The place to Keep in HONG KONG • High 6 Greatest Areas: Tsim Sha Tsui vs Central vs Close to Airport

Can’t determine the place to remain in your subsequent Hong Kong journey? Is Tsim Sha Tsui a superb space for vacationers? Is Central higher than Mong Kok? When is it preferrred to remain in Lantau island? On this article, we’ll break it down that can assist you decide the most effective neighborhood for you.

Hong Kong is one among our most visited locations. Over the previous 13 years, we now have stayed at varied areas throughout the territory. And sure, some areas are higher than others. However to correctly decide the most effective, we have to perceive Hong Kong’s geography.

Hong Kong could also be small, however it’s a bit difficult. It’s set primarily on a peninsula, but it surely additionally covers varied close by islands. To its north is Shenzhen and to its west, now linked by a bridge, is Macau. And like Macau, Hong Kong is a Particular Administrative Area of China. It is part of China, but it surely has its personal economic system, foreign money, and immigration legal guidelines. That’s why even Chinese language mainlanders nonetheless must undergo immigration checks when getting into Hong Kong.

Hong Kong consists of three essential areas:

• Kowloon, on the peninsula, the place Tsim Sha Tsui and Mong Kok are situated. Hong Kong’s metropolis middle has two faces. Certainly one of them is Kowloon, which covers many of the developed space on the mainland. That is the older and extra conventional aspect of town. It’s what many contemplate quintessential Hong Kong. It’s extremely developed, sure, however you’ll simply discover that lots of the buildings should not very trendy. It’s dense, busy, and extremely textured. This aspect is usually used as a setting in Hollywood films.
• Hong Kong Island, the place you’ll discover the Central Enterprise District. If Kowloon is gritty and conventional, Hong Kong Island is polished and aesthetically extra colonial, mixing Chinese language tradition with British influences properly. However it’s divided into smaller neighborhoods together with Central, Admiralty, Wan Chai, Sheung Wan, and Causeway Bay.
• New Territories, which covers the realm north of Kowloon and 200 outlying islands together with Lantau Island, the place you’ll discover Hong Kong Disneyland, Ngong Ping 360, and Tai-O Village. The Hong Kong Worldwide Airport can also be throughout the New Territories.

The reality is, Hong Kong is additional divided into 18 smaller districts. However for vacationers, particularly first-timers, only some of those will in all probability matter.

So which is the most effective space to remain? Objectively, I’d say it depends upon your particular itinerary. However for those who ask me for my private desire, right here’s how I might rank these areas.

(By the way in which, you’ll additionally discover a listing of high resorts within the space, categorized by funds. After we say “inexpensive”, we imply that comparatively. Lodging are typically costly in Hong Kong. Resort costs have skyrocketed over the previous years. The properties we listed below inexpensive should be thought-about expensive by different requirements.)

1. CENTRAL

Strictly talking, Central usually refers to a particular space surrounding the Central Station. However for tourism functions, the time period is typically used loosely to incorporate the entire Central and Western District, encompassing Admiralty and Sheung Wan.

The center of Hong Kong’s Central Enterprise District, it’s bustling particularly at rush hours. Nevertheless it will get much less busy as you progress away from it. On our most up-to-date journey, we stayed in Sheung Wan which may be very quiet.

Central may be very accessible, extra accessible than Tsim Sha Tsui or Mong Kok in Kowloon. There’s a direct bus from the airport (A11 bus). However most significantly, there’s a direct practice – the Airport Categorical, which is the quickest strategy to get to town middle. You’ll be able to attain Central in roughly half-hour, considerably faster than taking the bus or a number of common practice rides. (By the way in which, if you wish to e-book a seat on the Airport Categorical practice, you’ll be able to reserve upfront on Klook.)

Central is your leap off level to 2 fashionable points of interest: Victoria Peak and Ocean Park. So in case your itinerary has these two websites on two separate days, this can be a superb base.

One other large professional for Central is that its dotted with numerous iconic foodie spots, and plenty of of them are inexpensive. Some are even awarded with Michelin Bib Gourmand or Michelin stars. I’ve stayed on the Central space plenty of occasions, and I cherished it every time due to these eating places! A number of meals excursions additionally scribble throughout the realm.

Whereas many resorts in Central-Central district are upscale, it’s not unattainable to seek out comparatively cheap locations to remain particularly within the Sheung Wan space.

However as a lot as I like Central, it’s not for everybody. It’s hilly. The bottom is so uneven, strolling round will be so exhausting for those who’re not used to it, and will be very difficult for these with mobility points.

And though not as dangerous as Kowloon resorts, house right here can also be costly, so count on tiny, cozy rooms!

PROS

• Central location
• Accessible from the airport
• Near key points of interest
• Incredible eating places
• Reasonably priced lodging choices
• Vibrant nightlife

CONS

• Additionally crowded
• Hilly and plenty of stairs
• Cozy rooms

High Reasonably priced Accommodations in Central & Sheung Wan

Listed below are among the top-reviewed Central and Sheung Wan resorts and hostels on Agoda which are comparatively inexpensive.

