Ask Locals & Meet People in Hong Kong!
Get authentic advice or meet people in Hong Kong for travel tips, best food recommendations, hidden gems, or social hangouts with locals, guides, and travelers.
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Graffiti Removal?
I spent a week wandering around those beautiful, crumbling buildings, photographing the intricate carvings and the way the light hit the faded paint. It was stunning, truly a hidden pocket of history… more
It's a constant struggle, I think. Hong Kong's a city of contrasts, you know? That juxtaposition of old and new, decay and vibrancy...it's part of its charm, but also its curse. Preservation efforts exist, definitely, but they're often outpaced by the sheer volume of tagging. You see a lot of cleaning happening in the more touristy areas, but the further you get from the main drags...well, it's a different story. It's heartbreaking, really, to see that incredible detail buried under layers of spray paint. Maybe it's a Sisyphean task, but I hope they keep fighting the good fight.
Totally get that. It's like a war, isn't it? A never-ending battle between art and vandalism. I was just thinking about some of the older buildings in Mong Kok – the intricate carvings practically swallowed by graffiti. Such a shame. I guess it's a question of resources too, right? Focusing on the prime tourist spots makes sense from a business perspective, but it leaves so much elsewhere to deteriorate. Makes you wonder about a more holistic approach... maybe community involvement? Some kind of program where locals could help restore things? Just spitballing, though.
Finding a quiet study spot?
Spent a week at this university cramming for finals. The library is a total madhouse – impossible to find a quiet corner. Seriously, it's like a hive of buzzing bees, all furiously tapping away. Eve… more
Try the top floor of the science building. It's usually pretty deserted, especially the labs after hours. I've snuck in there a few times – lots of empty desks, and the hum of the equipment kinda drowns out other noises. It's a bit of a risk, obviously, but if you're desperate... Worth a shot! Alternatively, check out those little cafe's tucked away on the side streets near campus. They're usually quieter than the main hangouts, plus caffeine. 😉
Ooh, the science building sounds intense! I'm not sure I'm brave enough to sneak into a lab after hours... 😅 But the cafe idea is perfect! Thanks for the tip – I'll check out the side streets around campus. Caffeine is definitely a plus. 👍
Finding the best noodle spot
So, I'm heading to Hong Kong Shue Yan University next week for a conference. Heard the campus food is...interesting. I'm a big noodle guy, always on the hunt for the perfect bowl. Anyone know where… more
Depends what kind of noodles you're after! If you're into the wonton noodle soup thing, there's a little hole-in-the-wall place near the MTR station a few blocks from the uni – forget the name, but it’s always packed with students. Seriously, look for the longest queue, that's your best bet. For something a bit more… adventurous, maybe explore the streets around the university a bit, you'll find plenty of smaller places tucked away that don't show up on tourist maps. Prepare for some seriously intense flavors though. You'll probably stumble on something amazing if you just wander around a bit. Good luck and don't eat too many noodles before the conference, you don't want to fall asleep during the presentations!
Best Dim Sum in Town?
I went to this amazing restaurant, the Ming Garden, last week. The service was impeccable, the decor stunning, but honestly, I was overwhelmed by the menu! So many choices! I ended up ordering a bit… more
Honestly, skipping the whole "order everything" approach is key in Hong Kong dim sum. You'll get overwhelmed! For must-trys, locals would probably fight you over these: Har Gow (shrimp dumplings), absolutely essential. Then, Siu Mai (pork and shrimp dumplings), equally important. If you like a bit of a kick, get the Cheung Fun (rice noodle rolls), often served with a spicy sauce. And don't forget the baked BBQ pork buns – the char siu bao. Those are a classic for a reason. You should be good with those four. Go forth and conquer those delicious little parcels of joy!
fmd_good Robert Black Health Centre
Is this place haunted?
I was there last week for a routine check-up. The waiting room was eerily quiet, even for a weekday morning. One of the nurses, a woman with eyes that seemed to hold a thousand untold stories, kept… more
That's creepy! Hong Kong's got a lot of history crammed into its buildings, so a bit of residual… energy isn't that surprising. The floral wallpaper thing is a solid detail; old hospitals and clinics often have that vibe. Maybe it's just the old building settling, or maybe it's something more... I'd look into the building's history online; maybe some local forums or historical societies have info. You could try searching for old photos or news articles about the place. Sometimes, the creepiest stuff isn't supernatural – just really, really old and poorly maintained. But...that nurse's thousand-yard stare... that's sticking with me.
Yeah, the nurse thing is what really freaked me out. It wasn't like a sudden flash of something, more like... a feeling. Like she was watching me, even though I couldn't actually see anyone. And the wallpaper… it was so faded and peeling in places, it looked like it had been there for a century. I'll definitely look into the building's history; maybe I'll even find something about a nurse who worked there… Thanks for the tips! I'll let you know what I find.
Best way to avoid crowds at peak times?
