Travel

Passport to Hong Kong & Thailand

Sep 4, 2019

By: Alexandra Donaldson

Photography: Maya Visnyei

Travel

Passport to Hong Kong & Thailand

Sep 4, 2019

By: Alexandra Donaldson

Travelling to Asia can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and Hong Kong and Thailand’s joint 2Culturesonetrip initiative means these two incredibly rich and diverse destinations are ready and waiting to welcome tourists.

In our humble opinion, a holiday in Asia should be on every Canadian’s list of dream trips to take. The opportunity to immerse oneself in another culture, with all the tradition, food and sights it has to offer, is one of the chief reasons to travel, after all, and Hong Kong and Thailand—two of Asia’s top tourist destinations—provide that experience in spades. From incredible luxury shops and world-class street food to unforgettable historic sights and bustling city centres, Hong Kong and Thailand both excel at offering a well-rounded vacation that will have you yearning for a repeat performance. Here, we scratch the surface and offer five highlights of these two unbeatable ports of call.

1. Hong Kong Hustle

Photography: Maya Visnyei

If you’re after the unique energy of a world-class urban centre, Hong Kong does not disappoint. From the iconic neon signage to plenty of Michelin- starred food picks to art-focused public spaces, Hong Kong offers up much to do and see. Make sure to eat at the Anthony Bourdain-approved Tung Po for dinner, and spend some time in Tai Kwun, an art-centre-meets-shopping-venue that used to be a police barracks.

2. Day Tripping to Lamma Island

Photography: Maya Visnyei

While known for its cityscape, Hong Kong is also home to plenty of verdant outdoor excursions. A day trip to Lamma Island, off the southwest coast of Hong Kong Island, is a must to experience a more relaxed side of life here. Take the 40-minute ferry ride and, upon exiting, wander around Yung Shu Wan, a colourful fishing village with restaurants that offer the freshest seafood. Then, hike the easy Lamma Island Family Walk, stopping at its outlook posts for that perfect snapshot. Keen to spend your day trip relaxing? One of the quietest beaches in Hong Kong, Lo So Shing Beach, is a serene escape on the island.

3. Bangkok Bling

Photography: Maya Visnyei

Checking in to 137 Pillars Suites & Residences in Bangkok’s Sukhumvit Thonglor neighbourhood will introduce you to the casual luxury that is one of the signatures of Thailand’s hospitable capital. The hotel’s incredible spa services (the Thai massage is an essential while you’re there) and outstanding food and amenities set the tone for a relaxing, peaceful escape amid the hustle and bustle of this storied city. But to truly live the 137 Pillars experience, make sure to spend an afternoon by the infinity pool on the 27th floor, taking in the incredible views of the city spread out below.

4. Bucket List Weekend in Chiang Rai

Photography: Maya Visnyei

While Thailand boasts incredible beaches and summer-loving weather, a different adventure awaits once you head north to Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp and Resort for a true once-in-a-lifetime treat. Chiang Rai is a short flight from Bangkok and is situated at the intersection of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, and Anantara is its must-visit locale. From the incredible food (don’t skimp on the side-of-the-road pineapple for a refreshing treat) to the temples to the stunning view from your Anantara villa, every moment is extraordinary. But of course, the most amazing part is spending time with Anantara’s rescued elephants. Walk alongside the gentle giants at sunrise and watch them frolic in the water for an encounter you’ll never forget.

5. City Scenes

Photography: Maya Visnyei

There’s so much to take in when visiting Bangkok—it’s truly a place of sensual delights. From tourist-driven hot spots like Khaosan Road to the bustling and fragrant floating flower markets, there’s no shortage of bright Instagrammable eye candy that takes your breath away. Our must-dos to immerse yourself in a world away from your everyday: riding in one of the traditional longtail speed- boats, travelling around by tuk-tuk, visiting the magnificent Wat Suthat Thepwararam Buddhist temple and noshing on the world-class street food (the Pad Thai at Thipsamai should not be missed).

Mid-Trip Relaxation in the Cathay Pacific Lounge

Photography: Maya Visnyei

A trip from Canada to Asia isn’t without significant time spent at airports, but with a stop in one of the six Cathay Pacific lounges at Hong Kong International Airport as you await your flight to Bangkok you can take an hour— or several—to relax and refresh. A quiet space with great food and drink (the noodle bar offers up impressive airport food) away from the stress of the boarding gates is just what’s needed to recharge before the next phase of your once-in-a-lifetime trip.