Hong Kong and macau trip

I and my friend went to Hong Kong and Macau during Holi 2012. We booked our flight tickets and hotels through hi-tours, while the rest of the tour was unplanned.

We started with Macau. Stayed in a suite in Venetian. The rooms were extremely good, so was the hotel. Reminded me of Las Vegas. Macau is the place to be if you want to gamble. It is mostly famous for just 2 things – gambling and prostitution. Even the local HongKong junta comes to Macau for these 2. First day, we played poker almost whole night and won some 2000 HK$ each. 

If you are an Indian and don’t like Chinese Vegetarian, make sure you get to the Indian Restaurants on time. They close on quite early, except in the food court in Venetian. Next day we took a half day city tour. We missed the bunjee jumping (regret not doing it, as we were short of time; did skywalk- was fun). In the evening we left for HK.

I had heard a lot about HongKong being the new financial world, and trust me it beats the best of the cities of US in terms of infrastructure. There are 2 cities one above the road and one below it – the underground metro. I was amazed to see the showrooms of all major brands at the metro-stations.

First day we visited Victoria Peak. The peak is one of the main attractions in HongKong and should be in the list of things to see for any tourist .A steep tram ride brings you to the top of the peak , the highest point in HongKong. Located at the top of the peak is the wok-shaped Peak Tower, which is like a mall and harbors Madame Tussad`s museum besides others shops and restaurants. We had our sip of coffee and moved on for shopping.

Mong Kok, probably one of the busiest parts of Kowloon and all of Hong Kong. It is famous for various night markets where one can find cheap electronics and apparels. I found a Chinese Bluetooth headset for my iPhone. Its a good place to try local cuisine. It is a heaven for all sea food lovers; we tried some of it. The major markets are Ladies Market,Temple Street  and Portland Street.

Then came the night, best time to enjoy your bachelorhood.   We went to Lan Kwai Fong (popularly known as LFK).This is the place you should go if you want too see hongkong`s nightlife. Spread across fairly good area its has scores of clubs, discs and bars . One can really get the feel of cosmopolitan nature of the city. The place was jam-packed with locals and tourists. Though a bit on expensive side this place is worth every penny.

Next day we took a half day city tour through a local agent and visited places such as Avenue of Stars (gives a great view of the city`s skyline; with the pleasant breeze we had a great time there. it’s a good place to spend a lazy afternoon).

Wong Tai Sin Temple (famous for fortune tellers; we particularly liked the status of the 12 animals according to Chinese Calendar).

Repulse Bay  - a beach perfect for families and perhaps the only beach worth going in HK .

If you are a barbecue person this is the place to go . One can also see the famous “Jackie Chan” House from this beach located in the hills. You can skip the Ferry ride, it’s not worth the time and money. We ended the day taking the rides and enjoying shows – dolphin show was good, at the Ocean Park (if you don’t have young children, it can easily be skipped).

Next day we started with Disneyland. HK is one of the four places in the world to have Disneyland. The Disneyland here is smaller as compared to the others but there are some distinct rides that one can’t afford to miss. 

We hurried on to the Lantau Island – a beautiful monastery located 100km outside the main city in mountains is famous for the “Big Bhudda” Statue. One can reach the monastery either by bus or cable car.

 It’s advisable to leave for the island early morning from the city as there are many amazing landmarks besides the monastery that are worth visiting. We were quite late but were gifted with rain and enjoyed every bit of walk. Try the distinct flavored chai you get right on the entrance.