If you’re looking for a fun weekend away, Hong Kong has so much to offer. As well as being packed full of things to do, it’s is only a three-hour flight away; and it has – wait for it – SEASONS!
That’s right, you can escape the Singapore heat if you travel to Hong Kong any time between October and May. Summer can be really hot, but there are great beaches so don’t be afraid to go then too. The Luna is in Wan Chai, right in the centre of the action, with lots of bars and restaurants around – you’re right in the thick of it! It’s just a 10-minute taxi ride – or two stops on the underground – to Central, and 40 minutes from the airport on public transport.
A big bonus of staying in a serviced apartment versus a hotel is you get your independence – you can cook your own meals and have more privacy. It’s a less touristy experience, but you still have people to clean up after you three times a week.
About The Luna
The Luna offers a cool contemporary and spacious place to stay. The unique metallic facade is made of champagne-gold oxidised aluminium and is designed to look like a Chinese letterpress – a reflection of Wan Chai’s industrial printing history. The building even has protruding balconies in metallic cladding that mimics ancient printing blocks.
It’s not just the outside that will wow you – the inside is easily as impressive. The apartments are chic and modern with a cute kitchen area for making meals, as well as a living/dining space. Many have balconies looking onto the colourful buildings in the area.
The Luna offers four different types of room, from studios to two-bedroom apartments. The clubhouse area downstairs provides a free outdoor gym and leisure area; equipment at the gym include an elliptical trainer, rowing machine and bicycle machine, with no electricity required. Additionally, guests are offered a grab-and-go breakfast from the clubhouse on weekdays.
What to do in the area
#1 Hiking
The Peak (45 minutes): The base of the Peak is a half hour away by foot, and it’s a great walk up the mountain. When you reach the top, indulge in the view and the unique tasty treats – try the rainbow cheese toastie at KALA Toast!
Dragon’s Back (2 hours): This is a little further from Wan Chai, with a 20-minute MTR journey followed by a 20-minute bus ride, however, this is by far the best hike I’ve ever been on. You end the hike at Big Wave Bay or further south at Shek O.
Tip: Do not take any notice of the signs you’ll see on your walk – they are all LYING. “30 minutes” means about an hour. Just presume whatever it says will be double. Also, don’t forget to “slip, slap, slop” on the sun block or you will burn as there is little to no cover. (I have a really ugly sports bra tan to prove this.)
#2 Dim sum
When in Hong Kong, do as the people do. There’s a great veggie dim sum place at Mid-Levels called Pure Veggie House.
#3 A night on the town
The Starstreet Precinct: Hungry? This is where you need to go. It’s a five-minute walk from The Luna and has every cuisine you can image: French, Chinese, Spanish, Italian and more.
Back Bar: Just around the corner from The Luna is this cool bar in Wan Chai that we accidentally stumbled across. It’s in a “hidden” location, though it was buzzing with people on a Friday night – definitely something to do with the great cocktails and Sangria. Psst… to get there, head to Ham & Sherry and then head down the dodgy looking alleyway and follow the “eye”.
Lan Kwai Fong: If you’re up for some clubbing, aim straight for LKF. We went to Dragon-I, which was a great spot for a night out.
#4 Take the tram
Enjoy one of Hong Kong’s classic tourist experiences either by going up to The Peak in the famous funicular tram, or hopping on a passing tram outside The Luna – there are plenty passing by. They’re not ideal if you’re claustrophobic – be prepared to squeeze into a small space; and make sure you invest in an Octopus public transport card beforehand.
#5 Go for a dip in Big Wave Bay
I’m still confused by the name as there weren’t any waves, despite the many surfboards, but this is a must see – the setting is stunning and it’s a perfect spot to relax and unwind, especially if you’ve just finished the Dragon’s Back hike.
The Luna
18 Lun Fat Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
+852 2309 8855 | theluna.com.hk/en
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