Recently after getting passport for my younger kid, I thought of planning vacation out of country. Since my daughter is crazy fan of Princess and Mickey, we decided to go to HongKong Disneyland. One of other reason for selecting HongKong, its perfect blend of Natural Beauty, City Life, Night life and famous for street markets.
I was looking for flight tickets from Bangalore. Since direct flights of expensive, i thought of hopping through Singapore and to try in AirBus-A380 from SGP to HK. Since i was travelling with Kids(.5yrs & 1.5yrs), i dropped the plan as it would be very tired. But I got good offer package from Cathy Pacific(Air Tickets + Hotel + One attraction). So started planning with package of 3N/4D and ended with 5N/6D. Cathy Pacific is very flexible, that they postponed the tickets without any extra charges. This package had option of hotels across the HongKong, I was looking for one in Kowloon Side and near to MTR (Metro Rail Station). So i shortlisted couple of option, then based feedback in TripAdvisor, i chose "The CityView" in Yau Ma Tei.
I was looking for flight tickets from Bangalore. Since direct flights of expensive, i thought of hopping through Singapore and to try in AirBus-A380 from SGP to HK. Since i was travelling with Kids(.5yrs & 1.5yrs), i dropped the plan as it would be very tired. But I got good offer package from Cathy Pacific(Air Tickets + Hotel + One attraction). So started planning with package of 3N/4D and ended with 5N/6D. Cathy Pacific is very flexible, that they postponed the tickets without any extra charges. This package had option of hotels across the HongKong, I was looking for one in Kowloon Side and near to MTR (Metro Rail Station). So i shortlisted couple of option, then based feedback in TripAdvisor, i chose "The CityView" in Yau Ma Tei.
Initially my plan is to cover "The Peak", Avenue of Stars, Madame Tussauds Museum, Ocean Park and Disneyland in 4Days. Then i decided to extend couple of days to cover Macau and Ngongping as per my friends suggestions.
Day -1 : Arrival to HK, The Peak, Madame Tussauds Museum.
Day -2 : One day trip to Macau
Day -3: Ocean Park, Avenue of Stars
Day -4: NgongPing, Gaint Buddha
Day -5: Disneyland
Day -6: Disneyland & Dep to Bangalore
Day -1:
Since it was first abroad trip to my kids, they were very much excited. As our flight was scheduled to depart at 2:40 am, my kids were tired .Our flight landed in HK airport as scheduled time around 11:00 am. I would suggest you to get Window seat, as its really good to see while landing. HK International Airport is on man made Island and the runway is surrounded both sides by sea. you can feel like landing on sea.
On arrival before going to immigration, we collected few Tourist City Maps(one normal Map, which tells about various tourist destinations and how to reach there and another map will give some kind of 3D view all buildings and tourist destinations.The second Map is not available outside immigration so don't miss to pickup it). Since we landed on weekend, we waited in long queue for immigration. HongKong is SAR(Special administrative Region) of China . Except from tourist from few countries(who needs HK visa), all others including Indians will get Visa on arrival to stay for 2 weeks(no visa charges). After immigration and collecting check in baggage, we proceed towards arrival hall. we can see many counters for all transport, tourist infos and also forex. Regarding Forex, they charge more conversion fee.we went straight to Airport Express counter to collect our Airport Express tickets and Octopus card. Airport Express train is fastest way to connect to HK Airport and HK city. It charges 90HKD to Kowloon and 100HKD to HongKong. Another advantage is that Airport Express offers free shuttle service from Airport Express Stations to certain Hotels which is very convenient.Other than that there City buses, Shuttles(Vigor), Taxi available. People going to Shenzhen(Mainland China) and Macau can directly go to Ferry Terminal near airport.
Since i had some Asia miles, i redeemed the same to get Airport Express tickets to Kowloon and also collected Octopus Card. This is very useful card which can be used in all public transport in HongKong(MTR, City bus, Ferry, Tram, in super market stores(Circle-K and 7-Eleven) and also in many food joints).We can add value to this card and also we can return the same to get refund the balance money.It took exactly 20 minutes to reach Kowloon and from there we took Airport Express Shuttle "K5" which dropped us in our Hotel "The City View". This was another reason for choosing this hotel.we got our room at 23rd Floor. It was nice view from there.This hotel is right next to A2 exit of Yau Ma Tei MTR, Near to KFC and can find 7-Eleven and Circle -K stores adjacent to it.
