Let’s Goto: Hong Kong for a week, Stage 3 Typhoon, Skylines and Disneyland!

Hong Kong is often described as a place where East meets West. A bustling metropolis with a unique blend of modern skyscrapers, blooming nightlife, and traditional temples. This post is my documentation on the journey through Hong Kong. Exploring its vibrant neighborhoods, culinary delights, and iconic landmarks all in a week.

From the neon-lit streets of Mong Kok to the serene beaches of Lantau Island, this trip was a whirlwind. Experience remains my biggest teacher and I am a hard-working student. So, I decided to throw myself into a completely solo trip. I took up a hotel room in HK and not even a hostel.

Embracing spontaneity, I created a solo adventure out of thin air. Opting for a hotel room over a hostel in the heart of Hong Kong. I navigated the seemingly daunting Cantonese language barrier. I scoured the city for vegetarian options. I also braved a full-blown stage 3 typhoon. All in all, a marvelous time with how it ended and I wouldn’t change a second of it. A no-regrets birthday trip coming right up.

Hong Kong, woah? How did that happen?

Life has been good to me. I have been privileged to get exciting opportunities to explore new destinations. I have also been luckier this year. This luck of mine helped me come across the ‘Hello Hong Kong‘ campaign. It is a joint initiative by the Hong Kong government, Hong Kong Airport, and Cathay Pacific Airlines. The goal was to boost tourism in the city after opening up from a brutal lockdown. The campaign was giving away 500,000 round-trip flight tickets from all over the world to Hong Kong. You see these campaigns and often ignore these lofty claims. Human psychology, right? Not me. I always apply and more times than not the odds have stacked in my favor.

I decided to enter the “World of Winners” Ticket Giveaway. On April 4th, my inbox lit up with thrilling news: I’d won an Economy Class round-trip ticket from New Delhi to Hong Kong!f The timing couldn’t have been more perfect, as my birthday was just around the corner. I saw this as a sign to plan a spontaneous 7-day trip to celebrate at the Fragrant Harbor.

Conditions were:

1. I needed to pay taxes on the flight, so the flights weren’t completely free. Check below for what the exact pricing looked to be.
2. Book a round trip economy ticket with a duration of 7 days between 4 April 2023 and 3 January 2024

I made my plans on 6th May, redeeming my Polar Express-like ticket. I knew all too well how far beyond off-season this time of the year would be for Hong Kong. July is Typhoon season in Hong Kong, it’s hot and unbearably sticky. This unexpected win opened up a world of possibilities and set the stage for an unforgettable week in one of Asia’s most captivating cities.

The Plan Then

My flights, while booked on instinct, the research only began when I had 10 days remaining for the trip. I like to backpack in travel on the edge. So in terms of planning, when I think of Hong Kong, I see towering skyscrapers, bustling markets, and serene temples. With this mental image in mind, I started planning my itinerary, filling in the days with day trips, recommendations, and of course days allotted to working from a coffee cafe. A couple of destinations surfaced as,

1. Central – Financial hub with iconic skyscrapers  and Victoria Peak
2. Mong Kok – Bustling markets and street food  
3. Lantau Island – Disneyland
4. Tsim Sha Tsui – Cultural hotspot with museums and shopping

Each of these areas offers a unique slice of Hong Kong life. The plan was set: Land in Hong Kong, figure out the mega-city, keep yourself hydrated, and soak in its diverse culture.

Personal recommendation: Hong Kong (The city) only needed 4-5 nights realistically. For me, this trip was the definition of leisure. I traveled a lot just in the city, exploring the neighborhoods, bars, buildings, and streets alike day in and day out. All thanks to the robust public transportation in place in Hong Kong.

Logistics

Cash, credit cards & other thrills

The currency in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD), and 1 HKD was 10.52 INR.

Credit cards are widely accepted in the city and cash was barely used in the trip. There is something much more flexible to use than credit cards in HK and that is the Octopus Card. The Octopus card, Hong Kong’s all-in-one payment solution, mirrors Japan’s PASMO or SUICA. This versatile card becomes your key to the city, covering everything from public transport to museum entries and convenience store purchases. Works anywhere and everywhere with no downtime, taxes, or charges.

