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Gillman Barracks is home to a fair few art galleries, bars and restaurants, but Ida’s stands out with an in-house florist, Charlotte Puxley Flowers. Naturally, the sheltered courtyard, where nibbles and tipples are served, is lush with greenery. It’s an idyllic setting for sundowners, with cocktails designed in collaboration with the team behind Cat Bite Club. Sip on the Tequila Sunset, a refreshing twist on a classic that’s topped with a blue pea lychee float, or order a pitcher of white sangria for the table. Bites by Head Chef Aiman Hanafi are perfect for sharing, including the flavour-packed lamb croquettes, and sizzling red snapper skewers fresh off the grill. Planning a party? There’s also an event space featuring handmade Balinese furniture that can accommodate up to 300 standing guests.
The cocktail lounge-dance club hybrid is hailed by its founders as a new era of nightlife, combining the high-octane DJ sets with sophisticated, Korean-inspired cocktails. The drinks, designed by mixologist Vijay Mudaliar (Native), are creative and flavour-forward, like the kimchi margarita, which combines mezcal with roasted bell pepper. Getting the munchies? Order the uni abalone kimbap (Korean-style sushi) and beef bulgogi sliders. At 11pm, the place shifts seamlessly into club mode, and the pulse starts rising to the wee hours.
While you’ll find CODA at the InterContinental Singapore Robertson Quay, there’s no mistaking it for your run-of-the-mill hotel bar. Instead, the plush lounge offers a playground of opportunity to discover the vibrant flavours of baijiu, sake, shochu, soju, arak, and beyond. The bar program is led by General Manager Treyna Zhang, who crafts refined cocktails around Asian ingredients. The vodka-based Bamboo, for instance, artfully blends bamboo leaf, fenjiu (a Chinese spirit distilled from sorghum), Shaoxing rice wine and osmanthus. Reservations are crucial, particularly if you want a coveted seat at the stunning stainless steel monoblock bar. A separate ‘back room’ featuring retro-fabulous undulating metallic walls and an enviable collection of premium and rare agave spirits is designed for connoisseurs and intimate parties.
The rustic wine bar is a low-key, comfortable presence on the ever-bustling East Coast road, serving European-inspired cuisine alongside an extensive selection of wines and whiskies. Stepping through the arched doorway, guests are greeted by the walk-in cellar, which houses over 150 labels including exclusive bottles.
Discover accomplished dishes by Chef Zoel Chung such as the signature gambas al ajillo, featuring wild caught tiger prawns, and the excellent seafood paella, heaving with green-lip abalone, Hokkaido scallops and sea urchin. For special occasions, ask for one of the two medieval-inspired private dining rooms at the back for a more intimate evening.
Floating high above the city on the 33rd floor of Courtyard by Marriott Singapore Novena, the cocktail bar remains one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Acclaimed designer Emma Maxwell invokes the sunny, carefree elegance of 1960s Palm Springs with sorbet hues, picture-ready pink cabanas and iconic Slim Aarons photographs on the fluted oak timber walls. Sip and savour cocktails like Go Nude, an Andy Warhol-inspired highball of gin and muddled strawberries, whilst basking in the glow of sunset. Fancy a nibble? There’s also a fine range of Americana-inspired fare, like bourbon-barbecued baby back ribs and Caesar salad, to choose from.
It’s a running joke with locals that Inddee is actually a watering hole that just happens to serve a bit of Indian food. That’s because this one-Michelin-starred establishment boasts what is possibly the best wine list and programmes in the city, run by their award-winning sommelier Thanakorn “Jay” Bottorff. Besides full-on wine pairings, an extensive wine list by the glass or even wine guessing games, their modern Indian tasting menu is also wondrously paired with sake and umeshu – and to great effect. A vegetarian selection is available alongside a seven- or nine-course menu that showcases exquisite delicacies from across India.
Thailand is having its moment under the spotlight, as the main shooting location of HBO’s The White Lotus Season Three, which mainly takes place on the southern island Koh Samui. While throwing a satirical eye on the well-heeled guests who frequent the famed fictional resort, this season also showcases scenic temples and a talented Thai cast – Blackpink member Lisa’s acting debut as a health mentor is nothing short of lovable. If you’re a fan of the series and are in the Thai capital, don’t miss checking out these collaborations with local brands that recreate the world of The White Lotus.