The Peak & Madam Tussauds Museum:
After relaxing for sometime, We took MTR to reach "The Peak Tram" terminus. Since it had rained, climate was very humid. As it was weekend, there was huge queue over there. we collected 2-in-1Combo ticket(Peak Tram two way + Madam Tussauds) which is cheaper than getting separate ticket for Peak Tram and Madame Tussauds. Since it was raining and weather is not clear, we didn't get 3-in-1 combo which includes SkyTerrace also.It was so crowded that we wait there for Half an hour.
The Peak Tram was one of oldest mode of transport to "The Peak". It goes at inclination of 45 degree.
Try to get Window seat on Right Side to get better view. Peak Tram reaches much faster than city bus which goes from Exchange Square Bus Terminus. Madam Tussauds is located in the same building where Peak Tram terminus is there. There are lots of restaurants and shops.Since rain stopped, we took ticket for Sky Terrace and went to highest viewing point in HK. we can get stunning view of Victoria Harbour, Skylines of HongKong Island and Kowloon side view. we took some pics and proceed towards Madam Tussauds Museum.
Madam Tussauds wax museum has wax figures of Hollywood actors(Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie,Nicole Kidman, Johnny Depp) , Asian actors(Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, Big-B), famous leaders(Obama, Clinton, Sadaam, Hitler, Gandhiji), Royal Family Members(Princess Diana), SportStars(David Beckham) and Pop Stars(MJ, Madonna, Lady Gaga). It feels good to take the pic with famous personalities.Its very interesting to see the people clicking the Pics in different poses. We had great time and enjoyed pics with all personalities. This is really worth to visit.
After that we had our Snack in Burger King. Once we came out , it was dark and could see another view of HongKong(Night view of lighted Sky scrapers). We came out of Peak Tower and went to Lion's Pavilion(Free View point). It was Spectacular view of whole HongKong Sky crappers and it was really magnificent one. This is must see one. The view from Lion's pavilion is almost same as view from SkyTerrace(Its not worth to spend 30HKD for Sky Terrace entry).
Then we return to Central MTR by taking The Peak Tram.
How to Reach:
The Peak can be reached by taking City Bus15 from Exchange Square Bus Terminus(right next to HongKong MTR Exit D). You can reach the peak by taking "The Peak Tram". You can reach Peak Tram Terminus by taking Exit J3 from Central MTR and walk down the Garden Road. Reaching Peak by Tram is much faster and suggested way.
Suggestion:
- Try to reach Peak in evening around 5:00 PM. so that you can enjoy Day view and also Night view.
- Try to get Combo Tickets, this will be cheaper.
Ladies Night Market:
We took train to Mongkok and reached the Ladies Market.This is place to get dress for kids, Ladies, some toys, Handbags, Belts, Souvenir, Bags, T-shirts and jeans.(These are not Branded items).This is like famous Janpath in New Delhi. This market is open until 10:30 pm and its fully crowded. we need to do good bargaining to strike the deal. Be Careful while bargaining, Some shopkeepers are very aggressive. if you are not interested in buying any item, don't bargain. we can see many shops selling kinky stuffs like underwear with elephant face with trunk(Be Ready to answer your kids questions;-)). You can also get HongKong Souvenirs like TShirts and magnets.
Day -1 : Arrival to HK, The Peak, Madame Tussauds Museum.
Day -2 : One day trip to Macau
Day -3: Ocean Park, Avenue of Stars
Day -4: NgongPing, Gaint Buddha
Day -5: Disneyland
Day -6: Disneyland & Dep to Bangalore
Day -1:
Since it was first abroad trip to my kids, they were very much excited. As our flight was scheduled to depart at 2:40 am, my kids were tired .Our flight landed in HK airport as scheduled time around 11:00 am. I would suggest you to get Window seat, as its really good to see while landing. HK International Airport is on man made Island and the runway is surrounded both sides by sea. you can feel like landing on sea.
 |
| Towards Airport Express station |
 |
| View from our room in "The City View" |
The Peak & Madam Tussauds Museum:
 |
| Peak Tram Station |
After relaxing for sometime, We took MTR to reach "The Peak Tram" terminus. Since it had rained, climate was very humid. As it was weekend, there was huge queue over there. we collected 2-in-1Combo ticket(Peak Tram two way + Madam Tussauds) which is cheaper than getting separate ticket for Peak Tram and Madame Tussauds. Since it was raining and weather is not clear, we didn't get 3-in-1 combo which includes SkyTerrace also.It was so crowded that we wait there for Half an hour.
