I have mentioned hiking as one of the top 5 things to do in Hong Kong because it has some of the best urban hiking trails in the world. What do I mean by urban hiking trails? It means they are close to the city and offers a spectacular view of them, in this case the best views of Hong Kong. You might be impressed by the views from Rio De Janeiro and Table Mountain of South Africa, but Hong Kong’s hiking trails not only offer awesome views, there are plenty of them and most aren’t that hard to hike.

If I don’t convince you to pack your hiking shoes to Hong Kong with this post when you visit, then I don’t know what will!

Finding the Best Views of Hong Kong While on a Hike!

Suicide Cliff (Kowloon Peak)

This is taken from the trail looking down – not by a drone!

If you want a spectacular city backdrop against a rock platform, then look no further than Suicide Cliff en route up Kowloon Peak. In fact, a photo taken here has won a 19-year-old a National Geography photography competition. While it is beautiful in the daytime, it’s even more so at night when the city lights up.

Hong Kong seen from the top of Kowloon at Suicide Cliff

The name Suicide Cliff comes from the almost vertical cliff face that makes it even more dramatic. As part of the trail that goes up to the highest peak in Kowloon, one requires a certain level of fitness and preparation to conquer this hike. If you are interested in how to hike this, I have a detailed night hike up Suicide Cliff guide.

High Junk Peak

High Junk Peak on a clear day!

Number three on the three sharp peaks of Sai Kung, High Junk Peak is the easiest one to hike and you get to see all of Sai Kung at the top. Located in the Sai Kung region near Clear Water Bay, you see more nature than city along here. Its highest point offers a clear view of the golf course and Ninepin Islands from afar. In fact, it would almost feel like you are not in Hong Kong at all!

The tallest building in the far distance middle is IFC. Lion Rock Mountain can just be made out on the right, the third with a slight kink.

One of my favourite view of this hike is that of the whole of Kowloon and part of Hong Kong Island from the first stretch of the trail. You can see the Lion Rock Mountain, IFC, and the Victoria Harbour – though it looks a lot smaller in photos.

Lion Rock Mountain

Lion Rock has a close up cityscape view of Kowloon!

The Lion Rock Mountain is a popular trail in Hong Kong since it is the symbol of Hong Kongese’s spirits. While I prefer the view of Suicide Cliff, Lion Rock Mountain is an easier climb and a lot closer to the city. It also offers a clear view of Kowloon on its highest points and a hotspot for rock climbers. It’s a must hike for many because of its symbolism and ease.

MacLehose Trail Stage 4

How can you resist this view? It’s the Sai Kung sea!

By far one of my most favourite hikes, the MacLehose Trail Stage 4 runs from Sai Kung to Ma On Shan. The first hour of the trail is boring, but the reward when you reach the viewpoint is great. You get to see the view of Sai Kung and Shatin and the scenery gets even wider when you reach the ridge before the Pyramid Hill. On the weekend, you can even catch some paragliders drifting in the sky. In fact, Sai Kung is a great area to hike in general! For more hikes around Sai Kung, you can see them on my Hong Kong hiking page.

Devil’s Peak

We are now looking towards Hong Kong Island from the east

In the western part of Kowloon on the Wilson Trail Stage 3 is the Devil’s Peak and its abandon fortress. Because it’s right by the coastline, you get a closer view of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon than from High Junk Peak. Its view also comprises of less wilderness and more cityscape. You can find a lot of rocks either side of the trail to take shots from, we certainly pop all over the place on our visit.

Twins Peak

The endless stairways down towards Stanley. Despite the weather, we could still see the peninsular clearly!

Despite the brutal thousand steps of stairs that are required to conquer the top of the peak, many still choose the hike the Twins Peak. Why? Because it gives you a completely unobstructed view of the Stanley peninsula. Part of the Wilson Trail Stage 1, the Twins Peak amounts to the equivalent of 60 storey’s staircase. So you best get your keen brace on if you want to hike this beast.

Dragon’s Back

Facing the village of Shek O, Dragon’s Back is an easy hike suitable for beginners!

The award-winning urban trail is the most popular trail on Hong Kong Island because of its view and ease to hike. One can’t deny the beauty of a ridge trail and the view of Shek O. However, it gets overcrowded on a weekend. So if you hate hiking in a queue, then try to go on a weekday.

Sunset Peak

Hiking the Sunset Peak around November means you’ll hit silver grass season!

