OUR new column gives you the lowdown on what to see and do in your favourite holiday hotspots.
This week it’s all about the captivating city of Hong Kong, a great layover destination for anyone travelling to Australia or New Zealand.
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The Sun’s Deputy Travel Editor Kara Godfrey recently visited on a whirlwind two-day trip of the city.
She explained: “It’s one one of my new favourite cities, having everything from amazing food and nightlife as well as beautiful nature parts.
“If staying in the city, head to the 18th floor of the Ritz Carlton Hotel, which is where you will find Ozone, the highest rooftop bar in the world.
“Or there is The Majestic Garden, a beautiful outdoor bar tucked behind a shopping mall restaurant, as well as the Quinary, named one of the best bars in Asia.
“But my favourite spot was Sai Kung, a short taxi from the main city where I found empty beaches more like the Philippines or Hawaii.
“If you want to splash out, a stay at The Peninsular is really something special, with Rolls-Royce pick ups and beautiful views over the river (although if you just want to explore the hotel itself, you can book a much more affordable and just as popular afternoon tea there instead).”
Here are some other top tips of ours when visiting Hong Kong.
Must see and do
It would be silly to pass through Hong Kong without visiting the Tian Tan Buddha (or Big Buddha), a giant bronze statue in Ngong Ping.
It’s a pretty spectacular sight, perched atop the lush and leafy Mount Muk Yue.
If you’re into theme parks, Disneyland Resort Hong Kong is celebrating its 20th anniversary this summer, and there’ll be a full year of celebrations taking place.
Visitors will get to watch the largest-ever parade along Main Street, a special night-time fireworks display and a show exclusive to the anniversary celebrations.
Best view
Ask anyone where to find the best view in Hong Kong and they’ll undoubtedly say The Peak, or Victoria Peak, the highest hill on the island.
Tick off a bucket list experience by riding the historic Peak Tram, one of the oldest trams in the world, to the top where a viewing platform (Sky Terrace 428) awaits.
It was built in 1888 to serve the British governor and The Peak’s residents and continues to run today as a popular tourist attraction.
Pack your hiking boots to take advantage of one of the many scenic walking trails.
Rated restaurant
Luk Yu Tea House is a dining institution in Hong Kong – and the food is so good, we’re not surprised it’s made it into the Michelin Guide.
Spread across colonial-era three floors, you can expect to tuck into classic Chinese flavours including crispy deep-fried chicken and sliced beef brisket noodles.
Don’t leave without trying the dim sum, though, which are delicately hand-folded.
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Best bar
As the World’s 50 Best Bars heads to Hong Kong for 2025 at the revamped Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, Bar Leone is looking to beat off the competition to retain its title from 2024.
This casual Italian-themed bar, founded by an awardwinning Italian mixologist, is famed for having mastered the classic cocktails, all of which come at a reasonable price.
Make sure to try the bar snacks while you’re here, from mortadella foccacia to smoked olives.
Hotel pick
If you’re after something a little different, look no further than Noah’s Ark Hotel and Resort.
The quirky hotel was built as a full-scale replica of Noah’s Ark, complete with animals walking two-by-two from the dock on to dry land.
The rooms inside are less funky, kitted out with comfy bedding and simple wooden-panelled walls.
It’s a great spot for families or groups, too, with four-person bunk rooms as well as rooms with two queen-sized beds.
Double bedrooms start from £74 per night based on two adults sharing and including breakfast.
See noahsarkhotel.com.hk
For more information about Hong Kong, see discoverhongkong.com
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