I'm a great believer that there is no wrong or right way to travel, just the right way for you. Although, sometimes, it can take a repeat trip to get it right.
I have been to Hong Kong’s Victoria Peak twice with two very different experiences. The first time was in the middle of July (think crazy humidity & intense heat). Instead of the iconic peak tram, I went up the mountain with a tour group in a minivan. After an hour of winding up and down a zig-zag mountain road in almost 40 degree weather, I was pretty queasy by the time we reached the top. It is tough to enjoy the view of Hong Kong when you're trying to hold your breakfast in your stomach. Feeling sweaty and nauseous is bad enough to mar any experience, even one as iconic as Victoria Peak.
When I took my parents there this past spring, I was determined do it properly. Fortunately the April weather is more forgiving than July’s. On the day we visited there were enough clouds in the sky to block the sun but not low enough to obscure the view for the top.
We first made our way to central station on the MTR and then hopped in a taxi to the tram station. You can walk but it is all uphill and with my parents in tow it was worth a little extra to save their legs (and mine too).
The tram costs $40 HKD return or you can by a pass which includes access to the Sky Terrace. We were in the queue just in front of a large Mexican tour group which was fine until the tram came in to view. As soon as we caught a glimpse of the vehicle the group stampeded forward, trying to shove us out of the way to get on first. I don't think they had counted on the tiny 5ft girl being an elbow blocking ninja. I managed to fend off most of the pushers so we were some of the first on the tram.
The journey to the peak is quick and smooth. The incline is steep and the best view in on the right hand side of the tram.
The station at the top is inside a shopping centre with all the usual tourist shops. Once we found the exit, it was just a minute or so to the Lion's pavilion. This is the closest viewing area to take photos of the Hong Kong skyline. It is very popular so be prepared to wait for a shot without other people's cameras in the frame.
Overall the whole experience was a lot better than the first time. It may be touristy but the tram has my vote over the bus every single time.
So which is the right way for you? Tourist tram or bus?
