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Adventured Packed Southeast Asia Itinerary: 3 Weeks!

June 3, 2020 by admin 2 Comments

Southeast Asia, the name spells out the charm of a tropical landscape, vibrant versatility, and romantic getaways that you can ever think of. From playing a significant part in history, the region of Southeast Asia is everything and more than you have read in any travel or history books. I have previously shared a guide on the best way to see Thailand in 3 weeks, or unmissable experiences in Phuket, to reasons why you will love Bangkok.

We started out exploring with Beijing but depending on where you are flying from, you can also start with Thailand or Cambodia. Below is also a quick glance at the 3-week itinerary of Southeast Asia.

3-Week Southeast Asia Itinerary At A Glance

I am sure backpacking Southeast Asia in 3 weeks is on many people’s bucket list below is a quick glance at the how to spend 3 weeks in Southeast Asia visiting China for quick exploring before embarking on Cambodia, Thailand with the possibility of extending to Vietnam.

Week 1:

Beijing – 2 days
Cambodia – 4 days

Week 2-3:

Bangkok Phuket & Krabi – 2 weeks

Week 4: Optional Addition

Vietnam – 5 days

Southeast Asia 3 Week Itinerary

Below is a detailed guide for how to do Southeast Asia itinerary in 3 weeks.

WEEK 1 Beijing & Siem Reap

Day 1-2 in Beijing

The 3 weeks in Asia kicks off with Beijing. Getting to Beijing is easier than you think since it has access via air from airports across the world like that of Amsterdam, Chicago, London, Delhi, etc. We had flown in from Budapest but have just easily done this is from London.

Since the next stop is Cambodia after Beijing, you can apply for 72-Hour visa exemption at the Beijing Capital Airport. Using this free visa, you can travel through Beijing and visit the local sights. However, this 72-Hour visa exemption will be applicable to the people from selected countries only. So, make sure that you read my post for additional details as you apply for the visa to Beijing and even as you purchase the next ticket to Cambodia. This gives you around two days and a half in Beijing, which will allow you to travel through top tourist attractions in Beijing.

The Forbidden City and Imperial Palace: The first destination to explore on foot has to be the sprawling and mystifying palace that has been around since the illustrious Ming dynasty. There plenty of tours in Beijing to help you make the most of your time. Of course, the actual palace had been burnt and then in the 18^th century, it was built back to its present glory.

One thing that you will find is its impressive facade and glamour complete with interesting murals and artistic decor everywhere you see. The absence of the trees in the main central courtyard will be revealed before you the actual dimensions of the palace. Many gates have nine gilded and very ornately decorated doors.

The names that these gates and halls have like the Gate of Divine Prowess, the Meridian Gate, are sure to inspire you in some way or the other. The Five marble bridges and the highly decorated gold throne of the Imperial Palace are all things to take snaps and stows away in your memory.

From here, visiting yet another marvel is The Great Wall of China. However, as you travel to the historic spot, you can have a platter of the famous dumplings or Peking Roast Duck. There are scores of malls and markets within the city that you might drop in to have a grand time shopping.

The Great Wall of China: It is an architectural wonder and the only manmade monument that is visible to space. This is truly something and when you visit it, the wall is going to astound you. Of course, you cannot walk the entire length, but you can surely visit a portion of the wall that passes through the north of Beijing city. The wall gets names to the places it passes through, and so you can visit one of the sections like Badaling Great Wall, Mutianyu Great Wall, Simatai Great Wall that passes through Beijing. The opening times of these sections through the wall are different, and so it is better to get a tour to Great Wall or a local guidebook or the tour operators for a drive to these sections of the wall.

One of the Zhou dynasty’s dukes between 770 and 221BC commissioned the wall. Then the actual work and the Great Wall that we see today came up during the Ming dynasty. Through the length from the wall, there are watchtowers and fortresses to ensure that the earlier monarchs kept an eye open for the advancing enemies.

A captivating visual treat is this visit to the Great Wall. The entry is closed for the evening, and so you must not make a plan to visit it very late in the evening.

Tian’anmen Square: The “Gate of Heavenly Peace” or Tian’anmen Square is one of the highlights of Beijing city. As a city center, Tian’anmen Square played a major role throughout the Chinese history. This is one of the largest squares of its kind throughout the world for the biggest rallies and parades. The Gate of Heavenly Peace of Tian’anmen Square gate is on one side, and the Great Hall of the People on the other side makes it a stunning place to visit at sunset. You can see the hoisting of the Chinese flag in the morning and the lowering of it in the evening completely in a ceremonial way.

As you wrap up your stay in Beijing, try to visit one of the many markets in Beijing like Panjiayuan Flea Market, Hongqiao Pearl Market and more to shop for everything from superior bags, fashionable clothes, and other accessories. After all of these, you can get ready for your next Southeast Asian destination of Cambodia.

Also Read: Things To Do In Beijing In Winter

Pro Tip: You can easily search for flights with super long layovers on Expedia or if you take a direct flight to Beijing you can then hop on the budget airlines to Cambodia.

Day 3-7 In Cambodia

The country of Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia, and it is a peninsula, which has Laos on one side, Thailand on the other and Vietnam on the third side. The Khmer Dynasty ruled over the country for over 600 years during which the country had developed culturally and otherwise. It saw the influx of two very popular religions Hinduism and Buddhism leading to the rise of many majestic temples that you must certainly make a point to visit.

Day 3 and Day 4 Sihanoukville: Sihanoukville in the north has a plethora of beaches, and if you cannot do without your dose of beaches, then this is where you can stay and start with first. There are many beaches in this strip like the Koh Pos. There is a small bridge leading you from the mainland to the Koh Pos where you can simply relax by the beach or visit one of the shacks and dive in some of the fantastic seafood like Fish Amok, Kampot Pepper Crab, or other delicacies like Khmer Red Curry, or Nom Banh Chok in its genuine form.

Among the beaches, Cambodia will not disappoint and here in the Sihanoukville area itself, you can find Victory Beach, The Serendipity Beach, Ochheuteal Beach, and other such beaches.

Also Read: What To Wear In Cambodia

Day 5 -7 Siem Reap: Your 3 weeks in SE Asia is incomplete without a visit to Siem Reap. Besides the beaches and the abundance of it, there are other attractions like the Angkor Wat temples. Head off to Siem Reap by air or by road as per your wish and time. Siem Reap has a great concentration of temples that have Hindu roots and even strains of earliest Buddhist art and architecture flowing around.

Angkor Wat temples in Cambodia are an attraction and is one of the iconic symbols of Cambodia in any tour guidebook. The Angkor Wat temples are one-of-a-kind and nothing left in the world like these in Cambodia. The Ta Prohm temple in Siem Reap is among the most famous temples as it was featured in the Tomb Raider movie. The temple submerged in the tight embrace of trees within a forest is what adds to the beauty of this temple.

Last but not the least, the Preah Khan temple is another important place that you might wish to visit whose architectural genius will stay with you for a lifetime. There are plenty of things to do in Siem Reap beyond Angkor Wat temples too. In addition, I have also shared tips on the best locations to stay in Siem Reap.

Also Read: How To See Cambodia In 7 Days | Spoiler Alert! Things No One Tells You About The Angkor Wat Sunrise

WEEK 2 – Thailand, Bangkok, Phuket

Day 8-11 Bangkok: Now that you have had your fill of the mystic land of Cambodia, get ready to enjoy more of it, and embrace the stark diversity as you enter Thailand. While Cambodia has, a charm of its own, Thailand is more boisterous as a tourist spot, and it does not disguise its intentions at any cost.

So, the first stop in Thailand will be in the bright and welcoming capital of Bangkok. Here you can spend at least 2 days. The city has gained fame for its beach resorts, and the massage and Thai spas that everyone in the world knows about. You too can start your trip on a refreshing note by signing up for a spa here. I have shared a guide on the best areas to stay in Bangkok to make the process of finding a place easy. If you do stay in Bangkok longer, I highly recommend considering Airbnbs in Bangkok. Then you can proceed with your sightseeing trip in Bangkok.

The golden temple dome of Wat Arun must definitely be on your trip. Stop by and find yourself drawn to this magnificent shimmery gold temple located by the Chao Phraya river.

