Hong Kong is awaiting you, for longer trips and shorter stopovers (Photo by Anthony Kwan/Getty Images) If you’ve made the journey from the UK to Australia or Asia, you’ll know it’s long. Like, really long. From multiple flights to the dreaded jet lag, 24 hours-plus of plane food and a small child kicking your seat for a day in the air, it’s no surprise long-haul travellers are on the lookout for ways to make the journey to the far side of the world more enjoyable. Whether you’re on your way to beach bliss in Bali and Koh Samui or heading Down Under to Australia and New Zealand, adding a Hong Kong stopover to your travel itinerary will make your epic journey even more thrilling. The city is a brilliant metropolis mixing East and West. From its heritage and local culture to cuisine and impressive architecture, it’s the perfect spot for a stopover to rest and recharge with direct flights taking less than 13 hours from London. Here are the best ways to experience the city, while making your journey unforgettable. A world-class airport and Express transport The Airport Express whisks you into the heart of the city in just 24 minutes It makes sense to start with Hong Kong’s airport, which is where you’ll first experience this amazing city after you touch down. There’s a reason Hong Kong International Airport is consistently voted one of the world’s best: its Airport Express whisks you into the heart of the city in just 24 minutes, while convenient luggage storage means you can get the most out of even the shortest of layovers without lugging around a suitcase. Check into top-tier hotels The Peninsula is a luxe stay for travellers The city’s hotels provide a range of rooms for all budgets, from historic charm to modern luxury, all of which cater to travellers on a stopover. There are several iconic hotels to choose from, such as The Peninsula (pictured), the Four Seasons – boasting views of Victoria Harbour – and Mandarin Oriental. If you’re after something a little more boutique, try The Upper House, or Rosewood Hong Kong for some local luxury. While these are central and perfect for a quick visit, there are also great hotels closer to the airport so you need not worry about missing your flight. Novotel Citygate is a hassle-free option, with a complimentary shuttle bus for guests to the airport taking the pain out of organising a cab. Plus, you’re still only a short trip to the city centre on the subway, or a bus ride from the quaint Tai O fishing village. The best of both worlds, we say! The mesmerising skyline The Peak Tram gives you amazing views of the skyline (Picture: Night Raven) We’re sure you’ve seen images of Hong Kong’s expansive, glittering architecture, but that’s nothing compared to seeing it in real life. A ride on the Peak Tram takes you to Victoria Peak where you can witness amazing vistas of city skyscrapers juxtaposed with the mountains and sea, showcasing the city’s panorama. Back down off the peak, you can cruise across Victoria Harbour and see the city from the water, or make a reservation at one of the skyscraper’s bars or restaurants where you can sit back (or sip back) and take in the city’s lights from on high. Name a more captivating skyline from the water Don’t forget to set your alarm for 8pm when the daily Symphony of Lights transforms the harbour into an amazing display of laser beams and synchronised lights. Truly, dinner and a show. The food scene Dim Sum? Don’t mind if we do Speaking of dinner, if you’re a foodie, this city offers up many a dishy delight, with a blend of traditional Cantonese flavours and international influences. While in town, wrap your tastebuds around local dumplings and noodles, teamed with egg tarts and pineapple buns with butter. Even on a whistlestop tour of the city, you can manage to fit in a range of culinary wonders, such as dim sum at the historic Lin Heung Tea House in Central before slurping down some wonton noodles at Mak’s Noodles. Don’t forget to take in the amazing street food offerings on the streets of Mong Kok, where you can snap up egg waffles and curry fish balls while on the go. Time is of the essence, and we don’t want you to miss a magic moment. Come nighttime, the Temple Street Night Market is calling, offering up food for every taste. Here we have everything from open-air restaurants serving seafood, or local cha chaan tengs like Australia Dairy Company keeping travellers fuelled with Hong Kong-style milk tea and toast. A shopper’s dream Hong Kong’s thriving streets welcome you all year ’round It’s worth leaving a little (or a lot) of free space in your suitcase to stock up the holiday wardrobe with some stopover shopping thanks to Hong Kong’s tax-free status. If you’re a fan of designer threads, explore Central mall and Kowloon Peninsula’s Tsim Sha Tsui, the latter being home to Canton Road, known for its array of luxury brands. Many of the malls are an air-conditioned welcome for travellers keen to escape the humid heat, where you can shop ’til your heart’s content without breaking a sweat. Perhaps you’re after something a little more unique to remember your time in the city? In that case, head to PMQ in Central, where you’ll find a multi-level retail space featuring a mix of local fashion labels, pop-ups, and unique boutiques for quirkier keepsakes and gifts for loved ones back home. A spot for nature-lovers Dragon’s Back hiking trail is the perfect way to see nature Off the man-made track, Hong Kong provides an accessible escape for those who want to be at one with nature. Look no further than the Dragon’s Back hiking trail, which was crowned Asia’s best urban hike – which can be completed in just a few hours (great for those on a flying visit!) – providing dreamy coastal views. If you’d rather stay central, Hong Kong Park is an oasis nestled among the skyscrapers of the city, even complete with a tea house, aviary and artificial lake that brings the nature downtown. For those with a little more time, in 30 minutes you can be on the golden sands of Repulse Bay, paddling in the cool water, or catching some waves at the aptly-named Big Wave Bay. There’s nothing like some salt water to bring the holiday vibes. Year-round cultural highlights Time your trip with a cultural moment The city never sleeps, so it doesn’t matter what time of year you’re touching down there will always be something special to experience. Chinese New Year is particularly amazing, as the city is transformed into a tapestry of red lanterns, flower markets and fireworks to celebrate, while art takes over in March with Art Basel. Riffing on the earlier culinary heart of the city, autumn then brings the Wine & Dine Festival, while March also sees Hong Kong Rugby Sevens come to the city for sport lovers to enjoy. Before you know it, you’re on the next leg of your holiday, feeling refreshed, inspired and energised by all Hong Kong has to offer! Visit discoverhongkong.com to find out more.