Hong Kong is a unique city that occupies the territory of China but is considered an Asian outpost of Western civilization, and in the winter it is waiting for tourists. Savannah-draped in the warm golden hues in summer, gets changed into a cool and crisp winter destination with beautiful Christmas lights and decorations making it an ideal place for people who want to break free from the monotony of their daily life and live in the extraordinary. Regardless of whether you are admiring the spectacular skyline of the building, visiting cultural sites or simply making a gourmet feast of various activities for the season, Hong Kong is a city that does not cease to surprise and delight at any time of the year.
Every traveler planning on visiting Hong Kong from Dubai or any part of UAE will be glad to know that the process of getting a Hong Kong visa from Dubai or a Hong Kong visa from UAE is very simple and fast. Thus the visa gives a visitor a convenient opportunity to enjoy all the attractions which Hong Kong can offer. A city which has stunning architectures, historic places, and numerous tourist attraction centers, it is the perfect place for travel during winter.
Hong Kong during winter is good for sightseeing both within the city and for visiting a number of parks and forests. From the lights at the Victoria Harbour to the Christmas and New Year festivities at Hong Kong Disneyland, there is so much to experience. In this guide, let’s show you the five best places and things to do for a great winter trip to Hong Kong.
Here are the top five must-see attractions and activities that make Hong Kong an unforgettable winter destination:
1. Victoria Harbour and the show of lights
Another easily recognizable symbol of this area is Victoria Harbour, an incredible water area, which lies between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula. Since it is winter time, it is a perfect time to take a walk into the promenade area of Tsim Sha Tsui and have a look at some of the most beautiful views of the city skyline. During night, the skyline comes alive with the Symphony of Lights, an entertaining light and sound show. The show takes place every day at 8 p.m., and lights up over 40 buildings at the harbor, making the environment rather fairy like.
If you want a more personal touch, take the Star Ferry, which may be one of the better ways to experience the scenery while crossing the harbor. This ride becomes even more enjoyable and refreshing when the winter breeze starts blowing making the air cold.
2. Hong Kong Disneyland – The Winter Festivities
Hong Kong Disneyland in winter is a fairytale. The park transforms into a Christmas extravaganza with Christmas decoration, parades, and exclusive show for the winter season and much more. Along these lines, a number of themed foods, merchandise, and attractions are available during the periods from November to January. The Disney Christmas parade is one, everyone is dressed to the nine, and the floats are out of this world.
For even more of the Christmas spirit, the park has two fabulous shows that take place during the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony and Mickey and Minnie’s Winter Wonderland. This is the best place for families and lovers of Disney to be during the holiday season.
3. Lantau Island & Ngong Ping 360 Cable Cars
If you are tired of the noisy city and want to have a rest on the nature of Hong Kong, Lantau Island can be the best winter resort. The island houses the magnificent Tian Tan Buddha, the world’s largest seated outdoor bronze Buddha and provides calm environment if taken away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
By cable car, the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car is a 5.7 km cable car ride through Lantau Island and the South China Sea as well as the mountains. The fact that the winter is cool makes it even more suitable for tourism and sightseeing. When you reach the top, you have the Po Lin Monastery where tourists are given a background on Buddhism or take a leisurely stroll around Ngong Ping Village.
4. Hong Kong Observation Wheel
The Hong Kong Observation Wheel is really suitable for those clients who want to have a birds eye view of the city. The 60 meters high observation wheel is situated on the Central Harbourfront where visitors can get the most beautiful view of the skyline of Hong Kong, Victoria Harbour and Kowloon. Winter is particularly good because there are no clouds, the air is fresh and the view is even more stunning.
The Observation Wheel is a good platform to view the beautiful sky scrapes like the International Commerce Centre, Bank of China Tower and other buildings of Hong Kong. This is actually a wonderful experience which offers nice photo moments especially when the lights of the city start to come on.
5. Winter Shop and Market Sales
It also a good time to go shopping in Hong Kong since many malls and boutiques has their sale and discounts during winter. There is a Causeway Bay district that contains Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui district with IFC Mall and Times Square that offer everything, including luxury clothing, electronics, and accessories. Winter fashion accessories including coats, scarfs and other winter wear, are ideal for the relatively moderate winter of Hong Kong.
To get a feel of real markets, you should visit Mong Kok street markets. Ladies’ Market is among the most popular markets that offer almost everything from clothes and accessories to souvenirs and gadgets. Next, visit the Temple Street Night Market to shop for antiques, food and souvenirs or just have dinner. These markets are at their best during winter and if you intend to buy some gifts to bring home, then you will find some of the best here.
Other Tips for the Traveller from Dubai or the UAE
Wondering which destination to choose for your winter vacation from Dubai or UAE and heading towards Hong Kong? Here are some essential tips for your journey:
- Hong Kong Visa from Dubai/UAE: It is advisable that you apply for your visa to Hong Kong from Dubai or visa to Hong Kong from UAE in good time. The process is simple and you can apply online or at any Hong Kong consulate. Before making your travel arrangements be sure to check the current visa requirements as well as the current processing times.
- Weather: The Hong Kong winter is relatively mild, the temperature ranging between 14°C and 20°C. So to speak, the climate is not exactly cold, but it is still advisable to dress in layers, at least a jacket or a sweater would do. Bring sneakers for walking since you will be moving around a lot.
- Currency: The official currency used in the Hong Kong is the Hong Kong Dollar code (HKD). It is however recommended to carry some local currency with one since credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
- Language: The official language is Cantonese, however, everyone understands English mostly in areas that are densely populated with tourists.
- Health and Safety: First of all, Hong Kong is extremely safe for tourists, and therefore, while visiting, one has no risk of facing such problems connected with climate as excessive heat or high humidity, which is characteristic of other seasons. Remember to take your water and wear your sunscreen if you are going to be sunning anywhere.
Conclusion
Winter in Hong Kong is a perfect time for cultural tourism and outdoor activities as well as a great holiday atmosphere. From the bright illuminations above Victoria Harbour to the enchanting atmosphere of the Hong Kong Disneyland, the winter in this city will leave you with only the most pleasant impressions. Do not miss the beauty of Lantau Island and few hours shopping in the downtown during winter.So, if you are planning your trip from Dubai or UAE, getting your Hong Kong visa from UAE or the visa of your desired area in UAE is not a herculean task and that’s how you make sure you are ready to make the most of your Hong Kong trip this winter. Put on your suitcase, gather your visa and prepare for the best journey ever!