If it is not yet noon, then you can surely visit the Grand Palace and even stop by to pray and be more mesmerized by the Emerald Buddha temple. Now that the day is coming to an end, a trip to the most beautiful Bangkok Ocean World will reveal before you the best marine life that thrives in these parts.

Begin the next day with a trip to the Wat Pho temple, where you can find a golden statue of reclining Buddha. This is a must-visit on your trip here.

The next must-go to destination is the Floating market, at the Khlong Lat Mayom, or the Bang Khu or various other places. You can try one of their local fruit juices or simply hang around to experience. There are plenty of tours from Bangkok to the floating market I recommend leaving early!

Next, you can proceed to shop like crazy in one of the many markets and malls. The bustling Chinatown or the Chatuchak markets every weekend are the ideal hubs to shop for anything local. My Bangkok & Phuket itinerary also shares tips on cool things to do in Bangkok at night.

Also Read: Cool Hotels In Bangkok With Balcony Views | How To See Thailand In 3 Weeks

WEEK 3 – Phuket, and Krabi

Day 12-16 Phuket

One of the best aspects of visiting Phuket is you will find that you cannot help but relax. You can enjoy the city in four days, with a couple or more days devoted to experiencing the beaches that dot this mountainous island.

You can start for the Patong city and spend time going for one or the other water sports like snorkeling, surfing or even going for parasailing. Then proceed to have lunch at one of the many shack restaurants before heading out to the famous James Bond Island. The stunning rocky cliff emerging out of the waters and more of beautiful shoreline will wow you here.

From here if you go to Patong City, then do not forget to stroll through the bright Soi Bangla road where you can get the best of pubs, bars, cabarets and everything in between. You can even spend a day exploring the Portuguese homes of the Old Town part from the city.

The next morning you can start on a visit to the Phang Nga Bay where the limestone cliffs and romantic rocky caves abound in the rainforest area. Then move on to Koh-Phi or the Phi-Phi Islands. This is a gorgeous island, and it is surrealistically beautiful. Spending a day or more in one of these many islands should ideally be on your wish list.

Also See: Best Areas To Stay In Phuket

Day 17-21 Krabi Islands: Do not hesitate to spend at least four days here they say, and you can get here from Phuket via the speedboat. You can directly come to the Krabi islands from the Phi Phi islands. Krabi islands are perhaps one of those places that is a complete package when it comes to offering the most attractive destinations.

The places include Railay Island, Phai or Bamboo Island, where you can have a grand time sailing or even exploring the forests. Do not miss on the Emerald Pool and then visit the Buddhist temple or Tiger Cave for you to do some soul-searching.

Also See: Best Beachfront Villas In Phuket

Alternative South East Asia Itinerary

Vietnam: After a visit to Thailand, and soaking in the sights and sounds of Thai beaches, you shall now find more variety in Vietnam. Vietnam offers nature lover plenty of unique sights. There are interesting places to visit like Halong Bay and take to the many amazing Halong Bay cruises the place is famous for.

You can spend a day here, exploring many caves and dense forests along the beach that overlooks one of the best beaches in these parts. Nha Trang is another grandly picturesque spot that you must not miss. Besides the beaches, there are mountains and plenty of tourist attractions to entertain you for those wishing to explore for longer.

After the beaches, you can check out the urbanized region of Hanoi. Here, you can come across the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, and the Mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh will take you to the pre-independence era. A day trip to Ho Chi Minh City will be a great option for you to check out the World War memorials and explore the local markets and nightlife that set a pace with the city. For tips on Hanoi tours check out this cool guide.

You can conclude the Southeast Asia itinerary with a visit to the mountainous destination of Dalat before you pack your bags. Southeast Asia has the places that are every bit soulful and even in the modern metropolis, you will find serenity unlike any other

Southeast Asia Tour Packages | Planning Your Trip To South Souteast Asia

Package Tours To southeast Asia:

GAdventures: They cater to travelers from 18 and over and offer a wide range of itineraries many starting as short as 3 days to 3 months long.
Contiki: They cater to 18-35-year-olds and have a wide range of tours from week-long to 3 months long. Plenty of options for Southeast Asia guided itineraries. If you are on the younger side, I highly recommend Contiki as they facilitates fun tours beyond your typical Southeast Asia backpacking itinerary in 3 weeks.
Wendy Wu: Mainly cater to the over 30s but also have a wide range of trips beyond SouthEast Asia but a wide variety of itineraries to choose from.
Viator: Pick and mix tours to suit the schedule and budget for your trip. From adventure to relation tours to food. The list is endless here.

Southeast Asia Trip Planning Essentials

Search for flight deals to Asia via Expedia or Ebookers.
Search for hotels deals within your travel budget via Booking.com
Dont leave without travel insurance. Check out Travel Supermarket.
If you have a layover in Bangkok, Dubai or Heathrow check out my airport guides.

Heading To Asia? Also Read:

How To See Hong Kong And Macau In 4 Days
Things To Know Before Visiting Cambodia
How To See Kuala Lumpur In 2 Days
Guide To Renting A Car In Langkawi
Couples Guide Phuket
Best Tours In Bangkok

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Top 20 Things To Do In Beijing In Winter

September 17, 2019 by admin Leave a Comment

There are plenty of things to do in Beijing in Winter. There is no doubt that China is one of the most spectacular countries of the world, it has a rich historical background which dates back thousands of year before modern civilization. China is bless with a rich blend of culture and history coupled with a numerous list of natural wonders and endowment. It also helps that they now have an easy China 72-hour visa-free waiver.

The country as a whole is famous as the most populous nation in the world, hosting about one-quarter of the world’s population. On the negative side, China is also bedeviled by the dangerous smoke-like atmospheric weather which causes some breathing problems for its inhabitants during the short autumn season. That notwithstanding, Beijing, the Chinese capital city is a great tourist hotspot during winter.

Things To Do In Beijing In Winter

The following are some of the best things to see and do in Beijing during winter. People flock to Beijing throughout the year, that even the winter months in Beijing are busy with tourists. If you only have a quick stop in the capital you can opt to take the Beijing layover tours that allow you to see the highlights of Beijing.

1. Skiing In Beijing

As the host of the 2022 winter Olympic games, Beijing has a lot world-class ski resorts. If you like sport and are interested in skiing, galloping on the ski track, feeling the speed and passion. Here we recommend you some ski resorts with good facilities around Beijing: notable ones are Nanshan ski resort, Huaibei ski resort and Shijinglong ski resort and some farther luxury ski resorts, Wanlong ski resort, Taiwu ski town, Miyuan Yunding ski resort and Fulong Four Seasons ski resort. Most notable of them is the Shichahai Ski resort.

2. Shichahai Skating

Every year, during winter, the Houhai lake freezes, marking the opening of the Shichahai Skating Rinks. Locals commonly refer to it as “Houhai,”, they troop to the icy lake each yuear to catch the fun skating bring. Houhai ice skating is very affordable, which explains why it’s a favourite for most Beijing locals. On the average an unlimited skating time cost between USD$2 – $5.

Located in the northwest of Beijing city, Shichahai is one of the favorite places for local Beijingers to visit in winter. It is a natural lake in summer but get frozen and turn a free public ice rink for skating enthusiasts. This is the favorite experience for Beijingers in winter. It usually will open from the end of December to the end of February next year.

3. Visit The Forbidden City

This is the Chinese imperial palace building, located at the heart of China itself. It is known to house the ming (Chinese) emperors, barring out every other citizens, rergardless of your social status, the rich and the peasant alike, thus it was named the “the forbidden city”. In fact, top ministers of the emperor and the imperial family were only granted limited access.

It’s one of the UNESCO world heritage site in China, as its importance as the Chinese seat of power for over four centuries cannot be over emphasized. The rare architecture design of the palace and the fact that it now houses the “palace museum” of dynasty art and history has further made it one of the most visited place in all of Beijing.

5. The Summer Palace

Also known as the “Yiheyuan Garden”, it is situated on a very large expense of land making it the largest expansive traditional Chinese garden, built by the ancient Ming emperor as a summer vacation spot. More like the Camp David of the ancient Chinese emperor, but without the gulf curse s. the garden have been expanded overtime to hose a private imperial shopping mall, temples and few palaces. Taking a stroll through the imperial summer garden will surely bring some goose bumps on your face, it also a great place to take those pictures you wish for.