The Peak Tram was one of oldest mode of transport to "The Peak". It goes at inclination of 45 degree.
 |
| 45 degree view from Tram |
 |
| View from Sky Terrace in The Peak |
 |
| Princess Diana in Madame Tussauds |
After that we had our Snack in Burger King. Once we came out , it was dark and could see another view of HongKong(Night view of lighted Sky scrapers). We came out of Peak Tower and went to Lion's Pavilion(Free View point). It was Spectacular view of whole HongKong Sky crappers and it was really magnificent one. This is must see one. The view from Lion's pavilion is almost same as view from SkyTerrace(Its not worth to spend 30HKD for Sky Terrace entry).
 |
| Night View of HongKong from Lions Pavilion, The Peak |
How to Reach:
The Peak can be reached by taking City Bus15 from Exchange Square Bus Terminus(right next to HongKong MTR Exit D). You can reach the peak by taking "The Peak Tram". You can reach Peak Tram Terminus by taking Exit J3 from Central MTR and walk down the Garden Road. Reaching Peak by Tram is much faster and suggested way.
Suggestion:
- Try to reach Peak in evening around 5:00 PM. so that you can enjoy Day view and also Night view.
- Try to get Combo Tickets, this will be cheaper.
Ladies Night Market:
We took train to Mongkok and reached the Ladies Market.This is place to get dress for kids, Ladies, some toys, Handbags, Belts, Souvenir, Bags, T-shirts and jeans.(These are not Branded items).This is like famous Janpath in New Delhi. This market is open until 10:30 pm and its fully crowded. we need to do good bargaining to strike the deal. Be Careful while bargaining, Some shopkeepers are very aggressive. if you are not interested in buying any item, don't bargain. we can see many shops selling kinky stuffs like underwear with elephant face with trunk(Be Ready to answer your kids questions;-)). You can also get HongKong Souvenirs like TShirts and magnets.
How to Reach:
Take train to Mong Kok MTR Station Exit E2, then walk along Nelson Street.
Suggestion:
- Test for your bargaining skill but be careful.
Day -2: Macau:
Macau is another SAR of China. Macau is known as Vegas of Asia and famous for its night life. Macau is also famous for its Historic heritage and Grand prix. Macau was colony of Portuguese. This is around 60kms from HongKong by Sea(approximately 1hour travel). There are ferries operating from HongKong Island(CotaiJet and TurboJet), Kowloon(First Ferry) and from HKIA. Since we stayed in Kowloon, we decided to go via New World First Ferry. This Ferry terminal is near Tsim-sha-tsui MTR and Harbour City Mall.
We reached ferry terminal around 8:15 am. Since it was Sunday, we could not get tickets at 9:00 am Ferry.we got tickets at 9:30 am Ferry and also we booked return tickets at 8:30 pm from Macau in advance(suggested as it will be very crowded). Please check for promotional Offers. we got offer of buy 3 tickets and Get 1 free(1 ticket 259HKD, Tickets needed for Infants also). we need to undergo immigration as we are going out of HongKong.Since we were travelling in high speed ferry for first time, It was very different and also uncomfortable(like riding on the Speed Breakers on Road).we reached Macau at around 10:30 am. Once long queue for Immigration coz it was weekend. In Macau local currency is Pataca(1 Pataca = 1HKD). Even HKD is acceptable everywhere, Local buses don't accept the same. In the Macau Ferry Terminal, there are automatic currency converter machines which can convert HKD to Pataca. Dont forget to collect Tourist Map for Macau tourism stall.if you are interested in going for one day guided tour, you can find may travel agent who offers one day tour in Cab(roughly around 180HKD per person).Since Macau is very small place, I would suggest you to go for self exploring tour.
Our Initial plan was to go to Macau Tower(Take 32 from Ferry Terminal).Since weather was gloomy and not clear, it doesn't make sense to go there. so we skipped it we took bus no 10A to A-Ma Temple(also Bus no 5 and 10). Since all display in buses are in Portuguese, its very difficult to understand the current location of bus on GPS display. Its better to check the place with co-passengers. This goes through Wynn (on left side), Grand Lisboa(on right Side), Senado Square(on right side). Then we reach A-Ma temple(on right side). This is one of ancient and famous temple of goddess of Fishermen.This temple is very beautiful and can see people worshipping with big incense sticks.This is one of must see place.
