the same as the next and that’s part of the enigmatic charm of the Asian hub.
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Skye is a journalist and wellness wanderer -- Travelling the globe to discover the best in health, wellness, food and luxury travel.
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