6.The Great Wall

Aside from the great pyramids of Egypt, the great wall of China is one of the most prominent of all the seven wonders of the ancient world. Built in 220 BC to 1644 AD, the great wall in obviously one of the greatest achievement of man-kind, showing the ingenious and intelligent nature of man on earth. The length of the wall span from Badaling, mutianyu, simatai, jinshanling to mention a few.

In winter, the Pathways on the wall is covered in snow giving it a more magnificent look. It is said to look like a long dragon lying on top of mountains. The fact that the wall was built with the use of manual labour, using brick and mortal further boost the admiration the edifice has attracted around the world.

Myths and legend has it that it was constructed under the order and supervision of a young Ming emperor to keep out some foreign invaders. The part of the wall located at jonshanling is the most prominent amongst tourist. Your trip to China is definitely incomplete without a walk on the great wall. Even on a layover in Beijing, you can take a layover tour to visit the Great Wall.

7. The National Museum Of China

The museum is no doubt the largest in the world and extremely rich in arts and history. The building sits on a 200, 000 square meter land mass. It has over a million (1000,000) collections and about 48 exhibition halls. The art collections are mainly from the ancient periodic history of China. Its art composition dates back to the period before the founding of the republic of China. This ultra modern museum is a fully loaded one, rich in arts and cultural heritage of the Chinese people.

It provides a home for the great archeological discoveries in Chinese history some of which are the art and craft of the Ming dynasty, the Qing dynasty and the early years of the republic of China. As a visitor, if you desire to learn more about the past and present culture of the Chinese people, then the museum is where you need to be. The edifice ranks first in the world’s museums and is one of the most popular and most visited museums for tourists in the world. The Museum opens by 9.00am and closes by 7.00pm Chinese time.

8. Visit Tiananmen Square

This great historical place sits firmly in the heart of the city of Beijing, the capital of China. The word Tiananmen in mandarin (Chinese language) means “the gate of heavenly peace”.

In modern times, the popularity of the square gained world attention during the infamous 1989 Tiananmen square protest, where Chinese troops rolled I tanks to quell a civilian protest leading to the slaughter hundreds of innocent civilians.

Today, the spot where the massacre took place now houses an awesome monument called “the monument of the Peoples Heroes”. Also while at the square, pay a visit to the great hall of the people, the national Museum of China or the Mausoleum of Chairman Mao Zedong, the man who founded modern China. It’s no doubt one of the most visited place in China. .

9. Make And Fly A Kite

Did you have the opportunity to fly a kite as a kid? Do you even know how it is made? Don’t worry about those questions. As you step into the great city of Beijing, it is important you know that no city has swallowed the amount of kite flown and lost in the wind like the city of Beijing.

Kite flying is prominent tradition in Beijing, and it is enjoyed by both the young and old. You may be lucky to make one at the local quadrangle and have fun flying it high into the sky.

10. Walk On The Moon Bridge

In the northwest corner of the Summer Palace, you can find this symmetrical high-arched pedestrian bridge, also known as a “moon bridge.” The bridge was actuall intended fpr pedestrians to cross the canals while at the same time allowing the passage of barges, canoes and small fishing boats underneath it.

11. Get Soaked At The Hot Springs

A hotbed of geothermal activity, Beijing is blessed with the gift of hot springs. Full of all manner of minerals, the steaming pools are a great way to escape (if only temporarily) the onslaught of winter. A lot of the more famous hot spring resorts are clustered outside the Fifth Ring in the north of the city – Jiuhua Resort, Chun Hui Yuan Hot Spring Resort and Feng Shan Hot Spring Resort.

12. Get A Soothing Stone Massage

The traditional hot stone massage parlor in Beijing has been a thriving healing and relaxation practice in China for over 2000 years. It is an ancient, effective and luxurious way of relaxing your tired muscles. The smooth, well cut, jade stones are exposed to mild-heat, and placed in strategic muscle dominated areas on the body, relaxing the muscle with the warmth it provide.

The cost of a regular stone massage goes for between $500 to $1500.

13. Explore Ming Tombs

The Ming tombs are a collection of imperial mausoleums built by the Chinese Ming dynasty emperors. The first Ming emperor’s tomb is is located near his capital Nanjing. However, the majority of the Ming tombs are located in a cluster near Beijing.

FESTIVALS AND CELEBRATION DURING WINTER

14. Longqing Gorge Ice And Snow Festival

This is the most famous winter festival in Beijing, also know as the “Ice lantern festival”. The city of Beijing play host to an ice lantern festival annually at Beijing’s Longqing Gorge to celebrate the cold winter season. During the festival, locals and tourists can enjoy gazing and taking pictures of the over 500 ice sculpture that are put on display in the gorge’s temples, ice castles, dragon-shaped unit, the sculptures are really an amazing work of art worth the time and money of any visitor. The Ice Lantern Festival also hosts other activities such as ice-inspired games, folk dancing, and fireworks.

Longqing Gorge confidently spreads between two tall mountain peaks and it is known mainly as the venue for the yearly Beijing Longqing Gorge ice and snow show. At the Beijing Longqing Gorge Ice & Snow festival, huge blocks of ice are sculpted into all kinds and manner of interesting, beautiful and shapes. It could be shaped into some animal, especially the soaring dragon (due to its cultural ties to China), smiling faces, peacock, human figures and other objects.

16. Beijing Winter Movie Festival

Catch An interest Show at the egg-shaped Beijing theatre. The theatre’s building is of a great and and incredible architecture design and a great place to take some really great picture with friends and family.

FAMOUS FOOD IN BEIJING TO EAT TO KEEP WARM

China is not only blessed with wonder natural tourist attractions, it is also endowed with great winter dishes many of which you can explore through the many Beijing food tours.

Beijing Hot Pot: The authentic flavor of Beijing Hot Pot differs from the hot pot in Sichuan. The mutton will be the main dish. Fresh and tender mutton slice is so thin that can be cooked only in a few seconds. Using copper pot with charcoal burning under it, you can dip the cooked mutton into the fragrant sesame sauce, and next second your lips and teeth are ready to rejoice in the deliciousness of the meat.

Peking duck: It is a world-known dish in Beijing. It was a court food back to the olden time. The high-quality Peking duck roasted with charcoal, is dark brown and greasy, crisp outside but chewy inside.

Beijing Noodles: The original Beijing noodles are a featured local traditional food, made of fresh vegetables, fried sauce and noodles. Cut or boil cucumbers, bean sprouts, green beans, soybeans, and make them into dishes for reserve. Once the noodle are cooked, they are taken out and mixed with fried meat sauce and other ingredient.

Take some hot soup dumplings for the cold weather: Popularly called the “Xiaolongbao” in Chinese, soup dumplings are a traditional dish served all over Beijing. The dumplings are steamed and served in bamboo steaming basket, mixed with pork. It obviously a perfect winter meal as they are served steaming hot and very filling.

SPRING FESTIVAL (CHINESE NEW YEAR)

This festival is celebrated every year by more than a quarter of the population of china. according to Chinese lunar calendar, Chinese new year also known as the spring festival begins with the new moon and end with the full moon which falls between the 15^th day of the first month In a new year. The spring festival is equal to the Christmas celebrations in the west. Weeks before the new year, the whole country is filled with activities and preparation for the forth coming year.

WEATHER AND TEMPERATURE IN WINTER

Packing for winter travel doesnt have to be complicated but you need to know what weather to expect and pack accordingly. Winter in Beijing is quite long, cold and snowy, the highest temperature goes between 5 °C/41°F, while the lowest temperature is between -5°C/23°F. The winter period is at its peak between December to February.

So, if you are a winter tourist and you plan visiting Beijing, pack your thick overcoat, thick leather jacket, sweaters, winter coat, woolen jacket, wearing of gloves and a head-warmer might save your life in this winter. Beijing is dry all year run except in the summer when the rain is intense.

