Hong Kong is a vibrant city blending traditional Chinese heritage with modern architecture, shopping, and cultural gems. In December, I embarked on a 5-day solo trip to Hong Kong, enjoying luxury experiences without burning a hole in my pocket—thanks to points, status perks, and smart planning. In this detailed blog, I’ll walk you through everything: my flights booked with Air India and Axis Atlas Credit Card, Maharaja Gold benefits, Accor Gold stay at Ibis North Point, and how I explored Hong Kong efficiently as a first-time solo traveler.
Booking My Flights: Mumbai to Hong Kong via Delhi
Being a Maharaja Gold status holder with Air India, I booked my round-trip flight from Mumbai to Hong Kong via Delhi using the Air India mobile app, and paid using my Axis Atlas Credit Card. This earned me 5X Edge Miles, making it a rewarding transaction even before the trip began.
- Although I flew economy class on both legs, my Maharaja Gold status unlocked several premium benefits:
- Access to the Business Class Lounge at Mumbai Airport (Domestic)
- Encalm Prive Lounge at Delhi T3 before the international leg
- Priority Check-in, Boarding, and Baggage Tags
- Free Preferred Seat Selection
This combination of status and smart card use gave me a semi-luxury travel experience at economy pricing—just the way we love at Free Luxury Travel!
Arrival in Hong Kong and an Unexpected Immigration Hiccup
I landed at Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) at around 5 AM, feeling fresh and excited. But the journey had a twist—I was asked to step out of the immigration queue and taken to a separate room for additional questioning.
While it felt intimidating, I noticed I wasn’t alone—many solo travelers were being checked similarly. I was asked questions about:
- My employer and work profile
- Where I was staying
- The purpose of my visit
After about 30 minutes and a detailed passport scan, I was finally cleared. Lesson: always carry your hotel bookings, employer ID, and return tickets handy when traveling solo internationally.
Staying Connected: Klook eSIM & Octopus Card
To avoid getting lost again like I did during my Singapore trip, my first move post-immigration was buying an eSIM via Klook. The installation and activation were quick and seamless—within minutes, I had high-speed internet.
I also purchased the Octopus Card through Klook, a must-have in Hong Kong. It’s accepted on:
- MTR (metro)
- Buses
- Ferries
- Convenience stores and supermarkets
This little card made commuting and small purchases stress-free.
Hotel Stay: Ibis Hong Kong North Point with Accor Gold Perks
For my 4-night stay, I chose Ibis Hong Kong North Point, an affordable yet well-connected Accor property in which I stayed for free by paying through points. I redeemed 15400 points for my 4 night stay. Thanks to my Accor ALL Gold status, I received:
- Priority check-in
- Early check-in
- Welcome drink
- High-floor room with partial harbor view
How I Reached the Hotel from the Airport
You have two choices:
- Airport Express – Fast but expensive
- A11 Bus – Budget-friendly and scenic
I opted for the A11 Airport Bus, which drops you close to the hotel (North Point stop). The journey took about an hour but was comfortable and perfect for early arrival, as I had time before hotel check-in.
Hotel Review:
Room: Compact but very clean and modern
Connectivity: MTR station, ferry pier, bus terminus, and tram stop within 2-minute walk
Verdict: Excellent budget-luxury stay for solo or couple travelers
Day 1 in Hong Kong: Gardens, Culture, and Trams
After freshening up and taking a short nap, I set out to explore the city. My focus for Day 1 was relaxation and scenic spots.
🪷 Nan Lian Garden
My first stop was the serene Nan Lian Garden—a beautiful Chinese classical garden located in Diamond Hill. The bonsai trees, ponds, and golden pagoda make it an Instagrammer’s dream.
🎭 West Kowloon Cultural District
Next, I visited the West Kowloon Cultural District, a waterfront area that transforms into a vibrant space with art installations and light shows during the holiday season. Since it was close to Christmas, the atmosphere was festive and photogenic.
🚋 Hong Kong Tram Ride (Ding Ding)
To end the day, I hopped onto the iconic Hong Kong Tram, affectionately known as “Ding Ding.” I took it till the final stop, then returned back, enjoying the slow-paced views of the city. It was a nostalgic, budget-friendly ride that cost less than ₹40.
By evening, I was back at the hotel and called it a night—rested and ready for a full Day 2.
Day 2 in Hong Kong – Victoria Peak, Tram Ride & Christmas Vibes 🎄
On Day 2 of my Hong Kong adventure, I planned to check off a classic bucket list item: Victoria Peak—home to the best panoramic views of Hong Kong's skyline. I had read several reviews warning about long queues for the Peak Tram, especially during the holiday season. So, I decided to leave early, stepping out of Ibis Hong Kong North Point by 6 AM.
🌄 The Iconic Victoria Peak Tram: Go Early, Avoid Crowds
To save time and skip queues, I booked my Peak Tram tickets via Klook—a platform I highly recommend for seamless entry to attractions. When I arrived, I was pleasantly surprised. The area was almost empty, with fewer than 10 people in the tram! A rare moment of peace in an otherwise buzzing tourist destination.