Smell like serenity with Panpuri
The scent features a main note of white lotus, blended with crisp sea salt and an undertone of sandalwood. Photo: Panpuri
The series features Thai actor Dom Hetrakul as a strapping spa therapist who makes it easy to see why aromatherapy products and massages are a must when visiting Thailand. If you’re looking to explore these for yourself, this brand captures what serenity (and high-end spas) smells like. Panpuri, the luxury aroma and body care brand, has released a limited-edition fragrance collection that lets the series’ namesake flower take centerstage. The unisex perfume oil Lotus Eclipse is a light floral scent for a breezy, serene day with its main note of white lotus, blended with crisp sea salt and a faint undertone of sandalwood. Two sizes are available: the 50ml bottle is shaped like a geometric chedi (Buddhist stupa), while the 10ml roll-on is a convenient companion to any of your holiday getaways. Featuring signature graphics from The White Lotus on the packaging, the perfume is a perfect gift for fans of the series who seek a whiff of tranquility.
Check out the Lotus Eclipse collection at Panpuri Organic Spa at Park Hyatt, in-store and online.
Join TWL Yacht Club with Royal Ivy Regatta
Go for The White Lotus’ signature “loud luxury” with bold prints and flowy fabris. Photo: Royal Ivy Regatta
Dress like a traveller who holidays at The White Lotus with this clothing collection by Royal Ivy Regatta. The Thai fashion label, known for their preppy aesthetics suited for regatta sports, takes inspiration from luxury retreats and characters from the series to create pieces that offer both casual vacation looks and semi-formal elegance. There are 46 different items to choose from, including polo shirts, Hawaiian shirts and tees for men, as well as blouses, trousers, dresses and hats for women. Following a main palette of white, navy, green and beige, choose from pieces that you can easily dress up in, whether you want something popping for the beach club, an elegant boat cruise outfit or a statement piece for lounging in the sun. Standouts include prints of dainty palm trees and polos with lotuses in the knit. If you’re feeling bold, their TWL Yacht Club tees make a graphic statement.
Available now at all Royal Ivy Regatta stores and online.
Indulge in afternoon tea and cocktails at Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok
Indulge is gorgeous treats inspired by Koh Samui, the show’s filming location. Photo: Four Seasons Bangkok
The White Lotus is literally a character in the series and the real-life location that evokes its charm is none other than the various Four Seasons hotels around the world. Until 20 April 2025, Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok will be offering an afternoon tea set and bar inspired by the third season of The White Lotus, which was mainly filmed at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui. Reimagining the hotel’s The Library at The Lounge in partnership with HBO, the space is filled with a sea of giant white lotuses and photo backdrops that transport guests to the world of The White Lotus. The afternoon tea is a picturesque affair, showcasing the richness of Thai ingredients and photogenic tea stands that bring a lotus pond to life. Guests are welcomed with a glass of Thai crémant and jasmine cold brew iced tea, and served sweet and savoury delicacies in the shape of lotus flowers. Whether it’s the Thai lobster salad with makrut lime and caviar or a Thai tea-infused Madeleine, every bite reflects the artistry and lush filming location of Koh Samui. After sunset, The White Lotus Bar invites guests to sip on cocktails that were inspired by all three seasons of the series. Go for a classic White Lotus Gimlet, which is elevated with coconut lotus syrup. If you’re thinking of Maui, Pineapple Suite offers a tropical nod to Season One, while The Lotus captures the romance of Taormina from Season Two. Coconut Paradise, which showcases the sweetness of coconut with Thai pandan, takes you to the laid-back Koh Samui of Season Three.
Each 1.5-hour experience is priced at THB 2,500++ per person. For more information, visit The Four Seasons website and make reservations here. Visit Four Seasons Hotel Bangkok at 300/1 Charoen Krung Road.
For more information on Singapore Airlines flights to Bangkok and Koh Samui, visit the official website.
You could describe Wabisuke Namba Main Store as a small but homely restaurant that offers a cozy and casual dining experience. Specialising in Obanzai cuisine, which is Kyoto’s home-style cooking, the menu features simple, seasonal dishes made with local ingredients. Expect classics like Dashimaki (rolled omelet), fresh sashimi, chicken with shrimp mayo and Miso Shiru.