Less strenuous than the Lantau Peak, Sunset Peak on Lantau Island is beautiful in fall when the silver grass bloom across the entire mountain top. Again, hiking to the top involves a lot of stairs and its popularity means many people heads there unprepared. It is the best place to admire the silver grass and if you have the time to spare, go further up to Lantau Peak to camp overnight to view the sunrise the next day.

Pineapple Mountain

A landscape that’s not often found in Hong Kong and reminiscent of Grand Canyon!

Technically not a hiking trail since it’s well paved most of the time, the Pineapple Mountain in Tuen Mum is the shortest hike on the list. It also stays on one path only and aside from being very hilly in the beginning is easy to get to. It is dubbed as the Grand Canyon of Hong Kong with its weathered surface and sandy ground, however, it is a lot smaller than it looks.

The weathering of the hill makes this a unique landscape not found often in anywhere else in Hong Kong

If you have been to somewhere similar then chances are this won’t impress you. But since it’s unique in Hong Kong which is made of mostly igneous rock. Since it’s so far in New Territories, when I went hiking there I ended up eating in the Yuen Long town center, too. You can find my itinerary here.

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Hong Kong has an overwhelming amount of choice for a quick bite to eat, but with this guide to Hong Kong’s best hidden eateries, we’re letting you in on all the secrets.

guide to Hong Kong’s best hidden eateries

I frowned at the mystery meat floating in my broth and looked at my friend, Jeff, questioningly. He shook his head and smirked, and I steeled myself to take a nibble. Ah – pig lung. An unpleasant chewy texture, accompanied by a violent urge to spit it out again immediately.

We were in Jeff’s favorite restaurant, in Kowloon Bay, eating a selection of popular classic local dishes. Apart from the pig lung broth, we were tucking into some delicious crispy fried white fish with a chili sauce, soft tofu seasoned with salted fish, steamed water cabbage with soy sauce and a big tub of steamed white rice. The rice is served with a tall glass of lard that you spoon into your bowl and then mix with soy sauce.

The whole meal was basically a heart attack waiting to happen! But as with most unhealthy things, it was unbelievably delicious (well…apart from the pig lung!). The restaurant itself was packed, filled with chatter, arguments, and laughter – so much so that we basically had to shout to hear each other. A classic Hong Kong scene.

粗菜館Tso Choi Restaurant, G/F 17A Nga Tsin Wai Rd, Kowloon City

To truly visit Hong Kong, you need to see it through what it is best known for – it’s food. There is a wealth of variety and deliciousness in the cuisines available here. Although visitors should beware that traditional Cantonese food is known for its utilization of every part of the animal, which can bring up some interesting dishes!

In my quest to find the best truly local Hong Kong eateries I enlisted the help of 3 local foodies; Jeff, Justin, and Chia. I asked each of them to take me to their best-loved restaurant, to try their favorite dishes – leaving myself entirely in their hands.

The second must-visit eatery is in Tai Po Market, deep in the New Territories.

Justin assured me that their famed clay rice bowls are well worth the long journey. Clay rice bowls are a Cantonese delicacy, dating back almost 2000 years, where rice is slow cooked in clay bowls with dried meats that infuse their flavor. There is a constant queue for the restaurant, so I would recommend getting there early if you’re going for dinner (aim for 6ish). You order while waiting in line, for maximum efficiency – we ordered a cured meat pot and a beef pot.

We were soon settled in and ordered our starters; rice noodle rolls (cheong fun) with bbq meat and the seemingly ubiquitous Cantonese mystery meat broth. The cheong fun served with sweet soy sauce was the best I had ever tasted – the perfect mix of sweet, salty and sticky.

The mystery meat turned out to be beef tripe and pig intestines. After intense internal debate, I once again bullied myself into trying a bowl. The chewy texture of the tripe was unpleasant to begin with, but the taste was so good that I was soon able to overlook it and wolf it down. The intestines were a whole other story and were left untouched.

Then came the clay pots. The beef pot was served with a raw egg cracked over it that was cooked by the heat of the rice. Tasty, but nothing extraordinary. The star of the show was definitely the cured meat pot. Cooked with sweet Cantonese sausage, salted duck and bbq pork, the rice had soaked up all that salty, oily goodness. There was fierce competition for seconds and no hope for thirds!

陳漢記 Chan Hon Kee –  G/F, No. 91B Wan Tau Street, Tai Po

The next day we came to my favorite eatery, chosen by Chia. Concealed in the back streets of Sham Shui Po, with not another non-Chinese face to be seen, this little dai pai dong (open air food stall) was overflowing with character.

