Since Hong Kong and Singapore announced the two-way air travel bubble, there’s been a lot of excitement around this travel opportunity. What we know so far is that there won’t be any restrictions on itinerary or purpose of travel, and travellers will have to test negative for Covid-19. But there hasn’t been a date announced yet. Meanwhile, we’ve put together a guide so you can recreate the Hong Kong experience without having to leave Singapore.
If you slow down, you might just see the slight similarities between both countries. Maybe it’s time to play tourist in your own backyard! Here’s our list of well-known Hong Kong attractions and their local substitutes.
One of the most classic experiences in Hong Kong is dining in a Cha Chaan Tang. Tsui Wah’s popular dishes like the Hong Kong-style milk tea, Swiss Sauce Chicken Wings, and King Prawns in XO Sauce with Tossed Noodles all hold the same quality and consistency as their Hong Kong inspirations.
Tsui Wah is located at Robinsons The Heeren, 260 Orchard Road, The Heeren, Singapore 238855, tel: 6366 9270
One of the most historic bakeries in Hong Kong, Tai Cheong Bakery is known for its egg tarts with their signature buttery cookie crust. Tai Cheong Bakery has four permanent stores. Alongside the classic egg tart flavours, you can also try pandan, durian, coconut, or even bubble tea.
Tai Cheong Bakery is located at 31 Lor Liput, Singapore, 277742, tel: 9828 1954
Cantonese dining in a contemporary and elegant setting, Madame Fan has a cocktail dim sum brunch menu available from 11am to 3:30 pm on the weekends. The brunch menu is available from $68++ per person and includes classics like Shumai, Har Gau, congee, and sweet treats like custard buns.
Madame Fan is located at 32 Beach Rd, The NCO Club, Singapore 189764, tel: 6818 1921
Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui reopened in early 2019 with a refreshed look, and if you want to recreate a leisurely stroll along the promenade to overlook Hong Kong’s skyline, Singapore’s waterfront comes pretty close.
Of course, you will not find handprints and signatures of your favourite stars, but you’ll be greeted by the sweeping view of Singapore’s skyline. It’s exceptionally beautiful in the night.
Though if you’re hoping to meet a real Hong Kong star in Singapore, your best bet may be to hang around Yishun where veteran actor Benz Hui lives.
You’ll want to plan the Symphony of Lights into your itinerary at least once if you’re visiting Hong Kong, especially if it’s your first time.
The laser light and sound display comes on every day at 8pm and can be viewed from the Avenue of Stars and outside the Golden Bauhinia Square at the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront. The dazzling spectacle involves 42 buildings across the Victoria Harbour on Hong Kong Island.
But fret not, Singapore has Spectra, Marina Bay Sand’s (MBS) light and water show, which can be seen at MBS’ waterfront and along the Marina Bay waterfront promenade.
The shows start at 8pm and 9.30pm, with an additional display at 11pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak (also known as The Peak) boasts a bird’s eye view of the city and is the highest hill on Hong Kong island. It’s a crowd-puller for tourists as well as lovers looking for some quiet time at night, well away from the bustle of the city.
Just like The Peak, Mount Faber in Singapore is a pretty romantic place to impress your date, with its winding drive uphill and beautiful view.
If you’re into the fitspo lifestyle, you can also choose to hike up Mount Faber, which will give you a good twenty- to thirty-minute workout from the Southern Ridges.
Mongkok is known for its vibrant scene of tantalising street food and bright neon signboards that make it to every Instagram post. It also boasts affordable shopping.
Trick your mind into thinking you’re in Hong Kong when you drop by ‘Mongkok’ at Jurong Point, touted as Singapore’s first Hong Kong-themed shopping and dining street.
To make it look more convincing, catch up over milk tea and cha chaan teng (Hong Kong-style cafe) grub at Legendary Hong Kong Restaurant.
One of the most popular night markets in Hong Kong is the Ladies’ Market at Mongkok. The stalls span across one kilometre, with vendors selling souvenirs, clothes, accessories, trinkets and cosmetics.
The rows of souvenir shops at Chinatown give off the same vibes and is also packed with tourists during the weekends.
The Ngong Ping 360 brings you to Lantau Island in Hong Kong, where you can make a day trip to explore the Ngong Ping village, visit the Po Lin Monastery and pay respects to the larger-than-life Tian Tan Buddha.
The Singapore Cable Car at Harbourfront transports you to Sentosa, where you can spend an entire day exploring the various attractions. Explore the largest and tallest Merlion statue, find Nemo at S.E.A. Aquarium, swim with the dolphins or just chill at the beach.
Right smack in Central Hong Kong is the famed Lan Kwai Fong that comes alive when the sun sets. Its over-the-top nightlife street is filled with pubs, clubs and drinking spots.
Ann Siang Hill is dotted with watering holes and speakeasies. It’s a slightly toned-down version of Lan Kwai Fong, but it’s not without its charm.
The Old Man is one of Hong Kong’s most celebrated bars. With cocktails inspired by Ernest Hemingway’s writings and a Cuban interior design, The Old Man branched out to Singapore with its vibrant and sophisticated vibe. The hallmark I-shaped bar counter is identical to Hong Kong’s and even includes the same chilled brass strip to keep your drinks cold as you socialise.
The Old Man is located at 55 Keong Saik Rd., #01-04, Singapore 089158, tel: 6909 5505
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Text: Melissa Goh/AsiaOne, Additional reporting: Farisia Thang