Julian Cheung - Captain Cool in Singapore

While I didn't bump into any celebrities on my recent trip to Hong Kong, I met one when I returned to Singapore.

It was a real treat to realise that one of my favourite artistes, Julian Cheung, was in town today to promote one of the brands for which he was the celebrity spokesperson. Only chanced upon the event as it was held at my neighbourhood mall. Captain Cool attracted quite a crowd - young and old, male and female!

In person, Chilam was tall and dashing, and quite skinny (he joked that he had lost weight and that his pants were falling off). His Mandarin was not too bad.

Metropark Hotel Mongkok

In all my years of travelling to Hong Kong, I have found that hotel prices there just keep climbing every year. I typically stay in 3-star or 3.5-star hotels in Kowloon, and fork out on average S$70 to S$80 per person per night (i.e. I try to look for twin/double rooms that cost between S$140 to S$160 a night).

One of those that fit my bill is Metropark Hotel Mongkok, located at Prince Edward. This is a quieter area compared to bustling Mong Kok, yet it is still near enough by train to the usual tourist areas.

Star Cafe - Tangy tomato soup noodles

On a recent trip to Hong Kong, I was staying in Tsim Sha Tsui and decided to check out eateries in the area. I'd heard about Star Café - an old school café that was in a rather hidden location, and famous for their tomato soup based noodles. Following directions provided on some blogs, I went on my way.

On Kimberley Road, locate The Mira hotel, then enter Champagne Court B next to it. Walk through to the end of the row of shops.

Transport options - From airport to hotel

What's the best way to get from the airport to my hotel in Hong Kong? A very frequently asked question.

There are a few ways, and how I decide depends mainly on (a) the location of my hotel and (b) the number of people travelling with me.

(1) Cityflyer airport bus
(click here for bus routes)

 

Honolulu Coffee Shop - Flaky crust egg tarts

When I first embarked on a search for good egg tarts in Hong Kong, recommendations often pointed to Tai Cheong Bakery. I tried them, but was disappointed as their egg tarts had shortbread pastry and the egg custard part was too sweet - not the type I like at all.

My search continued, and I finally found the perfect egg tarts at Honolulu Coffee Shop.

Yat Lok - My new personal favourite

When I visit Hong Kong with family or friends who want to try the famed roast goose, I often bring them to Yung Kee. For the more budget-conscious, I sometimes suggest Sham Tseng Chan Kee.

Move away, those two. I have found my new favourite place for roast meat - Yat Lok Restaurant!

 

Ichiran - Heaven in a bowl

Some 2 months after Ichiran first opened in Hong Kong in July 2013, I was excited to have the opportunity to try it for myself.