Hong Kong and Macau - 1st Trip to Hong Kong with Family

Good morning fellow Flyertalkers,

My family has been talking about taking a once in a lifetime trip to Hong Kong for several years and I am in the very beginning stage of planning our trip for next year.

We are traveling from Atlanta. Is there a particular airline you would recommend?

We are strongly considering either the Mandarin Oriental or the Four Seasons. Strong preferences?

We will have 7 nights and will be traveling with 3 adults and two young children.

Looking forward to hearing about your favorite places, hotels, etc.

Very best,

Nathan

Hi,

How old are your kids?

As I am based in the UK, I will leave the discussion on airlines to other posters but which cabin would you be travelling?

Cathay Pacific is a very good airline ( esp in business) but fly from LAX/SFO and JFK.

Things to do in HK;

The tram to Victoria peak and look around
The Star Ferry
Look around Central and Kowloon

A trip to an outlying island ( I enjoyed Lamma island)

The MTR and the cable car to Ngong Ping and the giant Buddha statue

Disneyland HK ( it is smaller than disneyland in anaheim but may be worth a visit

With 7 days maybe a trip to Macau ( former Portuguese colony)

There are various museums close to the Star Ferry ( ie space museum)

Are you a member of any hotel programmes? I liked the Conrad at the Admiralty MTR station in Hong Kong Island

Regards

TBS

PS There is also Ocean park with rides and animal shows and is near Aberdeen on the south coast of Hong Kong Island

Hi Goodmorning2U,

Mandarin oriental or Four Seasons?

You can't go wrong with either, but for me it's the Mandarin Oriental.

Superb quality hotel and service.

11277m.

Just a follow up to The_Banking_Scot's reply; from the US CX also flies from ORD to HKG. However, I really can't help with which airline has the best schedule to HKG from ATL. If you do opt to fly CX TAPC, then your domestic flights will be with AA (thier US based partner airline). As ATL to HKG is a long flight you will earn lots of miles, so plan wisely based on your current status (if any) and how you could use the miles earned for future travel.

For TPAC, we prefer Asian carriers & for HKG runs - CX is the one for us on 777-300's/ER, recently reconfigured J & Y (and plus) products - depending on your travel timeframe (Spring or Summer ?) Everyone has their own AVOD to be entertained or occupied, time does fly by a lot easier if not catching some zzzz's on the long flight (usually polar route) .... and power outlet/usb port for the ipads/gadgets even in Y.

If you work with a local TA, they should be able to route you ATL-JFK-HKG (domestic on AA as co-share and TPAC on 777 only services) with 3 daily non-stops (1 is late night) Downside is that you need to change terminal & go thru security at T7 for your CX departure once you land at JFK - so allow extra time.

Looking up CX's online booking, you have choices for ATL-ORD but (I hate them) flying AA on CRJ's so definitely will be checking your bags thru - to catch the mid-afternoon single daily departure for ORD, but you do not need to go thru TSA security again - staying airside for the gates. This is a new CX route & load factor isn't as bad as the JFK runs, op-ups are great for those with status. Seats are going quick & prices will not be coming down due to demand, so book as soon as possible.

Tons of info in the CX forum here - same on what to do/1st. time visit to Hong Kong under the sub-forum, please check it out to help start your planning.

Being from ATL & if the kids have been to Six Flags, I would skip HK's Disneyland, it's much smaller than the ones in the US and not the best use of a day - otherwise, go on weekdays but for the summer - it doesn't matter, crowded with mainlanders from China ...

DL has service via DTW. DTW is a small airport and transfer should be relatively easy.

Another option is AC via YYZ. AC’s TPAC economy is okay. Each seat has PTV with AVOD IFE. There are also electrical outlets for PC, etc. The principal reasons why I suggest AC are:

(1) On your return flight from Asia, you are not subject to secondary security screening at the gate as you’d if flying directly to the U.S. It means that you can bring your bottle water purchased airside on board. It’s so silly and inconvenient to have to queue up at the gate to go through security again for the second time.

(2) The transfer at YYZ is relatively painless. You stay airside. From ATL to YYZ, you’re subject only to an abbreviated Canadian immigration process, just a passport check with dedicated connecting passenger wickets. No need to collect your baggage so long as they are checked through at ATL. Afterwards, you proceed to the international departure area in the same terminal with a minimum of fuss.

On your return flight from HKG, there is no Canadian immigration and custom formality. You stay airside throughout. You proceed directly to the connecting area for U.S. Pick up your baggage and proceed to U.S. C.B.P. pre-clearance at YYZ. On arrival at ATL, just pick up your baggage and go. No more U.S. C.B.P. formality as you’d have completed them at YYZ. Just like arriving on a domestic flight. It’s much better than coming off any flight at JFK, ORD or DTW where there would be two or three hundred passengers from your flight alone queuing to clear U.S. C.B.P. formalities and then the transfer to your onward flight that may involve a change of terminal.

AC uses 777 on this route. Seat pitch is adequate at 32” but you may also purchase “preferred seats” near the bulkhead and emergency exits for extra leg room.

