Hong Kong: Vibrant and Beckoning

In Kowloon, enjoy lunch at SPOON by Alain Ducasse. It's located at 18 Salisbury Road and allows you to design your own meal, mixing and matching sauces, sides and condiments from selections with both Asian and Western influences. Having lunch here mirrors the city itself in a way, a mixing and matching of things old and new, Eastern and Western. The restaurant's interior provides respite from the crush of people and activity of the Hong Kong streets. The design is relaxing yet quite posh, with mink cushions and eel-skin upholstery.

After a delightful lunch, head just down the road to the Hong Kong Museum of Art. This outstanding museum displays over 14,000 pieces of Chinese art, including a wide array of ceramics, bronzes, lacquer pieces, calligraphy work, bamboo carvings, drawings and oil paintings.

When you've finished wandering the impressive collection, head outdoors to the beautiful Kowloon Park on Nathan Road, not far from the museum. The park is a former military encampment that's been transformed into a delightful green space with lakes, ornamental gardens and a walking maze. Before leaving the park, be sure to pass by the Jamia Masjid (or Kowloon Mosque) located at the southern end of the park. Although not open for visitors, the outside of the structure is quite stunning.

By now it's time for tea, and the perfect spot is The Pine Tea House or Song Cha Xie located in the Nan Lian Garden (Diamond Hill MTR Station). The gardens occupy 3.5 hectares (8.5 acres) on Fung Tak Road, adjacent to the Chi Lin Nunnery. A one-way path meanders through the park, passing attractive pavilions, bonsai and an abundance of flowers. When you get to the teahouse, duck inside for a refreshing cup of tea, a time-honored Hong Kong tradition. The gardens also house a vegetarian restaurant.

Post-tea, visit Wong Tai Sin Temple, one of the island's most famous. It's known as one of the most active Buddhist temples in the city and features lush gardens with waterfalls, ponds and pavilions. It's a prime picture-taking spot. (Wong Tai Sin MTR stop, exit B2.)

After exploring the temple and its grounds, wrap up your day with a visit to the Temple Street Night Market (near Tin Hau Temple), a lively public market known for its dai pai dong or "big rows of food stalls." Explore the market and do dinner like a native, picking up local delicacies from the vendors who offer quick (and inexpensive) meals. Vendors also sell a variety of clothing, accessories and CDs. The market stays open until about 10pm, so take your time and enjoy every inch of this Hong Kong exclusive experience.