Then we took the same bus on opposite direction towards Senado square. This was once center of city when Macau was Portuguese colony. This place is paved by Striped Mosaic kind of Portuguese pavement. This place is enclosed with buildings of Portuguese architecture.This places surrounded by lots of shopping places and also many place to eat. This places was decorated for chinese newyear and was looking awesome.we walked towards St Dominic's church.
Then we walked towards St Paul Ruin's.The whole of streets on both sides full of eating places, shops selling Chinese kites, BBQ & Steaks and Bakery.One of must try is Portuguese Egg Tart and Koi Kei Bakery's Almond cakes and Peanut biscuits. Portuguese Egg tart has puffy base with mix creamy sweet egg. its yummy to have it and its really good snack. Another must try is Almond Cakes(like biscuit) and Peanut Biscuits(like Chikki or Kadalai mittai) from Koi Kei Bakery. this is one of oldest bakery and should try the same. Then we walked towards St Paul Ruins. This was one of oldest church but it was destroyed in 18th century. After clicking some pics, we took same bus from Senado square towards square of Lisboa/Wynn.
From here starts modern macau . From this square, we can see grand Lisboa, Wynn and MGM casino. Every Casino offers different kid of entertainments from Kids to Adults and also from Free to tickets around 500HKD.We went to Wynn Casino, we saw Musical fountain show over there. You can check out giant chandelier in "Tree of Prosperity" and also "Dragon of Fortune". These will happen for every half an hour.Please check out Jelly fish aqua inside the Casino. Kids and Pets are not allowed in casino. Another good thing about the casino is that they also provide free shuttles to Ferry terminals. so we took Wynn free shuttle to ferry terminal and then took City of Dreams free shuttle to go to another casino City of Dreams in Cotai Strip.
Cotai Strip is reclaimed area between Taipa and coloane Island. This is connected through 4.5Km long friendship bridge across the south china sea. It was full traffic jam on the bridge, so we had small power nap while travelling there in Shuttle. City Of Dreams is second largest Casino resort in Macau. It has two major hotels inside(Grand Hyatt & Hard Rock hotel). First attraction in City of Dreams is Vqaurium(Mermaid Show - Free one). This is really fascinating to someone dressed like mermaid and performing. we can feel as if real mermaid swimming along other fishes. Then we checked out "Dragon Treasure show"(popularly known as Bubble Show, Ticket 30HKD). This is 360 degree 3D multimedia show depicting story of dragon kings. check out the video belowThis projects everything as very lively.This is also must watch one.Another show which no one should miss is "House of Dancing Water"(ticket 100HKD). This is expensive but worth to watch it. Since we didn't have booking and its Sunday, we could not get tickets. There is also kids play area known as Kidscity.We had great food in Food Court(it also have McDonalds inside). Right across City of Dreams on the other side of road is "The Venetian", Biggest Casino in Macau. This is sister casino of "The Venetian Resort" in Vegas.
"The Venetian" resort is largest casino in Macau. Its interiors are like Italian Gothic Architecture.It looks like palace from inside.The whole of ceiling is decorated with paintings in french style.we went to towards "The Grand Canal shoppes". This is one of best place to shop if you are really looking for Branded stuffs. The whole buildings in this place are in Gothic style and it also have small Venice style Grand Canal with Gondola ride. It makes us feel as if we are in Venice. The whole of ceiling looks like bright blue sky.This is one of best place to took pictures.
Then we went to "Fun Ice World"(ticket 100HKD). This is Indoor ice exhibition where world famous structures are carved in Ice. This place is kept at -15'C. they also provided Jackets for kids and Adults.Its good to see Statue of Liberty, Taj Mahal, Eiffel tower. There is Ice Slide and Carousel made for Kids. There is another special show in "The Venetian" known as "Zaia" show(ticket 500HKD). This is kind of acrobatic and Dance performance which is worth to watch. we return back to Ferry terminal and left to HongKong. we were very tired as we had walkathon from the morning in Macau.
