This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong, Hong Kong, belongs to the People's Republic of China, but it is a special administrative region with a separate executive, legislature, and judiciary. Before Hong Kong became part of China near the close of the twentieth century, it was under British rule for almost one hundred fifty years.
Geographically, the city is located on the Chinese south coast by the shores of the South China Sea. There are three main regions in Hong Kong -- The New Territories, Kowloon Peninsula, and Hong Kong Island. In addition to that, more than two hundred outlying islands belong to this autonomous region. The overwhelming part of the population is Han Chinese, mostly Cantonese descendants, and there are not many English locals left. Unfortunately, due to the lack of space and building land modern and higher buildings replaced most of the old architecture. Historic structures such as the Tung Chung Fort on Lantau Island and Victoria Barracks on Hong Kong Island give you an impression what the modern city once looked like. They are definitely worth seeing.
Hong Kong is a very popular tourist destination. In fact, there are more than twenty-six million international tourist arrivals every year. For this reason, the city has countless options for Hong Kong, Hong Kong hostels, hotels, and guesthouses. Free Wi-Fi is standard in almost all accommodations. Do not expect much space in inexpensive places such as hostels in Hong Kong, Hong Kong. Small flats are very common and most Hong Kong, Hong Kong hostels are located in one of the towering buildings in the centre of the city. Therefore, living space is a bit limited, but you will get used to this lifestyle.
Architecture lovers can check out several beautiful worth-seeing buildings on Hong Kong Island, mainly from the nineteenth century. Victoria Barracks were the first British military compounds in the city. They were in use from the mid-nineteenth century to the late twentieth century. Wavell House especially offers a really nice architectural style. Flagstaff House is the oldest remaining example of architecture influenced by a Western style. During the time under the British rule, the local commander of the British military forces was living there. Victoria Peak enables you a stunning and dramatic view on the city centre of Hong Kong. It is a mountain located on Hong Kong Island and definitely worth a visit, though sometimes, you have to be careful with the weather (check first if you have clear visibility). The skyline of Hong Kong is a point of interest, as well. The best view of the city centre with its skyscrapers is from the Avenue of Stars on the Kowloon Peninsula. There you can also find statues of celebrities.
Hong Kong Island
Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong, is part of the cluster of islands that is known as Hong Kong. Even though it is only the second-largest island, Hong Kong Island is where the financial hub and city centre can be found. Hong Kong is predominately made up of four main islands -- Kowloon, New Territories, Lantau Island, and Hong Kong Island.
Hong Kong is a financial epicentre and has served as an international and financial gateway for many Asian countries over the decades, especially for China. Hong Kong was once a colony of the United Kingdom, but the country has recently been handed back over to China. It is now currently governed under China's one country, two system principle.
While the islands making up Hong Kong are quintessentially Hong Kong, there are small difference that can be noted between the islands. As it's considered the central area of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Island is where the large financial centre is found, and many of the major banks and businesses are here. The island is also host to many expats living and working in the country, which is made evident by the abundance of Western and European shops, restaurants, and services readily available.
Space and land are very limited on the island and often come at a premium, which is evident in accommodation pricing here. High-end, luxurious hotels and service apartments are available everywhere on the island. Budget-friendly hostels in Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong, are just as easily available, but are a bit more sparse in between.
Hostels in Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong, are often small and compact, but clean, trendy, and modern. Typically, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong hostels offers private, double, and dorm rooms, with an option of mixed dorms and female-only dorms. Hostels in Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong, will generally also come with air conditioning, laundry facilities, small kitchenettes, and common rooms.
Written by local enthusiast for Hong Kong hostels
Flo