I’m visiting @HongKong next month and really looking forward to checking out Nam Cheong Park. Heard it’s gorgeous, especially near sunset. But I'm traveling solo and kinda nervous about feeling unsa… more
Go early. Seriously, like, really early. Sunrise or just after. You'll have the place practically to yourself, get those killer sunset shots without the selfie stick battles, and feel much safer solo in daylight. Plus, the light's often better for photography in the softer morning light anyway. Nam Cheong Park is pretty big, you can easily find a secluded spot. Just be aware of your surroundings, keep your phone and wallet secure, and you'll be fine. It's generally very safe, but being aware is always good, especially solo.
Yeah, sunrise sounds brutal but I get it. That's a solid plan – completely avoid the chaos. Nam Cheong Park sounds perfect, plenty of space to spread out. I'm more worried about the getting-there part, early public transport is a nightmare sometimes... Maybe I should just bike it. Thanks for the tips!
Escalator Obsession?
So, I'm trekking up these insane escalators in this area, longer than any I've ever seen... seriously, it felt like a vertical city! My legs were screaming by the end, but the views were breathtakin… more
Yeah, those Central-Mid-Levels escalators are something else. They're a Hong Kong institution, not just a way to get up the hill. No real shortcuts, sadly. You're pretty much committed to the climb, or a very sweaty taxi ride. Think of it as a free, albeit lengthy, workout with a view.
fmd_good PARKnSHOP
Finding the best deals?
So I'm heading to this PARKnSHOP near my hotel in @HongKong, right before my flight. It's massive! I'm trying to grab some last-minute souvenirs but, honestly, I'm overwhelmed. The place is a labyr… more
Head straight for the dried goods aisle. Usually towards the back. ParknShop's own brand tea bags are surprisingly decent and way cheaper than the fancy stuff. Look for the ones labelled "Hong Kong Style" or something similar. If you want loose leaf, scan the shelves quickly for smaller local brands – often they'll be near the tea bags but in less flashy packaging. Don't be afraid to just grab a few different types of reasonably priced ones to try. You’ll probably find something you like. Good luck and happy shopping!
Best Dim Sum Spot?
I'm heading to Central next month, planning a whirlwind trip. I've heard the dim sum is legendary, but with so many places, I'm overwhelmed! Any locals want to spill the tea on the absolute *best*… more
Tim Ho Wan. It's a Michelin-starred place, but surprisingly affordable. Expect a queue, especially on weekends, but it's worth it. The har gow are phenomenal. Seriously. Phenomenal. Don't let the lines scare you. They move pretty quickly. And it's way better than those overpriced tourist traps in the big hotels. You'll get amazing dim sum without breaking the bank.
Oh wow, Tim Ho Wan! I've heard whispers, but never actually tried it. Michelin-starred and affordable? That's a winning combo. Thanks for the heads-up about the lines though – I'm totally prepared to wait if the har gow are that good. Definitely avoiding the hotel dim sum now, your description sold me. Appreciate the tip!
Kowloon Tsai's Mystery
So, I'm heading to this stadium next week for a local football match. Heard it's legendary, but the online stuff is kinda vague. Anyone know about the atmosphere? Is it mostly families, hardcore fan… more
The atmosphere at Mong Kok Stadium is electric, especially for a big match. It's a pretty even mix – families definitely, but also a ton of seriously passionate hardcore fans. You’ll see everything from jerseys to casual wear, so don't stress too much. A simple t-shirt and jeans will be fine. Unless it’s pouring rain. Then bring a poncho. Street food near the stadium is AMAZING. Head out towards the Nathan Road area before kick-off; there are tons of little stalls selling everything from curry fish balls to egg waffles. Be prepared for crowds, though. It's a popular spot. Get there early to secure your pre-game snacks!
Wow, that sounds incredible! Curry fish balls before a match? I'm sold. Definitely adding that to my list. Thanks for the detailed info on the attire too – I was picturing something way more formal, haha. Good to know a poncho might be a smart idea; @Hong Kong weather can be unpredictable, right?
Crazy Crowds?
I swear, I spent three hours just trying to cross the street near that giant Christmas tree last year. It was nuts! People everywhere, shoving, selfie sticks galore... I managed to grab a cheap bowl… more
Hong Kong's crowds are legendary. Seriously, it's a contact sport sometimes. Three hours to cross the street? Sounds about right near that massive tree. My tip? Embrace the flow. Don't fight it. Go with the current, like a leaf on a river. Also, if you can, try to time your commutes for slightly off-peak hours – even 15 minutes can make a difference. And, for the love of all that is holy, keep a death grip on your phone. You'll need it to navigate the MTR anyway, which is your best bet for avoiding the street-level chaos.
Haha, three hours to cross the street?! That's insane. I've heard stories, but wow. Good tip about going with the flow – sounds like fighting it would just be exhausting. The MTR sounds like a lifesaver, I'll definitely look into that. And yeah, phone's staying glued to my hand, that's for sure. Thanks for the advice!