Why my girlfriend won’t travel alone

By naren | Activities and Events, Explore, Uncategorized

Why my girlfriend won't travel alone.

'It's not safe, why don't you ask Lily to go along with you?'

No thanks, Mum. That should be your answer. Solo travel is here and now. So why shouldn’t women around the world embrace this life-changing experience of misadventure and sheer folly?

It has become a dying fact that women need to travel in numbers. The modern female should throw caution to the wind and buy that plane ticket without thinking twice.

So let’s explore the screaming factors to consider when ‘thinking once’.

Safety.

One of the main points my girlfriend would bring up on the idea of travelling alone is about safety. It doesn’t help that headlines in the papers now and then report stories of female travellers being caught in less than desirable situations in foreign countries.

If you come to think of it, safety overseas transcends gender. No matter who you are or where you go, you should always be practising general safe travelling habits.

Stick to the paths often travelled.

If you are truly apprehensive about heading abroad alone, then I’d suggest staying away from the ‘roads less travelled’. Leave that to a time when you have a healthy support group to travel with.

First solo trip? Keep it vanilla.

Only carry what you need

Heading out? Only bring out what cash you need to spend that day. Never bring out a full wad of money just in case. Instead, what you should do is prep an extra 50 if you ever need to catch a cab back to your serviced apartment.

Try to avoid the night outings.

This one is kind of a given. There are safe night timings and less-than-safe timings. If you would like to check out the on-goings of the nightlife scene in a country, try to stick between the 7pm and midnight shifts.

I know what you’re thinking, ‘Hey! I’m no lame 60 year old!’ Whodini sang it true when they belted out ‘the freaks come out at night’. So heed their advice, if not mine, and play it 60 year old style.

Navigation.

1. Forget the stereotypes. More often than not, if you keep hearing the jokes and bits about women not being good navigators or having a bad sense of direction, you’re going to believe it to be true.

If you’re being hosted in a serviced apartment, contact your host/hosting company. Get some readily available guides and request for a map. A quick read through and marking of notable landmarks will help you immensely with orientation.

2. Get a navigation app. Or a e-map even. Google maps is a free and easy solution to this. GPS in general is going to help you out greatly over here. You don’t even need to wait till you start your trip.

Whip out your phone now and have a look through the map of the city you intend on visiting. Mark down journey paths, distances and places on interest. It’ll give you more confidence when travelling.

3. Join a tour group on your first day. It might not be the most glamorous of stories you would want to include on your first solo trip but short and quick tours on your first day in a new country are a smart way of learning your way to through the immediate part of town.

Getting lonely.

1. One main issue many travellers face is the feeling of being lonely. Travelling solo for many days or weeks can leave one longing for the connection and companionship back home.

During downtime, take some time to sit in your serviced apartment, open up your laptop and use applications like Skype and WhatApp to say hello to those back home. Just 5 mins will keep your mind healthy.

2. Make friends. Sounds pretty simple but when travellers go solo, there seems to be this notion that you have to be with yourself as much as possible. The whole idea of solo travel is to step outside your comfort zone. Meeting new and exciting people fits that bill.

Unwanted eyes.

1. I can’t really help much with this one. No matter where you go in the world, tourist will always attract eyes from all around. What’s worse is the less than flattering gaze offered upon women travellers.

You’ve got to mentally prepare yourself to be ogled by almost everyone. More often than not, these people are just curious.

But to keep the staring at bay, make sure you leave the valuable accessories at home, skip the all too revealing clothes and never deal large amounts of cash out in the open.

Hotel? Try again.

By naren | Explore, Housing, Long Term Rentals, Serviced Apartments

Hotel? Try again.

Move over hotels, serviced apartments are the way to go when selecting accommodation options for your employees coming from overseas.

When it comes to picking the right lodging for them, factors like price, location and suitability must be considered. Here’s why serviced apartments check those boxes.

Keep a healthy state of mind

Imagine your colleague doing her work in a room. She eats in her room, sleeps and watches TV in this 325 square feet shoe box. Now imagine her having the same routine for 3 months in the same room.

When you take someone away from home and put them within 4 walls to work, you restrict the mind from being able to draw clear distinctions between daily activities. In serviced apartments, you can work and play as it should be.

Serviced apartments not only offer the space for comfortable daily living, but residential style units often come with windows that you can actually open. Fresh air and warm sunlight are essential for good living. But serviced apartments are healthy for the mind too.

Bedrooms for rest, kitchens for cooking and living rooms for living. Your boss/employee will appreciate the care taken to provide them with a space where they can be comfortable. You aren’t just looking for a space they can work from. They need a space to live in.

