After living in Hong Kong for almost five years—through protests, a pandemic, all the chaos in between, and 2 years away in Europe—I finally came back!
For me, Hong Kong is more than just a destination—it’s like going home. The energy, the people, the food, the views—it all feels so familiar and grounding. The return felt like stepping into a time capsule—and a whole new world. So, what changed? What didn’t? Let’s recap.
⭐️ People in Asia won’t stop working.
Walking through my old neighborhood, I saw the same hardworking grandpa still running his shop like no time had passed. It’s a powerful reminder of the relentless work ethic here—some things never change.
⭐️ Hiking in the city is the best thing ever.
Hong Kong is one of the few cities in the world where you can go from skyscrapers to nature in minutes. The Peak is a perfect example—right in the heart of the city, it offers incredible views of the skyline while immersing you in greenery. It’s surreal to hike through such calm, natural surroundings with the buzz of the city just below. What’s even crazier? You can fit it into your day like it’s no big deal. Imagine hiking in the morning, grabbing brunch downtown, and hitting the beach by afternoon.
⭐️ The food scene is just… 😍
Hong Kong’s culinary scene? Simply unbeatable. Enough said. I couldn’t resist going back to my favorite restaurants. The flavors are exactly as I remembered—and maybe even better. And the new spots I tried? Let’s just say the bar is still set very high.
⭐️ Covid changed the city’s landscape.
The pandemic took a toll on businesses. Some beloved spots were gone, but new cafes, bars, and restaurants had sprung up in their place. Hong Kong moves fast, and two years is a lifetime in this city.
⭐️ Life outside downtown feels like a holiday.
On Lantau Island, you don’t need a plane ticket to find Bali vibes—just hop on a ferry/MTR. It’s a completely different side of Hong Kong, where time slows down, and nature takes over. Stepping away from the city’s hustle makes you appreciate its energy even more—and reminds you that paradise is often closer than you think.
⭐️ The art scene is thriving.
Visiting M+ and other cultural hubs was a huge highlight. Hong Kong is leaning into its creative side more than ever, and it’s inspiring to see art and design taking center stage.
⭐️ The elderly are Hong Kong’s true icons.
Whether it’s tai chi at the Sun Yat Sen pier, morning swims at Deep Water Bay, the city’s elderly population is always active. Their energy and routines are proof that staying physically and mentally engaged is the key to longevity. Because even if work is priority, they don’t forget to move their body.
⭐️ Halloween in Asia is always next level.
Halloween in Hong Kong is pure chaos—in the best way. The costumes, the energy, the creativity… Asia really knows how to do it.
⭐️ The skyline feeds your ambition.
Whether it’s the skies at dusk or the architecture, Hong Kong’s pastel palette is a constant source of beauty. Looking out over the skyline always reminds me of why this city feels so alive. Like New York or Shanghai, it makes you feel small but also reminds you that anything is possible. This city has an energy that makes you believe the world is yours.
⭐️ Adventure is always close by.
HK transports make adventure in the city effortless. After a quick 20-minute ride to Tai Po, I was on a bike, ready to tackle a 40km trail that leads to Tsz Shan Monastery. The ride was both challenging and rewarding, offering a completely different side of the city.
Hong Kong is definitely a city for people who have no time to waste. Want to explore the best spots yourself? I’ve created a straight-to-the-point city guide to help you dive right in. Check it out below!
Because I wanted to make every moment of my return count, I curated a Google Maps list and a PDF checklist to guide me through the city and plan my time, before I even stepped off the plane. From rediscovering old favorites to uncovering new gems, this trip was about reconnecting with everything I love about the city.
Now, I’m sharing these resources with you for free. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or reconnecting like me, these tools will help you make the most of your time in Hong Kong.
When I travel, I can’t stand wasting time searching for things to do or, worse, falling into touristy or Instagram traps. That’s why I always plan ahead and keep my must-visit list with me at all times.
Google Maps is my go-to tool. No endless scrolling through websites—I’ve done the hard work for you. Everything is compiled into one simple, easy-to-use list. Just save it on your phone and start exploring.
If you’re more of a visual person, I’ve created a simple, categorized shortlist of my favorite spots in the city. Each section is paired with photos I took during this trip to give you a taste of what to expect.
This PDF checklist organizes my top picks into categories, making it perfect for planning a weekend getaway or an extended stay. Clear, concise, and visually inspiring—just how I like it. Here’s a sneak peek:
Stay tuned for the full city guide, packed with even more tips, hidden gems, and insider knowledge. Perfect for expats or anyone looking to experience Hong Kong beyond the guidebooks.
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Save time, skip the research, and dive into adventure!
See you soon,
BABA ✌🏼
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