The kitchen was set up on the road with tables and chairs taking up the sidewalk surrounding it. Chia, my sister Katie, and I grabbed a table near the kitchen and ordered dishes entirely based on the waitress’s recommendations – although Katie firmly vetoed the stir fried seafood intestines (I was so glad to have brought along someone significantly less adventurous than myself!).

While we waited for our food we washed our bowls, plates, and chopsticks in the hot tea provided. This wasn’t a reflection on the cleanliness of the place, it is a custom performed in all traditional restaurants – typically by the youngest of your party.

After only a couple of minutes, a large plate of steamed ginger chicken arrived, served with a deliciously salty ginger sauce. This was closely followed by a plate of piping hot, deep fried battered white fish with a soy-vinegar dip, and stir fried kailan with steamed squid. All the dishes were shared and disappeared speedily down our gullets while we caught up, shared stories and people watched. The best thing about this dai pai dong? Watching the sun go down over the city, the streetlights and neons signs light up and knowing you’re right at the heart of it all.

強記大排檔, G/F, No. 219 Kei Lung Street, Sham Shui Po

As you’ve probably guessed, this foodie exploration is not for the faint-stomached. Had it not been for my local foodies accompanying me, I doubt I would have been able to find these places myself. 

However, despite all the restaurants being in a totally Chinese environment, each of these places has either an English menu, or a picture menu that you can point at (so you don’t have to worry about accidentally ordering 5 plates of chicken brains). 

Each of them is worth visiting not only for their food but also for their uniquely Hong Kong setting. It really is adventure at its best – through the stomach!

This article is from fellow travel blogger, Ellie Stokes. You can check our her blog and follow her on Instagram. Thanks, Ellie!

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Hong Kong is known as the Pearl of the Orient and a mix of Eastern and Western world. Not only do you have an international city fill with skyscrapers and people, but there are quaint villages and traditional temples, too. A lot of people have the misconception that Hong Kong is a small place and can be done in a few days, but it isn’t true. In fact, I never fail to find new things to do every weekend since I’ve moved back a year or so ago. Now it begs to question: what exactly are the top things to do in Hong Kong? Here are my top 5:

A lot of people have the misconception that Hong Kong is a small place and can be done in a few days, but it isn’t true. In fact, I never fail to find new things to do every weekend since I’ve moved back a year or so ago. Now it begs to question: what exactly are the top things to do in Hong Kong? Here are my top 5:

Now it begs to question: what exactly are the top things to do in Hong Kong? Here are my top 5:

Here Are My Top 5 Things to do in Hong Kong

1. Sample some local street food

A delicious egg waffle with meat floss and seaweed filling

Hong Kong people like variety, and it’s no exception when it comes to street food. From local egg waffle (my personal favourite) to Korean Fried Chicken, there isn’t a snack that you can’t find in Hong Kong. In fact, one of my weekly activities involve strolling the street of Mong Kok with egg waffle in one hand and a bubble tea in the other. In case you don’t know what egg waffles are, they are egg or bubble shaped waffles originated in the streets of Hong Kong in the 50s. You can find

In fact, one of my weekly activities involve strolling the street of Mong Kok with egg waffle in one hand and a bubble tea in the other. In case you don’t know what egg waffles are, they are egg or bubble shaped waffles originated in the streets of Hong Kong in the 50s. You can find

In case you don’t know what egg waffles are, they are egg or bubble shaped waffles originated in the streets of Hong Kong in the 50s. You can find where best to eat them in Hong Kong here.

You can get fish ball and fish siu mai for less than twenty Hong Kong Dollars!

Honorable snack mentions are egg tarts, fish siu mai, fish balls, sugar cane juice, stinky tofu and fresh fruit juice. Some of the best places to hunt for street food is Dundas Street and Temple Street in Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon.

2. Go Hiking

Hong Kong seen from the top of Kowloon at Suicide Cliff

Did you know that over 50% of Hong Kong are green? Of

Of course, you don’t! Most people automatically think of Hong Kong as the concrete jungle. Yet, the truth is that Hong Kong is home to some of the best hiking trails around the world. I have hiked no less than twenty trails and haven’t even covered a fraction of the trails available in Hong Kong. People are always surprised by my hiking photos on Instagram.