Have a get-together

Speaking of needs, the living areas in serviced apartments provide the tenant with the ability to host. A fully equipped kitchen to prepare meals and an area to welcome guests. It’s much easier to greet people with a living space rather than just a room.

Business meetings cum client lunches, you can have them at ‘home’. Keep a healthy social life active and throw small gatherings over at ‘your place’. Being in another country doesn’t mean one has to always rely on others for social outings. Bask in the independence that space provides.

It’s cheaper

A growing reason to have you looking at a serviced apartment rather than a hotel is the point that it is arguably cheaper for long-term stays.

Keeping to a budget can always make or break a decision. Serviced apartments offer more value for money with regards to the space they provide. If you think about it, with hotels, you are paying a fixed rate for the number of guests. Whereas with apartments you’re also paying for the space and facilities provided.

Sometimes sticking to a budget means skimping and doing away with luxury. With serviced apartments, you won’t have to.

Keep your friends close.

Add structure to your life

The flexibility offered by serviced apartments allows for more than one employee. During longer stays, some individuals might be less than willing to share a room with a colleague. Serviced apartments offer the option of separate bedrooms.

The accommodating space you find in serviced apartments also allows for little things that make one feel less away from home. Things like washing machines; allowing you to do your own laundry and kitchens; to prepare your own meals.

It’s easy to forget current human needs when making such decisions but your main aim here is to limit the feeling of displacement as much as possible.

Temporary Home

With serviced apartments, one is essentially getting a space that feels like a home. Working and living from an unfamiliar environment is never easy. So it makes things easier to cope with when you can operate from somewhere you feel comfortable in.

The main aim is always to always care for your employee’s wellbeing by making sure he/she has the right tools and environment to produce efficiently with a healthy state of mind.

So do yourself and everyone else a favour; leave hotels to the tourist and pick that serviced apartment if you mean business.

Explore the Islands in Hong Kong

By Ann Chan | Explore

Explore the Islands in Hong Kong

Talking about Hong Kong, many of us will immediately think of the skyscrapers in the urban side. However, do you know that there are different islands in HK that worth your visit? In less than an hour, you can get access to the beautiful tranquil islands from the hustle and bustle of the crowded city.

Cheung Chau

Cheung Chau is located between Lamma Island and Lantau Island, which only takes less than an hour for you to get there by ferry. With only 30000 residents on the island, it shows the chummy and friendly community that you can’t find in other areas. There is no public transportation on the island that people usually travel around by bicycle or on foot. During weekends and public holidays, many locals and tourists will come into the island and enjoy the long-lost peacefulness. They love visiting the famous Cheung Po Tsai Cave, Kwan Kung Pavilion and the Mini Great Wall. Don’t miss the annual Bun Festival! It is between the fifth to the ninth days of the fourth lunar month. The festival includes Piu Sik (Floating Colours) Parade, lion dances, martial arts performance, etc. There will also be the unique Bun Scrambling Competition, in which participants climb a 60-foot bun-covered tower to grab the most lucky buns within 3 minutes.

How to get there?

Take the ferry from Central Pier 5 then you can arrive within an hour.

Check the Ferry Schedule here.

Image 1: https://coconuts.co/hongkong/features/cocobreaks-staycation-series-chill-out-cheung-chau/

Park Island

Park Island is located between Lantau Island and Tsing Yi. As it is primarily used as residential purpose, the island comprehensively has a supermarket, coffee shop, convenience stores and restaurants. Noah’s Ark, the world’s first full-scale Ark replica is also on the island, together with various specially designed attractions and workshops. Many tourists are fascinated by the Noah’s Adventureland and Noah’s Resort as it is unique for families, friends and couples.

How to get there?

Take the ferry from Central Pier 2 or Tsuen Wan Pier.

Check the Ferry Schedule here.

Image 2: http://parkislandhongkong.blogspot.com/2016/09/photos-of-ma-wan-sunsets.html

Lamma Island

Lamma Island is the third largest island in Hong Kong and the number of residents is only less than 10000. If you value the peace and sereneness of the rural area, Lamma Island will be a nice place for you to visit. There are a lot of seafood restaurants, cafes and bars for you to chill and enjoy. With natural beaches and the amazing hiking trails, it’d be great if you are a nature lover. Many are in love with the Hung Shing Yeh Beach, Kamikaze Cave and Ling Kok Shan Hiking Trail.

How to get there?

Take the ferry from Central Pier 4.

Check the Ferry Schedule here.

Image 3: https://www.stuckincustoms.com/category/travel/china/lamma-island/

Ngong Ping

Ngong Ping is a highland in the western part of Lantau Island. It was originally an idyllic area with limited access when there was only Po Lin Monastery nearby. After the world’s second largest outdoor Big Buddha was constructed in 1993, the area has attracted a lot of tourists worldwide to worship. Thus, the government has developed the land into an all-inclusive entertainment area. Ngong Ping Piazza, Wisdom Path, etc have become a must-go for the tourists and expats. To save time for breathtaking view, many will choose to take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to go up or down.

