48 hours in Hong Kong: panoramic city vistas, beach sunsets and delicious dim sum
4th March 2019
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Hong Kong lies in the southeast of China. Known for its vast skyscrapers, hikes, star ferries and Dim Sum, the special autonomous region (SAR) is filled to the brim with things to do even away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
As a SAR of China, UK passport holders do not need to trawl through the extensive visa applications required for mainland China, a definite plus to visiting the city.
City sights
Hong Kong is a sightseer's paradise with impressive neon-lit streets and many opportunities for challenging but rewarding hikes. If like me, you visit the city in September or October, the weather will be satisfyingly summery but not overwhelmingly hot, ideal conditions for hiking.

Image credit: Julia Tet on Unsplash
Victoria Peak is an unmissable viewpoint in Hong Kong. Whether you take the Peak Tram or climb to the top, you will be met with panoramic views of the city, the bay and beyond.
Image credit: Daniel Clark
For night-time views of the city's flashing lights, hop across Victoria Harbour on the cheap Star Ferry to Tsim Sha Tsui. While there, you can walk down Nathan Road in all its neon glory or to the Ladies' Market in Mong Kok for some cheap retail therapy. Nearby Kowloon Park offers bright greenery, turtles and so many Pokemon Go players. Island sights For island sights, take a day trip to Lamma Island, a short ferry ride from mainland Hong Kong, for more luscious greenery and scenic beaches.
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Lamma Island, Hung Shing Yeh beach. Image credit: Daniel Clark
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Image credit: Daniel Clark
However, be prepared to scale the 268 steps it takes to reach him. Lantau also houses Po Lin Monastery, great if you want a slice of history and regal architecture.
Image credit: Daniel Clark
Food Hong Kong’s renowned food scene does not disappoint. Dim Sum is a staple in Hong Kong. If you want to try the super cheap but delicious Michelin-starred Dim Sum, look no further than Tim Ho Wan. Char Siu Bao (buns filled with BBQ Beef) is the dish to look out for there.
Image credit: Daniel Clark
It costs approximately 100 Hong Kong dollars (£9.80) to eat multiple dishes, desserts and a drink (including unlimited Hong-Kong style tea), so it is incredibly cheap. Other stunning dishes Hong Kong has to offer include Lo Mai Gai (steamed glutinous rice, normally with pork or chicken), a whole range of roasted meats including pork or duck, Wonton noodles and, of course, the famous egg tarts. Museums If you are the museum type, Hong Kong has one of the best. At the Museum of History, entrance is free and they run special exhibits from time-to-time. The permanent exhibition The Hong Kong Story tracks the region’s political, social, economic and legal history from the pre-historic period to the contemporary period. What makes the museum special is they have constructed buildings and sets for you to walk into, making you feel truly immersed in history. The exhibit displays information on the various Chinese dynasties, Japanese occupation, colonial rule and contemporary Chinese culture. Hong Kong is also home to various science and space museums, as well as maritime, art and heritage galleries. Whether you are looking to become one with the neon-lit sights or simply relax and sample the local cuisine, Hong Kong has something to offer for everyone, even in the space of 48 hours.You might also like...
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