Most people automatically think of Hong Kong as the concrete jungle. Yet, the truth is that Hong Kong is home to some of the best hiking trails around the world. I have hiked no less than twenty trails and haven’t even covered a fraction of the trails available in Hong Kong. People are always surprised by my hiking photos on Instagram.

I have hiked no less than twenty trails and haven’t even covered a fraction of the trails available in Hong Kong. People are always surprised by my hiking photos on Instagram.

High Junk Peak on a clear day!

Some of my personal top five are the Suicide Cliff, High Junk Peak, the Devil’s Peak, Lion Rock Mountain and Shui Long Wo. My most recent hike up Tai Tun Mountain’s view

My most recent hike up Tai Tun Mountain’s view rivals the best tropical paradise. So if you ever come to Hong Kong, don’t miss the chance to hike one of these trails. Some, like the High West Peak, is so close to the city that you have no excuse. I have

I have a whole section on hiking in Hong Kong if you are interested.

3. Visit a housing estate

The scarily dense Montane Estate

Now back to the conception of Hong Kong as a high density, over populated city. Because it is true. Hong Kong is home to many housing estates that consist of

Hong Kong is home to many housing estates that consist of tightly grouped highrises, and many have become a photographer’s dream come true. You have the rainbow

You have the rainbow colored Choi Hung Estates, which is also one of the oldest housing estates in Hong Kong. Another famous estate is the Montane Mansion, whose courtyard offer only a slight glimpse of the sky because the buildings are so close together.

4. Go Temple Hopping

The Sai Kung TIn Hau Temple during its anniversary celebration

There are many Buddhist and Taoist temples dotted around Hong Kong, some of them dating as far back as the 17th century. From the sea goddess to the Imperial god, each of the

From the sea goddess to the Imperial god, each of the temples is unique in its own way and a beautiful work of art.

There is the famous Wong Tai Sin Temple that features the twelve Chinese Zodiac statues and the tradition of kai chim in Kowloon.

Goat ornament at the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery

One MTR station over is the Chi Lin Nunnery with the Tong-style Chinese Garden and beautiful wooden architecture. On Hong Kong Island, there is the Man Mo Temple, dedicated to the gods of Literature and Martial. And up on a hill in Shatin are ten thousand Buddhas in the aptly named Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery.

And I’ve only named the tip of the iceberg.

5. Enjoy the view of Victoria Harbour

Victoria Harbour viewed from the Lion Pavillion on the Peak

Victoria Harbour, while not very large, is one of the most famous stretches of water in the world. Separating the Kowloon Peninsular and Hong Kong Island, the harbour not only witnesses the growth of the city but also become an integral part of it.

With its nightly light show, the Victoria Harbour and the skyscrapers that line it are one of the most photographed places in the world. People head up to the Peak to take the spectacular view over it.

A ridiculously beautiful sunset at the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade

People take the Aqua Luna cruise or the Star Ferry across it. People stand on the Central or Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade to admire it.

Honestly, the one view that I never get tired of is the Victoria Harbour, not matter which angle I am looking at it from. So when in Hong Kong, make sure you see as many sides of Victoria Harbour as you can.

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Here’s the perfect Hong Kong itinerary for one week! You can easily tweak it to be shorter or longer, and it’s written by fellow travel bloggers who have lived in the city for years. 

Although Hong Kong is mostly known as a shopping paradise and dim sum destination, this island has much more to offer, not only to its locals, but also to world-wide travelers and holiday makers.

Hong Kong is, above all, a place where different cultures meet together. In one city, you can find a mix of Cantonese, British and Mandarin cultures. It is filled with local museums and parks, healthy restaurants and there are plenty of festivals taking place every month. If you are looking for a vibrant and dynamic place for shopping, good food, great nightlife and amazing views, Hong Kong is the place!

How long should I stay in Hong Kong?

When you are planning a trip to Hong Kong, do not make it too lengthy (2 – 3 weeks) or too short like (3 – 4 days). Realistically, you’ll want to spend a week in Hong Kong to make the most of the city. With a week, you’ll be able to see all the highlights and even have time for some lesser known areas.

The beautiful combination of modern landscapes and natural beauty makes Hong Kong very interesting. It is quite famous for its popular shopping destinations and hiking. So, you need to plan the entire trip in such a way that it can cover all the places and at the same time you can enjoy hiking too. In Hong Kong you will find many people speaking English, with a very large expat community. A lot of newcomers look for a potential English teaching job in China.