How to get there?

Click here for more info.

Image 4: http://www.gardenhostel.com.hk/NgongPing.html

Tai O

Tai O is the most famous fishing village in Hong Kong, located just next to Ngong Ping. What makes Tai O special is that there are stilt houses, for the existing Tanka people (fishermen) to live in. The houses are interconnected that forms a friendly community. There are diverse spots to visit in Tai O, namely the Local Market that sells homemade shrimp sauce, salted fish and other dry seafood, Yim Tin Mangrove Forest that showcases half of the Mangrove species in Hong Kong, Tai O Heritage Hotel that was transformed from one of the earliest police stations and the Tai O Rural Committee Historic & Cultural Showroom which brings you back to the centuries-old vibrant fishing village. The most exciting part will be the Boat Excursion, you can get a glimpse of the Chinese white dolphins if you are lucky enough! If you come during the Dragon Boat Festival, you can join in the Dragon Boat Water Parade to visit the local temples.

How to get there?

Get off at Tung Chung Station and take bus 11 to Tai O Bus Terminus.

Image 5: http://hdrhongkong.com/tai-o-fishing-village/

Hong Kong’s islands are accessible from MetroResidences‘ corporate serviced apartments. The apartments are located within few minutes walk from transport amenities, helping business travellers to cut down commuting time from home to work. Enjoy the islands in Hong Kong with just minutes away!

Neighbourhood guide for Living in Causeway Bay and Wan Chai

By Ann Chan | Explore, Neighbourhoods

Neighbourhood guide for Living in Causeway Bay and Wan Chai

Talking about Causeway Bay, what will you think of? Shopping might be the first thing that crossed your mind. How about Wan Chai? Though Wan Chai may be notorious for its red light district, there are indeed more to explore.

Neighborhood Vibe

Being in the heart of Hong Kong, both Causeway Bay and Wan Chai are great for young couples or single travellers who are looking for fun and convenience. It’d be a wonderful place to stay in if you love shopping, hanging around in the crowded community and enjoy all sorts of entertainment. However, this might not be a family friendly neighbourhood as it will probably turn noisy at night that your kid won’t be able to sleep well. The streets are always busy even on weekdays and people are everywhere.

Where to Eat?

Causeway Bay

Tang Lung Street

Don’t know where to go for lunch? There are tons of restaurants on the street, famous for its variety of Japanese food and western-styled cafes. If you are craving for the best Ramen, sashimi, egg benedict or risotto in town, you will be able to find one here.

Image 1: https://www.pc426.com/d/105523/45

Paterson Street

Since 1980s, Paterson Street has become a famous spot for various restaurants to station. As there are no skyscrapers nearby, you can comfortably find some outdoor open-air tables to sit by and enjoy the airy environment, together with the decent meal. Numerous cuisines are available for you to select, namely Chinese, Japanese, Thai, American, etc.

Image 2: https://www.bigfang.tw/blog/post/44354344

Wan Chai

Swatow Street

Just located next to the Southorn Playground, the tranquil street has turned into a little food street recently. It’s now famous for the coexistence of diverse cuisines: Japanese, Portuguese, British, etc. Most importantly, they are authentic yet affordable. Many restaurants are originated from their home countries and relocated to Hong Kong, which provides a great environment for cultural exchange, and of course, food gatherings with friends!

Image 3: https://www.flickr.com/photos/nikonslave/24694706202

Ship Street

Being known as the street filled with decent restaurants, similar to Swatow Street, loads of fusion restaurants are stationed there. However, there’s actually more. At night, many foreigners will come to the street and go for the bars. Many renowned bars are located there as well, you may refer to this bar guide for more info.

Image 4: https://cn.nytimes.com/food-wine/20141212/t12hongkong/zh-hant/

Where to shop?

Causeway Bay

1. Times Square

As the most popular tourist spot in Hong Kong, there are over 230 famous brands in the building, ranging from reputable apparel brands to electronic chain stores. There is also a big international supermarket, CitySuper. You can buy all range of groceries here and cook a homey meal for yourself or family. You can definitely find what you want here. There is also a newly renovated cinema at the mall that without walking under the hectic weather, you can be entertained in any ways that you want. Other than the above, you can also find exhibitions at the ground floor of the Square, which stages cultural events and movie promotions, etc. At night, there is even local busking happening, why not come and support the local entertainment industry?