Planning Your Trip To Beijing

Search for flight deals to Beijing on Expedia.
Book your accommodation on Booking.com or Hotels.com.
Explore the available guided tours around Beijing on Viator.
Explore package tours to China with multi-city stops on GAdventure, Contiki or WendyWu.
Consider exploring beyond Beijing. You can take a high-speed train from Beijing to Xi’an, the oldest city in China and the capital-city of 13 different dynasties. For those wanting to explore the Ancient Silk Road in China.

So have you been to Beijing before? Which one of the above things to do in Beijing during winter is at the top of your list?

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Hong Kong And Macau Itinerary In 4 Days

July 12, 2019 by admin Leave a Comment

Located on the east of Pearl River Delta, in South China is the gorgeous city of Hong Kong.

One of the shining stars in this part of the world, Hong Kong is a top name that comes in the minds of every traveler who wishes to explore places with a perfect combination of city life and natural beauty.

Besides Hong Kong, there are nearby cities too that are worth visiting to make your trip wholesome.

The place is suitable for people of varied tastes. So, whether you are traveling solo, or with family or even friends, you shall not get bored on your trip.

Whether it is a stunning skyline in the evening or the bustling nightlife, you can find a slice of Chinese’s culture permeating through everywhere while remaining as modern as ever.

However, due to the British influence, the touch of modernity is also visible in central Hong Kong.

For getting to Hong Kong, you can get plenty of airlines on Expedia from any big city in the world landing in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong was my first solo trip and the first time in Asia. Landing after mid-night, The Chek Lap Kok airport or the Hong Kong International Airport is one of the busiest airports.

Besides this, you can also get to Hong Kong by train or road from any big city in China as I managed to also visit Guangzhou by train from Hong Kong.

However, I would highly recommend visiting Hong Kong at a minimum of two days without hurrying up any place ever.

A 4 Day Itinerary For Hong Kong And Macau

Day 1: Hong Kong

Once you have checked into your chosen hotel in Hong Kong, you can start right away. As I arrived late in the night, I checked into Marriot Court Yard and got some shut ear before heading to explore the beautiful city.

My room had stunning views of Victoria Harbour so I could see Kowloon, views over Hong Kong Island before jetlag go the best of me. This was before I had learned the art of packing essential items for long Haul travel.

Catch The Tram To Victoria Peak

Start views of the city by heading to Victoria Peak for the bird’s eye view of the island. Known as Mount Austin but locally as The Peak. It’s also the highest hill on Hong Kong Island.

When you board the tram to Victoria Peak, be sure to sit on the right-hand side for the best views on the way up. For additional places with stunning views, also add Jardine’s Lookout if you have more time. Its among the most beautiful hikes in Asia.

Pro-tip: A great way to orient yourself when you first visit Hong Kong is to take the Hong Kong Island tour visiting Victoria Peak, Stanley Market, Aberdeen, and Sampan ride.

Man Mo Taoist Temple

If you wish to start your day with great peace and tranquility, then a trip to the Man Mo Taoist temple is essential.

This temple is all set to calm your senses with quaint interiors and allows you to meditate and relax. From there, you can directly head off to shop.

Hong Kong is famous for the malls and bazaars. So, if you do not shop for some cool and advanced electronic gadgetry from here, it will be a waste of the trip.

However, shopping from the Fa Yuen Market is going to be a must if you love shopping as much as anyone else.

Nathan Road In Kowloon

Nathan Road is a must-see and the perfect destination if you wish to explore the market area while stopping by and eating your lunch. Dig into some local dim sums and Cantonese platter for a healthy and sumptuous meal.

The Kowloon-Canton Railway Clock Tower is a highlight of this district of Tsim Sha Tsui, and you can just spend the entire day here exploring the best of brands and stores selling everything of style and class.

If you are interested in buying one of the jewel pieces unique to this part of the world, then drop into Jade Market. Shop for some of the gorgeous Jade-studded bracelets or necklaces that you shall take pride in.

Stop By For Views Afternoon Tea At Cafe 103 At Ritz Carlton

Café 103 offers a refined lounge atmosphere where guests can indulge in a sumptuous spread of lunch and dinner buffet, as well as Chocolate Afternoon Tea delights.

Filled with natural light that pours in through large floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the breathtaking harbor views, Café 103 among those unmissable things to do in Hong Kong. For more see my post on our visit to Ritz Carlton’s Cafe 103.

‘Symphony of Lights’ Fireworks And Laser Show

Head back to Victoria Harbour and walk off your afternoon tea. Victoria Harbour is an amazing place to stroll and always buzzing with atmosphere.

Here is also where each night the city puts on a ‘Symphony of Lights’ which involves more than 40 buildings on both sides of the harbour.

Recognised in the Guinness World Records as the World’s largest permanent light and sound show. Laser beams, searchlights perform an unforgettable light spectacle synchronized to music.

Hong Kong Nightlife

Experiencing the nightlife is a big reason for many travelers to visit Hong Kong. You can take an MTR or cab to reach Central Hong Kong.

By evening, go for a cruise ride through the Hong Kong harbor and dine at one of the many restaurants in Victoria Peak. The nightlife at Sheung Wan and Lan Kwai Fong are worth checking out if you cannot decide on a place.

Day 2: Hong Kong

Ocean Park

Day 2 can begin with a visit to Ocean Park, one of the best spots to watch giant pandas in their habitats. The park has some other local inhabitants that draw scores of tourists every day.

There is also a beautiful aquarium for those who wish to take in that beauty visually. From there, you can head off straight to the Victoria Central Business District.

Pro-tip: One of the most satisfying ways of getting to know a city is to explore by foot. I highly recommend taking the Old vs New Kong Hong tour or this Central District walking tour to discover Hong Kong’s colonial past.

Wong Tai Sin Temple

Take a cab and head off to Wong Tai Sin Temple. One of the majestic temples in Hong Kong, it is Kowloon and has temples and halls dedicated to saints.

There is one for the famous visionary Confucious here. The temple opens as early as 7am if you want to be the first to take pictures without people in them.

Ladies’ Market

This is another one of those places not to miss on any Hong Kong itinerary. Featuring over 1oo stalls of bargain clothing, accessories, and souvenirs to bring back from Hong Kong. Make sure you bring your haggling skills for the best bargain.

Hong Kong Nightlife In Lan Kwai Fong

This is one of Hong Kong’s most popular nightlife spots with over 90 restaurants and bar to entertain you. Many host carnivals and celebrations throughout the year and is very lively most nights in the week.

Pro tip: To maximise your short trip in Hong Kong when it comes to checking out gastronomy in Hong Kong, I highly recommend doing a food tour guided by local foodies in HK.

Day 3: Lantau Island Day Trip

No trip to Hong Kong is complete without a trip to visit the giant Buddha. Take the cruise from Hong Kong as early as possible in the morning to visit the Lantau Island.

The families usually pick Disney Land over everything else. Yes, Hong Kong’s Disneyland is one of the most popular draws, and this is undeniable.

If that is not your cup of tea, you can directly go for the Ngong Ping area and visit the Big Buddha temple.

The towering 34-meter high Tian Tan Bronze Buddha statue is breathtaking. In order to reach it, you will need to take the cable car. The Tai O Fishing Village is a great place to visit if you love seeing something unique to the Chinese fishing technique and market.

Once you arrive prepare to climb up more than 200 steps up to see Buddha. For more tips check out my post on visiting Lantau Island’s Big Buddha.

While you are here you can also visit Po Lin Monastery, this is one of Hong Kong’s most important Buddhist sanctums and home to many monks and surrounded with beautiful, peaceful garden.

Day 4: Macau Island Day Trip From Hong Kong

If your idea of fun is anything risky and thrilling, then you must definitely visit the scenic Macau island. Besides the city getting all the modern city spots, there is a touch of Venice in an old part of the town that you must not miss.

Start with a visit to the Macau Tower, which opens on weekdays at 10 am, step into the revolving cafe, and even take in a panoramic view of Macau.

If you wish to have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit a black sandy beach, then the Hac Sa beach will be an appropriate place to be in Macau.

Next, on your itinerary, history can take a prominent place with a visit to the ruins of forts like the Guia fortress and the Fortaleza de Monte. Macau is not just another tourist spot.

