Hong Kong, a place that has etched its place in many a visitor’s heart still remains one of the
most popular destinations for any traveller to the Orient. Other cities vie for 1st position, but
there’s just something about Hong Kong that beckons a 2nd, 4th, or 8th visit.
Hong Kong often anchors a cruise itinerary allowing you the wonderful opportunity to extend
your stay. The main cruise ship dock is the multi-level shopping complex, Ocean Terminal,
located in the heart of Kowloon and only steps away from the famous shopping street, Nathan
Road, and overlooking the Star Ferry with incredibly frequent services to whisk you across to
Hong Kong Island. There’s a new state of the art cruise terminal being built where Hong Kong’s
old Kai Tak Airport runway used to be, due to be opened mid-2013. I would suggest that Ocean
Terminal will still be favoured, purely because of its unbeatable location, however the new cruise
terminal will undoubtedly be far superior for embarking and debarking procedures, which is
sorely needed. You must be sure to be on deck on arrival or departure as it’s incredible.
Hong Kong is easily explored on your own. Step ashore and you can literally shop till you drop
with shopping streets stretching as far as the eye can see. I recommend researching at least a
little before arriving as shopping extends from Kowloon (where the ship is docked, part of
mainland China) and across to Hong Kong Island. There are markets, electronics, fashion, arts and
more and some areas are better than others for what you’re looking for.
Importantly, Hong Kong is so much more than shopping. Honestly, sightseeing opportunities
could have you here for days and the dining is fabulous. There’s a great subway, taxis are
everywhere, the ferry services are terrific and it’s easy. Take the Peak Tram skyward for awesome
views, enjoy an exciting day at the races, play with your family at Hong Kong Disneyland or
Ocean Park, take a traditional fishing junk ride at famous Aberdeen, explore the multitude of
markets (Temple Street, Stanley, Jade, Ladies, Flower and bird markets), rest awhile in a beautiful
Buddhist monastery like Po Lin, or visit the quieter side of Hong Kong in the New Territories.
Roger’s Quick Tips
Best Months: All year round (from hot to cold)
Don’t Miss: Symphony of Lights, ride the Star Ferry
Tour or Not: Easily explored independently
Sightseeing: The Peak, Markets, Repulse Bay, Macau,
museums
Food: Dum Sum, regional Chinese (11,000 restaurants)
Language: Chinese (Cantonese), English
Shopping: Everywhere you turn
Cash or Card: Cards, but Hong Kong Dollars for taxis, Star Ferry.