Image 5: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HK_CWB_Times_Square_Yue_Minjun_Art_Exhibition_2008_Street_Busking_Evening_a.jpg

2. Hysan Place

It is a brand new shopping mall, conveniently located at the heart of Causeway Bay. The mall contains over 120 international brands that you can shop till you drop. Another point worth noticing is that there is the First Eslite Bookstore in HK, one of the largest bookstores in Taiwan. As many shopping malls in Hong Kong do, there is a spacious supermarket selling fresh ingredients. If you don’t feel like cooking today, you can go directly to the top floor of the mall and order your desired dishes at the food court. If you are looking for a comprehensive shopping mall, this will be a good choice.

Image 6: https://hk.asiatatler.com/life/lifestyle-bookstore-eslite-opens-in-hysan-place

Where to walk around?

1. Victoria Park

Named after Queen Victoria, it is the largest park in the Hong Kong Island. During Sundays and public holidays, there are different stalls providing arts and crafts items, painting, photography and sketching services. You can enjoy your leisure Sunday here, away from the hustle and bustle.

Image 7: http://www.discoverhongkong.com/ca/see-do/great-outdoors/city-parks/victoria-park.js

2. Blue House

Named for its colour, the 4-storey building was built as a hospital in the 1870s. It has become a temple, a martial arts school and an osteopathy clinic respectively in the past years. The building is a Tong Lau (Buildings that are built in late 19th Century) and what makes it special is that it was designed with balconies, which is rare to find in Hong Kong nowadays. On the ground floor of the building, there is the Hong Kong House of Stories Museum for you to pore over Hong Kong cultural history in a deeper sense.

Image 8: https://www.heritage.gov.hk/en/rhbtp/ProgressResult2_Blue_House_Cluster.htm

3. Lee Tung Avenue

As a newly rehabilitated street in Hong Kong, it is the latest hotspot among the locals and tourists. This tree-lined side road has attracted a lot of cafes, foreign restaurants and famed fashion shops to station. Located at the middle of local community and revitalization, it is a showcase of Hong Kong’s vibrancy and co-existence of different cultures.

Image 9: https://www.flickr.com/photos/mikemikecat/25052831862

Do you want to live near to these amazing spots? Come to MetroResidences and book the furnished apartment at your preferred location. It provides numerous quality options for you to choose from. Enjoy your stay with a stylish neighbourhood.

Top 5 hiking spots in Hong Kong that you couldn’t miss

By Ann Chan | Activities and Events, Explore

Top 5 hiking spots in Hong Kong that you couldn’t miss

Do you know how many percent of Hong Kong belong to the country parks and protected areas? The answer is 70%. Quite shocking right? During weekends, other than shopping malls, there are still more spots that worth your visit.

1. Dragon’s Back

Being called as ‘Mong Kok’ in the hiking scope, it is undoubtedly the most popular hiking route in Hong Kong. Its name may scare you at the first place, but don’t get misunderstood, it is a route suitable for beginners. Just within 2 hours, you can get to the peak and enjoy the magnificent view from the top. You can have a panoramic view of Shek O and Tai Tau Chau and take some good pictures here. After the trail, you can get directly to the beach and enjoy the sunshine.

How to get there?

Take the MTR to Shau Kei Wan Station to Exit A3 and get on Bus No. 9 at the Shau Kei Wan Bus Terminus. After 11 stops, get off at To Tei Wan and then you can start the Dragon’s Back Hike.

Image 1: https://www.getreadyhk.com/leisure-and-fun/hong-kong-outdoor-activity/outing-spot/item/979-dragon-back-hiking

2. Lung Fu Shan to the Peak

Tired of being with the city views all the time in your expat life? Hong Kong is a small city that enables you to explore Hong Kong’s nature within 15 minutes of walk from city. Lung Fu Shan is located at the heart of the western side of Hong Kong and the beginning point of the trail starts from HKU. Because of its proximity to the urban area, it is welcomed by local kaifong, students or expats who live nearby. In an hour, you can reach to the top and connect yourself with the famous Victoria Peak. Again, the trail is a starter for beginners or those who want to have a leisure morning walk.

How to get there?

Take Bus No. 13 and drop off at Hatton Road stop. After an approximately 20-minute walk, you can arrive at the entrance of the Lung Fu Shan Country Park and start the trail. For the other way, you can get off at MTR HKU Station Exit A2. When you see the sign of HKU, just walk straight till you see the stairs. Walk down the stairs and the sign of Lung Fu Shan Country Park is just over there.

Image 2: http://www.discoverhongkong.com/uk/see-do/great-outdoors/hikes/peak-to-lung-fu-shan-country-park.jsp

3. Hong Kong Trail

Wanna visit somewhere recommended by the Lonely Planet? Hong Kong Trail might be a good option for you. The trail is divided into 8 sections and their difficulties vary:Image 3: http://www.walkonhill.com/hktrail-hk_en.php

How to get there?

