Work Trip to Weekend Escape: Hong Kong

Extending your work trip into a weekend getaway? Whether you stick to the concrete jungle or escape to the farther flung islands of this micro-archipelago, Hong Kong has plenty to offer once you clock off.See another side of this multi-island city with our top picks of things to do in Hong Kong after work hours.

Tackle the Peak Circle Walk

A rite of passage for first timers to Hong Kong, the Peak Circle Walk is just as spectacular for travellers on their second and third visit to the city. And while it may only take seasoned climbers an hour to complete the circuit, you’ll want to leave extra time to take in views of the city and harbour below. Short on time? Take the tram to reach The Peak’s summit instead, then make your way to the viewing platform for the same spectacular views.

Sample local delicacies

After you’ve trekked to the top of The Peak, there are plenty of local flavours to help you refuel. At The Peak Galleria, the famous Tai Cheong Bakery stocks Hong Kong’s traditional egg tarts, while fish balls can be found at street vendors city-wide. Made up of freshly ground fish paste and grilled on a stick, this popular street snack is a unique – and delicious – way to beat your afternoon slump.

Shop for souvenirs

You’ll find plenty of bazaars and street markets in Hong Kong, but it’s not all knickknacks and handicrafts in this luxury-loving city. Forgo the street stalls in favour of Cat Street to find authentic antiques dating back hundreds of years, or head to Kowloon to discover international fashion houses and luxury brands in spades.

Get away from the concrete jungle

Home to the highest concentration of skyscrapers in the world, Hong Kong’s concrete jungle is a destination in itself. Look beyond the high-rises, however, and you’ll find unexpected pockets of nature at every turn. Head south and follow the Dragon’s Back trail to reach Big Wave Bay, or take a boat ride to Tai Long Wan Beach for a slice of seclusion just east of the city.

Relax on a rooftop

If you’re staying in one of Hong Kong’s high-rise hotels, there’s a good chance you’ll find a pool with panoramic views on the building’s top level. No pool? No problem. The city is teeming with rooftop bars and restaurants, so you’ll never be far from breathtaking scenery. Take in the city and the sea at Ozone – the highest bar in the world – or head to Wooloomooloo for views to Victoria Harbour, Happy Valley, The Peak and beyond.

Discover Soho’s food and wine scene

Like the trendy New York neighbourhood with which it shares its name, Soho is where Hong Kong’s social elite come to play. And with a diverse food and nightlife scene growing more dynamic by the day, this lively district lives up to its name. Head to Chom Chom for Vietnamese fusion and inventive cocktails, or hit up Yardbird for Japanese yakitori with a gourmet twist.

Indulge in a traditional Chinese banquet

If Soho's modern eateries leave you craving something more traditional, there’s no shortage of authentic restaurants where you can indulge. Crystal Jade is famed for its Cantonese and Teochew dishes, but if you’re after the full banquet experience, you can’t go past Fook Lam Moon in Wan Chai, where Michelin stars meet an extensive menu of Chinese favourites.

Experience the city after dark

Beyond the restaurants and rooftop bars, Hong Kong has another nightlife all to its own. Swap the sleek establishments for the Temple Street Night Market and you’ll soon find yourself surrounded by the beckoning aroma of street food stalls and the soft glow of fluorescent lights, not to mention fortune tellers, antique dealers and handicrafts at every turn.

Visit the Las Vegas of the East

Longknown as the Sin City of Asia, Macau is where casinos, horse racing and luxury resorts combine. Only a short ferry ride from Hong Kong Island, this exciting offshore destination is as suited to high-rollers as it is to holiday makers, with plenty of activities to keep travellers busy from morning ‘til night.

Treat yourself to a spa escape

It may be part of the peninsula, but the private beach at Kowloon’s Gold Coast Hotel feels like its own secluded island. Take the complimentary shuttle to reach this five-star resort and you’ll find everything you need to rejuvenate your senses before your return flight home, from Hong Kong’s largest swimming pool to tennis courts, gardens and a luxury spa.

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