“I think Hong Kong is a very safe place, and it is very international. The mixing of cultures is fully embraced, where you get to enjoy both the East meets West culture.”
William’s Travel Itinerary in Hong Kong
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Loveramics’ chic and minimalistic approach to design has set the standard in the world of ceramics, and we’re thrilled to have had the opportunity to interview its Founder, Mr. William Lee. Born in London, but raised in the bright city lights of Hong Kong, we ask William which are the best places to hit up when it comes to having a good time in the metropolitan. Read his full itinerary below now:
10AM: Wake up at Page148
11AM: Take the MTR from Jordan Station (approximately a 5-minute walk from Page148) to Whampoa Station and revel in a warm cup of coffee and breakfast nibbles at the renowned local coffee chain NOC Whampoa to start the day. William enjoys this specific branch for its great coffee, spacious interiors and seaside view. He reckons the view of the harbour from this side is unique, as it is not as commonly visited as often as the Central side
12PM: After a delectable morning breakfast, head on over by taxi or walk to the newly renovated HKMOA (Hong Kong Museum of Art) in Tsim Sha Tsui, situated along Victoria Harbour, to get some inspiration for the day.
1PM: To get the most out of the city, take the ferry from Hung Hom (North) Ferry Pier, within walking distance from the coffee shop, over to Star Ferry Central Pier. You will be able to enjoy the majestic views of both Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Island while you take in the fresh breeze
2PM: Now that you are in Central, walk towards Queen’s Road Central and head up the set of escalators that will lead you to Tai Kwun, a former Central Police Station of Hong Kong that has been redeveloped into a historical and cultural shopping destination. William deems it a stunning architectural masterpiece that stands out amongst the concrete jungle, and it is also a great place to understand the history of the Central district
Photo by Francisco Anzola
3:30PM: Once you’ve explored the historical side of the city, meander around Tai Ping Shan Street to visit come cool and eclectic independent shops that are locally-owned. Here, you can find an array of hip retail shops, cafes and culinary gems that really show off the creative side of Hong Kong.
4:30PM: Time for a late lunch! From Central, head over to Causeway Bay to treat yourself to some heavenly boas at Little Bao. This eatery is not only a hip and fun place to eat, but it is founded by Asia’s Best Female Chef May Chow. William usually goes for a nice evening dinner but it is open for lunch as well
5:30PM: For more retail therapy, take a taxi to Star Street in Wan Chai to explore more independent shops. Kapok is William’s favourite select store in Hong Kong, featuring stylish fashion, lifestyle, fragrance and home décor products sourced from Europe and locally. While you are in the area, William also recommends you check out Archetypal, a high-end furniture and lighting store that sources pieces from all over the world. If you’re thrifting through independent fashion boutiques, William suggests you visit Sau Wah Fong area where you’ll surely discover some great hidden gems
Photo of Kapok Star Street Location, Wan Chai by Kapok
6:30PM: For a sweet treat before dinner, head to Jouer, a treasure trove of culinary treats, innovative artwork, and decorative curios. This is William’s go-to place when it comes to finding the best birthday cakes for friends and family. It is also a great hideout spot for macarons and summer drinks, but William particularly has a soft spot for their cakes
7:30PM: The next destination that William recommends is The Peak. It may sound like another tourist hotspot, but the view of the city skyline makes it all worthwhile! William confesses that every time he heads up to The Peak, it still takes his breath away. If you can, try to get there in time during the golden hour to see the sun go down
Photo by 白士李
8:30PM: Head back to Central by taxi for a late dinner at Neighbourhood for a delectable meal. David Lai’s restaurant is a regular on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list, and its continuously changing menu is what makes it so intriguing. There are always 2 sessions so William usually goes for a drink at the Quinary, an award-winning multisensory cocktail bar opposite to the restaurant, right before dinner
10:30PM: The night is not yet over! Top your evening off at the Michelin-starred restaurant VEA, a renowned eatery serving up a truly unique fusion of Asian and French cuisine. The cocktails are as equally astonishing as its dishes. William recommends you enjoy their beautiful cocktail and wine pairing for an exceptional experience. It is definitely a place for celebrations and special occasions
Late Night Dinner and Street Eats:
If you are up for a late-night snack, make a stop in Kai Yip Estate. There are a few best kept street dai pai dongs located here, where you can enjoy an authentic al fresco dining experience with local dishes and ice-cold beer to chase it all down
Kowloon Shop:
If you still have time in your schedule, there is a very cool shop on Shanghai Street 618 called 黑地, which sells interesting knick-knacks. They have surely gained William’s respect! This restored project headed up by the Urban Renewal Authority is an extraordinary place to get souvenirs from to bring back a piece of Hong Kong with you