How to Reach:
In Macau, best way to travel is to take Free shuttle to casino from Ferry Terminals. The public Bus service is available, you can refer to Macau Tourist map for the route number. It costs 10HKD for above trip per person in City Bus.
Suggestion:
- Plan Macau one day trip in weekdays(coz in weekends waiting time in immigration is too long)
- Except local buses, HKD is accepted everywhere.
- Other attractions Macau Tower, MJ Gallery in Ponte 16
General Suggestions:
Take train to Mong Kok MTR Station Exit E2, then walk along Nelson Street.
Suggestion:
- Test for your bargaining skill but be careful.
Day -2: Macau:
We reached ferry terminal around 8:15 am. Since it was Sunday, we could not get tickets at 9:00 am Ferry.we got tickets at 9:30 am Ferry and also we booked return tickets at 8:30 pm from Macau in advance(suggested as it will be very crowded). Please check for promotional Offers. we got offer of buy 3 tickets and Get 1 free(1 ticket 259HKD, Tickets needed for Infants also). we need to undergo immigration as we are going out of HongKong.Since we were travelling in high speed ferry for first time, It was very different and also uncomfortable(like riding on the Speed Breakers on Road).we reached Macau at around 10:30 am. Once long queue for Immigration coz it was weekend. In Macau local currency is Pataca(1 Pataca = 1HKD). Even HKD is acceptable everywhere, Local buses don't accept the same. In the Macau Ferry Terminal, there are automatic currency converter machines which can convert HKD to Pataca. Dont forget to collect Tourist Map for Macau tourism stall.if you are interested in going for one day guided tour, you can find may travel agent who offers one day tour in Cab(roughly around 180HKD per person).Since Macau is very small place, I would suggest you to go for self exploring tour.
 |
| A-Ma Templ |
 |
Our Initial plan was to go to Macau Tower(Take 32 from Ferry Terminal).Since weather was gloomy and not clear, it doesn't make sense to go there. so we skipped it we took bus no 10A to A-Ma Temple(also Bus no 5 and 10). Since all display in buses are in Portuguese, its very difficult to understand the current location of bus on GPS display. Its better to check the place with co-passengers. This goes through Wynn (on left side), Grand Lisboa(on right Side), Senado Square(on right side). Then we reach A-Ma temple(on right side). This is one of ancient and famous temple of goddess of Fishermen.This temple is very beautiful and can see people worshipping with big incense sticks.This is one of must see place. |
| Senado Square |
 |
| Egg Tart |
Then we walked towards St Paul Ruin's.The whole of streets on both sides full of eating places, shops selling Chinese kites, BBQ & Steaks and Bakery.One of must try is Portuguese Egg Tart and Koi Kei Bakery's Almond cakes and Peanut biscuits. Portuguese Egg tart has puffy base with mix creamy sweet egg. its yummy to have it and its really good snack. Another must try is Almond Cakes(like biscuit) and Peanut Biscuits(like Chikki or Kadalai mittai) from Koi Kei Bakery. this is one of oldest bakery and should try the same. Then we walked towards St Paul Ruins. This was one of oldest church but it was destroyed in 18th century. After clicking some pics, we took same bus from Senado square towards square of Lisboa/Wynn. |
| Ruins of St. Paul |
 |
| Grans Lisboa |
 |
| Dragon of Fortune in Wynn |
 |
| Mermaid Show, City of Dreams |
 |
| Grand Canal Shoppes |
 |
| Inside Venetian |
 |
| Fun Ice World |
 |
| Venice in Macau |
In Macau, best way to travel is to take Free shuttle to casino from Ferry Terminals. The public Bus service is available, you can refer to Macau Tourist map for the route number. It costs 10HKD for above trip per person in City Bus.
Suggestion:
- Plan Macau one day trip in weekdays(coz in weekends waiting time in immigration is too long)
- Except local buses, HKD is accepted everywhere.
- Other attractions Macau Tower, MJ Gallery in Ponte 16
General Suggestions:
Forex - I would suggest you to get HKD from local Forex available in your place. They will provide good exchange rates.
Travel - Go for Octopus Card, its very convenient and very cost effective
Travel - Go for Octopus Card, its very convenient and very cost effective
1 comment:
eiffel tower macau Aurecon was involved in the design and design of the unique new structure. We provided complete structural engineering advice for the project and assisted with keeping the original design.
Post a Comment