The tram ride uphill was surreal—gliding past the greenery and slowly revealing the skyscrapers of Hong Kong as we gained elevation. It’s a unique, slightly slanted ride up the mountain that every visitor should experience at least once.
🗺️ Getting Lost… Almost
Once I reached the top, I tried navigating to Victoria Peak's observation point using Google Maps—but unfortunately, it led me in the wrong direction. I ended up walking around aimlessly until, while heading back, I accidentally discovered a hidden gem: the Lugard Road Observation Deck.
📸 Lugard Road Observation Deck: The Real Star
Tucked away along a quiet walking trail, this free viewpoint offers breathtaking 180-degree views of the Hong Kong skyline, harbor, and Kowloon in the distance. I spent nearly an hour just soaking it in. There were barely any tourists here—just joggers and locals enjoying their morning walk. A peaceful contrast to the bustling city below.
If you're visiting Victoria Peak, skip the expensive Sky Terrace and head straight to Lugard Road Lookout instead.
⚠️ Pro Tip: Don't Walk Down!
On a spontaneous whim, I decided to walk down from Victoria Peak instead of taking the tram back. Bad idea. What looked manageable on Google Maps turned out to be a steep, never-ending downhill trek. After all the walking I’d done since morning, my legs gave up midway. By the time I reached the base, I was completely drained and needed to rest back at the hotel.
🛗 Afternoon Visit: World’s Longest Outdoor Escalators
After a short power nap, I ventured out again—this time to experience another quirky attraction: The Central–Mid-Levels Escalators, the world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system.
These escalators are a clever solution to Hong Kong's hilly terrain and serve as daily transport for thousands of locals. But for tourists like me, they’re also a cool photo opportunity. The ride through alleyways, street art, and cafes gave me a glimpse of local life in Central.
🎄 Evening Festivities at West Kowloon Cultural District
In the evening, I returned to the West Kowloon Cultural District, which had transformed beautifully overnight. The area was now glowing with Christmas lights, giant trees, and holiday decorations. Families, couples, and solo travelers like me gathered to enjoy the festive spirit.
I grabbed a warm drink, watched live performances, and wandered through the stalls and installations. This place during the holidays is magical—definitely worth a second visit.
💤 Ending Day 2
By the time I returned to my hotel, my legs had officially retired for the day. From sunrise trams to festive lights, Day 2 was packed with unforgettable experiences, hidden finds, and a few sore muscles. But as every traveler knows—no pain, no peak views!
Day 3 in Hong Kong – Big Buddha, Sky100 & Spiritual Escapes 🛕🌆
By now, I had settled into the rhythm of Hong Kong—early mornings, efficient transport, and a perfect blend of culture, spirituality, and skyline views. Day 3 was all about reaching new heights—both literally and spiritually.
🚡 The Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Ride to Big Buddha
I left my hotel early once again, determined to beat the crowds. My first destination of the day was Ngong Ping Village on Lantau Island, home to the Tian Tan Buddha—also known as the Big Buddha.
To reach there, I took the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car, and booked my ticket in advance via Klook. Since I arrived early, the queue was minimal—just a handful of travelers.
As the 25-minute cable car ride began, I was instantly in awe. The glass cabin gave me panoramic views of Tung Chung Bay, lush mountains, and even glimpses of Hong Kong International Airport. It’s truly one of the most scenic rides I’ve experienced in Asia.
🪷 Tian Tan Buddha – A Spiritual and Scenic Marvel
Once I reached Ngong Ping Village, I walked toward the steps that lead to the giant bronze statue of the Big Buddha. Climbing the 268 steps with the majestic statue in view was a spiritual moment. The peaceful aura, cool breeze, and distant chanting sounds made the visit truly soul-soothing.
I spent nearly an hour here, sitting near the statue and observing the panoramic views of Lantau Island. It was one of those moments where travel meets introspection.
🧘 Chi Lin Monastery – A Hidden Gem of Tranquility
Just a short walk from the Big Buddha is the Chi Lin Nunnery and Monastery, often missed by rushed tourists. I’m glad I made time for it.
The Tang Dynasty-inspired architecture, tranquil lotus ponds, and meditative silence inside the monastery were incredibly calming. I spent about an hour just soaking in the spiritual energy of the place. It’s one of the most peaceful places in Hong Kong, and I’d highly recommend adding it to your itinerary.
After that, I took the cable car ride back to Tung Chung, enjoying the scenic descent once again.
🌇 Sky100 Observation Deck – A View from the 100th Floor
Next up was something modern and sky-high—the Sky100 Observation Deck at the International Commerce Centre (ICC). I took the metro to Kowloon Station and headed straight to the 100th floor via high-speed elevators.
From the top, you get 360-degree views of Hong Kong’s skyline, Victoria Harbour, and even parts of the New Territories on a clear day. The view was jaw-dropping—especially during the golden afternoon light. You can also enjoy an interactive multimedia zone that shares the city’s story in a high-tech format.
If you're looking for a less crowded alternative to Victoria Peak, Sky100 is a perfect choice—especially during the day.
