Every time we told someone how long we were planning to travel in Hong Kong, the response was always the same. What are you going to do for a whole month? We figured we’d like the city. We suspected we’d have plenty to do. And we were right. In fact, as March 21 loomed nearer, I felt a little sad. Alas, another month in Hong Kong would be perfect …
We left. Now I’ve finally made this summary video. It’s intended to compliment the eight blog posts I’ve already written about our travels in Hong Kong. (Hint, hint, nudge, nudge.)
First-Time Asia? Travel in Hong Kong
We chose Hong Kong as our starting destination for practical reasons. Inexpensive flights, visa-free travel, and accessibility to mainland China. I also wanted to finish our travel in Hong Kong (and nearby Taiwan) before typhoon season started in summer. Only after beginning to plan the trip did I realize how much Hong Kong has to offer. It’s actually quite easy to get excited about going there.
Now that we’ve been, I can also say it’s quite easy to actually travel there too. Which makes me wonder why I know so few people who have been. Or why it’s not high on the list for first-time travelers to Asia. For those apprehensive about independent travel in Asia, I would say Hong Kong is the place to go (or start). It’s easy to walk around and the public transit is fantastic. Not only are public restrooms common, but I found almost as many drinking fountains (which I gave up on in Europe). The tap water is potable, but it’s always filtered anyway. And of course, English is everywhere. We managed to find a couple restaurants without English menus, but we were really trying. Finally, the food. With this much density, there is an endless variety of good things to eat.
Perhaps the reason Hong Kong doesn’t top most travelers’ lists is its reputation as an expensive city. While the real estate prices are astounding, the cost of travel in Hong Kong is lower than any I’ve paid in Europe, the US or Canada. For our 28 days, we spent just over $96/day for everything except airfare. That’s for two of us and includes all food, accommodation, sights and activities. We’re hard-pressed to spend that little not traveling at home.
So we keep going. Next Up: Xiamen, China.
Thank you for sharing this wonderful video! The music was just perfect. What a wonderful time you are having.
Thanks for watching it, Norma. I was glad to finish it now because I know if I waited until the trip is over, I’d never do it! I will share your nice comment with Matt since the music was all him.
I *love* this video — and am trying to figure out how to put it on facebook, Micaela and Matt! Is that okay..? You two are turning into incredibly seasoned and intelligent travelers. (How about creating travel videos, profe$$ionally, to share with people considering where to go for fun and adventure?!) The cost of $96 a day is astounding! I figured it out. Here you go facebook friends…!
Of course! I’m glad you enjoyed it, Emily. Thanks for the support! At the moment, I’d just be happy to get this blog updated more regularly 🙂 Regarding Hong Kong, the key is to manage your accommodation costs. Food and transportation is inexpensive, and most sights are free. That said, we are definitely “budget” travelers (except when it comes to coffee). Our style might not be for everyone …