The highlight of this place is its nightlife sprinkled with a list of casinos. Many famous casinos of the West like MGM Casino and Grand Lisboa Casino are surely the top names. Dig into some of the best culinary delights like roast duck, Pork Chop Bun, and others to experience Macau like no other.

After all, the trip to the East is all about satisfying the senses, isn’t it?

Getting Around In Hong Kong

Getting around Hong Kong is fairly easy. Many hotels will offer a shuttle dropping off at the ferry terminals as mine did during my visit. As far as transportation goes below are the following options for transport in HK:

MTR: The MTR is Hong Kong’s most popular and most efficient public transport connecting Hong Kong Island, Kowloon and the New Territories and Lantau Island.

Ferries: Ferries run between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon as well as Discover Bay, Lamma, Lantau and other outlying islands such as Cheung Chau and Peng Chau. Do not miss the opportunity to take the Star Ferry, its a great way to take in the iconic Hong Kong city skyline.

Taxi: Passengers have to over tunnel tolls and the driver’s return toll. Look out for cross-harbour taxi stands where drivers will accept a one-way tunnel fee.

Trams: Board the tram at the rear end and get off at the front. Pay by cash or Octopus on exiting the tram. No change is given.

Where To Stay In Hong Kong

The are plenty of places to stay in Hong Kong, you can choose between staying on Kowloon or Hong Kong Island. I choose to stay on Hong Kong Island during my stay and shared a post with shorts from my stay at Marriott Courtyard.

Below are some of my favourite hotels in Hong Kong.

Novotel Century – Located in the bustling Wanchai area of Hong Kong. Its only minutes walk from an MTR, Star Ferry. Wan Chai is known for its amazing nightlife with an array of shopping and restaurant options.

Harbour Grand Kowloon – Breath-taking lobby and many rooms boasting Habour views. There is a rooftop pool, 24-hour gym and the hotel is close to an MTR with Hunghom ferries close to the hotel doorstep.

Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel – Stunning rooms with Victorian elegance, there are amazing facilities for families to rest and relax.

Harbour Plaza Metropolis – Located in the heart of Kowloon and across from Hung Hom MTR with easy access to Tsim Sha Tui.

The Langham Hong Kong – An epitome of luxury, Langham showcases designer rooms, a Michelin star restaurant in addition to an amazing spa.

Common Questions When Planning A Trip To Hong Kong An Macau

How many days for Hong Kong and Macau is enough?

How Kong Kong is a fairly compact city there is plenty to do and experience. The food, amazing hotels offering out of this world experience, day trip, Disneyland, the shopping, the glam.

The itinerary above is very condensed to give you an overall experience of many of the must-sees in Hong Kong and Macau.

If you had a flexible itinerary I would recommend even at a minimum a week. Four days in Hong Kong, one day in Lantau Island, a day in Macau and either 2 days in Macau with an overnight stay or a day and then another day with Disneyland day ticket. I spend just over 1o days in Hong Kong before heading to China.

Is It Possible To Do A Hong Kong To Macau Day Trip?

Yes, you can do a DIY day trip to Macau from Hong Kong by either taking the bus, ferry or helicopter. or take the many day trip tours to Macau listed here. The bus to Macau only takes about 40 minutes from Hong Kong Port. You can find different options and costs here.

How To Get From Hong Kong To Macau By Ferry? | How Long Is The Ferry From Hong Kong To Macau?

The ferry takes about 1 hour by boat from Hong Kong to Macau. The one-way fare is about 170HKD. The fare for night ferries or holidays will be slightly more expensive.

Where Is The Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal?

The Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal is near the IFC Towers in the Shun Tak Centre on Hong Kong Island. You can take the subway and get off at Sheung Wan Station. During the daytime, there is a boat every 15 minutes to Macau. Regardless of which the ports you arrive in Macau, there are free shuttle buses that can drop you to any hotel or casino on the island.

How Much Is the Ferry From Hong Kong To Macau?

The ferry from Hong Kong to Macau costs 170HKD.

Would Like To Travel By Helicopter, What Is The Hong Kong Macau Helicopter Price?

If you want to arrive in style you can take the helicopter from Hong Kong to Macau. The helicopter journey from Hong Kong to Macau only takes 15 minutes and will set you back around 4300HKD one way or about £1, 434 via Lonely Planet.

Hong Kong Macau Package Tours

If you prefer everything coordinated for you there are plenty of options for Hong Kong Macau Packages. For example GAdventures do Hong Kong and China Tours ranging from 8, 14 and 21-day China, Hong Kong Macau trip packages.

You also have Pacific Holiday who do a variety of package tours covering most of the world with plenty of options to combine Hong Kong and Macau with places like Taipei, China, for example, this 3 days, 2 nights Macau and Hong Kong itinerary.

The last option is this Wendy Wu tours who offer a variety of package tours from South East Asia, the Middle East and South America. They have this 5 day Hong Kong and Macau package tour which includes 4 nights accommodation, airport transfers, coach tour to Macau, guide and meals included too.

Heading To Asia? Also Read:

The Perfect Itinerary For Thailand In 3 Weeks
7 Days In Cambodia
Hong Kong Visual Guide
The Perfect Guide To Phuket
Why You Will Love Bangkok

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Beijing Layover Tips – Plus Exploring Lama Temple In Beijing

April 6, 2016 by admin 1 Comment

In my last post, I shared tips on making the most of China’s 72-hour visa-free transit, allowing you to explore a little bit of China without having to pay for the expensive visa. This time, I am sharing tips on making the most of your layover in China. These tips can also be used for any other country you may have a layover in. Layovers or stopovers, can be an inexpensive way to travel to more destinations for less or getting an intro to a city without investing too much time or many.

A layover/stopover allows you to stay in a connection city for greater than 24 hours but less than the duration of your planned trip. Planning in advance means that you can add an additional country or city with ease. Things like making sure you have an idea of how long the journey is from the airport to town, having a little bit of local currency will make sure you can get exploring quickly without using up your layover time queuing up for currency exchange booths.Below are some tips on making the most of your layover in China and any other country you may have a layover in.

Tips to Make The Most of Your Layover In Beijing

1. Pick One of 2 Things/Activities

Of course, this is a city with the world-famous Great Wall of China, Tiananmen Sq, Temple of Heave, Forbidden City and many more interesting places that are I am sure is on many a bucket list. With a short layover, though, you cannot see everything unless you have longer and can work through a Beijing itinerary. So pick one of those places that you can fully take in and enjoy without rushing around. You can also book tours for the Great Wall of China but I would advise you to at least be on a 10-hour Layover or more before doing this tour as the drive to and back takes a while, also factoring in the traffic in China. It would not be wise to miss your flight on the 72-hour Visa as the Chinese immigration officials will not be understanding about that.

2. Research The Best Way To Get To The Chosen Location

On this occasion, we thought best to visit Lama Temple during our layover in Beijing. We looked at the closest station to Lama Temple. From there on we looked at what train line that station was on. How many times we needed to change trains to get to Lama Temple as well as the train from the airport into the city.

Entrance to Lama Temple in Beijing

3. Look At Cost Of Transportation To Chosen Location/Activity

Transportation from Beijing Airport requires you to take the airport train into the city before being able to use any of the underground train links. The train from Beijing Airport into the city take about 25 minutes. Factor in the return and you are now just under an hour as well as any wait time you may need before the train arrives if you have to wait for one.

4. Print or Have Ready Screenshots(On Mobile) With Underground/Transport Mapping

When we arrived in the city from Beijing Airport, we were now able to join the underground train network. I had pdf versions of the underground map as well as used Google street maps to help me prepare for how to get there. By the time we got there I had done enough research that I was able to navigate from the airport to Lama Temple without needing to look at my map or seek directions. Stations in Beijing have a mix of Chinese and English signage so you will be ok if you can read English or Chinese. The stations are also marked with signage directions to tourist attractions in this case directions and exits to Lama Temple were clearly marked. Also, note, that preparation will serve you well as there may not be a lot of people who speak English.