🛕 Man Mo Temple – A Cultural Encounter
To wrap up the day, I visited the Man Mo Temple in Sheung Wan—one of the oldest and most atmospheric temples in Hong Kong.
The moment I stepped in, I was struck by the giant incense coils hanging from the ceiling, the warm glow of lanterns, and the scent of sandalwood. The temple is dedicated to Man (god of literature) and Mo (god of war), making it a unique blend of spiritual traditions.
It was a beautiful contrast to the skyscrapers I had just seen from Sky100—reminding me once again of Hong Kong’s ability to balance tradition with modernity.
Day 4 & 5 in Hong Kong – Avenue of Stars, Ding Ding & A Surprise Upgrade 🎬✈️
As my Hong Kong adventure neared its end, Day 4 was all about soaking in local charm, iconic film history, and a taste of classic Hong Kong culture. From walking in the footsteps of cinematic legends to getting a surprise flight upgrade on my return, this final stretch of the trip turned out to be just as exciting as the start.
🌟 Morning at Avenue of Stars – Tribute to Hong Kong Cinema
I began Day 4 by heading to the famous Avenue of Stars, located along the Victoria Harbour waterfront in Tsim Sha Tsui. Modeled after the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this promenade celebrates the rich history of Hong Kong’s film industry.
The most iconic attraction here is the statue of Bruce Lee—the legendary martial artist and actor. It’s a must-stop photo-op, with the harbour skyline as the backdrop. Apart from Bruce Lee, the path is filled with handprints and plaques honoring stars like Jackie Chan, Jet Li, and Maggie Cheung.
📝 Pro tip: Visit early morning for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos!
⛴️ Crossing Victoria Harbour on the Iconic Star Ferry
After spending a couple of peaceful hours strolling along the promenade and enjoying the harbor views, I decided to take a ride on the Star Ferry—one of the cheapest and most scenic ways to cross the harbour between Tsim Sha Tsui and Central.
With tickets costing just a few HKD (under ₹50), the ferry offers spectacular skyline views and is perfect for photos or a peaceful break in your day.
🏙️ Evening at Times Square & One Last Ride on the Ding Ding Tram
As the day moved on, I made my way to Times Square Hong Kong in Causeway Bay. This massive shopping and entertainment complex is a lively place to experience local retail culture, see festive decor (especially in December), and try a bite or two at trendy eateries.
To wrap up my final evening in the city, I couldn’t resist one last ride on the Ding Ding tram—those charming double-decker trams that slowly weave through Hong Kong Island. I boarded one near Causeway Bay and enjoyed the slow ride, watching the city lights one last time.
Day 5 – Return Journey with a Touch of Luxury ✈️
My return flight was scheduled for 9:00 AM, so I left Ibis Hong Kong North Point early at around 5:30 AM. I once again took the A11 airport bus, which runs smoothly even during early hours. It’s a reliable and budget-friendly option for airport transfers.
✈️ Maharaja Gold Perks in Full Action
At Hong Kong International Airport, my Air India Maharaja Gold status once again proved valuable:
✅ Business Class Check-in (bypassing long economy lines)
✅ Priority Boarding & Tags
✅ Lounge Access Invitation to Plaza Lounge
To my surprise, the airline staff informed me during check-in that the economy cabin was overbooked, and I might be upgraded to Premium Economy—a welcome upgrade to end the trip!
🛋️ Lounge Hopping: Amex Platinum + Priority Pass + Air India
Thanks to my credit card benefits, I enjoyed three lounges before boarding:
1. Centurion Lounge (Amex Platinum) – Quiet, premium ambiance, and excellent breakfast options
2. Chase Sapphire Lounge (Priority Pass) – Stylish interiors, shower facilities, and curated drinks
3. Plaza Premium Lounge (via Air India invitation) – Comfortable and well-suited for pre-boarding relaxation
It was a lounge-hopping experience like no other—truly a luxury airport experience on a budget.
🛫 Comfortable Flight Back in Premium Economy
Once boarding began, my upgrade to Premium Economy was confirmed. The seat was spacious with extra legroom, better meal service, and a quieter cabin. It made the 5-hour flight to Delhi more comfortable and satisfying.
From Delhi, I connected smoothly back to Mumbai, ending the journey on a high note—literally and figuratively!
Final Thoughts: Hong Kong with Status, Points & Strategy
My 5-day journey through Hong Kong was proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to travel in luxury. By leveraging Air India Maharaja Gold status, Accor Gold, and smart credit card benefits, I enjoyed lounges, upgrades, premium check-ins, and unforgettable experiences across one of Asia’s most exciting cities.
From tranquil temples to dizzying observation decks, ferry rides to ding ding trams, and movie-star moments at the Avenue of Stars—this trip had it all.
💼 Want to Travel Like This?
Start by:
💳 Getting a points-earning credit card like Axis Atlas or Amex Platinum
🛫 Choosing flights that allow status perks and upgrades
🏨 Booking stays with loyalty programs like Accor Live Limitless
📱 Using Klook for attractions, eSIMs, and transit cards
🧳 Planning smart, starting early, and traveling light!
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