High Premium Accommodations in Central & Admiralty

Beneath are the highest Central properties on Accommodations.com, whatever the value.

Seek for extra Central Accommodations!

2. TSIM SHA TSUI

Area: Kowloon

Tsim Sha Tsui (usually shortened to TST) is well-known amongst funds vacationers due to three issues.

First, accessibility. Until you’re staying near Airport Categorical’s Kowloon Station, there isn’t a direct practice line between Tsim Sha Tsui and the airport. However there are direct airport buses (Bus A21) that cease at a number of factors throughout the district. In reality, TST’s essential artery is Nathan Highway, which runs parallel to the A21 Bus route and likewise to a bit of the MTR or subway practice’s Tsuen Wan Line. This subway line additionally connects TST to the Central district on the opposite aspect of the harbor. There are a number of MTR stations, ferry terminals, and bus stops! See? Very accessible.

The second purpose is its proximity to some key Hong Kong points of interest together with the Avenue of Stars, the K11 Mall, and the purchasing streets in Mong Kok and Jordan areas.

Lastly, there’s A LOT of budget-friendly lodging in Tsim Sha Tsui. However beware, as a result of house is such a scarce commodity in these elements of Hong Kong, most rooms in Kowloon are extraordinarily small. There isn’t normally a lot house to maneuver round, however you’ll discover properties which are cleverly designed.

Most budget-friendly rooms are housed in both of the 2 well-known (or notorious) buildings: the Chungking Mansions and Mirador Mansion. You might have heard quite a bit about these two properties earlier than: some could also be good, some could also be dangerous. So what’s the reality?

Nicely, these two are outdated residential buildings, however many house owners have turned their models into guesthouses or mini-hotels for vacationers. They give the impression of being good and glossy from afar, however up shut, it may be a bit intimidating. Its crowded floor flooring is a maze of assorted retailers, and inside — er, let’s simply say they’ve seen higher days. However don’t write it off but.

Truly, in our early years, we at all times stayed right here. Except lengthy elevator queues sometimes, we by no means actually had a nasty expertise. That’s to not invalidate different accounts I’ve seen on-line which point out mattress bugs and all. I’m simply saying we didn’t have that have, even in our current keep right here just some months in the past.

However that’s the factor! Whereas they appear dated (or dare I say dilapidated, no less than the hallways), some models are clear and well-kept. Just some months in the past, we booked a room at Victoria Inn at Mirador Mansion. It was cramped however neat and furnished with lodge necessities. Total, we had a pleasing keep!

It’s only a matter of reserving a good institution, so at all times examine evaluations.

By the way in which, Tsim Sha Tsui is generally flat, which makes a stroll throughout the realm a stroll within the park. The streets are busy and slim, although, so don’t be too complacent.

PROS:

• Numerous budget-friendly resorts
• Accessible
• Direct bus airport bus
• Near vacationer points of interest
• Near road markets

CONS:

• No direct airport practice
• Small, cramped rooms
• Crowded

High Reasonably priced Accommodations in Tsim Sha Tsui

Fascinated by Tsim Sha Tsui? Beneath are among the comparatively cheap resorts with the most effective evaluations on Agoda.

High Premium Accommodations in Tsim Sha Tsui

Beneath are the highest Tsim Sha Tsui properties on Accommodations.com, whatever the value.

Seek for extra Tsim Sha Tsui Accommodations!

3. MONG KOK & YAU MA TEI

Area: Kowloon

Additionally value trying out in Kowloon are Mong Kok and Yau Ma Tei. Each are elements of the Yau Tsim Mong District, the identical administrative unit that Tsim Sha Tsui belongs to. And each have numerous similarities to TST.

They’re additionally accessible from the airport by the identical direct bus – Bus A21. They’re additionally alongside the Tsuen Wan Line, which is linked to Central, and Nathan Highway, which is punctuated by a number of bus stops.

However the vibe in Mong Kok, specifically, is considerably completely different. Its streets are lit by colourful neon indicators, and the vitality right here is extra buzzing, extra frenetic. It’s a well-liked purchasing space. Its map is scribbled with purchasing streets and night time market streets. It’s additionally right here that you simply’ll discover the legendary Sneaker Road.

When looking out on-line, you’ll additionally come throughout a number of inexpensive lodging, each outdated and new. And for those who’re into road meals, you’re gonna love Mong Kok and Yau Ma Tei, too!

PROS

• Central location
• Accessible from the airport
• Near key points of interest
• Shut to nighttime markets and purchasing streets

CONS

• Additionally crowded
• Cozy rooms
• Busy and noisy

High Funds Accommodations in Mong Kok & Yau Ma Tei

Lovin’ the vibe of Mong Kok? Beneath are some resorts and inns in Mong Kok and Yau Ma Tei areas that acquired nice scores from Klook clients.