Coat by M&S (sold out), Boots by Office, Bag by Regent(below). Similar items below

5. Have The Right Currency For the Country(Chinese Currency In This Case)

Even if you are not spending the night in China and are in for a layover over a few hours, ensure you have currency before you arrive. Before leaving London, I changed about £70-80 in Chinese currency. This allowed me to quickly buy tickets for the airport shuttle/train without having to now search for a bureau de change. You don’t want to waste precious exploring time queuing up for currency, so make sure you change the money before your arrive. Trains from Beijing Airport to the city were 50RMB each person. We then bought singles to the stations to Lama Temple and back to the station with airport station. I would highly recommend you either pick up a map or have one on your phone as its easier to point to the stations you want the ticket for when asking for tickets should there be any language barriers. Having some local currency also means you can quickly pay for entrance at the chosen attractions or check out small markets and cafes that may not be accepting card payments.

6. Have All Your Required Documents Needed For A Swift Exit And Return

As I knew we were going to be exploring Beijing on our 7-hour layover, I ensured most of our luggage was checked in and only had a small carry-on suitcase to refresh ourselves after the long London-Beijing flight. I also made sure we had easy access to documents need to exit and return to the airport. You also don’t need to re-check so head straight to security. Make sure you have your passports and boarding passes ready

7. Book A Hotel For Any Layover over 24 Hours

If your layover includes a night’s stay in the city you have your layover, ensure you have your hotel booking to hand. If you have to book your hotel stay last minute, you can check out Beijing hotels on Booking.com, which always has great deals. I make pretty much all my hotel bookings through Booking.com when I travel.

A censer at Yonghe Temple

Exploring Lama Temple In Beijing

Yonghe Lamasery(Harmony and Peace Palace Lamasery), now known as Lama Temple was built in 1664 during the Qing Dynasty and was the residence of Emperor Yongzheng when he was just a prince. It was later changed to a Lamasery in 1744 before becoming the national center of Lama administration. As you enter the gates there are stone lions, symbols which show that it was originally the dwelling of an Imperial Family member. Lama Temple is one of Beijing’s most famous monasteries. I wrestled with the decision of choosing between Tiananmen Square and Lama Temple considering the time we had with our layover. I was glad we ended up sticking to the Temple.

Your tickets into the Temple include a box of incense to light and burn at censer of Yonghe Temple. It’s fascinating how each and every spot of the temple has meaning and purpose to it. Like how you have particular roads that were specifically used for carriages of emperors and their wives during the Qing Dynasty between 1644 and 1911. To having 3 archways and having the center one for the exclusive use of the emperors. I love learning about those little details when I visit a place. Below are some of the pictures from our visit. For more on making the most of your Beijing layover see here.

The three large archways, the central one of which was for the exclusive use of the emperors.

Chinese Guardian Lion, symbols which show that it was originally the dwelling of an Imperial Family member. Statues of guardian lions have traditionally stood in front of Chinese Imperial palaces, Imperial tombs, government offices, temples, and the homes of government officials and the wealthy, from the Han Dynasty , and were believed to have powerful mythic protective benefits.

The Hall of Harmony and Peace

The Hall of Everlasting Protection

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How To Get A Visa To China | Tips on China’s 72-Hour Visa-Free Visit

April 5, 2016 by admin 10 Comments

How To Get A Visa to China | China 72 Hour Visa-Free Transit

Let’s face it, visas for those that don’t so-called “most valuable passports for visa-free travel” can be a costly affair. When I heard about the 72 hour China Visa Policy, I thought it was the perfect way to make use of our layover in China while my boyfriend and I were on our way to Cambodia in December last year. I still have to get a visa while my boyfriend qualifies for the new visa policy. Great that at least we don’t have to blow £200 on visas, instead only pay for mine.

I have been to China before so it was a great way to show my boyfriend around Beijing on his first visit to the country. At the moment, only 51 countries around the world can use the new visa policy. I would normally have to get my Chinese visa in London while he qualifies for the new 72 Hour Visa in China. Mine doesn’t take very long in London. They offer a one day service or one over a couple of days for about £90. When I visited Hong Kong a couple of years ago I also managed to get a Chinese Visa from there and that was sorted out within a few hours as well. For more tips on how to apply for the Chinese visa from Hong Kong check out Ellie Quinn’s post.

Just note that if you use an actual visa processing place they charge a reasonable price compared to some hotels that may way charge you 3 times as much to process the visa. While I processed my visa in London, I used China’s 72 Hour Visa Policy to sort out my boyfriend’s visa for our visit in Beijing. Below I have tips on what to expect and what your need to arrange the Chinese visa as well as making the most on your city layover, whether that is a layover in Shanghai, Xiamen, or Guangzhou. You can also check my explorations of Guangzhou on my last visit to China.

Visa To China | Tips on China's 72-Hour Visa-Free Visit

The Cities In China Using The 72 Hour Visa Policy

At the moment, you can only utilise the new visa policy from a few of China’s main airports. Currently, you can only use this new visa policy if you are from on of the 51 countries listed below or if you are arriving through one of the 18 cities that have adopted this new 72-hour visa policy.

Also bear in mind that where you are allowed to visit also depends on your port o arrival. If you arrive in Beijing, Chongqing, Harbin, Guilin, Guilin, Xiamen, Tianjin, and Kunming, you cannot live this administrative area of your transit city. In other words, if you are transiting in Beijing, you have to stay in Beijing and exit from Beijing. So if you want to Visit two cities just ensure you double check that you can move on to another city within the province.

Besides not that the 72-hour visa is enough to do that anyway. Some cities like Shanghai allow you to arrive in Shanghai and exit from another city. This also means that if you arrive in Shanghai, Zhejiang or Jiangsu, your 72-hour visa becomes 144-hour visa. Note that these visa policies only apply if entering China by air and not other means like, say if you were driving from another city or country and entering China that way. Currently, the cities allowing use of this 72-hour visa policy are: Beijing, Shanghai, Chengdu, Chongqing, Harbin, Shenyang, Guangzhou, Dalin, Xian, Guilin, Kunming, Wuhan, Xiamen, Tianjin, Nanjing, Qingdao, Changsha and Hangzhou.

Countries That Can Use China’s New Visa Policy | 72 hour Visa Exemption In China

As my boyfriend has dual nationality but also holds a British passport, so he qualifies for this new visa policy. We also found that we didn’t have to contact the airline and notify them of our desire to have a layover in the city. Most posts online say you have to do this, but in fact, DO NOT have to tell your airline, especially for Beijing.

If traveling to other Chinese cities, feel free to mention it at check-in but it wasn’t necessary when we travelled to Beijing. If you hold a passport any of the following countries you will qualify for the 72-hour visa and therefore, do not need to get a visa before travelling to China for a layover.

Asian Counties: Korea, Japan, Singapore, Brunei, UAE, Qatar.

American Countries: USA, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, Chile.

Schengen Countries: Belgium, Czech Republic, Austria, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Latvia, Italy,

Other European Countries: UK, Ireland, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Russia, Romania, Ukraine, Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Macedonia, Albania.

Documents You Need To Bring For The 72-Hour China Visa

– Your current passport. Also, make sure your passport is not expiring soon.

– Your arrival card (information required are the usual; DOB, COB, Gender, Nature of visit, passport # and any visa number if you go a visa before arriving.) – you can pick this up as you queue up to see the immigration officers.

– Your onward ticket or boarding pass for your connecting flight.

– Any hotel bookings if staying overnight on longer layovers.

– You may also be asked about any visas you require for the country you are heading to while on transit in China.

Visa To China | Procedure and How To Apply For The 72 Hour Visa

China has so many amazing places to visit and some of the coolest places you will ever see. These cool facts about China are enough to make you plan a visit. If you are short on time a layover stop makes this so much easier.

The process for applying for visa to China is the same as that for applying for a tranit visa. For the 72-hour visa free visit to China, you are required to leave from the same airport you arrive from except for cities like Shanghai, Zhejiang and Jiangsu. If traveling to Beijing you don’t need to let your airline know but mention it at check-in if traveling or in transit in other cities in China.