Here’s a week-long Hong Kong itinerary you can copy for yourself!

Where to Stay in Hong Kong

There are many places to stay in Hong Kong, and often people think of the city as too expensive. However, there are a lot of options at different budgets, which you can compare here.

The ULTIMATE Hong Kong Itinerary

Day 1: Overlook the Hong Kong City & Victoria Harbor

After landing, it’s best to rest, have your lunch and then witness the Hong Kong skyline. You will not want to miss the breathtaking aerial view of the entire Hong Kong city and the Victoria Harbor.

You can take a look at this awesome view and enjoy its beauty from Victoria Peak, or The Peak, on Hong Kong Peninsula. It is about 512m or 1811 feet high and offers one of the best scintillating views of the city. You can take a ride up the hill with a series of escalators or by a bus. The entire city lights up with glittery neon lights at the night which looks amazing. Do not miss the light show (Symphony of Lights) that takes place at 8 pm every day.

Day 2: Relaxing in the Nan Lian Garden

On the second day, you can get the feel of Hong Kong city in the beautiful Nan Lian Garden. You can chill over there and admire the natural beauty of the city. It is one of the most beautiful natural spots in Hong Kong. After that have your lunch and head for a relaxing stroll on Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and Avenue Of The Stars. Even in the evening, you can enjoy the ferry ride on Victoria Harbor. This is something which you should not miss. It is a great way to relax and enjoy your vacation.

Day 3: Hong Kong Museum Of History

On the third day, you can get the best of Hong Kong by visiting Hong Kong Museum of History. It remains open every day from 10 am to 6 pm (local time) except on Tuesdays. So, make sure your Day 3 is not on Tuesday. This is the best way to gain some deeper and better understanding of the history of Hong Kong. When you are visiting a new place, the trip is incomplete without knowing a bit of their ancient and glorious history to understand its culture. Thus visiting this museum is mandatory. After this, you can walk through Kowloon with Nathan Road and then the Temple Street Night Market in order to finish the third day.

Day 4: Explore the Markets and Specialty Streets

These places are great for shopping. There are a lot of streets in Hong Kong which are specialized in selling some particular commodities. It can be anything and everything that you want. Starting from flower market with some exclusive flowers and bouquets, to ladies market where you can find stylish inexpensive clothes, everything is there. Later you can go to Temple Night Street market for some great souvenirs for your Hong Kong Trip and scrumptious sea-foods.

Day 5: Lantau Island

This is the largest island of Hong Kong which is situated at the mouth of the Pearl River. Go there for a visit to Ngong Ping Plateau which has a beautiful Po Lin Monastery. It has a huge statue of Tian Tan Buddha (which means “Giant Buddha”). The statue is about 85 feet (or 26m) in height. This place is well connected by roadways as well as railways. So, getting there is not a problem. This place is accessible and open to all outsiders between 10am to 5:30pm (local time).

Day 6: Hiking at Dragon’s Back Ridge

On the sixth day, pack your backpack and head towards one of the most exciting parts of the trip. If you are crazy about hiking, then nothing can be better than the spectacular hiking trails. For exploring the natural beauty of Hong Kong, this is the best time.

Day 7: Don’t Miss the Cuisine and Street Food

If you visit Hong Kong and do not try their authentic Chinese cuisine and street food, then your trip to Hong Kong will remain incomplete. You can try different options of Chinese cuisines which are delicious. You can also try their teas, as tea is a big part of the local culture. Don’t miss an opportunity to try dim sum and fried morning glories for a great food experience.

Now it is time to bid goodbye to the awesome memories that you will create in Hong Kong. So, make sure to make the most of your one week in Hong Kong. You can leave for Macau after Hong Kong is done.

For more Hong Kong travel

• 9 Lesser Known Hiking Trails That Offer the Best Views of Hong Kong
• You’ve Got Me Wonton More: A Guide to Hong Kong’s Best Hidden Eateries
• Don’t Miss These 5 Epic Things to Do in Hong Kong

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Agness and Cez are two adventurous freaks from Poland, who fell in love with Hong Kong at first sight. They are the biggest fans of dim sum and walking across the Victoria Harbor at night. Feel free to follow their adventures on eTramping and don’t forget to visit Hong Kong island in the near future!

The post The ULTIMATE Hong Kong Itinerary for One Week appeared first on Hippie In Heels.

