12 hours in Hong Kong
 

It's been 15 years since I was in Hong Kong, and I will have a 12 hour stopover there in a couple of weeks. Getting out of the airport between two 11 hour flights is a must, but I wondered if anyone had any suggestions of things to do for 4-5 hours. Bearing in mind I'll be a bit jet-lagged as well, and may be lugging a laptop.

Star Ferry for old times sake
The Peak?
Any special hotels for a tea or drink or dim sum lunch?

Assuming the MTR would be the easiest way to travel in and out of the airport?

The train is called Airport Express. It's $90 same-day roundtrip to Kowloon, or $100 same-day rountrip to Hong Kong. That's the fastest and simplest way.

The Kowloon station is in the middle of a huge development complex and a soon-to-open mall, but otherwise nothing else there. Going to main parts of Tsimshatsui require a shuttle. It's simpler to ride it all the way to Hong Kong, and then take the Star Ferry back to Kowloon side if desired.

Someone on this forum sent me to this website when I was going back to Hong Kong after some years away. Like you, my previous trip had been before the opening of the new airport. You might find this helpful in getting around: http://www.hongkongairport.com/eng/index.html

Thanks for your advice, and that website Leburta - I've now found there is a Left Luggage option at the arrivals hall and so I will NOT be lugging my laptop!

I've recently moved to HK from NYC, and could help you even further if you post which exact day you'll be here. There may be a festival, street fair, or event going on that day that i may suggest you go to.

One of the fun places to visit for a drink & diner is Lan Kwai Fong- if you're into meeting new people for a good chat and some music (even live bands certain nites). Locals and expats go here often after work for dinner and drinks- busy every night!

If you are shopping for duty free- high end items, go shopping at the IFC Mall in Central- the airport shuttle train leaves you directly inside IFC, and there is a great selection of name brand stores there.

If you're looking for cheaper items, souveniers & gifts, or possible electronics let me know and i'll tell you where to go to outside street mkts.

Its easier if you explained to me what type of person you are, then i could direct you in what best to do in your 12 hour layover. I can even set up a 45 min massage with body scrub & a shower, for USD $25 if u like- might invigorate you for the other 11 hrs.