As for hotels in Hong Kong, between the Mandarin and Four Seasons, I’d pick the Mandarin. Not sure if you are staying on points but there are many other equally good hotels at IMHO superior locations than the two mentioned - presumably the principal purpose of your trip is "rest and recreation".

The official web site of the Hong Kong Tourism Board is a good place to start planning your trip to Hong Kong. Have a great time!

www.discoverhongkong.com

P.S. Also check this out, you may be eligible for a free or discounted overnight hotel at Toronto if you fly AC:

http://www.aircanada.com/en/travelinfo/traveller/stopover/index.html

Both the Mandarin Oriental and Four Seasons are on HK Island, and bump from me for MO [one of the best in the world]. But since you're with a family [shopping?], 'might' want to look at the Kowloon side. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/hong-kong/1294954-hong-kong_better-kwloon-hk-island.html

If you explore the threads here, there are numerous discussions on what to do during your visit. Start with this: http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/hong-kong/1038795-flying-hk-weeknd-first-time-what-do.html

You also didn't mention what time of year visiting? Keep in mind the summer is the pits here; it's hot/humid and worse than Atlanta! Nov/Dec/Jan are the best weather months. Also, make sure your visit doesn't coincide with a big event, eg Rugby 7's, Canton Trade Fair, etc.

You'll luv HK, it's a great city to visit!

Thank you for your help thus far. I admit I do not understand all of the acronmyns, such as TPAC, or the what the J or Y stand for so if possible please help a novice out with the full words.

The kids are both under 2 and will likely be slinged onto us as we explore the city. Our primary purpose for the trip is rest, relaxation, and to see as much of what appears to be an amazing east meets west city as possible.

Understanding that shopping is a part of the culture we will likely visit the markets but we aren't shoppers. We do however appreciate good food, history, and museums.

More questions: Is the general consensus that places like Caprice and Felix are worth the cost? In Paris we've been to restaurants with Michelin stars which have been worth the cost, but not many.

If we don't gamble is it worth visiting Macau?

Favorite Spa: Amongst those who have been to the Peninsula, MO, FSH-which has the best spa? Any others you would highly recommend?

Travel from Atlanta: I do appreciate the idea of traveling to Canada and having a more relaxing immigration on the way back. Would you think that this is preferred to taking Singapore or Cathay airlines from SFO?

Regarding class of travel: I'm currently looking at both economy and business as possibilities. From what I've read Cathay has had some bad reviews on their new economy class so I'm weary of trying them. Or do you feel that Cathay economy is better than Singapore? Is Cathay business better than Singapore?

Time of year: Thank you for the advice to keep an eye on conventions and holidays. We will be going December of next year.

Keep the advice coming, from your responses I can tell this is going to be a wonderful adventure!

TPAC = Trans Pacific

J = Business Class and Y = Economy Class

December next year? Do you mean December 2013 or 2012?

December is one of the better months to visit for someone not used to the hot and humid tropical type weather.

Cathay has a 4th class called Premium Economy which may be of interest to you:

http://www.cathaypacific.com/cpa/en_CA/aboutus/pressroomdetails?refID=9d22f9349eb75310VgnVCM62000 007d21c39____

Macau is an interest place to do a day trip even if you do not gamble.

Check out the Parlour Room at the Metropark Causeway Bay Hotel. It's a low 4-star/high 3-star hotel. The room size may be suitable for you with 2 very young children.

http://metroparkhotelcausewaybay.com/

As best as possible I have avoided CX over the past few years simply because of their seats. The CX forum maybe a better place to ask specifics about which routes have the new seats and what the chances are of equipment changes on certain routes.

CX vs SQ, I've had great flights with CX and I've also had flights from hell with CX. Have flown SQ a few times (not as much as I've flown CX) and have had nothing but great flights with them. Airline wise, I would say overall SQ has been better than CX (when I compare the flights I've flown on both carriers on the same route). As for mileage earnings, check which booking classes earn miles for the FF program you'd like to credit the miles to as not all booking classes earn miles.

Macau is worthwhile as you like history, Macau still has many historic colonial buildings. It's an easy day trip from HK.

Must-see attractions (in no particular order):
* Kowloon Walled City Park
* Hong Kong Museum of History - I was surprised by this world-class history museum. Even my 19 yo son enjoyed it!
* The Peak at night
* Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden (across the road from each other)
* Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple
* Temple of the 10,000 Buddhas
* The Big Buddha on Lantau Island
* Outdoor markets
* Food, food, food!

I found Fodor's Hong Kong travel guide very helpful.

Hong Kong is not a stroller friendly place. I have 3 small kids and I visit my family there every year. It's a good idea to bring a light, foldable stroller. You can't get on trams without folding the stroller. Also there are tons of staircases - most people don't realise (neither did I before having kids).

For flights, I think you could see if you could fly via Japan or Korea because their airlines are better than US airlines.

Travel from Atlanta: I do appreciate the idea of traveling to Canada and having a more relaxing immigration on the way back. Would you think that this is preferred to taking Singapore or Cathay airlines from SFO?

Regarding class of travel: I'm currently looking at both economy and business as possibilities. From what I've read Cathay has had some bad reviews on their new economy class so I'm weary of trying them. Or do you feel that Cathay economy is better than Singapore? Is Cathay business better than Singapore?