When you arrive, proceed to the immigration counters as you would if you were exiting the airport. There are specific counters for the 72-hour visa passengers.
If travelling with someone who had to get a visa before arriving, they would proceed in the normal immigration queue as we did when we arrived.
Inform the immigration officer of your intention to use the 72-hour visa policy as in my case they proceeded to ask a lot of question about where I was staying and so forth. When I mentioned that I was only there for a few hours on a layover she stopped asking about the hotel bookings.
If you are staying longer ensure you have bookings and printouts ready. Ensure you do not overstay on your 72-hour visa.
If your flight is cancelled or delayed or you fall ill, you will need to apply for a new visa. Contact the visa offices/consulate in the city you are in.
Once you are approved at the immigration counter, your passport is stamped with the visa and duration of stay. You are free to roam the city as you please.

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China | Food, Retail Therapy and Haggling in Guangzhou

July 30, 2014 by admin 22 Comments

Guangzhou, is the capital and largest city of the Guangdong province in Southern China. Located on the Pearl river, its apparently the first city most travellers to China visit. It certainly was in my case as I visited while on a break from the hectic explorations of Hong Kong‘s bustling metropolis. This city is a key national transportation hub and trading port made obvious by the haze of smog that hovers over the city.

It was originally known as Canton and is the home of Cantonese cuisine. So expect great food but a word of warning to the wise, for those in search authentic Cantonese food bring a fork! Most food spots serve food with chopsticks, which I can’t hold to save my life! So I ended up eating with those little ceramic Chinese spoons, which was a cause for a few comedic moments and laughter at my expense in the little restaurants around town. Lessons for my next visit of course, but I came back with lots of chopsticks so I can put in some practice at home.

The city has had major development and seen many changes to modernise and with that many skyscrappers, malls with restoration of historical attractions some dating back to 214 BC, such as the beautiful Temple of Bayan Trees. My visit was fairly short in the city and was just as hectic as the chaotic city itself but I managed to visit the many markets in Guangzhou. I have never seen anything like it. There is plenty of temptation for visitors coming to Guangzhou. There are huge and I mean HUGE markets for everything. There are outlets for everything from ridiculously large Jade Sculptures to designer goods. Large markets for just watches only, real fur spread outside, clothes, weird toys and gadgets.

A whole building dedicated to just handbags and accessories, many of them designer copies, and jewellery markets with semi precious stones enticingly twinkling at you as you walk by. Of course the price you see is the price you will pay if you fail to haggle. This is the same place where a lot of Chinese folk would call out “Sista”, an attempt to get me into their shops. They are were a funny and crazy bunch.They will also follow you around the streets too. Check out the pictures below of my guide and translator being following around with a hand massager. I wish I had more time in the city but no doubt I will be heading back to visit Guangzhou soon.This is not just a city for business owners from all over the world who come for trade, so don’t skip out on the city as it offers more for the travellers too! There are many interesting attractions to peek at. Guangzhou also has an impressive exhibit collection of Chinese calligraphy, paintings. It also boasts one of the best art museum in the whole of China, the Guangzhou City Art Musuem.

If you were in London a few weeks ago you may have seen GuangZhou’s Xu Hongfei’s sculpture tour titled Chubby Charms. You may also have seen me instagram some pictures of the Chubby Charms here and here on Facebook. Luckily on this occassion, one of my sister’s friends was on hand to do a bit of translation when I needed it as English is not widely spoken by most in Guangzhou. As most prices in the markets are in US dollars you will get by with hand gestures to signal whether the price is too high.

Travelling to the city from Hong Kong is fairly easy as the train is about 2-3 hours long. Just remember that you will need a visa to visit this part of China, even if you travelled to Hong Kong without one. I had my visa processed while I was in Hong Kong which only took a couple of hours.

So have you heard much or been to this part of China?

This poster was in my hotel room near the headboard. Couldn’t help but Chuckle.

Symphony of Lights | Things To Do In Hong Kong

July 23, 2014 by admin 24 Comments

Hong Kong is just like London, both cities are just as awake during the night as they are in the day. Hong Kong does not sleep at night. The city is still busy and bustling as if to prepare for the morning and with that, many things to do in Hong Kong, day or night. When morning comes, it’s more bustling and when evening approaches yet more bustling – but this time with a little bright treat! It’s just so beautiful and so the exploring continues into the night for more sights to set upon the eyes. In this case the Symphony of Lights! If you are in Hong Kong there is no double you will one to add this on your list of things to do in Hong Kong.

This is Hong Kong’s famous symphony of lights; a multimedia light show that comprises of five themes; Awakening, Energy, Heritage, Partnership, and Celebration. These celebrate the diversity, energy, and spirit of Hong Kong. Also named as the ‘Worlds largest Permanent Light and Sound Show’, while in Hong Kong you cannot miss the lights as the lasers can be seen from miles away. After mingling around the city exploring and eating my weight in food in Kowloon’s food district it was time to head down to Victoria Harbor to rest my feet, let my food to settle before dessert and catch the Symphony of Lights show. These are some shots taken from Kowloon looking on Hong Kong Island’s light show. For more on other places to check out in Hong Kong, check out the munching Travellers guide on things to do in Hong Kong beyond shopping.

If you have seen the light show, what did you think of it?

symphony of lights hong kong Kowloon Food District

symphony of lights hong kong - Victoria Harbour

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Visual Diary | Discover Hong Kong

July 5, 2014 by admin 50 Comments

Have you ever been some where that gave you an ever lasting feeling of joy each time you thing about it or when you hear someone mention the place? Well, Hong Kong gives me those goose bumps each time I think about it. My trip to Hong Kong came about at a time when things just seem to have somehow just clicked. I some how felt at peace with things, achieved some weird and wonderful life balance and abundantly joyful – it’s that emotion that is evoked when I think about how I was feeling while I was there and have since attached it to this beautiful city. I had just moved back to London from a stint in Hampshire, I was climbing, happily and forever indulging in endless talks of cool and on-trend techy stuff at work. Embarking on a solo trip to Hong Kong whilst in a state of euphoria made everything I experienced in the city feel that much more special a little surreal. Racing around the airport at 2am when I arrived, next morning I woke up at the Marriott to a view of Victoria Harbour complete with emerald waters, ferries and speed boards bopping up and down the coastline as if for my own amusement.

I had a few days of solo exploring before my diary and one of my friend’s surprisingly synced while he was travelling around on business in China with his dad, so obviously that warranted an evening of exploring before they took off a day later. Not long after they left was it time to take a break from being a tourist and attend to the reason of my visit in this beautiful city of lights. Leaving Hong Kong island and crossing over to Kowloon to attend my friend’s wedding. Watching two lovely people tie the knot is enough to make even the toughest explorers shed a tear or two.

Leaving the couple to enjoy bridal bliss I had a few more days of soloing and took to explore more of Kowloon. Hong Kong consists of four sections, Kowloon, Hong Kong Island, New Territories and Outlying Islands, which comprise of 234 islands. I was staying on Hong Kong Island and traveled between HK island and Kowloon via the star ferry and at HK $2.50, a nifty way to cross over, take in the Harbour sights, all without breaking the bank as the sea breeze cools you down in the city’s hot season. Hong Kong is synonymous with shopping so of course I was not going to leave without exploring the malls taking refuge in gleaming landscapes of skyscrapers. If you want to escape the malls there are many a market to practice your haggling skills, one popular destination for this activity is the ladies market in Mong Kok in Kowloon West. Hong Kong is another city that is a traveller’s dream as you have the best of both worlds. You can mingle in the densely populated city that offers a rich collection of cuisines to tantalize your taste buds with foods from all over the world while you take in the sights. If you tire of the concrete jungle you can head to the stunning Stanley Beaches or head for the hills for an adventurous hike in mountains on Lantau Island as well as check out the famous Big Buddha(post to come!)

Below is a visual diary of my fortnight spent discovering Hong Kong…

Hong Kong: Lunch Date at Ritz Carlton - Kowloon

Visual Diary | Discover Hong Kong - Mong KOK Ladies Market

Visual Diary | Discover Hong Kong - Mong Kok East Station Ladies Market

Visual Diary | Discover Hong Kong - Mong Kok East Station

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Discovering Hong Kong: 5 Travel Tricks & Tips for Travelistas on the Go

October 13, 2012 by admin 16 Comments

The terminal train announcement at Hong Kong International Airport, peered through Keane who together with Emeli Sandè and The Script formed the soundtrack to my 10 day visit between Hong Kong and China. Saturday, September, 22nd, it was time to head back to London…

Yes, my lovelies! I had finally set foot on the Asian continent, albeit five years later than planned. It took a wedding invitation to get me to sign up for a 16 hour flight. A wedding I very nearly missed thinking it was one month later than the actual date. A frantic shuffling and emails suggesting the cheapest ways to save cost to our client on covering the days I would be off secured my release off my current project for 7 working days, 10 including weekends.

