There are plenty of recommendations online about where to go in Hong Kong, but nothing compares to insights from those who’ve truly embraced the city. We’ve talked with four Filipinos who’ve called Hong Kong home for nearly a decade. Discover why they swear by their favorite spots and get inspired to explore the city like a local:
Dive into the arts scene with Reana Bachiller
Illustration artist Reana Bachiller has her finger on the pulse of Hong Kong’s arts and culture scene. Coming from a very traditional Filipino background, she was hesitant to pursue a future in art, but it was in Hong Kong where her story as a creative mind truly began. Reana had since participated in various exhibitions like Affordable Art Fair, and collaborated with HKWALLS and Casetify.
Reana doesn’t gatekeep her art endeavors, either. She raves endlessly about the bustling art scene in the city. If you’re into DIY, she recommends giving Amazing Neon a visit. “You get to create your own neon sign and take it home!” she explains. When it comes to immersive digital art, Reana points to Arte M. “A captivating and beautiful experience that lets you escape reality,” are the words she uses to describe the exhibition. The core concept of Arte M interprets the subject and space of nature as media art under the theme of “eternal nature” that is suitable for art enthusiasts of all ages.
(L-R) Reana Bachiller, Rob Fogerty, Jen Balisi, & Paul Sunga
Get your nature fix with Rob Fogerty
Think Hong Kong is all skyscrapers and neon lights? Rugby player and adventure seeker Rob Fogerty is here to show another side of the city. To Rob, Hong Kong and its different facets have always been about the freedom to pursue sports, develop friendships, and travel. “The city’s natural beauty is more impressive than many people realize. You just need to know where to look,” Rob says. For him, Victoria Peak Lugard Road is the ultimate spot to catch stunning views, get your daily steps in, and find some peace in the middle of the city. For those who prefer the calming presence of water, Silvermine Bay Beach and Waterfall are where you can find your next favorite spot and travelers can get to both so easily.
Eat like a local with Jen Balisi
Foodie alert! As a content creator and owner of a hip Filipino restaurant in Hong Kong aptly named “Barkada”, Jen knows exactly where to find Hong Kong’s best-kept culinary secrets. “Hong Kong’s food scene is renowned, but the real gems are often tucked away in unexpected places,” she said. Her blog and Instagram account are treasure maps that lead to some of the city’s most exciting food joints. But more than just recommendations, Jen believes that her blog was where her life took a turn for the better. It all started back in 2011 when she created her food blog, Indulgent Eats, as she has always been passionate about sharing her dining adventures and the Filipino cuisine she grew up eating through her social media platforms which now boast over 400,000 fans.
Shop ‘til you drop with Paul Sunga
Meet Paul, a fashion photographer whose keen eye for style extends beyond his work. Paul, who never shies away from a challenge, sees Hong Kong as his oyster, stating, “Hong Kong has always been my lucky city for discovering the right opportunities and achieving success. I moved here to embark on a career as a fashion photographer, drawn by the glam and glitz that fueled my thirst and hunger for creativity.” If it had not been for his major life decision to move to Hong Kong, he wouldn’t be where he is now. Bringing with him his Filipino work ethic, characterized by unwavering drive and determination, he considers himself fortunate to collaborate with numerous international brands and celebrities, allowing the vibrant city to become his bridge to the global fashion scene. He is incredibly grateful to this place he now calls home for all the doors it has opened and the dreams it has helped him realize.
Who knew that Hong Kong, a city known for its bustling streets, hides so many incredible gems? Watch the four-part video series via this link and take a page from them – you might just find your new favorite Hong Kong spot!
There are plenty of recommendations online about where to go in Hong Kong, but nothing compares to insights from those who’ve truly embraced the city. We’ve talked with four Filipinos who’ve called Hong Kong home for nearly a decade. Discover why they swear by their favorite spots and get inspired to explore the city like a local:
Dive into the arts scene with Reana Bachiller
Illustration artist Reana Bachiller has her finger on the pulse of Hong Kong’s arts and culture scene. Coming from a very traditional Filipino background, she was hesitant to pursue a future in art, but it was in Hong Kong where her story as a creative mind truly began. Reana had since participated in various exhibitions like Affordable Art Fair, and collaborated with HKWALLS and Casetify.
Reana doesn’t gatekeep her art endeavors, either. She raves endlessly about the bustling art scene in the city. If you’re into DIY, she recommends giving Amazing Neon a visit. “You get to create your own neon sign and take it home!” she explains. When it comes to immersive digital art, Reana points to Arte M. “A captivating and beautiful experience that lets you escape reality,” are the words she uses to describe the exhibition. The core concept of Arte M interprets the subject and space of nature as media art under the theme of “eternal nature” that is suitable for art enthusiasts of all ages.
Get your nature fix with Rob Fogerty
Think Hong Kong is all skyscrapers and neon lights? Rugby player and adventure seeker Rob Fogerty is here to show another side of the city. To Rob, Hong Kong and its different facets have always been about the freedom to pursue sports, develop friendships, and travel. “The city’s natural beauty is more impressive than many people realize. You just need to know where to look,” Rob says. For him, Victoria Peak Lugard Road is the ultimate spot to catch stunning views, get your daily steps in, and find some peace in the middle of the city. For those who prefer the calming presence of water, Silvermine Bay Beach and Waterfall are where you can find your next favorite spot and travelers can get to both so easily.
Eat like a local with Jen Balisi
Foodie alert! As a content creator and owner of a hip Filipino restaurant in Hong Kong aptly named “Barkada”, Jen knows exactly where to find Hong Kong’s best-kept culinary secrets. “Hong Kong’s food scene is renowned, but the real gems are often tucked away in unexpected places,” she said. Her blog and Instagram account are treasure maps that lead to some of the city’s most exciting food joints. But more than just recommendations, Jen believes that her blog was where her life took a turn for the better. It all started back in 2011 when she created her food blog, Indulgent Eats, as she has always been passionate about sharing her dining adventures and the Filipino cuisine she grew up eating through her social media platforms which now boast over 400,000 fans.
Shop ‘til you drop with Paul Sunga
Meet Paul, a fashion photographer whose keen eye for style extends beyond his work. Paul, who never shies away from a challenge, sees Hong Kong as his oyster, stating, “Hong Kong has always been my lucky city for discovering the right opportunities and achieving success. I moved here to embark on a career as a fashion photographer, drawn by the glam and glitz that fueled my thirst and hunger for creativity.” If it had not been for his major life decision to move to Hong Kong, he wouldn’t be where he is now. Bringing with him his Filipino work ethic, characterized by unwavering drive and determination, he considers himself fortunate to collaborate with numerous international brands and celebrities, allowing the vibrant city to become his bridge to the global fashion scene. He is incredibly grateful to this place he now calls home for all the doors it has opened and the dreams it has helped him realize.
Who knew that Hong Kong, a city known for its bustling streets, hides so many incredible gems? Watch the four-part video series via this link and take a page from them – you might just find your new favorite Hong Kong spot!
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