High Premium Accommodations in Mong Kok & Yau Ma Tei

When you’ve got an even bigger funds, listed here are some choices on Agoda and Accommodations.com with the most effective evaluations from precise visitors, not contemplating the charges.

Seek for extra Mong Kok Accommodations!

4. TUNG CHUNG and HONG KONG SKYCITY (Close to Airport)

Area: New Territories

Staying close to the airport comes with numerous perks. And the identical is true for Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong Worldwide Airport is situated on reclaimed land on Chek Lap Kok Island, simply off Lantau Island. Beside the airport is a cluster of respected resorts known as SkyCity. Simply throughout the channel, on the a part of Lantau Island closest to the airport, you’ll spot one other developed space known as Tung Chung.

Lots of the lists of greatest locations to remain that you simply’ll discover on-line don’t even point out these two areas. However don’t dismiss them straight away. I really consider that in lots of instances, these are essentially the most preferrred.

Huh? You may be asking, “Nevertheless it’s so indifferent from town middle! Why would you assume it’s a superb space to remain in any respect!”

Nicely, the airport isn’t the one key focal point near Tung Chung and SkyCity. This space is dwelling to the next:

• Hong Kong Worldwide Airport
• Hong Kong Disneyland
• Ngong Ping 360 (Tian Tan Buddha)
• CityGate Shops Mall
• Tai-O Village
• Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB) Port, which is the gateway to Macau

So in case your itinerary primarily consists of those points of interest, it makes extra sense to remain in both SkyCity or Tung Chung. For those who keep within the metropolis middle like Tsim Sha Tsui or Central, you’ll must journey backwards and forwards, losing numerous money and time within the course of.

Furthermore, many of the large resorts in SkyCity and Tung Chung provide FREE bus switch to and from the airport and Tung Chung MTR Station. Yep, utterly FREE of cost. And there’s normally a bus each half-hour or so.

The catch is: most resorts listed here are a bit high-end – Marriott, Sheraton, and the like – however its costs are aggressive, a lot decrease than its counterparts within the metropolis middle, and typically, as much as par with mid-range ones.

For instance, final 12 months, we visited in peak season. We booked two resorts: a supposedly funds lodge in Tsim Sha Tsui’s Mirador Mansion and this extra upscale lodge in Tung Chung. For the “funds” TST lodge, we paid HKD 930 (PHP 6640) per night time. Sure, I do know it’s nonetheless steep, however this was actually one of many most cost-effective we discovered for that interval.

Throughout the identical time-frame, our room at 4 Factors by Sheraton in Tung Chung prices HKD 990 (PHP 7070) per night time. That’s only a HKD 60 distinction per night time, however there’s a giant distinction in expertise. Our room in Tung Chung was at a full-service lodge and was a lot, far more spacious and far cleaner, too.

Nonetheless, this space has its cons. Except for it being removed from town middle, there are additionally very restricted inexpensive eating choices. We had to verify we had dinner elsewhere earlier than coming again to the lodge or we’d be caught with the costly in-house eating places on the lodge. That or the comfort retailer.

This space just isn’t for everybody. In case your itinerary requires extra time within the metropolis middle, then don’t e-book a lodge right here. However when you’ve got the Disneyland-Ngong Ping-and-Macau trifecta in your itinerary, contemplate it!

PROS:

• Close to the airport
• Most accessible from Disneyland, Ngong Ping, and Macau
• Usually with free switch to airport and MTR
• Extra spacious lodge rooms at aggressive

CONS:

• Not numerous lodge choices
• Restricted eating spots
• Removed from metropolis middle

High Accommodations in Tung Chung

High Accommodations in Hong Kong SkyCity

Seek for extra Accommodations Close to Hong Kong Airport!

What’s the greatest space to remain in Hong Kong?

Once more, I’d must reply with “that depends upon your itinerary.”

• For those who’re visiting HK Disneyland and Ngong Ping 360, and and also you’re doing a day journey to Macau, I actually assume SkyCity and Tung Chung are your greatest bets.
• In case your itinerary includes a number of days within the metropolis middle, then keep in both Kowloon or Hong Kong Island.
• For those who’re after good meals and nightlife, I like to recommend you keep in Central or surrounding areas like Sheung Wan and Admiralty.
• For those who like purchasing and night time markets, select Mong Kok.
• For those who’re on a decent funds, keep in Tsim Sha Tsui or Mong Kok.

As for me, for those who ask me to decide on with none set itinerary, I’d decide Central/Sheung Wan. It has all of the issues I need in a neighborhood, quick access from the airport whether or not by bus or by Airport Categorical practice, near key points of interest like Victoria Peak, and plenty of scrumptious meals spots!

However that’s simply me. How about you? Have you ever tried staying at any of those districts? Which one is your favourite? Tell us within the feedback part beneath.

That’s all for now. Bear in mind: plan good, journey protected, and make each journey WORTH IT!

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First up: 2024•01•16