Withdraw cash to top up Octopus Cards: On-loan vs Tourist cards

The only time I withdrew cash was to load up my Octopus card which you can do at any subway or 7-Eleven shop. I withdrew cash at the airport and without any commission from the HK bank. I used the Niyo Credit Card for my transactions throughout my trip both ATM withdrawals and contactless transactions. Octopus cards are truly a lifesaver as they can help you get through Hong Kong super easily. I chose to go for the normal Octopus Card and suggest you do the same instead of the Tourist Octopus card.

The normal Octopus card owned by citizens can get the deposit amount refunded if they choose to cancel. While tourist octopus has a non-refundable deposit amount. I paid cash to buy the Octopus Card from the airport booth that’s there. Loading instructions are available in multiple languages. The language barrier might get in the way but take your time and be patient.

A hot tip and no longer recommend Niyo

The airport has always been my safe place. Each time I land in a new country I spend the most amount of time on my first day at the arrivals area to figure out cash, items, luggage, routes, internet, SIM cards, further research, and transportation. More differences and photo credits.

After a recent trip in 2024, I no longer recommend Niyo Credit Cards to anyone. Niyo has lost my trust with one too many unfortunate incidents and gaps in critical communication. 

I still use it for CC transactions and suggest looking elsewhere for ATM money withdrawals when visiting another country.

Visa

The Hong Kong visa process was relatively straightforward. I applied online, submitted the necessary documents, and received my visa within a week. Indian nationals can visit Hong Kong visa-free for up to 14 days by completing the Pre-arrival Registration (PAR) online before the trip.

The requirements for tourists were:

1. Hold an Indian passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival
2. Intend to visit or transit Hong Kong for a stay not exceeding 14 days.

I faced no issues with the immigration officer at all. Upon asking, I showed him the printed PAR approval sheet which he brushed aside. They didn’t even bother checking hotels or return flights. An approval was stamped on the passport and I was happily on my way.

Sim Card

Hong Kong did not have roaming plans for Jio sim providers or they were very expensive. So, international roaming didn’t work out. What did work out was an amazing tip from an online guide on airport sims which recommended buying a tourist sim from outside the airport at 7-Eleven. 

I understand this would be challenging for some people who immediately get anxious at the thought of having no internet connectivity when going around a new country. Hong Kong with its language barriers, I took that challenge head-on.  I downloaded a Cantonese language pack for translation and an offline map of Hong Kong for Google Maps. Using as much context as possible, I got on the right bus and managed to reach the right hotel.

After checking in, and regrouping, I searched through about six “7-Eleven stores” in the Yau Ma Tei area in Hong Kong. Finally, I found a store selling a tourist sim card from China Mobile. It costed HKD 33. The sim card came with a gentle warning by the 7-Eleven staff member that activating the sim would be something I would need to take care myself. Website link for the sim.

Activating the sim was straightforward. When you open the packet, there are instructions for activating the sim in English. After following them, I received a bunch of activation messages explaining the terms of the sim contract. A $33 stored value inside the sim was deducted immediately for service activation to provide unlimited Local Data (First 60GB up to 42Mbps, thereafter up to 128kbps) + 5,000 minutes of local airtime for 30 days more than enough for my seven-day trip.

Everything was alright. I could download apps and check the website to figure out my data usage or refill the data pack. The speed was fast enough to upload Instagram stories or watch HD YouTube. I barely used 5 gigs on my whole journey. This is because I usually never keep my mobile data on my default due to the battery drain with addition to always deselection the 5G band.

Accommodation

Hong Kong’s accommodation spectrum swings between luxurious havens and compact sleeping pods, with little middle ground. A lot of 2-star or 3-star accommodations had reviews of cockroaches running around or had photos of walls stained with god knows what liquid stains.

Finding a place was easy. Finding a great place right after the COVID-19 pandemic in the city that just started welcoming tourists was extremely challenging. Hostels were my first thought since they are peer-reviewed by a lot of travelers recently going through the city which means:

1. Honest reviews
2. Recent reviews
3. People I can be friends in a place where no one speaks English.

The plan: Find a nice, clean, centrally located hostel/hotel where I can rent a room and meet people.

