Drink in the Views at Ozone

For an unparalleled view of Victoria Harbour, head for Ozone. Located on the 118th floor of the Ritz-Carlton (currently the world’s highest hotel), it’s the highest bar in the world, and you’ll find yourself peering down on the dense thicket of Kowloon’s skyscrapers, Hong Kong Island’s uninterrupted skyline and the white foam trails of boats criss-crossing the harbour from a lofty height of 490m. An ear-popping ride up in the elevator takes you inside this subtly-lit, futuristic-looking bar – step out onto the terrace, and Hong Kong spreads out beneath you. You can reserve a bar stool facing the bay or else a sofa; for the best views, request the sofa in the far right corner. Apart from champagnes, wines and gin and tonics on offer, you can choose one of the bar’s signature cocktails (from HK$180); Bamboo (green-tea-infused cachaça with ginger beer, lime and lemongrass syrup) is among the most popular and comes in a length of bamboo. Nibbles include international tapas and sushi.

Sail on the Aqua Luna

Decades ago, the waters of Victoria Harbour were filled with dozens of traditional Chinese junks, their red sails aflutter. They all but disappeared with the advent of modern boats, but you can still sail aboard two examples of this venerable ancient sailing ship. On weekday afternoons, between noon and 4pm, one of the junks runs a hop-on, hop-off circuit of the harbour (HK$130) between Tsim Sha Tsui (Pier 2), Central (Pier 9), Wan Chai and Hung Hom, departing from Tsim Sha Tsui on the hour. For a longer and more atmospheric sailing trip, hop aboard the Aqua Luna for a 45-minute daily sunset or evening cruise, complete with complimentary drink (HK$195), or else see the nightly Symphony of Lights laser show from the boat’s deck (HK$285). For an extra-special touch, if you want to romance your sweetie, you can also opt for the latter, followed by a six-course Northern Chinese dinner at Hutong (www.hutong.com.hk).

Visit the Chi Lin Nunnery

Hong Kong’s most striking wooden architecture. This large Buddhist complex, originally built in the 1930s, was completely rebuilt in wood in 1998 in Tang dynasty style. Demonstrating harmony between man and nature, all the buildings are expertly crafted out of interlocking pieces of wood, without the use of a single nail. It’s a tranquil place, with lotus ponds and bonsai trees, and its beautiful wooden pagodas look particularly dramatic against a backdrop of Hong Kong’s green mountains and towering high rises. The entrance to the Lotus Pond Garden is through three gates that represent the Buddhist ideals of wisdom, compassion and ‘skilful means’. The adjoining Hall of Celestial Kings houses a large statue of Buddha, surrounded by deities. In the Main Hall you may come across nuns making offerings to Sakyamuni Buddha or chanting behind intricately carved screens. It’s worth visiting the Nan Lian Garden next door for a glimpse of its golden pagoda and collection of strangely-shaped rocks. At the nunnery, Chi Lin Vegetarian serves excellent vegetarian food. To reach the nunnery, go around the Hollywood Plaza mall, turn right onto Fung Tak Rd and head up the steps.

Take the kids to Ocean Park

Hong Kong’s most popular theme park. Located in Aberdeen, on the south side of Hong Kong Island, the park is divided into two halves: Waterland (lowland) and Summit (headland), with cable cars and the Ocean Express funicular linking the two. Ocean Park is both thrilling and educational. Apart from kiddie-friendly rides in Whiskers Harbour, more action-packed offerings include the Hair Raiser rollercoaster on the Summit’s Thrill Mountain. The Grand Aquarium is the showpiece attraction of Waterworld; apart from showcasing 400 species of fish in different watery environments, it has the world’s largest aquarium dome. The Amazing Asian Animals includes four giant pandas and some rare red pandas, while Marine World lets you get a close looks at large marine animals, such as sea lions and seals.

Hike the Hong Kong Trail

Hong Kong’s longest hiking trail. Visitors (and even Hong Kong residents themselves) forget just how green Hong Kong is, and just how much scope there is around the city for good hiking. The longest hike you can do is the 50km Hong Kong Trail that starts from Victoria Peak and passes through Hong Kong Island’s five country parks before finishing near Shek O Road on Island South. The trail is divided into eight sections of varying difficulty, with different sections taking from one and a half hours to four hours to complete. A particularly scenic part of the trail, known as the Dragon’s Back since it runs along the mountain ridge from Shek O Peak to Wan Cham Shan Peak, takes around four hours. It starts from Shek O Road near To Tei Wan village on the south side of Hong Kong Island; from the highest vantage points along the trail you get spectacular views of the coastline, while the finish point of Tai Long Wan Bay is a great place for a dip. To get to the starting point, take bus #9 from Shau Kei Wan MTR stop to To Tei Wan.

Walk the Tsim Sha Tsui East Promenade

Scenic walkway along the southern tip of Kowloon. This boardwalk runs along the waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui, and is an excellent place for scenic views of Victoria Harbour. It runs from the KCR Clock Tower near the Star Ferry terminal to the Hong Kong Coliseum and other buildings on reclaimed land of Tsim Sha Tsui East. Along the way you pass the Cultural Centre and the excellent Museum of Art, before reaching the somewhat underwhelming Avenue of Stars that commemorates Hong Kong’s formerly illustrious movie industry. Look out for the bronze statue of Bruce Lee. In the evenings (8-8:20pm), the promenade becomes a stage for the Symphony of Lights, the world’s largest laser show, projected from numerous skyscrapers. It’s also the favorite vantage point for locals who come here to watch the Chinese New Year fireworks show (late Jan/early Feb) and the colorful boats on the bay taking part in June’s Dragon Boat Festival.

