As we begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel with the commencement of the vaccination process in Malaysia, we can once again envision a future of travelling to new destinations, discovering new wonders. And one such destination that awaits is none other than Hong Kong. With its initiatives against the pandemic, Hong Kong is getting ready to welcome visitors back to its beautiful city. If you have yet to visit this vibrant city, there is no better time than the present to start planning.

For those who loathe the buildup of a trip; be it from researching on things to do beforehand, we are here to take the weight off the planning and help ease your way to your dream holiday. Here are a few tips and insights on what to do and where to go in Hong Kong if you are planning on visiting for the first time.

1. Visit the Peak

Ask anyone who has been to Hong Kong and they would say that the one significant place to visit would be The Peak. Located on top of a hill, The Peak sits 396 meters above sea level. Take the Peak Tram up to see the magnificent view of Hong Kong. The Peak Tram itself is also known as one of the most popular tourist attractions and additionally one of the world’s oldest funicular railways since 1888. The Peak Tram will be undergoing an upgrade project from 28 June 2021 and services are expected to resume in December 2021. The exact timeline will be announced in November 2021.

Be sure to also visit Sky Terrace 428, the highest viewing terrace in Hong Kong that offers a stunning 360-degree panoramic view across Hong Kong! Pop over in the evening as the city lights come on when night falls and see the city in all its full glory with the sparkling lights reflecting on the water.

2. Stanley

Stanley or Chek Chue in Cantonese is a seaside village situated in the southern part of Hong Kong Island and is one of the best places to spend a day away from the city. The village offers something for everyone to explore as it possesses both relaxing vibes and a plethora of activities to do and discover. Some of the activities vary from chilling by the beach, trying out the many cafes and restaurants to shopping for knick-knacks.

3. Sunset cruise on the Aqua Luna

Looking for a relaxing and romantic evening with your better half? We highly recommend sailing on Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor on a traditional Chinese wooden junk boat; the Aqua Luna. This 45-minute Harbor Cruise sails in the evenings from Tsim Sha Tsui and Central. Grab a cocktail, sit back and be amazed by Hong Kong’s stunning skyline and harbor. Aqua Luna also offers other cruises such as Day Cruises, Harbor Discovery Cruises and Dim Sum Cruise. These cruises require advance bookings as tickets are limited. Alternatively,Do get in touch with Sedunia Travel to secure your sunset cruise seats.

4. Wander around Soho and Sheung Wan

When looking up shopping guides in Hong Kong, the few places that often pop up are Tsim Sha Tsui, Mong Kok and Causeway Bay to name a few. Albeit these places are notable go-to spots, Sheung Wan remains a hidden gem. Here, you will find one of the trendiest places in town with its quirky mix of historic temples, antiques stores, colourful street art, instagrammable cafes and fine dining restaurants.

There are so many things to do and see in this one stop spot with Western Market, the Dried Seafood Street, Medicine Street, Graham Street Food Stalls & Markets, Man Mo Temple and many more.

5. Check out the Tian Tan Buddha

The Big Buddha also known as the Tian Tan Buddha is a large statue located next to the isolated Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island. It is said to be one of the most sought after tourist attractions since its establishment in 1993. The statue which sits 34 meters tall overlooks the whole area and gives off a sense of harmony and tranquility. In fact, the statue took 12 years in total to complete and one would need to climb 268 steps to reach the top to appreciate the breathtaking views of the mountain and sea.

6. Devour mouthwatering dim sum

Eat dim sum. Need we say more? Dim sum is one of the must have meals when one visits Hong Kong. However, if you are not familiar with what dim sum is, basically it is a traditional Chinese cuisine which is made up of small plates of food (usually comes with 3 pieces either steamed or fried) dumplings, bao and other specialty items depending on the restaurant and is usually paired with a cup of hot Chinese tea. Many enjoy eating dim sum as a breakfast or brunch and these little morsels are presented in piping hot mobile carts.

There are many award-winning restaurants that serve this iconic cuisine so you’re easily spoiled for choice. Furthermore, with its growing popularity amongst Muslim travellers, it’s now easy to find scrumptious muslim-friendly dim sum spots around Hong Kong.

7. Hong Kong Disneyland

A place which needs little to no introduction to adults and children globally, Hong Kong Disneyland is the place to visit whether you have children or are thinking of taking a trip down memory lane. It is considered the largest theme park in Hong Kong putting the Ocean Park Hong Kong in second place. This year, the park is celebrating its 15th anniversary and are welcoming visitors to join them to commemorate this exciting celebration.

8. Best skyline views

Hong Kong has some of the best skyline views in the world! Hence, to give you a headstart, here are some of our top picks. Lion Rock in North Kowloon, the 52nd highest peak in Hong Kong, makes you work out for the view but it’s worth it! Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui is the Hollywood Walk of Fame for Hong Kong’s well-loved cinematic scene and the stars that have left a deep impression in the entertainment industry.

For first time visitors to Hong Kong, the city may seem overwhelming with endless activities, bustling daily lifestyle and a myriad of cuisine to enjoy. But we hope this list will give you a starting point on what to prioritise on your trip there, whether for a short or extended visit.

But if you’re still befuddled by what to do and how to make the arrangements, don’t worry.

Just let Sedunia Travel take over with their numerous on-ground packages that include accommodation, transportation and attraction tickets. You can always customise your package accordingly as well, giving you the freedom to explore more of Hong Kong at your own pace. Head on over to www.sedunia.com.my to find out more.