[Editor’s note: Below is a story contributed by Jimcy Labio through the Hong Kong Tourism Board.]

MANILA, Philippines – My name is Jimcy Labio. I am a 24-year old Filipina and I have been working in Hong Kong for the past 2 years. Since the unrest last June, my friends and family have been getting anxious about my safety. 

I’ve been telling them I’m fine. Students have returned to schools, businesses are back up and running, and the city has eagerly welcomed 2020. We’re back to our normal lives. 

I live in Mong Kok, one of Hong Kong’s busiest districts in Kowloon. While it’s always brimming with locals and tourists for its unique shopping centers and restaurants, I still get to enjoy quiet days since my apartment is located in a residential area. 

Aside from the shops, what makes Mong Kok a must-visit district is its convenient location. It makes getting around Hong Kong easy as it’s near the Mass Transit Railway (MTR), the region’s major public transport platform that offers trains and bus services in Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. 

What I love about Hong Kong

In Hong Kong, everything is within arm’s reach. You can get to the beach or to the city’s outlying islands in under an hour and a half. Macau and Shenzhen are now also accessible through the new High-Speed Rail in West Kowloon and the ferry. I feel safe getting around on my own because the city is well-lit 24/7 and there are countless modes of transportation available.

I love Hong Kong because it’s a haven for foodies. From premium delicacies to perennial favorites that are both affordable and sumptuous, you’ll find yourself overwhelmed with the endless list of must-try food in the city. 

My go-to food for the morning rush are pineapple buns. Despite the name, traditional versions of pineapple buns are made without pineapples. It’s called as such because of its crust resembling the patterns of pineapple skin. When it comes to Cantonese cuisine, my favorites are char siu (Chinese barbecue pork) & siu yuk fan (crispy pork belly). For affordable yet beautifully caramelized and juicy char siu, you can go to Sun Kwai Heung at Wan Chai. To go there, just take the MTR and alight at the AKA Chai Wan station.

Hong Kong is also a giant melting pot of culture and beliefs. It’s a multicultural city where you can meet different people with interesting stories to tell. It’s what made me believe that there isn’t any other city like it.

Lastly, there are so many things to do and see in Hong Kong. If you’re outdoorsy, then you’ll surely enjoy hiking the Lion Rock and Dragon’s Back. These hiking trails are beginner-friendly and offer the best panoramic view of the city. In fact, Time magazine voted Dragon’s Back as the best urban hiking trail in Asia in 2004. 

Right at the end of the Dragon’s Back trail is the Big Wave Bay Beach at Shek O. It’s popular for its big waves (hence the name) and its prehistoric rock carvings which is now declared as a monument. You can rent a surfboard and ride the waves or simply bask under the sun. 

Want a more laid-back vacation? You can visit the Monopoly Dreams, the world’s first Monopoly-themed park. The Monopoly Dreams is a 4D immersive attraction that begins with a tour inside Mr. Monopoly’s secret residence. 

Monopoly is a wildly popular, 84-year old real estate board game. In order to win, you must drive all your opponents into bankruptcy. 

The K11 Musea, on the other hand, offers a wide selection of retail brands including Fortnum & Maison. It’s famous for its architectural design, which was made in collaboration with over 100 creatives composed of craftsmen and designers.

But for me, the best way to escape from life’s hustle and bustle is by getting lost in the streets. 

My friends and I love exploring Hong Kong’s pubs on a Friday night. Watching a drag show in Wyndham is the perfect break in-between drinks without losing the fun, good vibes. 

Going around Hong Kong is easy. Apps like Citymapper and MTR Mobile give you traffic news, bus route details, and nearby shops among others. But, don’t hesitate to ask pedestrians for help if you do get lost. They may seem intimidating, but they’re actually happy to help and point you in the right direction. For more details on MTR, traffic and airport updates, you can visit: discoverhongkong.com – Rappler.com