Welcome to Backpacker’s Boutique. Every Sunday, this spot will feature a new travel blogger. Some weeks it will be a really fun interview about packing, fashion, and fitness so you can snoop inside their bags & lives a little bit and other weeks it’ll be a detailed luxury guide to a city the featured blogger/expat knows very well. E-mail me if you’d like to be featured.

A Luxury Guide to Chengdu

Tell us a little about yourself and tell us why you’re an expert on luxury travel in Chengdu?

I taught English for a year in Nanchong, a small city in Sichuan China. Chengdu is the largest nearby city, only 90 minutes away by the high speed train. I loved teaching in a smaller area, but I frequently escaped to Chengdu to relax and explore. Sichuan as a whole is a more adventurous place to travel so being in Chengdu is the ideal time to enjoy a bit of luxury before diving into the next adventure. I love Sichuan fiercely and Chengdu really is the heart of it all.

What makes Chengdu a perfect destination for travelers seeking a glamorous trip? 

While many westerners may not have even heard of Chengdu it is one of the largest cities in China, located in western part of the country, its often considered the “last outpost” before you get into much less developed areas. As a city it has one of the highest qualities of life in China, with lower levels of pollution, easy access to many beautiful areas and amazing food. Unlike many other Chinese cities, it’s pretty relaxed and has attracted many foreigners.

What 5 star hotel is the best in your town?

If you’re going to splurge in Chengdu I would do it at the BuddhaZen hotel, the third highest ranked hotel in Chengdu. A breakfast is included with the room, which has a western breakfast so you won’t need to eat spicy rice noodles in the morning. The place is decorated in a traditional Chinese style and it is located on a pedestrian road so you won’t hear constant traffic. It also tends to be surrounded by food vendors so you can get a delicious snack while coming/going and they have an in-house spa.

Its located across the street next to the Wenshua monastery. I have visited that temple frequently as it is an incredibly peaceful place. In the rush of modern Chinese life its definitely worth walking through their garden area to relax. Admission is free.

What about boutique hotels, of them all, which would you send your friends or family to stay at?

The Loft is a boutique hostel in Chengdu, located near the city center. Its a fun and quirky place but very comfortable. They offer a free meal to guests once a week and will often teach you come Chinese cooking skills if you ask nicely. Holly’s Hostel also a good choice, though a bit less cozy. It is a Tibetan place with a rooftop café and is located right in the center of the Tibetan District, so you’ll be able to try some butter tea and buy some Tibetan jewelry.

Are there any fun activities for the adventurous traveler?

Chengdu is often a base for adventurous travelers, people heading out to Tibet, or to the mountainous Northern areas of Sichuan. Those are often a day long bus ride away but if you want to stay in the area then going to climb QingCheng shan is just a 30 minute train ride away. You can take cable cars to the top and walk down or hike the whole way but it is a really lovely area and a famous Taoist mountain.

If you’re looking for a longer trip I always recommend people check out Juizhaigou for the bluest water you’ll ever see. If you’re not interested in a 10 hour bus ride you can fly there from Chengdu and make it a day trip after all.

Where are the best hang outs during the day?

Pandas are largely considered the number one thing to do in Chengdu. There are over 50 pandas (including the very cute red ones). Even if you’re not an animal person, its a really nice place to walk around. Go as early in the morning as you can, almost every hotel/hostel will arrange a ride for you. In the mornings the pandas are eating and they’re ridiculously cute. You can also pay to cuddle a baby panda if that’s a dream of yours.

If you haven’t been in China long then I would suggest going over to the park (Renmin Park) and just walk around. The park is lovely but what is most entertaining is the number of people you will see dancing, singing, writing calligraphy, doing Tai Chi. Mornings are best for this. There are also a lot of teahouses so you can relax with endless cups of green tea and wait out the heat during the summer afternoons.

If you have a big date night, what are the most delicious restaurants in Chengdu and what are their best dishes?

For Western food I’m a big fan of the Bookworm because I’m a huge nerd and I love eating at a place with books in it. They have a huge range of English books for decent prices. Their menu is pretty decent with good salads, a rare find in China. I also like that they mix western/sichuanese ingredients. They have delicious cocktails with book inspired names and I quite enjoy drinking a Gone with the Gin. (2-7 Yujie Donglu, 28 Renmin Nanlu)

Sichuan is famous for its food though and you should not come here without trying some its deliciousness. mapo dofu, kung pao chicken, spicy green beans, and fish flavored pork are my favorite dishes. You can read more about Sichuan food here.