Time of year: Thank you for the advice to keep an eye on conventions and holidays. We will be going December of next year.

More questions: Is the general consensus that places like Caprice and Felix are worth the cost? In Paris we've been to restaurants with Michelin stars which have been worth the cost, but not many.


Immigration shouldn't be an issue returning home, especially with young children. Any of the potential return gateways won't be any less hassle than coming home via Canada.

If you're doing business class, will the children have their own seats? I ask because CX biz class seats are flat sleepers but very narrow. I haven't flown SQ for several years so can't speak for them. Service wise, relatively comparable, and far superior with children than any domestic airlines.

If you're flying economy, note most of the Asian airlines will be full of families, lots and lots of children! Enough said on the subject [and we used to travel with our two boys from age of 6 wks :)]

Dec: great time to visit

Food: would defer until you've got your itinerary set. Lots of good choices, both Chinese and western cuisines!

By the time the OP (original poster) takes the trip in December of '13 all of the Cathay Pacific (CX) planes that operate to the USA will have been converted to the new business class seats. This is to say they will be very comfy! ^

Not only are they converting business and introducing premium economy, CX is also switching regular economy back to the more traditional type that reclines. No more the 'new' shell seats that are loathed by many.

The Botanical and Zoological Gardens are a fantastic place to visit.

Understanding that shopping is a part of the culture we will likely visit the markets but we aren't shoppers. We do however appreciate good food, history, and museums.

More questions: Is the general consensus that places like Caprice and Felix are worth the cost? In Paris we've been to restaurants with Michelin stars which have been worth the cost, but not many.

If we don't gamble is it worth visiting Macau?


Yes, especially when you mentioned good food and history. While it is true it is surrouned by Casinos, the old part of town still wonderful and great local food.


Regarding class of travel: I'm currently looking at both economy and business as possibilities. From what I've read Cathay has had some bad reviews on their new economy class so I'm weary of trying them. Or do you feel that Cathay economy is better than Singapore? Is Cathay business better than Singapore?

Time of year: Thank you for the advice to keep an eye on conventions and holidays. We will be going December of next year.

Keep the advice coming, from your responses I can tell this is going to be a wonderful adventure!

As you are from ATL, all your options will require 1stop service. I think you should look into Korean Air as they have one stop to Hkg via ICN from Atl. On your return you only have to go through custom/immigration and no need to go through TSA for domestic flight again. I know it is a hassle to recheck luggage with kids in tow.

My wife and I are planning almost the exact same type of trip. We're going to head to HK memorial day weekend from PDX. Is it wise to stay around Hong Kong Station and the Airport Express? Also is it hard to get to Macau from HK?

My wife and I are planning almost the exact same type of trip. We're going to head to HK memorial day weekend from PDX. Is it wise to stay around Hong Kong Station and the Airport Express? Also is it hard to get to Macau from HK?


Hong Kong is one of the most efficient cities in the world. The MTR system is probably one of the cleanest in the world and is by far the quickest way to get around town. I would recommend staying in Central if its your first time in the city as you can get around very easily from there.

Many people stay on the Kowloon side in Tsim Tsa Tsui which is fine but a bit more touristy than HK side.

As for hotels, the choices are vast. In Central, the Landmark Mandarin is fantastic (boutique hotel feel as the property is not so big) as is the original Mandarin Oriental. You could also consider The Upper House in Admiralty.

Macau is a very easy hour and a half trip via hydrofoil or 10 minute helicopter ride. Hydrofoils depart every 15 minutes. Think of it as the Vegas of Asia with a colonial Portuguese feel. A good one day or overnight side trip.

As you are from ATL, all your options will require 1stop service. I think you should look into Korean Air as they have one stop to Hkg via ICN from Atl. On your return you only have to go through custom/immigration and no need to go through TSA for domestic flight again. I know it is a hassle to recheck luggage with kids in tow.

KAL isn't as nice as CX but definitely worth a consideration. I haven't tried their new biz class but they are the newer flat configuration. And if the connection time is efficient, a ++++.

As you are from ATL, all your options will require 1stop service. I think you should look into Korean Air as they have one stop to Hkg via ICN from Atl. On your return you only have to go through custom/immigration and no need to go through TSA for domestic flight again. I know it is a hassle to recheck luggage with kids in tow.

KAL isn't as nice as CX but definitely worth a consideration. I haven't tried their new biz class but they are the newer flat configuration. And if the connection time is efficient, a ++++.

And a bump for Upper House - our extended family stayed there Christmas time when they first opened [about 12 rooms total], and said it was superb [and pricey :) ]

Good morning fellow Flyertalkers,

My family has been talking about taking a once in a lifetime trip to Hong Kong for several years and I am in the very beginning stage of planning our trip for next year.

We are traveling from Atlanta. Is there a particular airline you would recommend?

We are strongly considering either the Mandarin Oriental or the Four Seasons. Strong preferences?

We will have 7 nights and will be traveling with 3 adults and two young children.

Looking forward to hearing about your favorite places, hotels, etc.

