Photo Diary: Hello Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of my favourite cities. There’s a magic about the tall, metallic skyscrapers interspersed with the verdant hills and winding roads that charm me over and over again. I was lucky to discover some beautiful, lesser known spots around the bustling city while on a recent work trip. When I wasn’t busy working, I put on my photographer hat and had some fun. If you’re looking to discover Hong Kong in an offbeat way, then read on:

Tsim Sha Tsui
Head on over to the buzzing streets of Tsim Sha Tsui to discover:

• Shopping on Nathan Road
• Kowloon Park
• Intimate coffee shops serving up perfect brews

Secret Sunrise View Points at Victoria Peak
I discovered a ‘secret’ spot to watch and/or photograph one of the most stunning sunrises I have ever seen. Make your way to Victoria Peak around 5am (you may have to cab it as public transport is not running yet) and look for Lugard Road, which is actually a walking trail. Walk for about 10-15 minutes along the trail until you reach a clearing in the trees and see these views. 

Wanchai
This seemingly corporate part of town has some fun spots to explore. Exit Wanchai MTR station and take a walk down Johnston Road in the direction of Pacific Place and keep your eyes peeled for:

• Amoy Street: a cosy area with shops, cafes and restaurants
• If you walk a little further down on Johnston Road and make a left Swatow Street, the next street, you’ll come upon The Cupping Room (Wanchai). A perfect little spot for brunch, lunch or coffee. I highly recommend the avocado toast with a latte on the side! 
• During the evening, head on over to Landale Street, a small alley off Johnston Road and enjoy tasty cocktails at Djiboutii bar while sitting on a barrel 🙂

 

 

 

 

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition and Centre Promenade
A 20-minute walk away from Wanchai MTR, the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre is an impressive building on the Hong Kong side waterfront. Exit the building and come to the waterfront promenade, you’ll find these lesser known yet equally amazing views of the Kowloon skyline. And here’s another secret tip: from the same spot you can also get great photos of some of the Hong Kong skyline too – have a look! 

Hong Kong Station, IFC Mall & Twelve Cupcakes
So this was the literal icing on my whole trip. As I was getting ready to catch my flight back home, I decided to try the airport check-in at Hong Kong station in the city so I wouldn’t have to lug around my bags and spend some time exploring IFC Mall. I stumbled upon popular local bakery Twelve Cupcakes and enjoyed delicious cupcakes on the 40 minute train ride to the airport, luggage-and-hassle free. (Not to mention some also traveled back on the plane with me to Bangkok!)