Nestled within Osaka’sHozenjiYokocho,HozenjiYamakazupresents an authentic culinary experience. This traditional wooden restaurant specialises in grillinglarge,seasonal, largeeels over charcoal, skipping the steaming process for unparalleled crispiness and juiciness. Indulge in classic dishes likeunajuandhitsumabushi, or explore their curated appetiszers, perfect companions to sake. The restaurant’‘s nostalgic ambieance invites you to savour each bite, appreciating the delicate balance of flavours andthetime-honoured techniquesemployed.
Ever wanted to know what is on Singapore Airlines’ (SIA) in-flight entertainment line-up before getting on the plane? With KrisWorld Digital, you can. Whether you are planning what to watch on your next flight, looking for entertainment recommendations on board or revisiting old favourites after landing, KrisWorld Digital brings the SIA in-flight experience to your mobile, tablet or laptop.
What is KrisWorld Digital?
KrisWorld Digital is an entertainment portal that lets you explore the entire KrisWorld library with its complete catalogue of movies, TV shows, and music available on the in-flight entertainment system. These are neatly organised into Movie Highlights, TV Highlights and Audio Highlights. This month, explore exciting new releases through trailers for blockbusters like Moana 2, Gladiator 2, Kraven The Hunter, Here, and Maria. Find out more about top TV hits such as Chrissy & Dave Dine Out and The Player 2: Master of Swindlers. For music lovers, browse the list of curated audio compilation like the Oscars Hall of Fame playlist to discover new artists and soundtracks for your journey.
For those who love a deeper dive into entertainment, the Stories category offers interviews, behind-the-scenes articles, wellness tips and quizzes, adding a boost to your entertainment experience.
Beyond entertainment, you can find out more about connecting to the in-flight Wi-Fi, menu, games, Live TV and much more.
Monthly specials and curated playlists
Flying in March? You are in for a treat. KrisWorld Digital is featuring both Oscar-nominated and Oscar-winning films, bringing together some of cinema’s most celebrated titles. To see what’s on, visit KrisWorld Digital and check out the Awards Buzz category, a collection of movies that made waves at this year’s Academy Awards. Here you’ll find critically acclaimed titles such as Anora, Emilia Pérez, A Real Pain, Dune: Part Two, and more.
Beyond entertainment, KrisWorld Digital is your go-to hub for in-flight experiences. Discover games on your personal devices, access in-flight Wi-Fi to stay connected, browse the available F&B options from the in-flight menu, and enjoy exclusive deals tailored to elevate your journey. Plus, discover wellness tips that help make your time in the sky as comfortable and refreshing as possible.
A site for everyone
KrisWorld Digital is open to all – no flight booking required. Simply scan the QR code or visit kw.sq.com to begin your entertainment journey.
You can explore KrisWorld Digital before your flight or connect to it through the in-flight Wi-Fi once on board. Bookmark this link to access your KrisWorld in-flight entertainment guide anytime, whether you’re in the air or on the ground!
More exciting features are on the way this year, so be sure to check back for more.
Copenhagen’s vibrant food scene has made it a world-class culinary destination. Shaped by the legacy of Noma and the New Nordic movement it pioneered, the city continues to push boundaries with its fearless creativity, an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients,and the influence of global flavours. Here’s where to eat in one of Europe’s most exciting gastronomic destinations.
1. Reffen
An old industrial area that was once home to one of the world’s largest shipyards, Refshaleøen is home to restaurants, cool bars, great water views, activity centres, and delicious street food. Photo: Visit Copenhagen
The largest street food market in the Nordics is located in Refshaleøen, a former industrial site in Copenhagen’s harbour that’s now a hip, dynamic hub. Open from March to September, Reffen is home to over 50 food stands, bars, vintage clothing stalls and creative studios. Its international culinary offerings range from the gourmet Danish hot dogs at Nordic Hotdog – pair with a craft beer from award-winning Copenhagen brewery, Mikkeller – to Mexican churrasco pork burritos from Nomames. Play a game of ping pong or pétanque before grabbing a bite to eat, then enjoy some live music while watching skaters perform tricks at the skatepark.
Sample fresh bakes daily at Juno the Bakery. Photo: Visit Copenhagen
This tiny, elegant bakery from Swedish ex-Noma pastry chef Emil Glaser is located in the upscaleresidential neighbourhood of Østerbro. Be prepared to queue to obtain one of Juno’s delicious breads and pastries, from their iconic black cardamom buns – a favourite from Glaser’s homeland – to seasonal specialities such assemla(cream-filled buns) on Shrove Tuesday andlussekatter(saffron buns) in December. Juno’s sweet and savoury goods are baked fresh throughout the day, so there’s a strong chance of procuring a pistachio croissant, brioche donut or sourdough loaf that’s still warm from the oven. Order a coffee from boutique Swedish roastery, Koppi, too.