The two I found in June 2023 was Hop Inn which is the best hostel in Hong Kong according to me in terms of locations, activities, and people. The only caveat was it was expensive. Hence, I went with my second choice which was Yesinn Hotel & Youth Hostel 悦思酒店&青年旅舍

Hong Kong is all about being realistic. A great room that is well-maintained, spacious, and with all the amenities will cost upwards of $200+ easily. Space is a constraint that everyone is fighting for and the city struggles with it every day between the shimmering skyscrapers. Hence, for my trip, Yesin was a worthy and comfortable compromise on accommodation. Here’s my review of it.

A lot of things could have been better during my stay but complaining is something I don’t do and I won’t be doing in the future as some comfort lost in return for an amazing time is a worth compromise.

Transportation Within the City 

Public transportation in Hong Kong is excellent. The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) covers most of the city. The buses and trams were convenient with English signs. I used an Octopus card for seamless travel across different modes of transport. You can just as well use credit cards directly and even pay cash if you wish to. Flexibility is built right into the city with multiple ways to do things for everything.

Understanding MTR networks, buses, and underground tunnels through Google Maps navigation might take a moment but keep calm and take your time. Mistakes will happen; you will choose the wrong gate out of the 12 available to enter/exit the station but enjoy the process.

MTR closes down at midnight. So you would need to make a conscious decision when you are partying whether to return early using the metro or pay expensive taxi fares. Read more on how you skip that easily by being aware of the options you have available.

Packing Essentials

Hong Kong’s weather can be unpredictable, so I packed a mix of light cotton clothing, a rain jacket, and comfortable shoes for walking. I also carried a power bank, snacks, and a reusable water bottle. I went during the Typhoon season so being ready for rain, strong winds, and yet brutal summer helps. It was hot, humid, sticky, and incredibly uncomfortable in the afternoons with cooler but still humid nights. Rest assured, take your most comfortable clothing whether that’s for the pub crawl, the Symphony of Lights, or bar hopping.

Insurance

I opted for a year-long travel insurance policy from Tata AIG Insurance, covering every country (except five). The policy costs 2500 INR and provided peace of mind during my travels. Touchwood, I have never actually needed to use the policy as of yet. So can’t say how good Tata AIG is for insurance.

Food

Hong Kong is a food lover’s paradise, and I indulged in a variety of culinary delights throughout my trip. Here are some must-try dishes and dining experiences:

1. Soupy Dumplings – A traditional Cantonese meal consisting of small plates of dumplings, buns, and other delicacies. Tim Ho Wan and Lin Heung Tea House are great places to try.
2. Egg Tarts – A popular pastry with a flaky crust and creamy custard filling. Tai Cheong Bakery is a local favorite.
3. Street Food – From fish balls to stinky tofu, the street food scene in Hong Kong is vibrant and diverse. Don’t miss the food stalls in Mong Kok and Temple Street Night Market.

Along the way, I found a bakery having queues of people which definitely should mean it is good. I waited for my turn in the queue. The counter lady helped me get an interesting box of sweets to savor for dinner. I paired that with a matcha latte I picked up along the way. Usually, my drink of choice has been the strawberry milkshake from McDonald’s but they ran out of those.

First up, Disneyland

Right before my flight from Delhi, I realized Hong Kong has a Disneyland. I have tried to escape this weaponized nostalgia wonderland straight out of the jaws of sweet sweet American capitalism long enough. Apparently not anymore, Disneyland Hong Kong here we come.

How Disneyland can Disneyland be?

1. The park itself is based out of the city on own its island: Lantau Island
2. There is the Disney Express Metro which is a dedicated metro that connects you from mainland Hong Kong to the Disneyland park.
3. I thought I arrived early for my day at Disneyland, the park was already running at capacity at 9 am.
4. The tickets, my god (Check ticket prices below)

The first time I went over the hill to get inside. The iconic castle was the first thing I saw, a beacon of childhood dreams, that stirred unexpected emotions. I said to myself, that’s the Disney Castle from all the movies I watched. It was enchanting, it was spellbinding, I couldn’t believe I was here. The park is divided into 6-7 sections, each dedicated to a particular Disney universe. Snow White, Jungle Book, Lion King, Toy Story, Marvel, and some others that I have no idea who they are. The day was long, hot, and sweltering. The food was overpriced, and the queues were ever-expanding.

