The way I see it, there are two distinct types of travelers: those who keep returning to one beloved destination and those seized by an irresistible urge to explore new locales. Given my severe case of wanderlust, I clearly fall into the latter category. For years, my modus operandi has been to keep upping the ante and adding to my catalogue of been there, done that experiences. But my latest conquest—sublime subtropical Hong Kong—has so much to offer that it is already beckoning me back. This Special Administrative Region of China is both undeniably exotic and surprisingly affordable. (For example, Go Today has five-night fly-and-stay bundles from LA starting at $999; while Gate 1 Travel has similar packages priced from $1099.) So go ahead—pack your bags and experience Hong Kong’s greatest hits for yourself.
1. Get Lucky
One of Hong Kong’s most atmospheric attractions is the Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple, where you can light some incense, shake out a chim “fortune stick,” and then, for about $3.75, have a wizened soothsayer give you a glimpse into your future. Since the news won’t necessarily be cheery (trust me, I discovered that the hard way!) it might be prudent to improve your odds beforehand by practicing a little Feng Shui: the ancient Chinese philosophy that sees the positioning of objects as a means of accentuating positive energy. Find out about its guiding principles at a Feng Shui class available at no charge every Thursday morning from 10:30–11:30 AM, courtesy of the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
2. Tea Up
Wonder where all the tea in China is? Well, much of it must be here because Hong Kong is steeped in a rich tea-drinking tradition. For the full English-style afternoon experience complete with finger sandwiches and dainty cakes, the posh Peninsula Hotel is the place to be ($30). On the other hand, if it’s local flavor you’re after, opt for a traditional Chinese teahouse. Lock Cha’s Hong Kong Park location is a great starting point because its proprietor offers no-cost tea appreciation sessions four times a week, as well as a Sunday tea-and-music combo ($10) and to-die-for daily dim sum (from $1.50). As an added bonus, you can buy teas to take home or move next door to learn more at the free Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware.
3. Look for Labels
On a per capita basis, Hong Kong residents rank among the richest in the world. Moreover, they like to wear their wealth, which makes this place a magnet for upscale retailers and a premiere shopping destination for the rest of us. Start your spree in the tourist-friendly Tsim Sha Tsui district at Harbour City. The 700-plus stores of Hong Kong’s largest mall represent an international line-up of luxury brands (under “A” alone you’ll find agnès b, Aquascutum, Anna Sui, and Atsuro Tayama). The best time to hunt for bargains is during the annual winter and summer sale periods, held late December to February and July to September respectively. If prices are still too high, try your luck at Citygate Outlets near the airport.
4. Horse Around
Mention the summer Olympics and people understandably think of Beijing. However, it is Hong Kong that will be hosting the 29th Olympiad’s equestrian events August 9–21. The rest of the year, you can still get in on the equine action because horseracing is huge here and visitors are welcome to join the crowd at either the Sha Tin or Happy Valley track for just $1.30. When only VIP treatment will do, you can sign on for a “Come Horseracing Tour” that provides access to the prestigious Hong Kong Jockey Club’s Members Enclosure. Other package perks are a boffo buffet with unlimited drinks, a race program, betting orientation, betting voucher, and a guided tour to the parade ring and winning post (from $80).