Very best,

Nathan

Disney and Ocean Park have to be on the agenda for sure.

Ocean Park is a far better option than Disney in HK for me with a better all round experience for the whole family, especially the kids.

If you like spa, you can consider to go to Shenzhen for one night. You can look around the city. The price of spa in Shenzhen in probably 1/3 of Hong Kong but with same quality. There are several tourist places in Shenzhen if you have enough time.

If you like spa, you can consider to go to Shenzhen for one night. You can look around the city. The price of spa in Shenzhen in probably 1/3 of Hong Kong but with same quality. There are several tourist places in Shenzhen if you have enough time.

Assuming OP is an American citizen, the trouble and cost to obtain a China visa for the one day excursion to Shenzhen is not worth it.

Is the 360 Cable car still closed?

Is the 360 Cable car still closed?

Yup. Not running.

My wife, my nearly 3 yo daughter and I will be spending 4 nights in HK towards the end of this month. We'll be flying from PEK, and staying at the Conrad on points. Arriving Friday noon, leaving Tuesday afternoon.

It will be our first ever visit, although likely (hopefully) not the last whilst we're in this part of the world. We've travelled fairly extensively with our daughter, and we've learnt one of the keys is not to try to cram too much into any one day, so the rather ambitious itineraries in the sticky will probably need to be pared down considerably. We also love food/ eating, and are looking forward to at least several decent meals, but I am a little wary regarding the seemingly high prices (compared with BJ!). We've been recommended "The Chairman" for a dinner and Lei Garden and possibly Yan Toh Heen for dim sum, as well as Yat Lok for roast goose. Would also love to have a decent won-ton noodle, e.g. at Mak's (or wherever FTers recommend). Of course, open to other suggestions...but wanted to put forward some places we've been recommended.

I wanted to specifically ask about the suitability of Ocean Park for a just under 3 year old. I'm sure she will love seeing the Pandas/ dolphins etc., but I presume most of the rides will be unsuitable for her. How long does it take to get there from Admiralty, and will it be a whole day long affair? Should we avoid going on the week-end (i.e. on the Monday)? Also, if we want to go to Lantau island (to see the giant Buddha statue etc), will that take up the whole day, and again, should we avoid the week-end: clearly, if we do both of the above, one of them will need to be on a week-end. Is it too much to do both of these in a short 4 day stint?

Any other highly recommended activities for a family. I've noted the botanical garden/zoo, which is v. close by (and free, as a bonus!), although personally wary of making this a zoo expedition!

Look forward to receiving FTer's advice, thanks.

tb

Yup. Not running.

Announced recently: Cable Car service reopens on 5 April 2012.

Announced recently: Cable Car service reopens on 5 April 2012.
Great news! I will be in Hong Kong next month!

For food reference look at the 2012 Michelin guide for HK, it is rated by local food authorities and there are many hidden low cost great value gems.

For two under 2's. get the backpack child carrier. HK being congested and crowded is not the best place to maneuver a stroller around let alone two.

If you want an fun/amusement park visit Ocean Pk is the better choice. Unlike Disney, it is unique. HK Disney is a scaled down version for people who are too far away from MCO.

Macau - fusion of Asian/West Mediterranean, worth a visit, some Southern Chinese custom/tradition/cuisine were better preserved.

Accommodations: with two toddlers you might want to look into paying for serviced short term apartments(flats) which would end up being more comfortable for 3 adults and them as opposed to FS/MO which are more adult oriented.

AVOID LANTAU and OCEAN PARK ON WEEKENDS.

Shenzhen with two toddlers? It is not something I would do or advice.

Airfare shopping - go to local Chinatown and see what the travel agencies who specialize in HK flights can do. They do such a large volume that their cost(volume rebate) is lower and can give you throw in like return Airport Express train tickets into the city or family style accommodations discount.

These are based on observations in HK of two US nephews and their HK visits with two under 2's each.

Yes, the NP360 cable car restarted yesterday April 5th, though was stopped for about 2 hours due to high winds.

End of this month means approaching the May 1 holiday, with some sites overrun by mainland visitors. So plan carefully. Ocean Park is a 15-minute direct bus ride from Admiralty. You can spend a whole day there, or if you're not doing all the rides, you can spend much less. On weekends, the line for the bus can be very long at Admiralty in the morning, as kids want to spend all day there. So, perhaps you can go later.

The Big Buddha takes half a day, or a little more if you also visit the fishing village of Tai O. Avoid Sunday, but Saturday is not too bad. The lines for the cable car can be long going up from Tung Chung, so consider taking the bus up. Better yet, take the ferry to Mui Wo, then bus from there instead of taking MTR. You can first visit Tai O, then Ngong Ping, and ride the cable car one way down.

Yes, the NP360 cable car restarted yesterday April 5th, though was stopped for about 2 hours due to high winds.

End of this month means approaching the May 1 holiday, with some sites overrun by mainland visitors. So plan carefully. Ocean Park is a 15-minute direct bus ride from Admiralty. You can spend a whole day there, or if you're not doing all the rides, you can spend much less. On weekends, the line for the bus can be very long at Admiralty in the morning, as kids want to spend all day there. So, perhaps you can go later.

