Traveling with a toddler while juggling work commitments can seem daunting, but our recent family trip to Hong Kong proved that it’s possible to create lasting memories while balancing both. From navigating the bustling city streets and iconic landmarks to experiencing the magic of Hong Kong Disneyland, we managed to find the perfect blend of family-friendly activities, work responsibilities, and culinary delights. In this blog post, I’ll share our journey, offering tips for parents who want to explore the world with their little ones in the midst of business travel hustle.
Arrival in Hong Kong: A Skyscraper Wonderland
Upon landing at Hong Kong International Airport, we were greeted by the stunning skyline of towering skyscrapers. The drive from the airport to the Renaissance Hong Kong Harbour View Hotel in Wanchai was a visual feast, with breathtaking views of the city’s architectural marvels. The bridges we crossed showcased the ongoing construction of new buildings, a testament to Hong Kong’s vibrant development.
At the airport, we quickly secured an Octopus card from a kiosk, which proved essential for our travels. This smart card allowed us to navigate public transport seamlessly. Activating a local tourist SIM card was also a breeze, ensuring we stayed connected throughout our trip. Having reliable internet access made it easier to find family-friendly activities and dining options.
Balancing Work and Family Time
The first few days were a whirlwind of activity. I was tasked to lead a couple of development sessions on building a collaborative spirit among teams, considering some of the recent changes in our organization.
I think for a business travel with family around, the key is preparation. Before this trip, I made sure to prepare most of my materials like the visuals, discussion points, and intended outcomes so I won’t have to take as much time each day. I planned to wake up each morning very early to make sure I have time to sort my session props and study a little bit. Each morning began with excitement and a good amount of nerve as well! After getting ready, I go straight to the conference room since it is located in the same hotel where we are staying. I spend the whole day with interactions with the team, facilitating learning sessions, and mostly observing conversations. Although the days were exhausting, they were fulfilling.
My wife also had remote work obligations, but they managed to enjoy the hotel pool and nearby malls during their free time. In these three days, we just enjoyed simple tomes walking around the area for dinner, spending a few hours in the malls and then heading back to our hotel room as Dale seemed to enjoy it more than the business of the streets.
The Adventure Begins: Exploring Iconic Landmarks
After my work commitments, we explored Hong Kong’s iconic landmarks. We visited the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Golden Bauhinia, and the nearby plazas. A standout experience was our visit to the Arte M museum, which featured immersive exhibitions that captivated both adults and children. To fully enjoy the museum, I recommend planning your visit during off-peak hours in the morning to avoid crowds and allowing time to fully enjoy the immersive experience. It was fun running around and taking pictures which I think is the main thing you can do here. Dale was scared at the dark at first but managed to get the hang of it as he get more amused by the vibrant screen projection of nature, mythical creatures and just the relaxing sounds that accompany them.
Culinary Delights in Mongkok
From WanChai District, our culinary adventure took us to Mongkok, where we indulged in a variety of dim sum. My wife delighted in sampling dishes from different restaurants, and we explored the busy Sneaker Street and Ladies Market Street. If you are really into shopping, these two areas are the right place for you, but the food kiosks around the area did not disappoint as well.
The Magic of Hong Kong Disneyland
The highlight of our trip was our visit to Hong Kong Disneyland. Despite facing a signal no. 3 typhoon that closed outdoor activities, the magic of Disneyland was undeniable. The anticipation built as we rode the train to the park for a complete ‘turista’ experience.
We did not get the chance to take much pictures at the entrance because it started raining. It was gloomy, and quite disheartening at first, but once inside, we were greeted by the iconic Castle of Magical Dreams, its vibrant colors shimmering even under the gray skies. Our first stop was the World of Frozen, a newly unveiled area that transported us straight into the kingdom of Arendelle, which quickly became our favorite. Here, we sailed through the Frozen Ever After ride, where we joined Anna, Elsa, and Olaf on a whimsical journey through the snowy landscape. The ride was a visual delight, showcasing stunning animatronics and breathtaking scenes that made us feel as though we were part of the movie.
We did not get to enjoy any ride at the Toy Story Land, but the colorful attractions was definitely a hit. It brought back fond memories of childhood and as a Pixar Movie fan, it was definitely a haven. We enjoyed taking a lot of pictures and Dale seemed to enjoy the toy displays where his size is complimentary.
As the sun began to set, we found a cozy spot to watch the Momentous nighttime spectacular. The sky lit up with fireworks, illuminating the castle and creating a breathtaking backdrop for the show. With classic Disney songs playing and characters dancing across the screen, it was a magical conclusion to our day at the park.
Despite the rain and the challenges of navigating with a toddler, our visit to Hong Kong Disneyland was a dream come true. This adventure not only deepened our appreciation for the magic of Disney but also solidified our bond as a family, reminding us that the true magic lies in the experiences we share together.
Ngong Ping 360 Experience
Our adventure to Ngong Ping began with a scenic bus ride, which took us through the lush landscapes of Lantau Island. We boarded the bus at Tung Chung, excitedly anticipating the sights we would soon experience. The winding roads offered glimpses of the island’s natural beauty, with rolling hills and dense forests framing our journey. Upon arriving at the Ngong Ping Village, we were greeted by the majestic Tian Tan Buddha, standing tall and serene against the backdrop of the mountains.
After exploring the village and soaking in the cultural atmosphere, it was time for the highlight of our day: the return journey on the Ngong Ping 360 Crystal cable car. Initially skeptical, I found the experience delightful. The newly launched Crystal+ cabin offered more than 80% visibility, promising to enhance our already breathtaking journey from the top of Lantau Island. The thrill of gliding through the air, combined with the stunning vistas, made for an unforgettable ride. It combines adventure, breathtaking views, and a touch of serenity, making it a highlight of our family trip.
Creating Lasting Memories Together
As busy working parents, we often find ourselves caught in the whirlwind of daily responsibilities, but this trip reminded us of the importance of carving out time for family. This unexpected vacation turned out to be a truly memorable experience for our family. We created core memories that will last a lifetime, and we are grateful for the opportunity to explore Hong Kong together. Here are some of the key take aways from this trip:
- Plan an Itinerary and Be Open to Change. It is important to consider the days for business or work and allocate time for fun and recreation. Think about what will be worthwhile for each of you and be open to adjustments due to weather or shifting energy levels. I am just grateful that my wife took care of all the planning which definitely made our trip organized and stress-free!
- Secure Connectivity and Access to Transportation . Things may not go as planned, especially when a tantrum strikes. Ensure internet access to easily book transportation or plan meals through the pocket WiFi options that you can rent or by securing a tourist SIM card.
- Prioritize Comfort and Safety. You may plan activities and realize that it might be too much for your little one. Be open to adjust and prioritize safety. After all, you can only have fun when you know you are not compromising anyone.
This trip has inspired us to continue seeking out new adventures and making the most of every opportunity to create lasting memories with our loved ones. Traveling with a toddler may seem daunting, but with the right preparation and mindset, it can lead to unforgettable family experiences. I won’t deny that there were some challenges, but the memories you create will be well worth the effort, and you’ll find that the magic of family time is the greatest adventure of all. After all, it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey you share along the way.