This lively neighbourhood restaurant in vibrant Nørrebro was inspired by chef-owner Mathias Silberbauer’s time working in Nice, France. With its red-and-white checked tablecloths, potted plants and a handwritten blackboard menu, Silberbauers is a charming, rustic spot serving classic French bistro cuisine – think snails with garlic and herb butter, or wild pigeon and foie gras with a port wine sauce. From spiced surf clams to dover sole, the menu also showcases fresh local fish and seafood. Dessert fans will be spoiled for choice with sweets like lemon tart and crème brûlée. Silberbauers’ extensive wine list features a great selection of natural wines.
Sample traditional Danish sandwiches at Selma. Photo: Visit Copenhagen
At Selma, a trendy spot named after Swedish chef-owner Magnus Pettersson’s daughter,smørrebrød(Denmark’s traditional open-faced rye sandwich, eaten with a knife and fork) has been given a modern makeover. The centrally located restaurant is simply decorated with mustard-coloured walls, hand-painted wallpaper and wooden furniture, providing a stylish backdrop to Pettersson’s beautifully presented food. Choose the set tasting menu to sample several smørrebrød bites with toppings such as beetroot and hibiscus herring with red pearl onion, smoked herring caviar and horseradish, or pumpkin with Brussels sprouts, hazelnut and vanilla. There’s a selection of craft beers on tap, plus wines and schnapps from small producers.
Universe in the planetarium dome inspired by Edvard Munchs painting The Scream. Photo: Alchemist
The hyper-immersive, multi-sensory fine dining experience at two-Michelin-starred Alchemist is like no other. An immaculately choreographed dinner takes place in a four-storey warehouse in the industrial Refshaleøen area, divided into acts and served across several locations – including a planetarium-like dome in which guests dine surrounded by projections. Served over the course of six or so hours, 50 creative and technically complex edible impressions from head chef Rasmus Munk arrive accompanied by performances, art and spectacular visuals, taking guests on a journey that inspires deep conversations about the state of the world. Tickets are released four times a year and sell out within minutes.
Koan delicately combines Korean flavours with Danish produce. Photo: Koan
Koan was awarded two Michelin stars a mere 10 weeks after it opened in 2023. At the waterfront restaurant – an elegant, 23-seater space neutrally decorated with light ash wood and backlit screens – head chef Kristian Baumann, who was born in South Korea and adopted by a Danish family, seamlessly bridges his heritage with Nordic culinary traditions. With sophisticated dishes such as fjord shrimpmandu(fried Korean dumpling) and a Nordic-inspired version ofkkwabaegi(Korean twisted doughnut) sprinkled with pine salt and served with whipped double cream, Baumann’s 17-course tasting menu blends the techniques and flavours of South Korean cuisine with local, seasonal Danish produce.
The restaurant is in a raw and rustic setting in the Meatpacking District. Photo: Oscar Haumann
At this former butcher’s shop in Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District, British head chef Jamie Lee serves up sustainably sourced wild fish and shellfish based on daily catch. With its industrial chic interior – think white tiles and thrifted black chairs – laidback atmosphere and a kitchen that doesn’t shut until 11pm,Kødbyens Fiskebar is a great spot for a late dinner. Head to a booth and tuck into a bowl of Limfjorden blue mussels steamed in apple cider or grab a seat at the long counter bar and enjoy oysters with a glass of wine. In summer, the terrace is a popular place for sunset cocktails.
The simplicity of this trattoria serving up Southern Italian cuisine, belies the keen attention to detail that head chef Davide Laudato brings to menu. A focus on craft, quality, ingredients and authentic flavours, ensure that each dish is an elevated take on simple Neapolitan cuisine. The menu at Paesàno is mainly vegetarian, though the pasta with beef and pork ragu is a savoury, flavourful delight. Guests can also opt for the “Fidate di Davide” (meaning “trust Davide”) menu in which the table leaves the choices in the capable hands of the chef.
