The founder and CEO of TheLuxeNomad.com on getting the best out of Kuching and Hong Kong
Kuching, Sarawak
What do you love most about this city?
It’s my hometown where I spent my childhood
Where would you take a first-timer to in this city?
I would take you to Carpenter Street, which is home to some quirky shops, old school jewellers and the best kolo mee (blanched egg noodles served with minced meat) in town.
What is the one thing that the first-timer must do in this city?
I haven’t been for a very long time, but the Sarawak Cultural Village provides good insight into the way of life of the indigenous races in the State.
The best place to have dinner with friends and family?
For family – The sixth floor (seafood floor) of the multi-storey carpark near the Hilton and Pullman hotels. With friends – The Junk
Name one souvenir to bring home.
Sarawak Pepper!!
Where might we find you at 1 am in this city?
In one of the many bars. Kuching folks like to have a drink or two!
Hong Kong
One thing about the locals.
Hong Kong people have a sense of humour. Everything is mo men tai – no problem lah! And I like the way they do business. They aren’t too calculative and are very open-minded.
What do you find most refreshing about this city?
The energy. Hong Kong is a modern, wealthy city but at the same time, it has a bit of grit and soul. You can wander down its pebbled streets into amazing restaurants and bars or you can sleep early to spend your morning on one of its many hikes offering stunning scenery.
The one experience or place that everyone must try or visit.
You’ve got to hike Twin Peaks! The name is so because you’re literally climbing 1,000 stairs up a mountain hill. It is the mother of all hikes but you’ve got an amazing view of the neighbouring islands and sea.
The one local dish everyone must try.
A twist on a traditional dish – the Iberico char siew at Mott 32.
The best thing you can do here for free.
Head out to the beaches. Deep Water or Stanley are great. You can lie in the sun or head out for a swim, not having to pay a single dime.
Name something they have that you wished you had at home.
The Hong Kong harbour view.