Click here to see more details on the trails, as well as suggested starting points and ending points.

Don’t rush to try all sections in one day! Just enjoy the hike with underneath city views and the natural scenery from the walk!

4. Tai Tam Reservoirs

This is another route that has gained the hearts from local hikers. The trail is surrounded by various cultural heritage and historical constructions. For instance, Tai Tam Reservoir Road Bridge is built in 1888 and it is listed as the Grade I historic building and Declared Monuments in Hong Kong respectively in 1994 and 2009. If you are looking for somewhere cultural, this may be a good choice for you.

How to get there?

Walking from MTR Hong Kong Station Exit A, take bus No. 6 or 66 from the Exchange Square bus terminus, then you can get off at Wong Nai Chung Gap Road.

Image 4: http://www.penninghearts.com/%E5%A4%A7%E6%BD%AD%E4%B8%8A%E6%B0%B4%E5%A1%98%E6%B0%B4%E5%A3%A9/

5. Shing Mun Reservoir

The Shing Mun Country Park is located just next to the Reservoir. It is conveniently located at Tsuen Wan and it is an accessible hiking spot for families and expats. There are many famed spots inside the country park, including a tranquil road with Paper-bark trees and the magnificent Shing Mun Reservoir Bellmouth Overflow. However, you will need to be aware of the monkeys – they will eat whatever you have in hand!

How to get there?

Starting off from MTR Tsuen Wan Station Exit A1, you can walk to Shiu Wo Street and take mini bus No. 82. After taking for 20 minutes, you can arrive at Shing Mun Reservoir.

Image 5: https://www.getreadyhk.com/leisure-and-fun/hong-kong-outdoor-activity/outing-spot/item/1056-shing-mun-reservoir

Image 6: https://johnblog.phychembio.com/?p=4982

There are indeed more hiking spots than you imagine in Hong Kong. With the great help of the public transport system, just explore more with your group of expat friends and visit the beautiful villages and beaches outside the traditional city views of Hong Kong! Wanting to save time for more fun in Hong Kong? Rent an accessible apartment via MetroResidences to do so! We offer you with numerous choices of centrally located apartments and what you need to do is to just click a button to view them all!

The 5 Dai Pai Dong that you will miss after leaving Hong Kong

By Ann Chan | Explore, Food and Restaurant Guide

The 5 Dai Pai Dong that you will miss after leaving Hong Kong

What would you be reminded of when we talk about Dai Pai Dong? Our expat friends who are reading this article may not be familiar with such local Cantonese pronunciation. Dai Pai Dong refers to open-air food stalls and they used to be really common in the old 1920s-70s. Nonetheless, Dai Pai Dong has no longer be that vibrant nowadays. If you wanna trace back the glorious food history of Hong Kong, you can visit these surviving Dai Pai Dong in the following:

1. Sing Heung Yuen (勝香園)

Sing Heung Yuen is one of the oldest and most famed Dai Pai Dong in HK. A lot of local businessmen who work in Central would start their day with a juicy Crispy Buttered bun (HKD19) and an authentic cup of milk tea(HKD12). If you feel like you need more energy to confront with the Monday Blues, simply order a bowl of Beef Macaroni in Tomato Soup(HKD30), together with the ‘very local’ Salty Seven-up with Lemon (HKD20), then I’m sure you will be fueled up. The moment when tomato meets beef, it’s just paradisiacal. Just bear in mind that you might need to wait for more than an hour, under the extremely high temperature of summer in HK. If you are ready to queue up for the joy, a bottle of water and a pack of tissues might be necessary.

Image 1: https://thetasteoftwocities.wordpress.com/2014/01/21/sing-heung-yuen-%E5%8B%9D%E9%A6%99%E5%9C%92-hong-kong/

Address: G/F, 2 Mei Lun Street, Central (Nearest MTR exit: Sheung Wan station exit E1)

Operating hours: 08:00-17:00 (Mon-Sat); Closed (Sun)

2. Yue Hing (裕興咖啡)

Just next to Sing Heung Yuen, there is another inconspicuous Dai Pai Dong. When it’s so near to a HUGE competitor, it could still gain a prominent place in the market: Quality tells all. The signature dish of Yue Hing is the Sandwich Combo. You will definitely have difficulty in picking the ingredients: Tuna, scrambled eggs, spiced pork cubes, corned beef…… Every combo will be the best combo. The price is just around HKD35, inclusive of drinks. On weekends, you may need to wait for more than 30 minutes to get seated.