Ride a Double-Decker Tram

Hong Kong’s oldest rails? The venerable tall and narrow double-decker trams that ply the north shore of Hong Kong Island have been part of the Hong Kong landscape for decades. They may not be the fastest way of getting around, but they’re a terrific way of exploring the city. There are six tram routes to choose from; the longest journey you can do is from Kennedy Town to Shau Kei Wan (change at Western Market) which takes around one and a half hours. Board the tram from the back and pay the flat fare HK$2.30 as you leave (no change given). For best views, try to grab a front seat on the top deck.

Temple Street Night Market

Hong Kong’s best night market. Extending for three blocks from Man Ming Lane to the north to Nanking St in the south, this night market (6-11pm daily) is the place to go just for the atmosphere, though you can also bargain hard for cheap clothing, fake Rolexes and other items. Fortune tellers tend to congregate in the middle of the market; they can tell you your future by reading your palm or your face, making predictions based on your date of birth, or by getting a trained bird to pick out your fortune card. If you’re lucky, you might see a Cantonese opera singer do a short performance at the market. If you’re hungry, you’re in luck: the dai pai dong (food stalls) serve anything from noodles to curry.

Visit Man Mo Temple

One of Hong Kong’s oldest Taoist temples. Its ceiling festooned with dozens of earth-colored coils of incense burned by worshippers, and its air thick with fragrant smoke, this colorful temple was built in 1847 by wealthy Chinese merchants. Dedicated to the writing-brush-wielding god of literature (‘Man’) and the sword-wielding god of war (‘Mo’), during British rule this temple served as a local dispute court during moments of tension between the colonialists and the Chinese population. Oaths were made here, sometimes accompanied by chicken sacrifice. Today it’s a popular place of worship. Some of its outstanding features include the four gilt plaques on poles outside the entrance, one of which tells menstruating women to keep out of the main building. Check out the Kung Sor hall, which was used by the local Chinese community for settling disputes before the introduction of the present-day justice system.

Go up Victoria Peak

The loftiest views on Hong Kong Island. Victoria Peak (552m) is Hong Kong Island’s highest point and is one of the city’s biggest attractions. From this greenery-covered mountain, you get tremendous views of both Central and Kowloon across Victoria Harbour. The most popular way of getting up to Victoria Peak is via the Peak Tram, the 125-year-old funicular railway that climbs up steeply from near Hong Kong Park in Central. It finishes up at the Peak Tower, where you can pay to go up to the observation deck at the top. Tip: head for the top deck of the adjacent Peak Galleria shopping center and you’ll get virtually the same views for free.) From Victoria Peak, you can wander along the scenic 3.5km Morning Trail that runs past the Peak Lookout, or even hike a section of the Hong Kong Trail that starts from there. For something less strenuous, linger in the beautiful gardens up Mt Austin Rd, 500m northwest of the peak; the old governor’s summer lodge once stood here before it was burnt down by the Japanese during WWII. If you have your heart set on seeing the sunset from Victoria Peak, get to the Peak Tram with plenty of time to spare as queues can be long.

Tsim Sha Tsui

Tsim Sha Tsui, known more commonly as TST, is a shopping and entertainment hub at the southern point of Kowloon and offers a real taste of what Hong Kong has to offer. The Tsim Sha Tsui district is a melting pot of culture and commerce that speaks to the heart of Hong Kong. Nathan Road is the main artery running through the area, where you'll find numerous restaurants, boutiques, and other unique vendors. If you're looking for the world-class luxury Hong Kong promises, you can find high-end retailers on nearby Canton Road. At the southern end of the neighborhood, you'll find the Clock Tower, a Hong Kong landmark. Nearby, the Tsim Sha Tsui Cultural Complex is the premier cultural center in the country and includes tourist attractions such as the Hong Kong Space Museum and the Hong Kong Museum of Art. In the evening, the waterfront is the perfect place to watch the nightly light show, lighting up the sky and skyscrapers across the harbor.

Man Mo Temple

As you stroll down Hollywood Road, you will smell the incense from the Man Mo Temple long before you see the building. The temple was built in 1847 and is often remembered for its smoke-filled interior, where incredible coils of burning incense hang from the ceiling. Here, worshipers pay tribute to Man, the god of Literature, and Mo, the god of War. For those looking to see into the future, fortune-tellers are on-site and will advise you for a small fee. Note, there are multiple Man Mo temples throughout Hong Kong, but this location on Hollywood Road is the largest and most famous.

Day Trip to Lamma Island

If you are looking for a quick escape from the city and want a complete break from streets and cars, one of the easiest and most rewarding things to do is to take a ferry to Lamma Island. This beautiful island of rolling hills, scattered beaches, and quaint villages, has no roads or vehicles. You can hike through the interior to remote beaches and seaside villages. Ferries will take you either to Yung Shue Wan or Sok Kwu Wan. Both of these villages are quite lovely and have restaurants. You can hike between these two villages, and many tourists choose to take the ferry to one of these and then hike to the other to catch the ferry back to Hong Kong Island. If you are interested in doing a hike on Lamma, see our article on the best hikes in Hong Kong to plan your route. If you don't want to do any hiking, Lamma Island still makes a beautiful outing.
Approximately 8,000 people live on this island, which is only about 13 square kilometers, but most of the island is simply covered in forest. Ferries leave the city from Central Pier 4 to go to Sok Kwu Wan and Yung Shue Wan and take about 30 to 40 minutes. Check the ferry schedule for times.

