Going Solo in Hong Kong — 2018

Back in January 2018, I went on a solo trip to Hong Kong. During this trip, it was more of hiking, eating and meeting my old friend from Summer Exchange, Toby! 

Day 1

Hong Kong’s really similar to Singapore with skyscrapers and similar-looking buses. It was my first time in Hong Kong, and I am lucky to have a Hong Kongese bringing me around. It does get pretty overwhelming because everyone speaks Cantonese. But! I found it simpler and less of a hassle when I spoke English.

We happened to come across a Farmers’ Market near the Kowloon Pier, and we took the ferry over to Victoria Island! I find it so cool that taking a ferry is actually one of the modes of public transportation in Hong Kong?! It’s pretty cheap too.

Day 2

The next day, I went up the tram to Victoria Peak. It was a rather gloomy day so I didn’t manage to see the views across Hong Kong.

I hiked around Victoria Peak in the mist, had bubble tea despite the cold,  and then went to Shek O beach on a bus. The journey there was rather smooth and enjoyable, even though it was raining. Could’ve hiked Dragon’s Back but went against the it.

Day 3

Cheung Chau Island.

My friend and I went to the island via ferry and we really had a wonderful time hiking despite the misty weather. Again, I swear Hong Kong is really so cool, because the ferry ride to another island is so so affordable!

We hiked around the entire island in a day, and climbed through a “pirate’s” cave. I really didn’t like climbing into unknown places, so Toby went in first. We had ice cream mochi (twice!) and it was so, so good. I didn’t know that mochi is a specialty of Cheung Chau Island, and I’m so glad I managed to try it. By the way, they had mango flavour which was so good. 😀

Had fishballs too, and they were made spicy. Like, really spicy. Such an awesome respite from the cold. When you have a warm tummy, all’s good!

When we came back to Victoria Island, we explored Hong Kong University’s campus. There was a demonstration area where students can rally for causes. I found that really cool, because NTU used to have one as well.

In the evening, Toby invited me over for dinner. No photos here because privacy, but I had such a good dinner it was so amazing. Nothing beats homecooked food. *love*

As my friend’s home is located on Tsing Yi, a residential area “island”, it was so close to one of the bridges – Tsing Ma Bridge. We hiked up a local hill after dinner – in total pitch dark. Trusted Toby a whole 100% because she hiked the mountain very often (but only in the day). It was her first time too, hiking at night. But we saw a beautiful view of the bridge!

Thinking back, knowing a local allowed me to experience these moments that cannot be bought just on a backpacking trip. Really thankful for the friendships I’ve made locally and overseas, especially during my stay in South Korea for summer studies. Thank you Toby! *heart*

Day 4

It was my last full day in Hong Kong. There was 1 place left to explore (I wanted to explore the Northeast region of Hong Kong, but time didn’t allow me to do so!) – Lantau Island!

Hiked up the steps to see the Tian Tan Buddha, walked the perimeters and just gazed into the distance. I feel that Hong Kong’s nature is really much to be raved about. Sure, Hong Kong’s food is really amazing (dimsum!!) but the views are just as spectacular.

More food? Read my review of Lola Faye Cafe!

Went to Tai O Fishing Village by bus as well, and managed to walk around. Didn’t go on a boat ride because it was expensive. Nonetheless, I had more fishballs and mochi. Toby wasn’t with me so I was alone on Day 4. It was a rather relaxing day. The weather was still gloomy but the sunshine peeked through the clouds occasionally throughout the day.

I took the bus back to Ngong Ping, and instead of taking the cable car down… I hiked down! It was terrifying, to say the least, but the views were amazing.

Day 5

I slept in a little bit, because it was my last day in Hong Kong before I flew home. This trip was a great start to 2018. Meeting Toby again was awesome and it just brought back great memories from Summer school back in 2017. Delicious food, wonderful companion, beautiful views (though I wished the weather could be better).

Would you like to visit Hong Kong? Visit Hong Kong’s official tourism website to find out more.