Essentials to See in Hong Kong

Lantau Island and Po Lin Monastery-Big Buddha: A trip to Lantau Island and the Big Buddha must be incorporated into your trip to Hong Kong. Ride the Nyong Ping Lift up to the top and splurge on the glass-bottomed cab if you can. Walk the steps up to the top of the Big Buddha and take in the majestic vista. Stroll through the lily pad pots at the base of the stairs and visit the Po Lin Monastery. Can be accomplished in a half-day if well-planned. Recommended to arrive at 10 am and you will beat the crowds.

Nyong Ping 360 Lift

Victoria Peak Tram: It is a must-see in Hong Kong. I would recommend not booking ahead of time and instead going when the weather is clear. Spend a bit extra and go up to the very top, it is worth it. If you are up for an adventure and want to take the slow ride down from the Peak, catch Bus #15 on your way down and experience views of Happy Valley and hairpin turns akin to the Italian Amalfi Coast!

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery-Located in the New Territories: Take the light blue metro to the Sha Tin metro station and about 30 minutes from Central. Wear your walking shoes and enjoy the view, the lively expressions of each buddha, and you may even see some macaque monkeys on the way up. Watch your bags!

The Ladies Market: Arrive with a wallet full of cash and the best stalls open up late afternoon/evening. Be prepared to shop for faux goods with names you might recognize, Chanel, Goyard, Gucci, YSL. Know that you are expected to negotiate! Part of the Hong Kong experience, for sure, and worth visiting a few times if you are an avid shopper.

Star: A right of passage in a visit to Hong Kong, hop on the Star Ferry for a ride across the harbor. Be the first to board to secure a spot on the rail with the best views! A quick ride and a nice reprieve to the MTR.

Chi Lin Nunnery and Nan Lian Garden: Free to visit and well worth it for the beauty and spirituality. Both in close proximity to each other and a quick walk off of the Metro at the Diamond Hill station.

Temple Street Night Market: Go when it gets dark and feel the vibes! Enjoy an adventuresome dinner in the cooked food bazaar.

M+ Museum: Plan to spend several hours, soak in the I.M. Pei exhibit and pay the extra fee. You do not have to be a lover of modern and contemporary visual culture to appreciate this collection.

Shopping in Soho: Stumble into Soho, ride the world's largest escalator from Central and spill out into the action. Cafes, shops, narrow streets and markets, worth a visit.

Day trips:

Macao: If you need a gambling fix and even more shopping, head to Macao. This would be an option if you have seen everything else in Hong Kong and would like to ride the hydrofoil through the harbor and go someplace new. Splurge on the upgraded boat tickets as you will get better seats and something to eat/drink. Passports are required! Once you arrive at the terminal, catch any of the free hotel shuttle buses to the casinos. Not a must-see and don't fall for the "tourist service" individuals meeting you as you depart the boat, offering tour guide services at a high price. You could always go for an overnight at one of the casinos as well. It is worth exploring the old town of Macao, where you will learn of the interesting history and Portuguese influence.

Lamma Island: For a taste of nature and a hike across this small island, head to Lamma Island. Only 20–30 minutes from Hong Kong, this is a fantastic getaway filled with restaurants, bars, a natural wonderland and interesting characters!

Disneyland Hong Kong: If you have a few extra days and want to embrace the kid inside, head to Disneyland Hong Kong. Unlike other Disney Parks, this can be easily tackled in one day and is on a smaller scale. It is very accessible from the MTR.

Breakfast/lunch

• The Bakehouse, five locations, but my favorite is in Soho and Tsim Sha Shui-must have sourdough egg tart.

• Vission Bakery -The matcha mochi Danish.

Lunch/dinner

• Maxim's Palace-Central-Old School Dim Sum in a room laden with chandeliers and white tablecloths, take a step back to old Hong Kong with a view of the harbor. Would recommend during the day for daylight view.

• Man Mo Dim Sum - Dim Sum with a modern French twist, so good that you will want to return the next night. Located in Sheung Wan and named after the Man Mo Temple nearby, you should visit both while you are there!

Dinner

• Yè shanghai in K11 Musea Mall, Aqua (Italian and Japanese restaurant)- Tsim Sha Shui; Amazing views of the harbor and great place to watch the light show at 8 pm. They also offer brunch.

• Hutong- Birdcages on tables, amazing decor and views across Victoria Harbor. Must try the Flaming Peking Duck, roasted right at your table!

Cocktails

• Penicillin (cocktails)

• The Lobby Lounge (Regent for cocktails)