Last Updated on August 19, 2022
Returning to Hong Kong felt bittersweet – it is the place where my winter escape to South East Asia started and now came to an end. For my second visit to this fascinating city, I was armed with lots of energy, adventurousness and a plan of action (a sharp difference from my first visit when I was jetlagged, poorly prepared and burned out). I was excited to be back, because even though my first visit felt like a bit of a failure, I had loved the dynamic atmosphere of the city back then and was eagerly awaiting my second visit.
I had nearly a week in Hong Kong which allowed me to explore the city at a leisurely pace instead of rushing around. I visited several neighborhoods, saw the main sights, went for long runs, hung out in trendy coffee shops, ate amazing food, caught up with friends and finally hiked up to The Peak, Hong Kong’s famous viewpoint that offers sweeping views over the harbor, Hong Kong Island and Tsim Sha Tsui from the island’s highest peak, Victoria Peak at 554 meters (1,818 feet).
I stayed in two different neighborhoods during my visit – first in Wan Chai, which many people claim is the heart of Hong Kong, filled with traditional shops and markets but also offering a booming restaurant scene; and then in Lan Kwai Fong, known as the city’s nightlife center with a maze of narrow streets that is home to more than 90 bars and restaurants.
During my last visit, I was staying on the Kowloon peninsula, but this time around I spent most of my time on Hong Kong Island, which I immediately grew fond of when I was visiting back in January. My favorite thing to do was – like last time – just walking around the neighborhoods, soaking up the city and randomly stumbling across quirky and exciting happenings, like an Annie Leibovitz exhibit that made my photographer’s heart beat faster, a free wine festival, free outdoor gym classes or a cat cafe (I couldn’t resist!).
Hong Kong charmed me once again, and I am sure I will be back soon.
Carla
Monday 27th of April 2015
it's so easy to fall in love with HK. can't wait to go back and do something new :)
LKF/Central district is my fave :)
Dany
Thursday 30th of April 2015
You'll have to share your new finds after your next trip! :)
Justine
Sunday 26th of April 2015
I've feel like everyone I know has been to Hong Kong recently, and I keep hearing such good things. I'm actually thinking of laying over somewhere for a few days on my way back to the States this summer...Hong Kong just went up a few notches on my list :)
Dany
Thursday 30th of April 2015
I didn't expect to fall for Hong Kong the way I did! Highly recommend a layover in Hong Kong :) What other places are you considering for a layover?
Michelle | Lights Camera Travel
Sunday 26th of April 2015
I just raced through HK last time I was there... I think I may have to book in a much longer layover next time!!
Dany
Thursday 30th of April 2015
Yes yes yes :) I was happy that I had so much time to explore the city. And there's so much to see, there are so many layers to the city. I am already thinking about my next trip to Hong Kong and all the places I'd like to check out next time I'm there :)
Katie @ The World on my Necklace
Sunday 26th of April 2015
I can't wait to get there in February! Looks like I will be spending about 2 weeks there now to apply for my Indian visa so I will have lots of time to explore :)
Dany
Thursday 30th of April 2015
Two weeks, that's amazing, Katie! You won't run out of things to do in that time :)
The Southern Adventurer
Sunday 26th of April 2015
I loved Hong Kong!! I want to go back again! It was fun city to explore and find hidden things. Great picture!
-The Southern Adventurer
http://www.thesouthernadventurer.com
Dany
Thursday 30th of April 2015
Thanks so much :) I am heading over to your site now to read about what you did in Hong Kong ;-)