Enjoy the ambience as much as the food at BaneGaarden. Photo: BaneGaarden
A rustic green oasis between Copenhagen’s Sydhavnen and Vesterbro neighbourhoods, BaneGaarden is a pioneering cultural and gastronomic hub. The sprawling site is home to nine beautifully preserved wooden barns from 1909 that were abandoned in 1950 and left for nature to reclaim. In summer, there are organic street food stands offering the likes of Tunisian vegetable couscous and British fish and chips, a bar serving draft beer, wines and homemade lemonade, and community dining events including seafood boils. Popular onsite sourdough bakery, PERRON, is open year-round, offering breakfast, brunch and lunch dishes such as croissants, homemade granola, seasonal salads and pizzas.
Rug Bakery is helmed by former Noma chef Gonzalo Guarda. Photo: Rug Bakery
With its tiled floors and wooden cabinetry, Rug – which means “rye” in Danish – is an elegant and inviting space. The small artisanal bakery is located opposite Tivoli Gardens in Villa Copenhagen, an exclusive five-star hotel. During the day, Argentinian head baker and former Noma chef Gonzalo Guarda produces an array of freshly baked goods including croissants, cookies and cardamom buns, while Rug’s breakfast and lunch menus offer everything from folded eggs with brown butter and sourdough to veal schnitzel sandos with salsa criolla. Come evening, the lights dim and the laid-back vibe continues with music, natural wine and cocktails, and sourdough pizzas.
Down-to-earth Alouette earned a Michelin star just eight months after opening in 2018. Housed in a historic-listed building opposite Kongens Have (The King’s Gardens) that was once visited by Danish author Hans Christian Andersen, American head chef Nick Curtin’s commitment to sustainable sourcing has since earned the restaurant a Michelin Green Star, too. Spotlighting locally farmed and foraged seasonal produce, Curtin’s 12-15 course menu features multiple dishes made with ingredients from single plots of land. Meticulously executed dishes such as fire-grilled langoustine tail with elderflower sauce and oregano oil, and white asparagus custard with caviar, showcase Denmark’s unique terroir.
Vækst’s focus is on fresh, seasonal vegetables. Photo: Vækst
In Copenhagen’s colourful Latinerkvarteret (Latin Quarter), a beautiful two-storey greenhouse filled with hanging plants forms the centrepiece of Nordic restaurant, Vækst – which means “growth” in English. This abundance of lush greenery, accompanied by strings of bare lightbulbs, ensure guests can enjoy some Danish summer vibes all year long. Vækst’s beautifully plated dishes are light and flavourful, and though meat, seafood and fish are all present on the small à la carte and three-course menus, the focus here is on fresh seasonal herbs and vegetables. Baked beetroots come with smoked cream cheese and crispy rye bread, and grilled beef tenderloin is accompanied by salt-baked celeriac and truffle.
Housed in an impressive steel-and-glass structure close to busy Nørreport Station and the Copenhagen Lakes, Torvehallerne is home to two covered market halls, plus a farmers market selling flowers and fresh produce outside. Indoors, over 60 stands offer everything from coffee and food-to-go to kitchenware and souvenirs. There’s a huge variety of local and international specialities to try: head to GRØD for a typical Danish porridge breakfast or Laboca for Argentinian empanadas. In good weather, pick up a homemade Italian ice cream from Is à Bella and head to Dronning Louises Bridge to enjoy it with views of the city.
The menu at Apotek 57 changes according to the seasonal produce available. Photo: Visit Copenhagen
Housed in a 19th-century pharmacy in Nyboder, a historic district of former naval barracks, chic concept store FRAMA is home to Apotek 57, a stylish bakery and café. Its minimalist interior reflects both FRAMA’s design ethos and the simplicity of Italian chef Chiara Barla’s seasonally driven brunch menu. Hot and cold food is served until 4pm each day, with dishes ranging from porridge with hazelnuts, caramel and poached apple to hummus with roasted carrots and labneh. There’s a daily-changing selection of baked goods, too: try the croissant with miso caramel and poppy seeds or a savoury croissant with Danish Gammel Knas cheese, honey mustard and rocket.
French techniques and local flavours come together at this Michelin-starred restaurant. Photo: formel B
This Frederiksberg restaurant, where head chef Kristian Arpe-Møller combines French cooking techniques with local flavours, has held a Michelin star since 2004. Decorated in earthy tones, formel B is furnished with classic mid-century pieces from Danish designer Finn Juhl, who was born in the same neighbourhood. Guests choose their own five-course menu from a selection of 11-13 dishes – groups of seven or more have theirs decided by the chef – and the simplicity of dishes such as roasted langoustine with pickled pumpkin, orange andvadouvan(a French-inspired spice blend) allows the high quality of the kitchen’s sustainably sourced ingredients to shine. The wine list has a strong Burgundy focus.
