The Best Offbeat Travel Experiences

• Taking a Tram: Ride a double-decker tram from one end of Hong Kong Island to the other for an unparalleled view of life in the crowded city as you pass skyscrapers, street markets, traditional Chinese shops, and department stores.


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  Hopping Aboard the Central-Mid-Levels Escalator: Hop aboard the world's longest covered people mover as it snakes its way uphill in a series of escalators. You can hop off at one of 29 exits to enjoy a drink or meal at one of the many establishments along its link, or take it to the top on a 20-minute ride.

  
  


• Having Your Fortune Told: Want to know about your future love life, marriage, family, or career? Consult one of Hong Kong's many fortunetellers; those who speak English can be found at Man Mo Temple in the Western District, Wong Tai Sin temple, and the Tin Hau Temple near the Temple Street Night Market. 

• Hearing the Birds Sing at Yuen Po Street Bird Garden: See pampered birds at this unusual garden, brought by their owners so they can sing and communicate with other birds on their daily outing. Vendors sell exotic birds, wooden bird cages, porcelain bird dishes, and other paraphernalia. 

• Escaping to the New Territories: The New Territories are a vast area stretching from the densely populated Kowloon to the Chinese border. About half of Hong Kong's population is housed here in huge satellite towns, but pockets of rural life and preserved country parks remain. One of the best things to do is follow a self-guided hike that will take you past traditional Chinese homes, temples, and other buildings in a small village. Nature lovers should head to Geopark with its geological wonders. 

• Hiking Across Lamma: An excursion to this outlying island will do your soul good. Start with the 35-minute ferry trip, followed by a 90-minute hike across the island, perhaps some swimming at a beach, and finally a meal of fresh seafood at an open-air waterfront restaurant. 

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.