From Peak Views to Harbour Hues; Hong Kong

Hong Kong was the final stop on my trip—and it arrived in a blaze of energy, skyline views, and unforgettable contrasts.

Flying in from Hanoi, Vietnam, the shift was immediate. From Vietnam’s calm landscapes to Hong Kong’s towering skyscrapers and fast-paced rhythm, it felt like stepping into a completely different world. I checked into the Royal Garden Hotel, perfectly positioned in Kowloon, which made exploring both sides of the city incredibly easy.

My first day took me out to Lantau Island, and it set the tone for just how diverse Hong Kong really is. I took the cable car up, one of the longest in the world, giving amazing views over the landscape and Chep Lap Kok international airport, gliding over mountains and water with panoramic views that were honestly hard to beat. At the top sits the Big Buddha—calm, imposing, and quietly powerful. The atmosphere up there felt worlds away from the city below, peaceful and reflective, with a sense of scale that really stays with you.

The next day was all about embracing the fun side of Hong Kong with a full day at Hong Kong Disneyland. It was one of those days where you just let go and enjoy everything—rides, shows, and that unmistakable Disney magic. A completely different pace again, but that’s what makes Hong Kong so interesting—every day feels like a new destination.

On my third day, I dove into the city itself. I started at Nan Lian Garden, a beautifully designed, tranquil space that feels almost perfectly still despite being in the middle of a bustling metropolis. From there, I made my way up to Victoria Peak for one of the most iconic views in the world. Looking out over the skyline, with skyscrapers rising from the harbour and mountains framing the distance, it’s easy to see why Hong Kong is so famous.

Exploring both Hong Kong Island and Kowloon gave me a real sense of the city’s contrasts—modern and traditional, fast and slow, polished and gritty. One of the highlights was hopping on the tram and riding through the streets, watching the city unfold from a slightly different perspective. It’s such a simple thing, but it gives you a real feel for everyday life here.

What stood out most about Hong Kong was its energy. It’s constant, vibrant, and somehow never overwhelming—just exciting. From peaceful mountain views to theme park thrills to neon-lit streets, every day brought something completely different.

It was the perfect final chapter to the trip—fast, fun, and full of moments that felt larger than life.