The Big Buddha takes half a day, or a little more if you also visit the fishing village of Tai O. Avoid Sunday, but Saturday is not too bad. The lines for the cable car can be long going up from Tung Chung, so consider taking the bus up. Better yet, take the ferry to Mui Wo, then bus from there instead of taking MTR. You can first visit Tai O, then Ngong Ping, and ride the cable car one way down.

Thanks, this is really helpful. So we may do Ocean Park on Monday, to mitigate some of the long lines, and Lantau on Saturday. I've just read a little about Tai O -- was wondering about your opinion as to whether we should try to squeeze this in. If we just go to see the Big Buddha/cable car, I'm guessing it would be a half-day excursion, whereas if we do both, it would be a whole day on Lantau, and given we might spend most of Monday at Ocean park, that means 2/4 days not in Hong Kong itself...

Also, any opinion on the dining options that I mooted above, thanks!

Re: May holiday, we're flying back on 1st May, so hopefully as we're leaving, the crowds will be arriving, but one never knows, since it's close to the preceeding week-end!

tb

Tai O is a nice little excursion, to see a very different side of Hong Kong; and you may want to also take a 20-minute boat ride to see the pink dolphins. No guarantee, but it only cost HK$20. A new boutique hotel is opening up, renovated from the old Tai O Police Station. There is a restaurant on the roof. I haven't eaten there yet, but may be a good place for lunch if you start late.

But otherwise, you can take an early ferry from Central, visit Tai O, and get to Ngong Ping for vegetarian lunch before or after climbing up to the Big Buddha. Take the cable down, and you still have most the afternoon left.

A silly question for most but one I have to ask: What's the best way to get to The Peak if you are deathly afraid of heights? I'll take the open 360 cable car off the list right off!

A silly question for most but one I have to ask: What's the best way to get to The Peak if you are deathly afraid of heights? I'll take the open 360 cable car off the list right off!

The Peak Tram. It is a funicular that stays on the ground. Not an aerial tramway. Or walk.

or the number 15 bus (but perhaps not sitting on the upper deck :) )

or the number 15 bus (but perhaps not sitting on the upper deck :) )

Front row upperdeck bus 15 From Peak downhill is my HK cheap thrill. Better than any ride at HK Disney or Ocean Park.

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or the number 15 bus (but perhaps not sitting on the upper deck :) )

Front row upperdeck bus 15 From Peak downhill is my HK cheap thrill. Better than any ride at HK Disney or Ocean Park.

The other one being route 14 when crossing the resoviour dam.....

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The other one being route 14 when crossing the resoviour dam.....

14 is also good for the dam crossing.

15 is too easy for me, one ride on the lift and 50 Metres later I am at the 15 bus stop on Stubbs Rd at LingNam.

We just got back from our first trip to HK with our (nearly) 3 year old. Had a fantastic time. We really only touched the surface, and left vaste swathes of both the island and Kowloon as yet unexplored. A few general notes for families with young children: HK is pretty child friendly. There are some notes upthread about narrow streets and strollers, but we didn't really notice it to be worse than most places, and certainly better than Rome! We took our v. light travel umbrella stroller which is falling apart now after a year of heavy use, but we saw a lot of families doing just fine with larger contraptions. Also, almost all restaurants have child seats and are welcoming to families.

With regards to highlights that our daughter really enjoyed:

- she loves boat rides in general, so the star ferry, the ferry to Mui Wo and the short boat trip in Tai O were all great experiences for her.
- she loved the cable car ride in Ocean park, but the 'crystal cabin' NP360 car spooked her out a little -- but we really loved it!
- Ocean Park in general was fantastic: we only managed a fraction of the park, but the panda enclosure (better than dan diego zoo), the aquarium (truly world class) and the dolphin show were several highlights. We also loved the v. informative goldfish exhibit.
- Hong Kong park - we were staying at the Conrad so it was a v. short walk away for us, but it made for a lovely diversion for a few hours
- the Buddha statue at Ngong Ping. She loves big statues, and she had fun comparing the pose with the statue of liberty's.

For us, one of the highlights was the food; it's truly world-class, and ranges from ultra-expensive (which we didn't try) to relatively inexpensive. Places we ate at included the Chairman, Yan Toh Heen, the Golden Leaf and Tasty. The latter's won ton noodle soup definitely wins the award for outstanding value for money and one of the most delicious things I've ever had. The more fancy places were also excellent -- I put a more detailed review on chowhound under the same username.

tb

Btw the weather was pretty awful the whole time we were there: the humidity did bother me somewhat, but even the rain didn't stop us enjoying the outdoors.

How can you go from the Big Buddha to the fishing village of Tai O?
I will be in Hong Kong in 3 weeks. Planning to take NP360 Cable Car to the Big Buddha.

How can you go from the Big Buddha to the fishing village of Tai O?
I will be in Hong Kong in 3 weeks. Planning to take NP360 Cable Car to the Big Buddha.

There is a direct bus #21, taking about 15 minutes downhill and 20 minutes up, but runs only once an hour. Or take any bus down from Ngong Ping and connect to another bus towards Tai O. It's pretty easy.