Disclaimer: You can see from this brief passage that I hold no specific love for Disney. I have never believed in fanboying particularly about a trend created by a multi-billion dollar entertainment company. Such self-awareness has its own downsides. I indulge sometimes here or there. But, I like to have the illusion still that I am not one of the cogs of the wheel Disney uses to milk money out of. The ticket prices were enough to knock me out of that delusion. (check below for the actual price)

Enough cribbing. Talking about the lands of Disney, it was beyond magical and that remains undeniable. The attention to detail from staff to attractions to shows to shops all holds up the factor that you are in fact in another world. Here’s what I did at Disneyland to get the most out of my experience of the park.

1. First I recommend downloading the Disneyland app and getting your pass registered on your phone to check in virtually. Helps save time on the queues and the live schedule to find out what’s happening next is cool.
2. Then after reading several blogs on how to best optimize a route through Disneyland, I still waited for an hour+ to get on Hyperspace Mountain (Description: An exhilarating indoor roller coaster that plunges you into the Star Wars universe. Feel the rush as you zoom through space in Tomorrowland.)
   • Yes, you can of course buy platinum or pro passes – whatever they are called to skip the queues. But, I was too busy appreciating crying children in the line ready to throw down a fit at their mortal servants (read parents)

1. The ride was amazing, well-paced, and finished under 2-3 minutes. Return on investment: Let’s stand in more, even longer queues. So that’s what I did.
2. After a brief meeting with Captain Marvel, I saw the Iron Man suit. I almost did not buy anything at the many merchandise stores in Marvel land after looking at the price. Next, I am at the Iron Man Experience (Step into the world of Stark Industries and join Iron Man in a battle against Hydra. This 3D motion simulator ride in Tomorrowland is a hit among Marvel fans.)
3. Waited for 90 minutes, walking in a queue more cramped than buying a ticket for Delhi Metro when you don’t have a smart card. A lot of exhibits, including a full set of Mark 3 Iron Man armor. Not gonna lie, that was sick – including the briefcase armor pack.

1. I got out tired, dehydrated, willed myself to walk towards the castle itself actually into “Disneyland”, there I did It’s a Small World (A classic Disney boat ride that takes you on a musical journey through different cultures, located in Fantasyland)
2. I knew Disneyland would be bad for getting food so I was smart and brought some delicious vegan burgers, butter cakes, cookies, and vanilla coke from 7-Eleven. The best convenience store on the planet btw. I didn’t know it would be that bad that I couldn’t find a place to sit for 30 minutes, because people would occupy tables as their loved ones were being held captive in the hour-long queues to order their food first and then pick it up. If you don’t find a table, then you are not eating sitting down. Now imagine all that with crying kids. I was on the verge of tears but I was dehydrated enough and buying expensive water wasn’t me. Thank god, you can at least get cold water but you have to walk a ton for it. So yes, Disneyland is more like a labor camp.
3. After an exhausting lunch, couple of calls back home, I picked myself back up to small talk with this very nice park manager. She was the MVP. She helped me narrow down things I could still do and showed me how to find wait time on the rides on the app and what shows to go for.
4. Disney’s saving grace: The live action stage musicals and parades. While talking to this person, I saw the Toy Story parade because it was blocking the way to the auditorium where they were doing Lion King musical. After that, Jungle River Cruise (Embark on a guided tour through Adventureland’s wild rivers, encountering exotic animals and thrilling surprises along the way).

1. I completed that hour of the evening by visiting Toy Story Land too & then running off to catch one of the last seats at Mickey and the Wondrous Book (A captivating stage show featuring Mickey Mouse and Goofy as they explore a magical book, bringing beloved Disney stories to life). It was in Cantonese and I didn’t bring my glasses to read the English Subtitles. But, all of these were positively amazing.
2. The day ends with everyone gathering in front of the Castle of Magical Dreams (The iconic castle in Fantasyland that represents courage and hope. It’s especially magical at night with fireworks and Disney songs) The vibrant parades and the ‘Momentous’ Nighttime Spectacular, a feast for the senses with fireworks, music, and lights is the perfect conclusion to the day at Disney. I legit cried man tears. Ticket price was worth it.

Would I recommend it?