Even better though, go out for hot pot. Sichuanese hot pot is a vat at your table filled with boiling broth and peppers and you order a wide range of foods to be cooked and eaten. My favorite things to eat in hot pot are cauliflower, lotus roots, mushrooms, quail eggs, shrimp dumplings, and cow stomach. Make sure you try something crazy, you are in China after all.

For Sichuanese food try the restaurant Mapo Dofu (2^nd fl, 197 xi Yulong Jie) or better yet, just ask staff at a hostel/hotel and they’ll probably be able to point you to a good place.

For hot pot I’d try Yulin Chuanchuan Xiang (2-3 Kehau Jie)

Tell us all the hot shopping spots; who’s carrying the trendy local designers? Are there designers we should make sure to meet? 

Chunxi Lu is a famous pedestrian shopping street and the largest one in Sichuan. You can find basically anything here including many western chains. There is a pretty wide range from H&M to Prada.

For more designer stuff you can walk along Kehua Road and there are any cute shops, many with a serious middle eastern flair. If you want to buy a Qipao (traditional Chinese silk dress) then try going to Wide and Narrow Alley and be prepared for an audience because Chinese people love seeing foreign women in traditional clothes. I love buying silk scarves here and you will see shops everywhere. Just remember to haggle.

What are a couple of the best salons and spas in Chengdu?

One of my favorite things to do in China is to get my hair washed. It sounds lame, but they’re rub your head and give you a scalp massage which feels amazing. They’ll also clean your ears, and rub your shoulder/neck before they’ll style your hair. I will warn you that if you have curls like me, sometimes the “styling” comes out a bit wonky since they’re not used to it. I would suggest asking your hostel/hotel for a recommendation because there are places everywhere and they’ll know the best ones. Have them write down “hair wash” and “gentle” in characters for you (Chinese like rough massages)

If you’re feeling adventurous you can visit a tea house to get your ears cleaned. There will be men walking around clanging chimes together. The cleaning is…. Intense. While it wasn’t painful, it wasn’t exactly pleasant either. It’s very Chinese and interesting experience either way.

sunset over lake via flickr

Time for a great sunset view… where would you go?

While you won’t actually see the sun go down, its definitely good to head over to Jinli alley at night. Its definitely a touristy area selling all sorts of crafts, but you can find some very cute Tibetan jewelry, Chinese traditional paper cuttings, silk scarves, and you can buy a lot of traditional snack foods. Really the highlight is seeing all the Chinese lanterns at night. There are lots of place to get a drink and often there is live music.

There are lots of places to eat/drink and often live music. It’s a good place to either end your day or to pre-game for the night ahead. Just beware if any men offer you a glass of “white wine”. Its not wine, its baiju, China’s most infamous alcohol. It can be 100 proof and is definitely an acquired taste.

If you end the night at a fancy club, which one do you head towards?

Jellyfish is Chengdu’s most infamous club and is beloved by expats and travelers. Often there is live music and can be a lot of fun.

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Welcome to Backpacker’s Boutique. Every Sunday, this spot will feature a new travel blogger. Some weeks it will be a really fun interview about packing, fashion, and fitness so you can snoop inside their bags & lives a little bit and other weeks it’ll be a detailed luxury guide to a city the featured blogger/expat knows very well. E-mail me if you’d like to be featured.

A Luxury Guide to Beijing

Tell us a little about Beijing and tell us why you’re an expert on luxury travel there.

Beijing, the bustling capital of China, is the center of Chinese culture and politics. From hiking the Great Wall, to shopping in Sanlitun, there’s so much to do and see in this sprawling city. With delicacies like Peking duck, to cheap street food dumplings, you’ll be sure to leave with a full stomach and a smile on your face.

I studied abroad in Beijing a few years ago, and moved back after graduation to teach English. Beijing is one of my favorite cities in China, and is a must-see for any traveler.

What makes Beijing a perfect destination for travelers seeking a glamorous trip?

Beijing is much less expensive than other cosmopolitan cities around the world, meaning you can have a luxury vacation on a budget. Snap a photo of yourself conquering the Great Wall, get pampered with a cheap massage or purchase a custom-made suit. The opportunities are endless!

What boutique hotel would you recommend to your friends that are stopping through?

I would definitely recommend The Orchid. A self-described “hostel for grown-ups”, The Orchid regularly holds free wine tastings for gests to get to know one another. Located in one of Beijing’s hutong neighborhoods, there are only ten guest rooms, all furnished in Qing dynasty style surrounding a quaint courtyard. Rooms start at 680 yuan per night (just over $100 USD). Click here for rates and availability. 