There is a direct bus #21, taking about 15 minutes downhill and 20 minutes up, but runs only once an hour. Or take any bus down from Ngong Ping and connect to another bus towards Tai O. It's pretty easy.

Thanks a lot!
What is a best way to go back to TST from Tai O ?

Thanks a lot!
What is a best way to go back to TST from Tai O ?

I would say, take the MTR to Tung Chung (with a change in Lai King) and either take a ferry or a bus. (Ferry is like a 15 minute walk away, and bus maybe 5?)

I would recommend a ferry any day (to avoid being carsick, for half the trip the ferry runs between the airport and lantau- very calm waters... and the other half is usually calm during summer) but i now know how to get to the pier inside out which is not as straight forward as you think.
but note that the ferry only runs every 2 hours-ish... so if this is waht you want, check the schedule!

Thanks a lot!
What is a best way to go back to TST from Tai O ?

Fastest is take bus #11 to Tung Chung, then take MTR back. More interesting is take bus #1 to Mui Wo, and take ferry to Central (about twice an hour, one high-speed taking 30 min, and one slow taking an hour), and then transfer to Star Ferry.

The ferry between Tai O and Tung Chung is fine. Just infrequent, and the pier in Tung Chung requires a short bus transfer or very long walk to get to the MTR. Only 3 sailings on weekdays, 4 on Sats and 5 on Sundays and Public Holidays.

How can you go from the Big Buddha to the fishing village of Tai O?
I will be in Hong Kong in 3 weeks. Planning to take NP360 Cable Car to the Big Buddha.

The advice above is spot on. However, consider doing the reverse, as we did. As we were suggested, we took the ferry from Central to Mui Wo, then bus to Tai O -- the bus leaves 5 minutes after the fast ferry gets in, so perfect timing. Then a bus from Tai O to Ngong Ping. One can also get a taxi for not much cash, but we couldn't actually find one when we wanted, so we just waited 20 minutes for the next bus. The cable car down the mountain was great (I'm sure equally good going up), and it was a very easy transfer to MTR at Tung Chung.

tb

The advice above is spot on. However, consider doing the reverse, as we did. As we were suggested, we took the ferry from Central to Mui Wo, then bus to Tai O -- the bus leaves 5 minutes after the fast ferry gets in, so perfect timing. Then a bus from Tai O to Ngong Ping. One can also get a taxi for not much cash, but we couldn't actually find one when we wanted, so we just waited 20 minutes for the next bus. The cable car down the mountain was great (I'm sure equally good going up), and it was a very easy transfer to MTR at Tung Chung.

tb

this is actually smooth transfer i never thought about. So from TST you're a star ferry ride and a short walk (Star ferry is right next to the ferry to Mui Wo)
I'd also assume queues at Mui wo are shorter than Tung Chung because ferries to MW cost more than MTR.

this is actually smooth transfer i never thought about. So from TST you're a star ferry ride and a short walk (Star ferry is right next to the ferry to Mui Wo)
I'd also assume queues at Mui wo are shorter than Tung Chung because ferries to MW cost more than MTR.

Yep, star ferry is pier 7, and mui wo pier 6. We had no queue to get tickets, and it was all v. civilised.

tb

The wife and I just managed to book HKG air transfers that give us an overnight in Hong Kong airport June 2nd

I booked a room at the Airport Regal and will arrive about 5pm.

We've been to HKG before so all we are interested in is reliving some memories in such a tight overnight (we have AM flights out to the US)

Three memories we cherished are the Ferries, Victoria Peak and the Jumbo water resturant.

Any chance that we could get a RT ferry/hovercraft etc. from the airport to connect to something that gets us to the Jumbo (or similar) water resturant or Victoria peak Tram in a time slot after 6pm?

Any chance that we could get a RT ferry/hovercraft etc. from the airport to connect to something that gets us to the Jumbo (or similar) water resturant or Victoria peak Tram in a time slot after 6pm?

No ferry service between airport and anywhere in the city. Take the Airport Expess train to Central and transfer, or take taxi directly.

No ferry service between airport and anywhere in the city. Take the Airport Expess train to Central and transfer, or take taxi directly.

OK I'll use the train ^

How do I get to the Star Ferry terminal ? (walk, bus or taxi)

seems like once there it would be easy to pick up a tour

OK I'll use the train ^

How do I get to the Star Ferry terminal ? (walk, bus or taxi)

seems like once there it would be easy to pick up a tour

Walk from Hong Kong station. You don't need or want a tour. I suggest you get a map and a guide book, since it's been a while since you've been to HK.

OK I'll use the train ^

How do I get to the Star Ferry terminal ? (walk, bus or taxi)

seems like once there it would be easy to pick up a tour

Walk from Hong Kong station. You don't need or want a tour. I suggest you get a map and a guide book, since it's been a while since you've been to HK.

It is very walkable, I believe some of the section is on the elevated walkway. I don't think there is any direct bus.
If you grab a Taxi from AE Central station and ask to be taken to the Star Ferry pier you will learn many Cantonese swear words from the driver.

