When travel wasn’t as commonplace as it is today, and people only had time to visit very few countries, Hong Kong would be one of the choices to visit. In fact, a poll by The Poor Traveler suggests that Hong Kong topped the list of the best destinations for first-time international travelers.
Ever since I was a child, I have been perfectly aware that Hong Kong is one, if not the tourist capital of Asia. In Hong Kong, the East meets the West, nature coincides with a concrete metropolis, and a diverse culture coexist. Apart from that, Hong Kong is home to the best shopping spots, where you can get the up-to-date and trendiest imported goods without breaking the bank (compared to your own country).
In this article, we’ll explore Hong Kong’s must-see spots for a group adventure.
Hong Kong Disneyland
If you want to have a magical day, Disneyland is the way to go because, apart from the thrilling rides, you get to see your favorite Disney characters come to life. During the afternoons before the parade, you can see them walking in the theme park and interacting with the guests, not just in full costumes but with ruthless portrayals.
You might want to celebrate Christmas at Hong Kong Disneyland this year because it’s gonna be extra special. You’ll experience all the beloved traditions like the Christmastime Ball and tree lighting ceremony, but for the first time ever, the World of Frozen will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland.
This is the perfect opportunity to create unforgettable memories with your barkada, indulge in delicious seasonal treats, and capture the magic with pictures of Mickey and Friends in their Christmas outfits.
Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMOA)
It’s no secret that Hong Kong is expensive, especially when it comes to food and accommodation. Of course, theme parks and other paid spots are out of the question. However, its government makes up for these high costs by offering you a lot of places you can visit for free, just like the Hong Kong Museum of Art.
The world-class museum features HK and Chinese antiques, paintings, and calligraphy, as well as modern and contemporary art. I studied Art Appreciation in college but was awestruck by some artworks with mixed media and innovative techniques. HKMOA offers a diverse range of exhibitions catering to different art niches and art buffs and will even deligh the non-enthusiasts.
Food Trip at Lock Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Home to a diverse parade of authentic Cantonese food and Michelin Star restaurants, Lock Road should be on your list so that you can indulge in Hong Kong specialties, such as roast goose, beef and wonton noodles, and Shanghai pan-fried buns.
As you walk around the street, your senses will be mesmerized by the smell and sight of the best in Cantonese food. I highly recommend Gwing Kee Restaurant for the roast goose (they have huge servings; a set of four can be consumed by 5-7 people, depending on your barkada’s appetite), Mak’s Noodle for noodles, and Cheung Hing Kee’s Michelin Star Shanghai pan-fried buns.
Ocean Park Hong Kong
Ocean Park Hong Kong is another world-class theme park where you can experience several activities perfect for families, barkadas, and lovers. Enjoy thrilling rides (rollercoasters, water rides, drop towers), animal shows and exhibits (you can catch the panda, in case you haven’t been to China yet), stunning ocean views while riding the cable car, and take photos on the Old Hong Kong site.
You’ll be delighted by the diverse marine life as you watch dolphins, penguins, jellyfish, and other types of fish in action. You also get to enjoy different modes of transportation within the park itself. The theme park also offers educational tours, from which you’ll be able to learn a lot.
Arte M
Escape reality in Arte M. With immersive digital art and stunning visuals, Arte M has several branches worldwide, including Las Vegas, Dubai, Busan, and Hong Kong. It has been trending on social media, and its visitors seem to enjoy each installation’s dreamy visuals, incredible scents, and captivating sounds.
When visiting Hong Kong, be sure to add Arte M to your itinerary.
The Avenue of Stars
Another free and must-see spot in Hong Kong is The Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui. It is the Hong Kong version of the Hollywood Stars Walk of Fame, but instead of Hollywood stars’ names, the Avenue of Stars brings tribute to the biggest stars of Hong Kong cinema, the world’s third largest motion picture industry. In its golden age (from the 70s to the 90s), Hong Kong cinema catapulted the international careers of its biggest stars, such as Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Chow Yun-fat, Tony Leung, Leslie Chung, and acclaimed director Wong Kar Wai.
Whether you’re a fan of Hong Kong cinema and its stars or not, take some time to look for well-known personalities and take a photo of their star or just around the area with embedded stars, director clips, and camera statues. Remember to include the iconic Bruce Lee statue beside Starbucks; it would be a priceless Hong Kong memento.
There you have it—my recommendations for a wonderful Barkada trip in Hong Kong. Be sure to visit bit.ly/CebuPacificSale to book direct flights from Davao to Hong Kong. It flies four times weekly.
NeP-C Ledesma is a millennial writer and entrepreneur full of curiosity about our abstract world. She devours Psychology, food, Philosophy, and prefer cats as her all-time company. Pop Culture is her kryptonite.