For all the drawbacks, doing Disneyland once in my life is worth going for. Despite the heat and the crowds, Disneyland Hong Kong delivered a day filled with wonder and excitement. Whether you’re a Disney fan or just looking for a fun day out, the park offers something for everyone. Just remember to bring your patience for the queues, water for the body, and your wallet for the treats!

Next stop, best bars in Asia

From a kids activity to getting served the best cocktails from the best bartenders in Asia is exactly how Hong Kong switches up on you and I feel there lies the true beauty of this city.

One of the core memories of Hong Kong would be bar hopping through some of the best cocktail bars in the world, all conveniently located in the heart of the city. Here are some of the standout bars that left a lasting impression on me:

1. Coa – best bar in Asia – Coa, named after the tool used to harvest agave, has consistently been ranked as the best bar in Asia for multiple years.
2. The Pottinger – Room 309 Bar – Tucked away in The Pottinger Hotel, Room 309 is a hidden gem that requires a key card from ‘The Reception’ to enter.
3. Honky Tonks Tavern
4. CALL ME AL
5. Pencilin
6. Artifact Bar
7. The Savory Project

Exploring Hong Kong’s vibrant bar scene was an unforgettable experience, with each venue offering its unique atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails. From the hidden speakeasies to the world-renowned institutions, Hong Kong’s bars are a testament to the city’s creativity, innovation, and passion for mixology.

The multiple markets of Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a shopper’s paradise for all kinds of products, including clothes, accessories, electronics, souvenirs and toys. There are also humongous buildings that date as far back as the Second World War. Brand-new malls with several underground floors dedicated to high-street shopping. But if you are someone looking for a great deal and even better snacks (aka me), then the local markets offer a unique experience to visitors looking for great deals.

These open-air markets here are clean and well-organized, and one can bargain with the vendors for the best price.  There are multiple night markets, local eateries, and complete restaurants with over 100+ items on the menu that pop up every night on the many streets of Hong Kong. A few that I had the pleasure of visiting were:

1. Jade market,
2. SOHO PMQ market,
3. Ladies market,
4. Temple street market

I bought a knock-off sweet-looking watch with a solar-powered hand waving Maneki Neko, Lucky Fortune Cat. The markets are full of trinkets everywhere and that makes going through these places so refreshing.

The Call of the Peak: Climbing Victoria Peak in a Typhoon

Hong Kong was in the grip of Typhoon Season, and right when I was traveling Typhoon Talim (2304) with Stage 3 warnings were in effect. But the allure of Victoria Peak, the highest point on Hong Kong Island, was too strong to resist. I had to experience the thrill of climbing this iconic peak during the wild weather. Little did I know, I was in for an adventure of a lifetime.

The Ascent Begins

I decided to take the budget-friendly route, hopping on a bus from Central to the viewpoint of the Victoria Peak. The winds were already picking up, and the skies were darkening with every passing minute. Armed with nothing but a sturdy umbrella and a sense of determination, I set off on the climb.

The Lugard Road Less Traveled

Instead of following the crowd to the Peak Tower and paying for the viewing point, I opted for the lesser-known Lugard Road. This narrow, winding path hugs the contours of the peak, offering breathtaking views of the city below. As I walked, the wind grew stronger, and a drizzle started. I thought about going back but I’m about to make a name for myself here.

The Typhoon’s Fury

Midway on the road, the typhoon unleashed its fury. Gale-force winds shrieked around me, while the rain started falling nearly horizontally. My once-sturdy umbrella, now a mangled wreck, offered no protection against nature’s onslaught. My umbrella was reduced to a twisted mess of metal and fabric, utterly useless against the elements. Somehow I controlled it and pressed on, driven by a mix of adrenaline and sheer stubbornness.

Finally, I reached the Lugard Road Lookout, a small platform perched precariously on the side of the peak. The wind was so fierce, I had to crouch low and cling to the railing to avoid being blown away. Upon climbing, I realized that the view was worth every moment of struggle. I stayed there, frozen in the moment.

[End] A City Beneath the Storm

Hong Kong stretched out before me, a dense forest of skyscrapers engulfed in a thick fog of clouds, rains, and shrieking winds. The harbor was a churning mass of white-capped waves, the ferries, and boats battling against the typhoon’s might. It was a sight I will never forget, a testament to the raw power of nature and the resilience of humans in itself.