Image 2: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/334533078549845746/?lp=true

Address: Shop 82, Stanley Street, Central (Nearest MTR exit: Sheung Wan station exit E1)

Operating hours: 08:00-13:45 (Mon-Tue, Thurs-Fri); Closed (Wed, Sat-Sun)

3. Bing Kee (炳記茶檔)

You must visit here if you wanna try out the best milk tea in town! There are thousands and millions of restaurants selling milk teas in HK, yet you can hardly find one that is as smooth as Bing Kee’s (HKD16). Tourists love the Grilled Pork Chop noodles (HKD25) particularly, because of its perfect seasoning and texture. Other than its mouth-watering food, another element that we can’t neglect is the structure of the food stall. The stall is constructed in iron sheets, which again has nearly gone extinct in Hong Kong society. If you occasionally pass by Tai Hang or Causeway Bay, do pay a visit to Bing Kee- it won’t let you down.

Image 3: https://ywjoseph928.tian.yam.com/posts/99288807

Tips: When you are planning your visit, you can access to Bing Kee’s Instagram (Bing_kee) to check its actual opening hours!

Address: Next to 5 Shepherd Street, Tai Hang (Nearest MTR exit: Tin Hau station exit B)

Operating hours: 07:30-15:30 (Tue-Sun); Closed (Mon)

4. Lan Fong Yuen (蘭芳園)

Being the historical symbol of Hong Kong Dai Pai Dong, Lan Fong Yuen holds an eminent role in HK local food history. It is the first restaurant providing dry-stirred instant noodles (Lo Ding in Cantonese), which has become a well-known local food. If you wanna try the taste of pioneer, you have to try the dry-stirred instant noodles with grilled chicken fillet in spring onion, ginger and soy sauce (HKD55). Its Hong Kong-styled milk tea (HKD21) has also gained the attention from all foodies in HK- they are all appealed by its richness that can rarely be found elsewhere. Planning for a visit to learn more about HK food culture? Lan Fong Yuen will be the top on your list.

Image 4: https://fgblog.fashionguide.com.tw/3176/posts/53364

Address: 2 Gage Street, Central (Nearest MTR exit: Central Station Exit D2)

Operating hours: 07:00-18:00 (Mon-Sat); Closed (Sun)

5. Shui Kee (瑞記咖啡)

Where does French Toast come from? France? Or actually Hong Kong? If you get to try the French Toast (HKD23) in Hong Kong, you must visit Shui Kee. Its crispy surface and juicy favour have won hearts from the gourmet all over the city. Don’t forget about the iced bottled milk tea (HKD13)! You may have tried the hot milk tea in HK, but the iced one will never disappoint you. It is one of the few Dai Pai Dongs that are still serving the bottled milk tea. In the past, there was no ice inside a cup of milk tea. If you wanted to have a freezed one, you could only put it in the bottle and store in the fridge. Some epicure will also order the Beef and Egg Sandwiches (HKD16), for its freshly-made scrambled eggs with fresh minced beef. If you are looking for something local and affordable, Shui Kee will be your favourite option.

Image 5: http://www.ladyironchef.com/2017/09/shui-kee-coffee/

Address: Shop 17, 2/F Municipal Services Building, 345 Queen’s Road Central (Nearest MTR exit: Sheung Wan Station Exit A2)

Operating hours: 07:30-17:00 (Mon-Sat); Closed (Sun)

Again, Hong Kong is full of hidden decent food. Do explore yourself a bit more to create your tailor-made To-Eat-List!

Wanting to get access to all these tempting food within minutes? Come rent MetroResidences‘ serviced apartments! The apartments are located within a few minutes walk from transport amenities, helping you to minimize commuting time. Then you can save more time in exploring Hong Kong!

Sha Tin Plaza, The Shopper’s Delight – An Added Value to the Long Journey

By wesley | Activities and Events, Explore, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Living, Kids Activities, living in Hong Kong, Local Cultures, Neighbourhoods, Shopping

One of the eighteen beautiful districts of Hong Kong, Sha Tin District is a marvelous cultural center, a recreational and gourmet hub and an amusing sight to beat. The place serves best as a shopping spree, has its own IKEA, and is a good spot to get an airport bus A41 or to reach destinations like Sai Kung. The fabulous part is that it’s renowned for the central parks, horseracing, shopping areas, awesome restaurant delicacies and dessert houses. Another main tourist attractions are the 10,000 Buddha statues which can be seen on the ride from Sha Tin metro and bus terminal.

Sha Tin Plaza and How to Get There?