Hong Kong Park

Beautiful, centrally-located park. Sandwiched between skyscraper hotels and banks on one side, and greenery-covered mountains on the other, this appealing 8-hectare park is one of Hong Kong’s most attractive green spaces. Built on the site of the former Victoria Barracks, this isn’t untamed nature: beautifully-tended flower beds surround an artificial lake in the centre of the park, fed by a cascading waterfall and shaded by trees, and there’s a fountain pavilion where you can sit, surrounded by spray. Apart from enjoying the park’s serenity or lunch at the al fresco restaurant, visitors can walk through the Edward Youde Aviary, near the park’s south border, home to 90 species of birds a raised wooden walkway that takes you up into the canopy. Near the lake, the Forsgate Conservatory features plants from tropical and arid areas, while the Visual Arts Centre, in the southwest corner of the park, stages temporary exhibitions by up-and-coming local artists. For a panoramic view of the park, climb the 105 steps up to the top of the 30-metre Vantage Point tower.

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, located in Sha Tin, offers a beautiful and peaceful escape from the bustle of central Hong Kong and a look at the countryside. Set on a hilltop, the main access to the monastery is reached by walking up a long and curving set of stairs (approximately 400 steps), lined with hundreds of golden statues. The walk is part of the attraction, and each of the statues is unique, many with quirky facial expressions and other interesting characteristics. Once at the top, the path opens into the square in front of the main temple, a welcome sight both because it's the end of the climb and for the impressive structures and statues that surround the open space.

Inside the main temple, small Buddha statues line the walls from almost the floor to the ceiling. In the square stands a large pagoda, and statues surround the complex. At the opposite end of the square from the main temple, the view extends out over the lush surroundings, with beautiful vistas looking over pine trees and rolling hills.

Despite the name, Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is not actually a monastery at all, and no monks live on the site. It also contains far more than 10,000 Buddhas. The complex was built in the 1950s but is still listed as a historic site.

To reach the monastery, take the MTR East Railline to Sha Tin Station, Exit B. It's easy to get confused here, and another temple is located on a nearby hill. Make sure you are on the right path before heading up.

Tai O Fishing Village

A visit to Tai O village offers an experience you won't find anywhere else in Hong Kong. Although it is a popular place to visit for tourists, it is a far cry from the busy city, crowded markets, and theme parks. Tai O is home to people who live a quieter, more traditional way of life. The Tanka people who live in Tai O, found on Lantau Island, build their homes on stilts over tidal flats. Villagers offer boat rides around the village, after which you can visit the local markets and sample some of the fresh seafood. Occasional sightings of the endangered pink dolphin occur in the nearby waters. Many people visit Tai O village after they've made the journey up to the Big Buddha.

Lan Kwai Fong

As Hong Kong's most popular dining area, the lively streets that make up Lan Kwai Fong are packed with crowds checking out Hong Kong's trendiest restaurants. If you are looking for a place to eat in Hong Kong, especially at night, this is the place to come. Dining on the open-air patios lining the sidewalks and watching the crowds stroll by is a fun endeavor. In addition to the street level establishments, you'll find restaurants are literally stacked upon one another in the buildings along here. Be sure to check out the directories located at the main entrances. You can find cuisine from around the world. For a dependably good meal, try Bistecca (Italian) or Brickhouse (Mexican).

The main street in Lan Kwai Fong is D'Aguilar, but make sure you don't miss wandering down some of the many laneways to find hole-in-the-wall-style restaurants serving some of Hong Kong's best food. Lan Kwai Fong is just up from Queens Road in Central Hong Kong (MTR Central Station).

Dragon's Back Hike

If you've had enough of the tight confines of Hong Kong and are ready for a little exercise, try escaping to the Dragon's Back Hike. Hong Kong's most popular hiking trail, this hike offers spectacular views out over the ocean, Big Wave Bay, Mount Collinson, Stanley, and Shek O. It's a pleasant change from the buzz of the big city to hear birds singing, the sound of small waterfalls, and the leaves rattling in the ocean breeze.
The hike is relatively easy but be sure to start at Section 8 (bus stop To Tei Wan). From here, the walk takes you up a short distance and then is predominantly downhill with rolling sections to Big Wave Bay. Once you've reached Big Wave Bay, you have the option of catching a taxi or mini bus to nearby Shek O. Both areas have fantastic beaches for swimming, and Shek O has a variety of restaurants serving good seafood. Don't forget to bring plenty of water and your bathing suit and towel on this hike. A swim to cool down followed by a fruit smoothie or ice-cream at the end of the hike is heavenly.

Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland is located on Lantau Island. Here, you'll find a wonderful world filled with fun and fantasy populated with the cast and characters from Disney movies. The park is divided into seven lands: Adventureland; Fantasyland; Toy Story Land; Tomorrowland; Grizzly Gulch; Mystic Point; and Main Street, U.S.A. Performances happen throughout the day in the various lands and feature everything from parades to musicals, right through to evening fireworks over the castle. Also on offer are a wide array of adventures, ranging from Jungle cruises to a trip to Tarzan's Treehouse, as well as water-based fun at Liki Tiki.
You can reach this site on the MTR Disneyland Line, Disneyland Station. If you want to save yourself some time and hassle, pick up a Hong Kong Disneyland Admission with Transport. This comes with hotel pickup, general admission ticket, and an MTR pass to either Hong Kong or Kowloon to get you back at the end of the day.

