Exploring Beyond Hong Kong: Neighboring Countries to Visit on Your Days Off
Teaching abroad isn’t just about the classroom; it’s about immersing yourself in new cultures and adventures. And when you’re in a global hub like Hong Kong, the travel possibilities are endless! One of the best parts of being based here is how easy it is to hop over to neighboring countries for a quick getaway. Here’s our guide to the top destinations you can visit during your breaks, and exactly how to get there!
Macau: The Perfect Day Trip
Just an hour from Hong Kong, Macau is an exciting blend of Portuguese colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and world-class entertainment. Whether you’re craving history, food, or a little casino fun, Macau has it all. It is the easiest and (and cheapest) among your choices of countries to visit.
How to Get There:
- Ferry: The most popular and convenient way to get to Macau is via ferry. Head to the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan, where TurboJet or Cotai Water Jet ferries depart every 15-30 minutes. The ferry ride takes about an hour and costs around HK$160-200 each way.
- Bridge: Alternatively, you can take a bus across the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, the longest sea-crossing bridge in the world! Buses depart from various locations in Hong Kong, such as the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge Hong Kong Port, and the ride takes approximately 45 minutes.
Reference:
Shenzhen: A Taste of Mainland China
Shenzhen, just across the border, is a fast-growing tech hub with a fascinating mix of modern skyscrapers and traditional markets. Spend the day shopping at Luohu Commercial City, indulging in local street food, or visiting the OCT Loft Creative Culture Park.
How to Get There:
- MTR: The easiest way to reach Shenzhen is by taking the East Rail Line of the MTR to the Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau border crossings. The journey takes around 45 minutes from Hung Hom Station in Kowloon. Once you arrive at the border, you’ll need to go through immigration, so make sure to have your China visa ready.
- High-Speed Rail: Alternatively, hop on the high-speed rail from West Kowloon Station to Shenzhen North, which takes about 15-20 minutes.
Reference:
- MTR Corporation: MTR schedules and route maps
- China Travel Service: Information on China visa applications
Taiwan: A Weekend Getaway
For a longer break, Taiwan is the perfect escape with its stunning landscapes, bustling night markets, and rich culture. From the vibrant streets of Taipei to the scenic beauty of Taroko Gorge, Taiwan offers something for every traveler.
How to Get There:
- Flight: The most efficient way to get to Taiwan is by air. Flights from Hong Kong International Airport to Taipei Taoyuan International Airport take about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Airlines like Cathay Pacific, HK Express, and China Airlines offer multiple daily flights, often at affordable prices if you book early. From Taipei, you can explore the rest of Taiwan via the country’s efficient high-speed rail or bus systems.
Reference:
- Hong Kong International Airport: Flight schedules and airport information
- Taiwan Tourism: Official tourism information
Thailand: Your Tropical Paradise
If you’ve got a bit more time on your hands, Thailand should be at the top of your list. From the stunning beaches of Phuket to the cultural richness of Bangkok, it’s an ideal destination for some rest, relaxation, and exploration.
How to Get There:
- Flight: Direct flights from Hong Kong to Bangkok take around 2 hours and 45 minutes, with multiple airlines offering daily departures. Once you land in Bangkok, you can easily travel to other parts of Thailand by domestic flights or buses.
- Tips: Book your flights early for the best deals, and consider visiting during the cooler months (November to February) for ideal weather.
Reference:
- HK Express: Budget airline options
- Thailand Tourism: Official tourism information for Thailand
Vietnam: A Mix of History and Scenic Beauty
Vietnam is a fascinating blend of rich history, lush landscapes, and bustling cities. Whether you’re cruising through Halong Bay, wandering the ancient streets of Hanoi, or relaxing on the beaches of Da Nang, Vietnam offers an unforgettable experience.
How to Get There:
- Flight: Direct flights from Hong Kong to Hanoi take just under 2 hours. VietJet, Cathay Pacific, and Hong Kong Airlines all offer frequent flights. Once in Vietnam, it’s easy to hop between cities via affordable domestic flights, buses, or trains.
Reference:
- Cathay Pacific: Flight options from Hong Kong
- Vietnam Tourism: Official tourism information for Vietnam
Travel Tips for Teachers:
- Visas: Always check visa requirements before you book your trip, especially when traveling to Mainland China or Vietnam. Many neighboring countries offer visa-on-arrival or e-visas for short stays.
- Packing Essentials: Don’t forget travel insurance, portable chargers, and converters for different plug types when traveling across countries.
- Language: While English is commonly spoken in most tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in the local language can make your experience even more enriching!
Exploring beyond Hong Kong opens up endless opportunities for adventure and cultural experiences. Whether it’s a quick weekend trip to Macau or a longer getaway to Thailand or Vietnam, the possibilities are limitless. Take advantage of your time teaching abroad to explore these nearby gems—you’ll come back with unforgettable memories and stories to share!
For more tips on living and working in Hong Kong, make sure to follow Experior Asia. ✈️🌍
Source:
- https://thehoneycombers.com/hong-kong/short-trips-from-hong-kong-quick-getaways/
- https://www.tatlerasia.com/lifestyle/travel/destinations-short-flight-from-hong-kong-weekend-getaway
- https://www.cathaypacific.com/cx/en_HK/inspiration/holidays/weekend-trips-hong-kong.html
- https://retailbank.hsbc.com.hk/international/en/expat-guide/based-in-hong-kong-traveling-the-world/where-do-hong-kong-people-like-to-go-for-long-weekends/
- https://traveltriangle.com/blog/day-trips-from-hong-kong/