It is very walkable, I believe some of the section is on the elevated walkway. I don't think there is any direct bus.
If you grab a Taxi from AE Central station and ask to be taken to the Star Ferry pier you will learn many Cantonese swear words from the driver.

Thanks very much I loved the comment about using a taxi.

When we arrive at the Kowloon arprt express terminal I assume that all we have to do is find an exit door (A2??) that keeps the harbor on our left and keep walking until we see a sign

The walk from AE HK Central to HK Star Ferry is much shorter walk than AE Kowloon to Kowloon TST Star Ferry.

It is not really walksable from Kowloon AE to the Star Ferry, but you take their free shuttle to the Marco Polo HK Hotel. Or, just take the Star Ferry from the HK side - much simpler.

It is not really walksable from Kowloon AE to the Star Ferry, but you take their free shuttle to the Marco Polo HK Hotel. Or, just take the Star Ferry from the HK side - much simpler.

Thanks, y'll convinced me that I had missed this idea.

Right now I plan on getting off the Arprt express on the HKG side and walking to the tram and then going to Victoria Peak.

Back down by either Tram or open top bus. (I presume the bus will drop me pretty close to the Star Ferry,)

Over to the other side. Now here I am little confused. Is there a simpler way of getting to see the Jumbo Rest then taking a taxi to Aberdeen?

I'm also assuming that I can ride the ferry for free without a ticket as a senior ?

Thanks, y'll convinced me that I had missed this idea.

Right now I plan on getting off the Arprt express on the HKG side and walking to the tram and then going to Victoria Peak.

Back down by either Tram or open top bus. (I presume the bus will drop me pretty close to the Star Ferry,)

Over to the other side. Now here I am little confused. Is there a simpler way of getting to see the Jumbo Rest then taking a taxi to Aberdeen?

I'm also assuming that I can ride the ferry for free without a ticket as a senior ?

With so little time, you should just a taxi directly from the Peak to Jumbo.

And, no, free senior rides on the Star Ferry for locals only. You have to pay your 30 US cents, regretably.

It is not really walksable from Kowloon AE to the Star Ferry, but you take their free shuttle to the Marco Polo HK Hotel.

So if arriving on the AE to Kowloon station and going to the Sheraton (TST) does the AE free shuttle go there or does it drop off nearby??? Otherwise, we will take a quick taxi.

rkkwan
And, no, free senior rides on the Star Ferry for locals only. You have to pay your 30 US cents, regretably

Thanks for the help ^

How do they tell a local senior from a tourist :confused:

geo1005

So if arriving on the AE to Kowloon station and going to the Sheraton (TST) does the AE free shuttle go there or does it drop off nearby??? Otherwise, we will take a quick taxi.

Maybe we could share the taxi :D

So if arriving on the AE to Kowloon station and going to the Sheraton (TST) does the AE free shuttle go there or does it drop off nearby??? Otherwise, we will take a quick taxi.

Yes. http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/getting_around/complom_free_bus.html

rkkwan

How do they tell a local senior from a tourist :confused:

If you look Asian and speaks fluent Cantonese... ;)

Seriously, they can ask you to produce either a HKID to show your age, or the Senior Citizen Card issued by the HK Government. But doesn't hurt to ask...

not (quite) true. I spoke with their staff (i had to, for work) and they let every 65+ through for free even tho they require "HKID/senior citizen".

If you are too lazy to take out the 30 us cent, ask the staff first - and hopefully they'll let you through

not (quite) true. I spoke with their staff (i had to, for work) and they let every 65+ through for free even tho they require "HKID/senior citizen".

If you are too lazy to take out the 30 us cent, ask the staff first - and hopefully they'll let you through

It's not a case of being cheap or lazy, it's a case of taking extra time exchanging multi denomination money for only a couple of hour visit and waiting in lines.

It's not a case of being cheap or lazy, it's a case of taking extra time exchanging multi denomination money for only a couple of hour visit and waiting in lines.

Taxis are cash-only in HK (with just a handful that takes credit cards, plus a handful Octopus), so you'll need to get some cash or taxis won't be one of your transportation options - and that will be very tricky to/from Jumbo. And I'll think you may need to buy a coke or something along the way, especially in this weather.

Taxis are cash-only in HK (with just a handful that takes credit cards, plus a handful Octopus), so you'll need to get some cash or taxis won't be one of your transportation options - and that will be very tricky to/from Jumbo. And I'll think you may need to buy a coke or something along the way, especially in this weather.



OK

will they take Yuan or US ? That's what I'll have getting off the plane

OK

will they take Yuan or US ? That's what I'll have getting off the plane

Definitely not USD. RMB they may, at 1:1.

As part of a bigger trip, I planned to be with my wife and 4 yr-old son in HKG during 29-Sep - 02-Oct. At the time of booking I did not realize that this will fall during a set of days of and national days, so now we expect the city to be packed.

Since it is not our first trip, we plan to spend 2 out of 3 days in Ocean Park (Sunday and Monday). Since we can't move the dates, is there anything we can do to avoid the crowd, or to be better prepared for it?

Be prepared for crowds!