Temple Street Night Market

A stroll through the Temple Street Night Market is another one of those all-important things to do while you're in Hong Kong. Located in Kowloon, this is the place to go to taste eclectic foods and to shop for bargains on everything from clothing and trinkets to electronics and household goods. Vendors sell gadgets of every shape and size, as well as jade jewelry and traditional Chinese crafts. The market gets going around 6pm, but vendors are often slow to get set up, so it's best not to arrive too early. This is the best market for tourists in Hong Kong, but you can find a number of interesting street markets. See our article on Hong Kong street markets to learn about markets to explore by day. The MTR stop for the Temple Street Night Mark is Jordan Station,

Repulse Bay and the Beaches

Not everyone thinks of beaches when they think of Hong Kong, but you don't have to go far to find some incredible soft-sand beach. The beach at Repulse Bay is the most popular in all of Hong Kong, with beautiful views and a great place for swimming, although it's very non touristy. A day spent here is complemented with the luxury and style typical of Hong Kong itself. The street running along the oceanfront and overlooking the wide beach is lined with trendy restaurants and shops. Amalfitana is fun place to enjoy a pizza, with casual open-air dining looking over the beach.
Another nearby spot for a day at the beach is Big Wave Bay. Here, the water rolls in relatively gently to a large U-shaped cove with a splendid beach. This is a much more relaxed and casual atmosphere than at Repulse Bay. A popular outing is to walk part of the famous Dragon's Back hike to Big Wave Bay and dip in the ocean for a swim. At the back of the beach, barbecues are often serving up seafood and other tasty treats. Buses and taxis are available to take you back to the city. Also worth checking out is scenic Shek O Beach. It's easily accessible via public transit. For more details see our article on the best beaches in Hong Kong.

Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha Statue)

The 34-meter-high "Big Buddha" sits above Lantau Island's Po Lin monastery, which was a fairly secluded place until the statue was built in 1993. This is one of the largest Buddha statues of its kind in the world and took 12 years to complete. The size is astounding, both up close and seen from a distance. The setting here is also incredible, surrounded by the green forest and views out over the ocean and islands. Although you can take a bus, the best way to reach the Buddha is via the scenic Ngong Ping cable car, which takes you on a 5.7-kilometer, 25-minute ride over forest, water, and mountains. The ride terminates at the small tourist-focused Ngong Ping Village, which you'll have to walk through before reaching the monastery and Big Buddha.
Once through the village, a huge set of stairs leads up to the base, but don't be daunted. The walk up goes quickly, and the views from the base of the statue are well worth the effort. You can access the cable car from the MTR Tung Chung Station. Some people combine a trip to the Big Buddha with a stop at Tai O fishing village, 20 minutes away by bus, but still on Lantau Island. You can also pick up a Hong Kong Travel Pass Combo: MTR Pass, Ngong Ping Cable Car, and Big Buddha Tour, which will give you a one- to three-day MTR Pass (metro), round-trip cable car ride, and a guided tour of the Big Buddha. This is a good deal if you are planning on getting around by MTR during your stay in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Skyline

Hong Kong has one of the most impressive and recognizable skylines in the world. The dense collection of skyscrapers, both on the island of Hong Kong and in Kowloon, combined with the surrounding mountains and harbor set this city apart. In the harbor, traditional red-sailed Chinese junk boats and the historic Star Ferry contrast sharply with the backdrop of modern high-rises. At night, the skyline changes character completely as the sky darkens and the city lights fill the scene. Two of the best places in Hong Kong to see the skyline are from the top of Victoria Peak or from the Kowloon waterfront (along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade near the clock tower), not far from the Star Ferry dock, where benches line the waterfront and look across to Hong Kong. The latter location is the best place to watch the nightly A Symphony of Lights laser and light show set to music.

Star Ferry

Hong Kong's famous Star Ferry, with roots dating back to 1880, costs only a few Hong Kong Dollars to ride, making it one of the best deals in all of Hong Kong. Victoria Harbour is a hive of activity, and ships of all shapes and sizes chug, zip, or wallow past as the expert captains of the Star Ferries somehow avoid collisions. As you travel the main route from Kowloon to Hong Kong Island, or more specifically, Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) to Central, it's hard not to be struck by the dense towers of Hong Kong Island, backed by green mountains rising up before you. The breeze off the water is exceptionally refreshing, and the wide-open spaces are a perfect antidote to the tight confines of the city.
Don't worry about scheduling a time to ride the ferry, they leave every few minutes all day long and later into the evening, so it's always easy to get a great seat in the front or along the rail. The return trip from Central to Tsim Sha Tsui is also just as impressive. If you time it right in the evening, you can catch the full splendor of the A Symphony of Lights show. The 360-degree spectacle of laser beams striking the skyscrapers on either side of the harbor is one of the city's free attractions and one of the most popular things to do at night in Hong Kong.

Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is known the world over as a glamorous city and a top choice for luxury shopping. But this city-state is steeped in culture and history, and has a lot more to offer than mouth-watering dim sum and an impressive skyline. Hong Kong has an energy about it that is hard to describe. In the city center, millions of people are crammed into a very small space that somehow seems to function flawlessly. Around every corner is something new and unique, whether it's an ancient temple, a shop selling the latest electronic gadget, or a man taking his bird in a cage for a walk. Hong Kong has another side as well, where you'll find forest-covered mountains, hiking trails, beautiful beaches, islands, and traditional fishing villages.
As a Special Administrative Region of China, Hong Kong presents an interesting study in the influences of ancient Chinese culture, as well as its own attitudes and history, independent from that of mainland China. Hong Kong is one of the most impressive cities in the world, certainly, but there's much more here than meets the eye. Find out what to see and do and discover the best places to visit with our list of top attractions in Hong Kong.

