Next Time You Travel to Asia, Connect Through Hong Kong. Here’s Why
If you’re flying to Asia, do yourself a favor and connect through Hong Kong. Actually, scratch that—make Hong Kong your destination.
This city is electrifying. It’s where skyscrapers meet ancient temples, Michelin-starred restaurants sit next to hole-in-the-wall dim sum spots, and luxury shopping lives alongside bustling street markets.
We recently flew United Business Class Polaris (LAX to HKG for $5K roundtrip) and made Hong Kong our launchpad for an epic Asia adventure. Here’s why you should do the same.
Flying in Style: United Polaris Business Class
Long-haul flights? They hit differently when you’re flying business class.
• Lie-flat seats – Because 16 hours in the air demands a bed
• Saks Fifth Avenue bedding – Yes, actual luxury linens
• Champagne before takeoff – Always a win
• Lounge access – Because economy gate chaos is not the vibe
After indulging in wine, a three-course meal, and hours of uninterrupted sleep, we landed in Hong Kong refreshed and ready to explore.
Where We Stayed: Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong
If you’re going to do Hong Kong right, stay at The Mandarin Oriental. This hotel is iconic, with five-star service, unbeatable city views, and next-level spa treatments.
Must-Do: The Oriental Traditional Therapies Spa Treatment – A combination of ancient Chinese healing techniques, aromatherapy, and deep tissue massage that left us floating.
But let’s be real—not every travel day is smooth.
Feeling Off? Acupuncture to the Rescue
After all that flying, my body was not vibing. Instead of suffering through it, I booked a last-minute emergency acupuncture session with a local practitioner.
In true Hong Kong fashion, everything was efficient, professional, and surprisingly affordable. One session later, I felt 100x better and ready to take on the city.
Hong Kong After Dark: Rooftop Drinks at the World’s Tallest Nightclub
Hong Kong’s skyline is legendary, and what better way to experience it than on top of the world?
Ozone Bar (at the Ritz-Carlton) is the highest nightclub in the world—literally perched on the 118th floor with panoramic views of the entire city.
• Cocktails with a view – Expect sky-high prices, but totally worth it
• DJ sets & late-night energy – The party here goes till the early hours
• Dancing above the clouds? Just another Hong Kong flex
If you love big city nightlife, Hong Kong is your playground.
Exploring Like a Local: Ferry Rides & the MTR
One of the coolest things about Hong Kong? The mix of old and new.
Star Ferry – A must-do, iconic, and ridiculously cheap (less than $1 USD) way to cross Victoria Harbour. The views? Unreal.
MTR (subway) back – Fast, clean, and incredibly easy to navigate.
Riding the ferry one way and the subway back is the perfect blend of classic Hong Kong charm and modern convenience.
Other Must-Do Experiences in Hong Kong:
Victoria Peak Tram & Sky Terrace – Get that postcard-perfect view of the city
Dim Sum at Tim Ho Wan – Michelin-starred dim sum that won’t break the bank
Visit Man Mo Temple – A stunning, incense-filled escape from the city chaos
Luxury shopping in Central – If you love designer everything, this is your spot
Temple Street Night Market – Late-night bargain hunting & street food heaven
Final Thoughts: Hong Kong is the Perfect Stopover—or Destination
Whether you’re connecting to another Asian city or making Hong Kong your main event, this place is an absolute must.
• Easy flights & seamless connections
• Luxury meets local culture
• Unbeatable nightlife, food, and city vibes
Next time you book a flight to Asia, ask yourself: Why rush through Hong Kong when you can experience it like this?