While Ocean Park is great I'm not sure you can spend two days there unless you want to do short days to reduce the tiredness factor.

OK

will they take Yuan or US ? That's what I'll have getting off the plane

There are plenty of money exchange point (though rates are not great) to exchange from RMB or USD to HKD upon your arrival so it should hardly any issue.

It's annoying that my company literally passing out these for free (plus free to use) but still no one installing it... as Taxi in Hong Kong are operated individually unlike by company in Japan.

My comments online only represents my owns. It did not, does not and never will represents my company's standpoint.

Thanks for the advice. We have been to HKG before, and the kid has been previously to Disney in Paris (after 2 days he still wanted to go, but was depleted of all energy). We'll try not to explore everything in one day, so that we can watch the light-show back in town at night, before going to bed :). Is there anything else you would recommend visiting in the second day? Third day we want to go through Market Street area for few hours :)

As part of a bigger trip, I planned to be with my wife and 4 yr-old son in HKG during 29-Sep - 02-Oct. At the time of booking I did not realize that this will fall during a set of days of and national days, so now we expect the city to be packed.

Since it is not our first trip, we plan to spend 2 out of 3 days in Ocean Park (Sunday and Monday). Since we can't move the dates, is there anything we can do to avoid the crowd, or to be better prepared for it?

It's going to be packed - I have kids and I'm from HKG (I live in Sweden), so I bought annual pass to take them there when we are in HK.

So here's some way to get the most out of the park:

Get there early, I mean 'early' (locals don't wake up early during weekends), head to the cable car right away to avoid queue.

Head up to see the first Ocean theater show, and the new attractions (penguins, rain forest). If you can't get there early, see the last Ocean theater show at 6pm (if there is one) - because most mainlanders will be gone by then and you can get real close to the sea lions if you take the front middle rows.

Get down back to the main part when you are done, and then you can explore the kiddy area (small rides - perfect for 4 yrs old), and don't miss the whisker show at 4pm because the show is about sea lions and their life - very educational.

Of course you can see the panda, red panda and the aquarium. The firework show is at 8pm I think, my kids are so scared of it and we have to leave before that.

Let me know if you need more info!

Thanks nacho!

We arrived 2 days earlier in HKG from HKT, so we decided to go today to Ocean Park. We spent nearly 7 hours in the park and did not manage to see more than half. Overall I was super-impressed by the whole park, when comparing to Disneyland Paris. People were nicer, the whole park just looks better, safer and more attractive. We spent more time on the Waterfront side with the Aquarium, Pandas, kids playground, etc. By the time we got to the Summit the kid was tired, grumpy, sleepy.

We have though tickets booked for Sunday, so we think we will not go in at 10:00 but maybe 12-13, and try to stay until closing time and catch the fireworks. We will have a chance to see again the Rain-forest Trail and then to explore the Arctic area, along with all other attractions.

You made a great point about the shows, will have a better look at the schedule and hit more of them. We went to the Birds show today and it was amazing, especially for the kid who got close pictures with the giant parrots :)

Thanks nacho!

We arrived 2 days earlier in HKG from HKT, so we decided to go today to Ocean Park. We spent nearly 7 hours in the park and did not manage to see more than half. Overall I was super-impressed by the whole park, when comparing to Disneyland Paris. People were nicer, the whole park just looks better, safer and more attractive. We spent more time on the Waterfront side with the Aquarium, Pandas, kids playground, etc. By the time we got to the Summit the kid was tired, grumpy, sleepy.

We have though tickets booked for Sunday, so we think we will not go in at 10:00 but maybe 12-13, and try to stay until closing time and catch the fireworks. We will have a chance to see again the Rain-forest Trail and then to explore the Arctic area, along with all other attractions.

You made a great point about the shows, will have a better look at the schedule and hit more of them. We went to the Birds show today and it was amazing, especially for the kid who got close pictures with the giant parrots :)

Great to hear that you enjoyed the park! It's a great park and it's cheaper than Paris Disneyland too.

The fireworks can be quite scary for small kids. Mine are so scared because it was really loud and close up.

We had great time yesterday too! Arrived a little before 12:00, and left at 19:30 :) we spent the day exclusively on the Summit area, moving between the various shows, animal areas and fun rides. The kid loved the Polar Express train, even though he barely made the 110cm limit :)

The dolphin show was superb, it is a must.

At 18:00 they closed the rides dor day-time visitors and opened them for night-time Halloween party-goers. We got lucky with another few rides after 18:00, and avoided the huge queue at Cable Car. While in the Cable Car we saw some fireworks over the Aquarium, but from that height they did not feel scary; it could br that it was just the ending of the water show or something.

Overall great 2 days, will come back again in the future. I can see now why it is pointless to go to Disneyland in HKG :)

I can see now why it is pointless to go to Disneyland in HKG :)

+1. I have been there 2 times (free because I know someone who knows someone that works there), and I was very disappointed by it.

I forgot about the Halloween thing - it's really annoying when they have night arrangements because they shut things down much earlier and the new people starting to flood into the park at around 5pm.

I'll be there next month with my kids - it'll be nice to take them to some new rides :)

if you have time and visa, check-out Shenzhen!