Belleville

After the elegance of Paris’s other areas, the hustle and bustle of Chinatown with its graffiti-covered streets and tiny canteens can be a bit of a shock to the system. But this area has it going on. Take a walk through the independent food shops and bars and soak up the village-y charm before spoiling yourself with incredible Chinese food all along Rue de Belleville. Le Grand Bain does fantastic large sharing plates that are perfect for groups while the grilled dumplings at Ravioli Chinois Nord Est (a two-minute walk from the busy Belleville Metro crossroads) are the best you’ll find in Paris. To the south, near Ménilmontant, there’s all-day playground La Bellevilloise and wine and small plates bar Le Lapin Blanc. Buttes-Chaumontand and the banks of Canal Saint-Martin aren’t far away, and famed celeb graveyard Père-Lachaise is just to the south.

Bastille

Close to The Marais, but much cheaper to stay, Bastille is well worth considering when looking for a base in Paris. The area has some great and eating and drinking destinations and neat shopping. For fine dining that won’t break the bank, try to reserve a spot at Septime. Be warned: bookings only open every three month and go very fast. Paris’s cat cafe is the place to go for a coffee and cat-hug, while Muscovado’s charming brunch spot offers comfort with a wow factor. Rue de Charonne is home to some fantastic boutiques for those looking for some French chic, while Opera Bastille has a strong line-up of events every season, so make sure you check what’s on in advance. In late afternoon, wander up to the converted train tracks of Coulée Verte for a breath of fresh air.

Oberkampf

If you’re looking for some of Paris’s best nightlife in one place, head to the area above Bastille and below République, where dozens of bars line the Rue Oberkampf. From fancy cocktail joints to basement dives and sleek wine bars, this is Paris’s most vibrant nightlife destination where you’re sure to find a drinking den to suit you. The area’s also great for a stroll whatever time of day, but it’s after dark when Oberkampf lights up, with bars like the brilliantly kitsch Ave Maria and beautifully restored Cafe Charbon well worth stopping by before heading to acclaimed music venue Le Bataclan for top drawer international and local live music acts. If all that drinking makes you hungry, try the modern French tapas in the very retro Aux Deux Amis, inexpensive but authentic Italian at Ober Mamma or insider favourite Clown Bar.

Champs-Elysées

Best known for the Grand Palais, Arc de Triomphe and Paris’s most famous shopping street, the Champs-Elysées isn’t somewhere most people would think to stay. However, this iconic area is a brilliant base from which to explore the city on foot or by bike. There’s loads for art fans to see; Musée Galleria, Palais de Tokyo and Petit Palais are all located around here. The Marché Président Wilson is a must-visit market that’s packed with stunning fresh flowers and delicious organic produce, while those with a sweeter toth can find late-opening branches of Pierre Hermé and Ladurée. North of the 8th arrondissement is Parc Monceau, one of Paris’s smaller but prettiest parks thats filled with statues and classical columns. Stroll along the banks of the Seine and stop by some of the many pop-up bars and games spaces, or take a ride in the Bateaux-Mouches to see Paris from the water. Swerve the many  tourist traps on the Champs itself (with the exceptions of Le Drugstore and Restaurant Copenhague) and dive down the side streets for a taste of the realer Paris.

Canal Saint-Martin

This quaint, cobbled-streeted corner of town winding from République up to Stalingrad has transformed from under-the-radar spot to must-visit destination over recent years. Boasting a notably slower pace of life than elsewhere in Paris, the bicycle friendly Canal Saint-Martin has become a foodie hit thanks to its numerous cute organic wine and cheese stores, craft coffeeshops and canal side restaurants serving world cuisine. If you like to eat, this is the place for you. But it’s not all just food food food - Buttes-Chamont park with its waterfalls, grottos and Italian style temple is a great place to take a stroll and burn off some of those just added calories. If you’re feeling particularly active, you can rent a Vélib bike and cycle all the way up to La Villette and beyond. Citizen Hotel, Hotel du Nord, Ten Belles coffee shops, Bob’s Bake Shop, Chez Prune, Centre Commercial and Holybely are just some of unique places to stop by in Canal Saint-Martin.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

For the five-star Parisian experience, it has to be Saint-Germain-des-Prés. From existentialism to jazz - this is where the cultural movements that made Paris famous thrived, where Godard and Giacometti shared cafes and bookshops with Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. That golden age lives on in the many independent stores, boutiques and coffee shops (Café de Flore is a fashionista favourite) and for authentic French cafe culture, Saint-Germaine takes some beating. By day, chill out around the lakes and palm trees of The Jardin du Luxembourg and when night falls, The Quartier Latin around the Sorbonne is where you’ll find buzzing, student-packed pubs, bars and clubs. Shopping is high end, with designers from Cartier to Sonia Rykiel locating their stores in Saint-Germain. Restaurants can be hit and miss, so go with famous institutions such as Paris’s oldest restaurant Le Procope, or Fish La Boissonnerie for exquisite sea food.

Montmartre

Streets lined with retro cafés, ivy-clad grand apartment buildings and the dazzling white domes of the Sacré-Cœur: Montmarte is most people’s idea of what Paris is. There’s an enchanting village feel here thanks to the steep hills, charming multi-coloured houses and tiny old fashioned shops. Plus, there's more than enough sightseeing to keep you busy for weeks rather than weekends. Wander round spotting locations from ‘Amelié’, visit the final resting places of Parisian cultural icons such as Degas and Zola in the Montmarte Cemetery, and take in the dreamy rose gardens of the seventeenth-century Musée de Montmartre. There are plenty of places to eat vying for your Euros, but skip the tourist traps and check out Il Brigante, Soul Kitchen and Coq Rico. For drinks, head up to the rooftop bar of the Terras Hotel and the intimate Bar à Bulles on top of the Moulin Rouge, or go seriously chic at Bar le Très Particulier.