To discover more about Copenhagen, please click visitcopenhagen.com. For information on Singapore Airlines flights to Copenhagen, visit singaporeair.com.
The newest addition to Sydney’s hotel scene, The Eve Hotel Sydney, stands at the crossroads of Surry Hills and Redfern in the city’s inner east. At the heart of the new Wunderlich Lane dining and retail precinct, the 102-room hotel features two venues by Sydney hospitality group Liquid & Larder. Bar Julius, an art-filled neighbourhood bar, welcomes guests on the lobby level, while Lottie – a contemporary Mexican restaurant and mezcaleria – takes over the rooftop, surrounded by a lush garden and a swimming pool.
Hong Kong is a city full of adventure andexcitement, andthere’sno shortage of ways to keep your little ones entertained.Thedensely-populatedcity areasmay beperfect for exploring its culture and culinary offerings, butdon’tmissthe chance to experience its beautifuloutdoors as well.Whether that meanssteep tram rides up a mountain, or hikeson quiet,car-free islands, families with children of all ages will love exploring Hong Kong’s mix of nature,cultureand action.
1. Go gaming at Kai Tak Sports Park
The new entertainment hub will feature plenty of indoor and outdoor facilities for children to explore.
Once a legendary airport, Kai Tak now is one of Hong Kong’s top sports and entertainment hubs and a great destination for family fun. With more than eight hectares of outdoor space,Kai Tak Sports Parkoffers statue- and fountain-lined plazas for casual walks, badminton and basketball courts for pick-up games, an open-air theatre for community events and the Youth Sports Ground for kids who want to burn off some energy. The heart of this facility is a multi-lane athletic track which is open to the public for free when it not being used for events. When it’s time to head indoors, Epicland – the city’s largest indoor playground – offers endless fun, while young adventurers can tackle Hong Kong’s tallest rock climbing wall (17.5 metres). The Namco Entertainment Arena provides arcade thrills for older kids, and the 40-lane bowling alley is great for all-ages competitions. Add in 70-plus dining options, and it’s perfect for a family day out.
2. Take a stroll on the East Coast Boardwalk
Enjoy a different view of Hong Kong’s iconic harbour with this new opening. Photo: Hong Kong Harbourfront Commission
While most visitors linger around the Central Ferry Piers, Hong Kong’s harbourfront has expanded dramatically. In early 2025, the city unveiled the first section of a 2.2km boardwalk inNorth Point, joining other seamless links from Causeway Bay and Wan Chai to Central and Sheung Wan. This vibrant, wave-themed pathway is lined with play areas, exercise stations and colourful murals, while cascade seating offers front-row views of Victoria Harbour. Mostly shaded beneath an elevated road, it provides a comfortable, scenic stroll for families. Once complete, this 13km waterfront promenade will stretch from Kennedy Town to Shau Kei Wan, redefining the way people experience the harbour.
3. Visit the new Long Valley Nature Park
Long Valley is a wetland located in Sheung Shui in the New Territories. Photo: Shutterstock.com
Located far up in the New Territories, theLong Valley Nature Parkfeels worlds away from Hong Kong’s crowded city centre. This 37 hectare man-made mosaic of wetlands and farms blends conservation, eco-friendly agriculture and nature education. The park’s freshwater wetlands – home to migratory birds, amphibians and reptiles – feature rice paddies, dragon fruit farms, strawberry fields and more. Follow the boardwalks to take in the wildlife from the birding hut or join guided tours and workshops at the Long Valley Plaza. The park is beautiful year-round but visit in winter, when the blooming sunflowers are sure to wow your young ones.