Directly located in the heart of Sha Tin, Sha Tin Plaza is an intriguing shopper’s delight. However, it takes a bit of time to get there and you need to travel more than a bit but the whole trip proves to be worthy at the end of the day. A one-stop shopping arena in Hong Kong, Sha Tin Plaza advantageously has undergone major renovations. It now has footbridges connecting both, the plaza and center that leads to Sha Tin MTR Bus Station. The place has ample space for parking while you shop at your favorite outlets. It squares around 260,000 sq. ft. and proudly fills its two arcades with more than hundred international brand outlets that have a wide range of products to offer from the latest fashion to electronics.

The best way to head to Sha Tin Plaza is by MTR. MTR East Rail line via Exit A directly lands into the mall. However, the routes are quite better scheduled with Green Mini Buses.

Things To Do at the Plaza

Sha Tin Plaza is not only about shopping the heart out but also making the most of the trip with the amazing entertainment activities and amusing places. Here’s what you must do when roaming at this place:

Hypnotizing, Mesmerizing Sight of 10,000 Buddha

Reaching the Buddha isn’t easy but this is the ultimate place to energize the mind with its silent and peaceful environment. Also, a very good place for hikers and adventure lovers.

Snoopy World

If you’re a Snoopy fan, this is your ultimate destination. Totally free and easily accessible from the MTR, Snoopy World provides a nice and warm family time in its character themed small park and a good sight to make memories with photography and entertainment activities.

Sha Tin Park

A well maintained, peaceful and refreshing hidden gem with a mix of greens and cold breeze is a good place to sit and kill time in the fragrance of good trees, fish pond, fountain, and flowers. The park has a picturesque bike trail and a gleaming sight of locals singing and dancing.

Eateries

Sha Tin Plaza is beefed up with the traditional cuisine houses in and out. You can never ignore the aroma in the air which gets the tourists attracted towards the doors. You will find a number of famous restaurants and dessert options to satisfy hungry bellies on the trip. Some famous ones include Pizza Express, Oliver’s Super Sandwiches, and Simplylife etc.

So pick up your keys and head out this weekend to the plaza and have an amazing time. For similar blogs, click here.

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Best Tourist Attractions | To Do’s at Tuen Mun

By wesley | Activities and Events, Everyday Living, Explore, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Living, living in Hong Kong, Neighbourhoods

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TUEN MUN

Ever fancied living in a place that’s enough to check all the boxes on your dream adventure list? An astonishing blend of rejuvenating green land, thrilling adventure sites, cozy dens, chilly beaches and the warmth in the air makes a perfect mix of a ‘dream trip come true trip.’ If you’re ready to skip the chaos and make the vacations a hit at Tuen Mun, here is what you need to know.

Heading to Tuen Mun

How to Get There and Avoid Inconvenience?

The place is huge. Travelling hours and routes totally depend on where you choose to go. Commuting from HK station to Tuen Mun station takes exactly 45 minutes. From the Central, if you want to head to the Tuen Mun Town Center, 960 is the ultimate and direct bus. However, fewer people take the route from 961 which makes the ride cleaner, more spacious and comfortable. If you’re traveling from Tai Po, the best option can be 64K KMB bus which will take you to MTR in 35 minutes. Next up is a pretty speedy train ride to the final destination.

Comfy, Cozy Stay

Choosing Between the Hotel Options

You can make your stay happier with the best hotel options at this welcoming city starting as low as 8 USD per night. Following are the top 5 hotels that will turn your time into an outstanding vacay.

1. Goal Coast

Hong Kong Goal Coast Hotel is easily accessible from the airport at a distance of about 35 minutes taxi ride. Fully equipped with up to the mark luxurious amenities, this hotel provides a remarkable experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The hotel has a relaxing ambiance with lush greens and a home-like warmth.

2. Disney Land Hotel

Hong Kong Disney Land Hotel is 6.9 km from Tuen Mun and is famous for blessing the visitors with out of this world service. If you’re up to make the most out of the trip every passing second at the top of this world, stay here. Countless entertainment activities, luxurious amenities, and never-ending fun will satisfy your wandering feet the best.

3. Pentahotel

5-minute walk from Tuen Mun MTR Station, Pentahotel is the heart of the city. Excellent up to date facilities including a warm environment, pentahotel has a great value for money to offer. Its vibrant interior and a signature pentalounge are enough to refill the energy in you.

Tourist Attractions

A Must-Do-List on Trip to Tuen Mun

Tuen Mun Kau Hui, Tuen Mun San Hui, and Sam Shing Hui are the three best traditional style markets in the town with all of the items you could ever put on your shopping list. You may get tired listing all you want to do on your next trip, but the list won’t end. Tuen Mun Town Hall is another amazing venue for music and art lovers.