South Pigalle

Known locally as ‘So-Pi’, South Pigalle is what Dalston or Peckham are to London: très, très trendy. Located around Saint-Georges, beneath the Moulin Rouge and sex shops of Pigalle, this is the place to come for the latest trends and fads. Whether that’s fusion bistros (Buvette), concept hotels (Le Pigalle) or clandestine cocktail bars (Lulu White’s). Rue des Martyrs is foodie heaven with dozens of boulangeries, chocolateries and chic cafés perfect for brunch and people watching on a weekend morning. Follow that with a stroll round the gorgeous gardens of the Musée de la Vie Romantique, one of the few free to enter museums in Paris and then stop by some of the area’s world-renowned boutiques like the eponymous Pigalle streetwear store. So-Pi is famed for its nightlife, though, with all sorts of options for letting loose after dark. Dirty Dick is the place for rum in a tiki-themed setting, Le Glass brings dingy dive bar vibes while the upmarket Le Carmen serves cocktails in an opulent, distinctly Parisien setting. Attractions here are hip rather than historic - if basketball’s your thing, stop by Pigalle Duperré – a neon-coloured court sandwiched between two towering apartment blocks.

The Marais

Beautifully kept squares, leafy parks with hidden fountains, traditional bistros and boutique shops - if you’re looking for this kind of Parisian romance, The Marais is for you. This area of the city has a colourful history that resonates today with a strong LGBT community and a diverse mix of independent art galleries and specialist stores nestled between aristocratic mansions. Sure, the more affordable, more spacious east of Paris might be where most new bars and clubs are opening, but The Marais will always be one of the best places to stay in Paris. It’s fabulously grand hôtels particuliers (town houses) and old fashioned boulangeries are the very embodiment of Paris. Location wise, it’s ideally situated. Made up of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, The Marais sits on the right bank of the Seine across from Notre Dame. To your left, you’ll find The Louvre, the Tuileries and Hôtel de Ville; to the right are the hip bars of Bastille. And not far away there’s the Pompidou Centre, the magnificent Place des Vosges and the recently opened Musée Picasso. When you’re hungry, make for Breizh Café for heavenly crêpes and galettes, or the wonderfully eccentric Derrière for a modern twist on French cuisine served in a lavish boutique flat.

Where to stay in Paris

Everything you need to know about the best areas in Paris, from super-trendy So-Pi to the brilliant and buzzing Oberkampf.

Whether you’ve been before or this is your first trip, getting where to stay in Paris right is of upmost importance. From great nightlife to world class shopping, every neighbourhood of the city has a unique offering that will influence your stay. To help you decide, we’ve compiled a guide for each of Paris’s coolest areas. From what to see to where to eat, here’s our rundown of the best places to stay in Paris.

Explore Preah Vihear temple

If you want to have a World Heritage ancient temple pretty much all to yourself then that isn’t going to happen at Angkor. Try getting off the beaten track and heading to remote Prasat Preah Vihear, a series of impressive structures built between the 9th and 12th centuries by several kings. The site has a chequered past and was at the centre of conflict for decades. Sitting on the edge of the Cambodian-Thai border, ferocious fighting between the two countries over ownership of the sacred site pursued until recent years. In 2015, the destination was deemed safe and taken off many foreign offices’ watch lists. While military presence remains strong, the temple is well worth a visit.

Sihanoukville

Sleepy and secluded, Sihanoukville is Cambodia’s premier seaside resort city. The little fishing port has become a magnet for tourists who want to kick back and relax along Cambodia’s coastline. The city is a resort destination that still remains under the radar in terms of mass tourism, but big business and development is on its way. The white sand beach is edged by small shacks and bars where you can find people reclining with a drink, while they spend days gazing out to sea. Hotels here are numerous and often very affordable, and although there is often a seedy feeling around the town, with many lingerers and single older men traveling alone, the city is a jumping off point to Cambodia’s tropical islands.

Phnom Penh

Cambodia’s capital city has seen – and still does see – its fair share of hard times and struggle, but with the city’s checkered past comes a strength and resilience that is infectious. The Killing Fields are a short journey away from the busy city streets, but continue to serve as a humbling reminder of the atrocities and victims of the Khmer Rouge regime. Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, housed in an old school, also works as a sobering reminder of the horrors the people of Cambodia have faced in recent living memory.

Cambodia, however, isn’t all about its dark past. Walking the streets of the Phnom Penh yields smiles from locals who are going about their daily business, browsing the markets or just hanging out along the banks of the Ton Le Sap River. Make sure to visit the Wat Phnom temple, after which the city is named, for some space and time to reflect on this amazing city.

Kratie

Kratie is a small city that’s shaped by the bends of the majestic Mekong. Travelers stop off in the town to enjoy its local life and for the chance to spot the Irrawaddy dolphins that live in this part of the river. Sitting in one of the markerside cafes reveals the hard and impoverished lives of many of the locals – children without clothes beg while travelers snap pictures of them on their SLRs. However, the people of Kratie are amazingly welcoming to tourists. Take the fun ferry boat across the Mekong and spend a day pedaling around Koh Trong island to see the small island community that live in the middle of the river.