Also See

Discovering Hong Kong

Arriving in Hong Kong tired but immediately awakened by the beautifully lite skyscrapers as the hotel shuttle bus took me and 3 others from the airport to the Marriott Courtyard. I forced myself to sleep at 6.30pm UK time and 1.30am HK in an attempt to adjust my body clock to Hong Kong time. As the blinds slowly disappeared into the ceiling revealing the prettiest emerald green sea views I have ever laid eyes on, I had woken up in Hong Kong!!! Turbo Jet boats whizzed past transporting travelers to a Macau, container floats lazily passing by over a back drop of the Victoria Harbour. Twenty-one floors above the ground, I must have sat by the window for a while because it was 3pm by the time I dragged my jet-lagged behind out of my hotel room.

Hong Kong Island

Breezy Tee, walking shoes, sunnies and it was show time! With buses, taxis and trams right at the hotel’s door step, I chose to explore on foot. Passing through the dry seafood market in the Bird’s Nest Street, a bustling street with bargains being had. Blindly navigating my way through the streets I found myself at the Western Market. An Edwardian-style building still standing since 1906 sitting by a busy square in Sheung Wan Fong with traditional shops surrounding.

Peak Tram: The Bride(not me, my friend…)

After an excited refueling at Starbucks, I arrived in the Central District. The very heart of Hong Kong and the city’s financial hub. A dynamic and immediately evident; very cosmopolitan. Totally different to the traditional scene of Sheung Wan. If you are a lover of all that is steel and glass then this is truly heaven! Hong Kong has world-class infrastructure designed by some of the worlds best architects and a symbol of its success. As a lover of architectural photography I almost fell over myself in excitement at the canvas in front of me. Walking through the streets its almost as if you are travelling through time as the city reveals its colonial past. St John’s Cathedral, one of Hong Kong’s Oldest surviving Western building built in the 13th Century. Right across from the Cathedral is the Peak Tram. The tram leads to Victoria Peak; the highest point on the island with world famous views over the city and South China Seas.

Kowloon

After marveling over the city’s mix of ‘east-meets-west’ and being happily entwined in the a bustling, captivating and charismatic island, it was time to cross over to Kowloon. With a choice of taxi, train and ferry, I chose to cross over to Kowloon by the Star Ferry. Hong Kong was hot and humid so travelling by ferry offering panoramic views of the harbour and fresh breeze as the boat booped on the water was a wise move according to taxi driver dropping me off at the IFC mall; Hong Kong’s tallest office building housing luxury shopping mall, Four Seasons Hotel, cinemas and world finance companies all under one beautiful tower.

Kowloon Food District

Kowloon is a tourists dream and a bank manager’s nightmare! Kowloon is a city that never sleeps. Bright and colourful street lights and signage. At the tip of Kowloon peninsula is the popular Tsim Sha Tsui with a variety of shopping malls, historical landmarks and restaurants. I think I eat myself around the world. I don’t think I have ever been this adventurous with food before. Feasting my way through Japanese, Taiwanese, Korean, Chinese and off course western dishes in Kowloon’s Food District over the duration of my stay. The food was fresh, tasty and delightfully heaven on the lips! For more tips on food in HK check out this Hong Kong Food Guide.

Peking Road and Canton Road offer unrivaled luxury brands stores and across is Harbour City and Hong Kong’s largest shopping mall. With 450 shops, I am sure even Carey Bradshaw would be sent in a tail spin at the end to end line of luxury shopping on offer in Kowloon.

Kowloon’s Lux Shopping district

Markets

Ladies Market

Leaving Chanel and Cartier behind and heading for the Ladies Market in Mong Kok. I had read that this is a bargain hunter’s galore so I was not going to leave HK without paying homage. A long street with stalls selling ladies, men’s and children’s clothes, accessories and knick knacks. Yes, I was in the mood to haggle and pretended to walk away from prices just so I can get away with the price I was willing to pay scored me a few bargains. Ka-Ching! Also making a stop at Temple Street Night Market on the way to hot-pot feasts with friends. Shopping in HK is exhilarating! Temple Street market closes at mid-night and aside from the bargains on the racks there are street entertainment; chess players, fortune tellers and opera singers drawing you into the kaleidoscopically lite market streets.

Avenue of Stars…?

After walking around Tsim Sha Tsui for hours in the HK heat, I took a de-tour to the Avenue of Stars while waiting for the return of my passport with the Chinese visa. I sat down on a bench next to an old guy and within minutes I was attacked by an army of pensioners…

Fast Friends?…

I am sure there are tens of photos(and maybe a video too) of me and an army of pensioners who were amused by the sighting of a brown girl (by the way there are many a brown girl in HK, so this experience so quite interesting) in Hong Kong that they decide to take pictures of me and before diving in and requesting I take pictures with them. The whole experience was so funny I couldn’t stop laughing. I also took pictures of the group for my own evidence of the moment(picture above). I managed to escape when they started comparing pictures.

Ladies queuing to take a picture with Bee…lol

All good trips must come to an end…

Tsim Sha Tsui Clock Tower/Autumn Festival Lanterns

I couldn’t believe just how emotional leaving Hong Kong made me feel. Seeing a friend get married having not seen her for years other than daily online chatter and no face to face contact, and my lone travels to unbelievably amazing islands surrounding Hong Kong, seeing the bustling city of Guangzhou in China and the great big Buddha, I felt a little sad. Not because I didn’t want to go home but the peace of mind that I had had being in Hong Kong was too good to let go of. The people always smiling and so friendly and I never thought I would hear a Chinese man call me Sista before(in a bid to entice me into his handbag shop…It worked!)

Getting around Hong Kong is fairly easy. Taxis are inexpensive compared to London, the trains are easy to navigate through and the ferries leaving every few minutes so you are spoilt for choice.

From getting the celeb treatment(pictures above) while resting my feet at Asia’s Avenue of Stars to seeing Symphony of Lights, to walking down Shanghai Street; one of the city’s oldest street to trailing 90 degree angles in the Peak Tram, heading up 500 meters above sea level to the viewing tower of Victoria Peak. Walking along Repulse Bay’s beautiful beaches. Hong Kong offers amazing country parks, shopping malls, markets, villages, fascinating themed walks and hiking trails all in relaxed atmosphere. There is so much to see and do in Hong Kong that 10 days was never ever going to be enough. I will definitely be back in Hong Kong soon but I will be adding the great wall of China, the forbidden city and Terracotta army to my list when I return.

5 Travel Tricks & Tips for Travelistas on the Go

1. Plan your trip; you dont have to plan down to the minute but be realistic in the time that you have and how much you can see and do without feeling like you are overdoing it. Allow yourself to be led by the scent of the city. Stash away the map for a while and just let your senses guide you.

2. Packing Accordingly. If you have planned your trip whether for adventure sport, rock climbing, walking or lounging then you must pack according to that. Doing point one also means you can be respectful of any cultural traditions of the places you may be visiting. The last thing you want is to be arrested on indecency charges in a foreign country. For the fashion conscience Wendy offers a great way to pack your goodies in your suitcase. Do not forget converters! I love my gadgets and the last thing I want is having no means to charge the batteries.

3. Don’t waste money on travel guides, the internet is free(well sort of). You can print maps and guides before your travel. I have always made a note to scan my passport and save a digital copy somewhere in the Cloud just in case I should lose it on my travels but I also ensure that the hotels I am staying at have safe boxes in the room to store valuables.

4. Be Safe, more so, especially when travelling alone.

5. Camera in hand, immerse yourself in the culture and HAVE FUN!!!

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Things to see and do in Kong Kong. Where to Shop, eat and drink in Hong Kong. Visiting Kowloon. Getting the Ferry in Hong Kong. Visiting the IFC Mall in Hong Kong. Public Transport in Hong Kong. Getting around in Hong Kong.