3 days only

Hello

I am flying in from Australia and only have 3 full days (arrive Friday afternoon, leave Tuesday morning).

ChatGP has suggested Lamma Island on day 2. Is it worth it for such a limited time. My main focuses are history, food, the amazing views of the city, grittiness of the city, greenery (I like to visit botanical gardens).

Is Lamma worth it for such a short trip or should I stay on the city?

Hello,

With only 3 full days in Hong Kong, prioritizing your time is key. Given your interests—history, food, city views, grittiness, and greenery—here’s how to think about Lamma Island versus staying on the main city islands:

Lamma Island is a peaceful, laid-back escape known for beaches, hiking trails, and seafood restaurants. It offers a contrast to the busy city life but takes a few hours to reach, explore, and return. For a short 3-day visit, this could eat into your time for the main highlights of Hong Kong.

  • Pros of visiting Lamma:
    • Scenic coastal hikes and quiet island life.
    • Fresh seafood at small local restaurants.
    • Good for relaxing and escaping the city crowds.
  • Cons of visiting Lamma:
    • Travel time: about 45 minutes by ferry from Central, plus time to walk/hike.
    • Limited historical or urban experiences.
    • May feel like a detour if your focus is city life and cultural immersion.

Considering your interests, a suggested plan for 3 days:

  • Day 1 (Friday afternoon/evening): Explore Central and Sheung Wan, including Man Mo Temple, PMQ, and local street food; take the Star Ferry to Tsim Sha Tsui for skyline views at night.
  • Day 2: Focus on city history and culture: visit Kowloon Walled City Park, Wong Tai Sin Temple, Chi Lin Nunnery, and Nan Lian Garden for greenery; include local food experiences.
  • Day 3: Visit Victoria Peak for city views, explore the Mid-Levels and Soho area for food and local vibes, or spend more time in gardens and markets; you can skip Lamma if you prefer urban experiences.

Conclusion: For a short 3-day trip, Lamma Island is lovely but probably not the best use of your limited time if your focus is history, city life, and greenery. You can always plan a future trip dedicated to the outlying islands.


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