Tuen Mun Town Center, the heart of the district has an array of cultural and entertainment facilities. Tuen Mun Town Plaza, Cultural Square, Public Library and other government buildings are all located at this center. The place has amazing central parks with pools and model boats that grab the most of the family’s attraction. Town Hall features engaging cultural activities, theatres, concerts and much more fantabulous events for the art-loving guests.

Ferry Pier and Castle Bay are another fun outings that you just can’t miss for a complete harmonizing experience. Gold Coast makes the largest resort in Tuen Mun with its very own convention center, marina club, shopping mall and spectacular hotel. The well known Golden Beach is the best option located here for the perfect family vacay. More must-do activities include jockey club at the riding school, golf center offering public to learn gold at affordable rates and dragon boat racing festival.

The distance and long rides to the station might feel like a hectic task, but once you reach the destination, you will find all of it was worth it.

For more similar blogs, click here.

10 Things You Have to See in Lan Kwai Fong

By Cong Cao | Explore, Hong Kong Living, Local Cultures, Neighbourhoods

10 Things You Have to See in Lan Kwai Fong

Whether you are staying in Lan Kwai Fong for just a couple of days, a week or longer; there are some things you just have to make time for during your stay in LKF. As one of the most popular destinations in Hong Kong that is most known for its bustling nightlife, there are no shortages of activities or places to do.

01

Ce La Vi Sky Bar

Based in the famous California Tower, this is one place you simply must visit, the view across LKF is astounding either by day or by night. A stunning backdrop with a large selection of very nice drink accompanied by friendly staff and the occasional world-class DJ providing musical entertainment.

Image from: Wikimedia Commons

02

The Iron Fairies

Similar to the Bangkok and Tokyo locations, one of Hong Kong’s most popular bars is outfitted to resemble a blacksmith’s workshop. Live Jazz and Blues that will rock your soul combined with fantastic food, exceptional mixology and an interior setting that is beyond your wildest belief. The Iron Fairies boasts an incredible metal themed elements of iron, wood, and timber—most amazingly, there are 10,000 preserved butterflies dangling in the sky.

Image from: Wikimedia Commons

03

HK Accidental art tour

Cited as the best art walk in Hong Kong, if you are visiting Lan Kwai Fong, it is certainly something you should do at least once. The Soho Gallery Tour is offered in both Chinese and English.

Image from: Wikimedia Commons

04

Lilya Moroccan Lounge

If smoking hookah in a colorful vibrant lounge is up your alley, then Lilya is the right place to be. Serving some of the best food in Great drinks, gorgeous authentic food and lively music. Lilya also offers an amazing Buy 1 get 1 deal every Monday.

Image from: Wikimedia Commons

05

Next stop Hong Kong walking tour.

See the oldest urban districts and the top attractions on this 6-hour walking tour. Custom tours are provided, and this company is highly recommended by so many clients as a great way to quickly and easily get acquainted with the city by a friendly team of locals who know each and every inch of the city. Don’t forget to stop by and get the Dim Sum delights!

Image from: Wikimedia Commons

06

Gao's Foot Massage Co

Conveniently situated after the walking tour on the list, with so much to see and do in LKF, getting a soothing foot massage from this company is a great way to relax and revive tired feet.

Image from: Wikimedia Commons

07

Kwun Yam Temple

This open-air Buddhist temple is a must-see for any visitor to Lan Kwai Fong. It is simply breath-taking and a landmark that will stay with you forever. Situated on Repulse Bay, there are plenty of other beautiful sights to sample in this attractive area.

Image from: Wikimedia Commons

08

Orange Peel Music Lounge.

This is the perfect place to unwind, relax and generally ease your day in LKF to a close. With lots of different types of live music on offer, there is something to suit all tastes. Situated within the Central District, it is easy to get to and offers a large seating area, where you can also get something to drink and eat.

Image from: Wikimedia Commons

09

Ever True Jewellery Workshop

If you fancy doing something a little bit different, then this jewellery workshop offers a superb experience for any visitor to Lan Kwai Fong. Here, you can make your own 925 Silver jewellery and grab yourself a truly unique piece of memorabilia to take back home.

Image from: Wikimedia Commons

10

Sense of Touch Spa

Whatever you choose to do during your time in LKF, visiting this amazing Spa located in Central Lan Kwai Fong will leave you feeling truly pampered and re-energised. This place smells divine and offers a huge selection of spa treatments for men and women.

Image from: Wikimedia Commons

Boasting over 100 bars and restaurants, you are truly spoilt for choice when it comes to dinners and drinks in Lan Kwai Fong. There is a huge range of options that cater to a range of different tastes. Whether you prefer an elegant wine in a peaceful establishment or a vodka jelly shot in a lively bar, the options in LKF are endless. Now, enjoy exploring LKF and have the time of your life!