Five things to see and do in Hong Kong this Christmas

By Maximilian Owen-Wong

The winter holidays are slowly but surely coming around, but quarantine is still restricting the majority of us from leaving the country. In times like these, we are left wondering, “what am I supposed to do during the most wonderful time of the year”? Here’s how to get the best out of your two free weeks this holiday season. 

Admire the festive lights and decorations

The majority of Hong Kong's luxury shopping malls and public spaces have been filled with beautiful festive displays for the public to enjoy. Everything from colourful giant christmas trees to modern festive set pieces can be found all around Hong Kong this December. Malls like The Landmark, Pacific Place and Harbour City have pulled out all the stops this year to entertain your eye. When in Central or Tsim Sha Tsui, be on the lookout for these festive decorations. The boring buildings people see throughout the year truly come to life at Christmas. Whether on a walk or on a harbour cruise, most of the buildings on the harbour front are brightly decorated with many multi-coloured festive lights to enjoy.

Create through Christmas workshops

If you are someone that enjoys the arts and crafts, why not get creative this Christmas with the many Christmas workshops available in Hong Kong this Christmas? For the foodies, try BiteUnite’s Christmas-themed sushi making class, or Blossom Cakes festive themed baking classes to up your cooking skills to the next level. Or if you're interested in making christmas gifts rather than buying, learn to make a Christmas wreath with Bonart, or a decorative candle at Choco L’Art Studio. There's something crafty for everyone this holiday season.

Book a staycation or cruise

Even though international travel may not be an option this year, that doesn't mean you can't treat yourself to a relaxing break staying in the same city you live in. Whether you want to stay somewhere that offers great views, delicious food or a great Christmas experience, Hong Kong hotels and cruises have you covered. At The Park Lane Hong Kong, a Christmas-themed room is on offer this year for those of us that may not have the time to fully decorate our own houses. Hotel Icon is currently offering Christmas deals that cover different dining experiences in the hotel as well as fun activities for the family like an open-air pool deck. For something more relaxing, the Hyatt Centric Victoria Harbour is offering a room package that includes massages for two to ease either the teaching stress or IB workload stress. You can also now hop on “a cruise to nowhere”. Genting Cruise Liners are offering all the accommodation and facilities that come with a cruise, except for a new final destination. The cruise goes into international waters and back over the course of around three days, allowing passengers to use the gym, the theatre and even the pool.

Indulge in a winter holiday feast

There are so many different options and different cuisines all around Hong Kong to delight your taste buds.  Whether you want to stay at home to eat, or you are eager to go out and try a new restaurant, the winter holidays are a perfect time to gather friends and family to indulge in delicious foods. Throughout the dark times of this pandemic, many restaurants have begun to offer full stay at home takeaway meal options for their customers. Yummy takeaway and delivery is even more available at Christmas with more options available than ever. Restaurants such as Jouer and Feather And Bone are offering full feasts to be delivered to your door. Appetiser, main and deserts all available in one delivery to your house. Invite friends and family to yours to enjoy a restaurant quality meal in the comfort of your own home. Or, you can dress up and go to places like The Landmark Mandarin Oriental or Catch to enjoy a fresh holiday-themed lunch and dinner menu.

Shop in the Christmas markets

Shopping could be one of the most important pastimes of Christmas. Whether you are buying gifts or treating yourself during the holiday season, Hong Kong offers many options to give way for your spending habits. The many Christmas markets around Hong Kong offer many options for gifts and presents over all age groups. If you want to support local businesses you should head to the Discovery Bay Sunday Market or the Stanley Plaza Wild West Adventure Christmas Market to browse for festive season goodies. For those who plan to buy a little more high end, The Prestige LifeStyle & Gift Fair offer many high end designer goods from around the world.

A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone at RCHK!A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to everyone at RCHK!

Image courtesy of Pixabay