Banteay Chhmar

Angkor without the tourists? Sounds too good to be true. Banteay Chhmar is Cambodia’s best kept secret. It’s a huge but hidden temple complex around two hours from Siem Reap, shrouded in both jungle and mystery. Buried far off the beaten track, it’s the perfect spot to live out all of your Indiana Jones fantasies. If you’re lucky, you might even have the place to yourself! There are no hotels, just home stays, no Western restaurants and not a wisp of Wifi. It’s the temple that time forgot.Banteay Chhmar is the 4th largest Angkorian temple in Cambodia, but tourism has so far been reluctant to reach its remote location. This makes Banteay Chhmar all the more intriguing. Surrounded by a vast moat, it boasts gallery walls carved with bas-reliefs and face towers similar to those the Angkor complex. And there’s nobody there! A further 12 kilometres down the road, you’ll find Prasat Samnang Tasok, a temple that has been totally overtaken by the jungle in an epic, crumbly way. Tomb Raider, eat your heart out.

Koh Rong Samloem

Hammocks slung between coconut palms, banana pancakes on the beach and a cold Angkor beer alongside a fiery sunset - this is what Koh Rong Samloem has in store. And a whole lot more.Just two hours by boat from the beaches of Sihanoukville, it’s a pocket-sized paradise that most tourists pass straight by. The west coast is lined with rich golden sands, while the east coast beaches are pearly white. Inland, the island is bursting with free-roaming wildlife, so trekking here is an untamed delight. Suffice to say that you’ll be spoilt for choice.Koh Rong Samloem is developing fast, so our advice is to get in quick! Resorts are popping up all over the coast, from backpacker bungalows to smarter villas and top-end splash outs. There’s accommodation available for every style of traveller, so you really can’t go wrong. Despite these developments, the island feels very authentic. The locals are so welcoming, the water is warm and the atmosphere is wonderful. Change is on the horizon, so grab your chance and go soon.

Kep

Kep is a small, snoozy seaside town in the far south of Cambodia, surrounded by sprawling salt fields and family-run pepper plantations. Often treated as a stepping stone across the border to Vietnam, Kep is seldom seen as a destination in its own right. However, if you spend a couple of days here, you’ll quickly fall under Kep’s sleepy spell. Think long, lazy days with a good book, scenic walks in Kep National Park and more fresh seafood than you can shake a squid at.

The Crab Market is the beating heart of Kep and the only place to be at sunset. As the sun sizzles down into the sea, it’s a hub of hectic activity. Fishermen haul in their crab pots while a bidding war for their catch breaks out onshore, makeshift barbecues send rich, flavoured smoke into the tropical air and kids run around with seafood skewers like lollipops. Next to the market, there’s a row of rickety restaurants built out over the water, all of them selling local specialities such as tasty crab amok and banana blossom salad. It’s brilliant.

Rabbit Island (Koh Tonsay)

Just half an hour from Kep’s coastline by long tail boat, Rabbit Island is the perfect place to reconnect to the bare necessities and take a much-needed break from modern living. With no electricity and no Wifi, it’s somewhere to treat as a total technology detox. Hop in a hammock with a book, kick a football around on the beach, chat to the locals, play some cards and let the sunshine rule your waking hours. Most importantly, be sure to relish being off-grid.

While Rabbit Island is a beautiful place to get back to nature, it will also send you right back to basics. Facilities here are few and far between, the sparing accommodation is ramshackle to say the least and you might even wade out to catch your own dinner! Rabbit Island is rustic in every sense, so if you’re after glamour, it’s best to give it a miss. The island isn’t for everyone, but if you need some time out to restore perspective and take one eye off the iPad, there’s nowhere better.

Where to go in Cambodia

Pailin

While there’s nothing remarkable about the remote town of Pailin itself, its surrounding area is truly stunning. A lonely outpost perched on the edge of the Cardamom Mountains, it’s your gateway to the Great Outdoors. Less than an hour from the Thai border, the region is seldom-visited yet welcoming to strangers and full of surprises. If you’ve got the time, it’s well worth the effort.

Trekking to the Blue Mountains alongside Otaveo Waterfall is wonderful way to spend the day. There’s a little restaurant next to the falls serving simple local specialities and the whole area feels untouched by tourism. Teetering on a nearby hilltop, the temple of Wat Phnom Yat is a real eye-opener, depicting sinners being punished in horrifically imaginative ways. A cheating couple are climbing a very spiky tree in the buff and another two criminals are about to be boiled alive!

Sok San Bungalows

Eleven beach bungalows looking straight out to sea at Sok San, and they are finished with a slightly better cut than the rest.
They’re not luxurious by any stretch, and the mattresses won’t be winning any awards, but the views, and the beach, kind of make up for that. 
Embracing the ethos of basic, with a concrete-floored ensuite bathroom per bungalow, there’s not much to do here other than read, eat, swim and walk to the end of the pier and back to see how far it is, then plonk yourself on your balcony for another laze. The bungalows came under new management in late 2014 and the owner happily provided us with a torch, mosquito coils, battery-powered fan at night, and free welcome drink. Design-wise the bungalows look worn and weathered, though the practical touches meant we ended up more comfortable here than at pricier places elsewhere. They’d also just bought a washing machine should you be in desperate need of laundry to be done. The attached restaurant is reasonable value with a standard selection of Khmer dishes, seafood and the obligatory pancakes. Though sunrise facing, the light did some pretty things come sunset.

Angkor Chom

Angkor Chom is a Cambodian-run guesthouse near the top of the beach whose popularity means all six bungalows are regularly filled with customers who keep extending their stay.

The bungalows are simple, but built directly over the ocean on stilts allowing for an unobstructed view of the sea.