Looking back, I wouldn’t trade that adventure for anything. Throughout my travels, this by far serves as the greatest experiences that lie beyond our comfort zones, waiting for us to take a chance and embrace the unknown.

Museum hopping in the streets

Hong Kong, a city of contrasts, offers a rich tapestry of museums that reflect its diverse history, culture, and heritage. From the ancient to the modern, these museums are a testament to the city’s unique blend of East and West. I visited the M+ museum, HK Museum of Art right on the harbor, and Top Ramen’s Noodles Museum.

M+ Museum is the city’s leading museum of visual culture. In a cutting-edge building designed by Swiss architectural firm Herzog & de Meuron, M+ showcases visual art, design and architecture, and moving images from the 20^th and 21^st centuries. I was incredibly moved by the exhibits, the architecture, the stunning view, brutalist takes, visitor amenities, and over 33 galleries that pack in under 17,000 square meters of exhibition space.

At the noodles museum, I got the chance to make my own Top Ramen instant noodle cup. Selecting the dried ingredients, the toppings, spice level I wanted and then drawing on the cup to make it my own was a unique experience. I love an interactive museum experience. For a solo traveler like me, I get time to look through things on my own. Learning about the history, getting strong hints of the culture of the land, and building a relationship with the grassroots of the city is what travel is all about for me.

One of the last hops to cover the most amazing museums in Hong Kong was the Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMOA). Nestled along the picturesque Victoria Harbour in Tsim Sha Tsui, HKMOA is a true cultural gem that showcases the city’s unique artistic identity. HKMoA housed an impressive collection of over 18,800 art pieces and artifacts, spanning four main categories: Modern and Hong Kong Art, Chinese Antiquities, Chinese Painting and Calligraphy, and China Trade Art. 

With its diverse collection, celebration of local and international art, and stunning renovated space, HKMoA offers a refreshing and relevant way to engage with art. It’s housed in one of the prettiest buildings, is completely free, and offers chilled water and free locker space. I made it my stop when going through the city.

Conclusion

As I boarded my flight back to New Delhi, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey. Each area of Hong Kong offered a unique slice of life, from the bustling streets of Mong Kok to the serene beaches of Lantau Island.

This spontaneous trip was a cultural exploration that enriched my understanding of what makes Hong Kong a special place. It’s a city I’ll revisit, and I highly recommend adding it to your travel bucket list.

Apps to download

1. Agoda & HostelWorld – Booking hotels
2. Google Translate
3. Google Maps – offline maps and navigation
4. HKTaxi App for fare estimation
5. Hong Kong Disneyland
6. MTR Mobile for metro navigation
7. Octopus Card
8. App 1933 – LMB/KMB
9. MyLink My Zone
10. GuruWalk – Fre tours
11. Headout & Klook for booking tours

Expenses

With the exchange rate at 1 HKD = 10.57 INR, All in all, Hong Kong has two major expenses.

1. Flights – Nonstop flights ain’t cheap. Hong Kong is also as far as Japan.
2. Hotels – Good hotels, in good locations cost as much as US counterparts.

The trip went rather nice because I paid,

1. I paid 15k INR for a 45k flight, thanks to the gift from the giveaway.
2. My little room costed at Yesinn @ YMT – INR 20,311.31

I withdrew about INR 16511 (1500 HKD, 708 INR in ATM processing fees) in cash that was almost entirely used to top up the Octopus cards. I used credit cards & Klook to book tickets wherever I could bringing totals to:

1. Tours & Food – 4981 INR
2. DisneyLand: 5959 INR
3. 7 eleven: 2900 INR (274 HKD)

Bringing 6 nights, and 7 days in Hong Kong’s total to 97,472k if I paid full price for my flights!

More Trip Documentation: Daily Logs

All my pictures are documented in a neat travel journal inside an Instagram highlight. Uploading 80 photos on WordPress is a hassle. Hence, I recommend checking out my highlights on Instagram about Hong Kong as I go around a city, documenting my travels with no influencer fluff.

Feel free to mute me as I post many pictures. Thank you for reading this far, and I hope another edition of this trip documentation helps you out.

See you later! Till then, live in the mix.