What about 5 Star, of them all, which is the best in your town?

If you’re looking for luxury, be sure to check out the Shangrila’s World Summit Wing Hotel. Located on the top floors of the tallest building in Beijing, this luxurious hotel hosts Bill Gates on his trips to China. There is even an infinity pool on the 78^th floor, as well as a rooftop bar on floor 80. With spacious rooms, giant bathtubs and feather-down pillows, Shangrila is the definition of 5 Star. Click here for rates and availability. 

Are there any fun activities for the adventurous traveler?

Looking for an adventure? Hike the Jinlingshan section of the Great Wall. With almost no other tourists, a steep hike will lead to breathtaking views. Just be sure to bring good hiking shoes!

Are you an adventurous eater? Wander through Beijing’s Wanfujing night market where you can find fried scorpions, sheep testicles and snake kabobs among other things.

Where are the best hang outs during the day?

If you’re an early riser, be sure to head down to Beijing’s Temple of Heaven. In addition to the beautiful architecture, you’ll find locals practicing Tai chi, singing songs and toting around small toddler grandchildren. This park is by far the best place for people watching in all of Beijing.

If you have a big date night, what are the most delicious restaurants in Beijing and what are their best dishes?

While in Beijing, be sure to head to Hai Di Lao, a famous hotpot chain. A large pot of boiling broth is placed in the center of the table, surrounded by raw vegetables, meat, noodles and more. Patrons can place items in the simmering broth and remove them when they’re cooked. Hai Di Lao offers both spicy and non-spicy versions, so everyone can enjoy.

Be aware that on a weekend night you may have to wait over an hour for a table. While the wait can be long, Hai Di Lao offers complimentary snacks, tea and even shoeshines and manicures! Best of all? Taking your significant other to Hai Di Lao won’t break the bank. I usually spend about $15 per person and leave completely stuffed.

Let’s talk desserts- what place makes the best?

While in Beijing, be sure to explore the small Korean-style bakeries that dot the city. Relax with a coffee and a small cake or pastry in the afternoon.

Tell us all the hot shopping spots; who’s carrying the trendy local designers?

Beijing is the place to go for fake designer goods and custom-made clothing. The city is covered in bargaining markets, which tend to look more like bargaining malls. Here you can buy souvenir trinkets, jade jewelry, silk, fake designer bags, and much more. Looking for a new suit or a custom made coat or dress? The tailors here are skilled and much less expensive than those in America or Europe.

My favorite bargaining market is the one at the Jianguomen metro stop. They have an amazing selection and are less aggressive than the Sanlitun market, which is more common with tourists. Just be sure to bargain hard. Don’t worry if you don’t speak Chinese, all of the shops will bargain with a calculator!

What are a couple of the best salons and spas in Beijing?

The best place for pampering in Beijing is Green T House. Part spa, part upscale restaurant, Green T House is chic and modern with unique spa packages. The signature Bamboo special combines four hours of spa treatments, including a green tea bath, meditation, steam scrub, a facial and their signature ten-handed massage.

Time for a great sunset view… where would you go?

One of the best and most unique sunset views in Beijing is in Jingshan Park. Jingshan Park contains a large hill that overlooks the Forbidden City. Hike up a bit before sunset to get a snapshot of the sprawling Forbidden City, then watch the sun set behind old imperial Beijing.

Now that the sun’s gone down, fill us on the best places to go for some evening drinks or a great pre-gaming spot.

When the sun goes down, head out to Sanlitun and enjoy a nice cocktail. If you love beer, be sure to check out Beer Mania, which serves a vast array of specialty beers with a generous happy hour.

Afterwards, feel free to grab a local Tsingtao beer from one of the many convenience stores and wander down the narrow streets filled with tasty street food.

If you end the night at a fancy club, which one do you head towards?

Sanlitun is also home to the best clubs in Beijing. If you want to experience a crazy Chinese nightclub complete with dance performances and bottle service, check out MIX. Sanlitun is packed with bars and clubs, so feel free to wander around and explore.

My personal favorite club in Beijing is Sensation, located in Wudaokou. A bit out of the way, Sensation is a more American or European style club, with a large dance floor and an active bar. They also offer three free cocktails to ladies on Thursday! Be sure to grab some Mexican food at La Bamba next door before you head home for the night.

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