4. Follow the Dragon’s Back to Big Wave Bay
This walk with its undulating hills is perfect for families and kids of all ages. Photo: Hong Kong Tourism Board
The Dragon’s Back trail – officially Section 8 of the Hong Kong Trail network – is one of the city’s most scenic family-friendly hikes, offering breathtaking coastal views and a rewarding finish at Shek O, also known as Big Wave Bay. It’s short, easy, very scenic and ideal for kids ages four and up. Approximately five kilometres one way, the trail starts near the To Tei Wan bus stop and winds up a gently forested hillside to an open viewpoint. Once you’ve reached the top of the climb, you can take in the sea and lush hills around you, as well as islands off in the distance. The roughly two-hour hike then follows a ridgeline with rocky sections before descending to the soft sands of Big Wave Bay. There are plenty of rest stops and pavilions when you need a break along the route. Best of all, when you reach the beach, you can cool off with a swim or enjoy a snack before catching the bus back to Shau Kei Wan, where you can find plenty ofcha chaan teng(Hong Kong-style cafés) and take the MTR back to your hotel.
The iconic tram heading up to The Peak. Photo credit: Shutterstock.com
The Peak, also known as Victoria Peak, offers breathtaking views of Hong Kong’s glittering skyline as well as its natural wonders. The best way to get there is the tram, which has the honour of being one of the world’s oldest and most famous funicular railways. Young children will love the excitement of the ride, as it rises to 396 metres above sea level and at a steep gradient. At the summit, there are plenty of restaurants, shops and entertainment options at The Peak Tower, including a 360-degree viewing platform, Sky Terrace 428 (so named because it stands at 428 metres above sea level).
Usually plying across the scenic Victoria Harbour, the historical Star Ferry is one of the oldest forms of transportation in Hong Kong. A typical trip takes you from Central to Kowloon or Wan Chai in a matter of minutes, but to make it really entertaining for the kiddos, go on an hour-long tour that involves a ride on a recreated 1920s ferry. The journey culminates in a front-row seat of the “Symphony of Lights” performance – a nightly visual spectacle involving lasers, searchlights and music working in harmony from iconic buildings at both sides of the harbour.
7. Day trip to Lamma Island
The white sandy beach of Hung Shing Yeh. Photo credit: Shutterstock.com
The third-largest island in Hong Kong has thousands of years of fishing history but is now better known for its laidback vibe thanks to a no-car policy. It has also evolved into a trendy location for the creative set. Craft shops, bookstores and cafes line its narrow main street, and there are also many open-air restaurants hawking fresh seafood dishes. Let the children play at the attractive Hung Shing Yeh Beach before you embark on the relatively easy Lamma Island Family Trail – a 5km trek that spans across two piers and offers splendid views of the surrounding sights.
Hexagonal rock columns in the Hong Kong Unesco Global Geopark. Photo credit: Shutterstock.com
Spanning over 150 km² and comprising the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region and the Northeast New Territories Sedimentary Rock Region, this is where your family can witness glorious natural landscapes and wild coastlines created by the earth’s movements and volcanic activity. The Geopark consists of several scenic islands and peninsulas, with unique volcanic rock formations, steep cliffs, sea arches and rugged hexagonal rock columns, as well as a 400-year-old village. Some areas are quite far and difficult to get to, so your best bet is to join a guided tour that will take you on an educational journey, such as this one on Hong Kong’s Geopark North East Wonder and another that allows you to explore the Sai Kung Volcanic Region by boat.
An Indian muntjac in the Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden. Photo credit: Shutterstock.com
At this conservation and education centre located in Tai Po district, kids can get acquainted with all manner of cute creatures, such as pigs, palm civets, leopard cats, parrots and owls. There is also plenty of greenery to admire, with several walking trails as well as an orchid greenhouse, cactus greenhouse and an eco-garden. Children can engage in nature-related art and handicraft activities at its Art House, such as woodblock printing and natural tree ring printing, or go on a treasure hunt.
10. Sign up for a guided walking tour
The Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple. Photo credit: Shutterstock.com
The vibrant and eclectic city has plenty to offer, whether it is its rich culture, delicious food scene, fascinating history or beautiful nature. A walking tour with a guide allows you to truly get to know the city and discover hidden gems that only locals know about. Try the Kowloon History and Michelin Food Tour offered by Hello Hong Kong. It begins with an informative exploration of Kowloon that takes you to the famous Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple and the notorious Kowloon Walled City Park before ending with stops along Michelin-rated eats, including a local bakery and a cheong fun (rice noodle roll) eatery. Walk Hong Kong also offers urban walking tours, such as a heritage walk that takes you through significant locations such as Statue Square, The French Mission Building and St John’s Anglican Cathedral.
To learn more about Singapore Airlines flights to Hong Kong, visitsingaporeair.com.