They boast a balcony with chairs or hammocks and wind chimes made from seashells. The ensuite bathrooms have showers and clean tiled floors and generally the standard is a little higher than Sok San Bungalows next door. The place is run by the very pleasant village chief, Mr Chruk, who can organise a boat from Sihanoukville for $20, or you can catch the local ferry for $5 which runs every second day, or the fast boat that goes to Sok San base camp -- though the schedule for this tends to be irregular.

Next to the bungalows on a pier overlooking the water is a restaurant that serves Khmer food with a good selection of the fresh catch of the day. There’s power in the day but not all through the night. Along with Sok San Beach Bungalows, this is the best option in Sok San and is also one of the longer-running establishments along this stretch.

Sok San Beach Resort

Built by the production company that established itself on the island after the success of the Survivor and Koh Lanta series that were filmed here, this 154-room resort is a splendid anomaly atop a glorious white sand beach that has hitherto offered the most rustic accommodations.Long chalets house seven different styles of room, all of which are simply but elegantly furnished, with air-con, tons and tons of storage space, and very comfortable areas for relaxing in alongside the bedrooms in all but one (the pavilion garden view room). 
With beautiful finishings everywhere we looked, attention seems to have been paid to every conceivable detail here, perhaps especially staff hiring. We genuinely can’t say enough about how professional, helpful and thoughtful the staff members that we encountered were. 
The bar and restaurant both open on to the beach. The restaurant offers a range of Khmer and Western favourites at not-unreasonable prices. The wine list was short but beautifully balanced, offering some real stars that you won’t find in many other places in Cambodia. 
Aside from the beautiful spaces in which to lounge, either on the beach, beside the beach or in the bar, they’ve set up plenty to entertain guests who might be feeling a little more motivated. This includes sailing, fishing, cooking, archery, beach volley ball, petanque, a pool table, quad bikes, and more. 
Prices range from $95 to $620, with several choices in between. Highly recommended.

Preak Svay Homestays

Set up as a local initiative by a former employee of the super-swish Song Saa Resort whose islands are just off Preak Svay, this is a community-based tourism project that allows visitors to get a glimpse of local life through homestays and the chance to participate in activities such as trekking, teaching, or sharing skills.
The four homestays are simple affairs, in the homes of local villagers, just as the name suggests. Each one has been kitted out with a mattress, mosquito net and fan, though the village does not have 24-hour electricity. Thanks to the sea breezes, the evenings tend to be relatively cool though, so you won’t be sweating except on very hot nights. The families do not speak English, and the organiser is working with them to help them maximise the experience for the guest, but we imagine there may be some moments of awkwardness. It all makes for better stories though. 

The project is directed by Jonny, the fellow who started it, in order to provide support to the local community in the form of direct income generation for families — so far there are four new homestays, the number of families producing coconut oil has expanded from one to three, locals are employed as guides for trekking and kayaking trips, there is a bag-weaving initiative that has just started — as well as redirecting some of that income into a community fund for local development projects. 

The village is a reasonably typical Khmer fishing village, with a lovely centre filled with palm trees, from whose fruits three local families make the most delicious coconut oil. Rightly or wrongly, they burn it slightly which gives a delicious, distinctive caramel-like smell. 

The easiest way to get there is to book a boat trip tour with Adventure Adam, who will drop you off and pick up two days later. Adam has been working with Jonny for the last year to help develop the project. Those who have skills to offer the village, such as teaching, can stay for free in a special house for volunteers, which was actually the nicest of all of the accommodations that we saw there. 

Meals are usually taken with the families and cost $3/$4 each. A little less for breakfast. Jonny speaks almost perfect English, and is always on hand to help out. He’s a lovely man, who wants the best for this village as much as for the experience of the visitors.

Palm Beach Resort

Opposite the exclusive Song Saa resort, Palm Beach offers the same views at a fraction of the price.Just don’t think about the butler service. 

The beachfront bungalows come in a variety of styles, some built up into the hill overlooking the sea, affording spectacular views, and some wonderful design features — one has a tree growing through it. The carefully made, varnished wooden bungalows come in several styles and prices, and are arranged around a swimming pool that was looking a little the worse for wear when we visited. That may be a low season thing, though. Hammocks are slung in the shade underneath the eponymous tall palm trees, and for more active guests, kayaks and tubes are available to rent. 

The shady restaurant bar is reasonably priced and there’s a beach barbecue every night. The resort runs its own slow ferry directly to and from Sihanoukville, which is arranged when you book at a cost of $25 per person. Take note, if you moor up to the pier with a non-affiliated boat, there will likely be a charge. Mobile phone reception and 3G wireless are available. The only downsides are that the beach at the front is pretty tiny – walk around the side of the resort though and there are other attractive stretches.

Reef On The Beach

Set in among the pines and the cashew trees that populate the back of Long Set Beach (also known as 4K Beach), Reef On The Beach is a good find offering well designed accommodation at excellent prices on what is our favourite beach on Koh Rong.
Long Set is, as its alternative name suggests, four kilometres long, with beautiful white sand, clean water, and just four properties. It’s very convenient to Koh Touch, and everything here is walkable if you have the energy (and perhaps not a wheelie suitcase), or you can take the free pick up from the pier on Koh Touch. 

Reef on the Beach is set up as part of a diving operation, and the reception was filled with diving paraphernalia everywhere when we went to check it out, which looked very promising. They offer PADI open water diving courses for $380, with accommodation reduced to $5 a night, some meals and an open return ticket on the speed ferry from Sihanoukville included.

The bungalows are simple, very, very spacious compared to most, with their own bathroom, shower and wide private balcony.

This is a new operation as of mid-2016, so they weren’t sure yet what the high season prices will be.