Hong Kong cruise stop trip report / Kai Tak shuttles, MTR and Hong Kong / Macau tour options

[mocrimlaw]

Thank you for that info! I am curious what people do if they check their luggage at the metro though, do you just haul your carryon luggage with you all day or are their lockers at the metro?
 

[ebslcc]

3 hours ago, mykra said:

Crimlaw, 

noted ur comments regarding the Airport express shuttle in Hong Kong from Kowloon station. You stated that Singapore airlines does not have service  there for checking luggage. I’m confused because when I go on the site, I see that Singapore airlines does accept luggage to be forwarded to airport.  Can someone clarify, as we will be in HK in early March for a few days post cruise.& have a late evening flight back to US. Would love to be able to check our luggage after hotel checkout &spend rest of day touring.

 

2 hours ago, mking8288 said:

FYI - I just checked the latest/current HKIA info based on published MTR Airport Express info about participating airlines on using In-town check-in services.  Out of 64 listed airlines, 14 provide in-town services for flights departing the next day and the rest for same day departure only - SG or Singapore Airlines is one of the 14 participating in both same day AND next day check-in services, for baggage drop and issuance of boarding passes, seat assignment, etc. at both the Hong Kong Station and Kowloon Station for AE. Their direct contact number in HK is 2520-2233 (8 digital number)  - all area codes are (852) which you do NOT need to dial locally.  You can call them directly to re/confirm - based on what I read, it is available & offer.

...

In short, those traveling on SG should be able to count on it.  

Official links/resources used here - please kindly bookmark & save that PDF file on airlines.  Regards ! 

https://www.hongkongairport.com/en/transport/to-from-airport/airport-express.page

http://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/services/complom_checkin.html

Sorry for the wrong info posted earlier re: Singapore Airlines.  We flew on Singapore Airlines going to SF from HK. When I researched it a few months ago I am sure I saw that they didn't offer in-town checkin for our flight.  Always good advice from mk8288 to cross check with your airlines. Your hotel concierge can help you if you are doing a post cruise stay. 

[mking8288]

@crimlaw@ecentral.com (and, others)  AE Station at KL side is nicely integrated as part of the lower level of the multi-level ELEMENTS Mall complex, high-end retailers & shops, etc. and they do offer locker services.  Mall is free Wi-Fi enabled, plus a Starbucks ... you can easily "waste" a few hours indoors by window shopping alone, find a place to sit back and enjoy a fine meal, etc. 

 

Here's the link & info  - https://www.elementshk.com/eng/elements/service/concierge.jsp

 

I do NOT know the size of theese lockers, availability, etc. but you can call ahead and ask.  Depending on the size of your bags & your plans for that day, it is quite possible to just "haul" it all over town - other tourists/visitors are seen with their oversized spinners & rollerboards across town ... just fine.  You only run into issues getting into/onto MTR subways/trains with baggage that far exceed the established 20" to 22" carry-on limits.  

 

As always, best practices would be to keep valuables, medications, passports, and other important items with you at all times ... perhaps a day pack or foldable backpack (we take a 30L backpack by Eddie Bauer when cruising for port stops / day trips ... stuffed our outerwear & water bottles inside, freeing up our hands, important contents in a smaller interior pouch as an extra layer of safeguard ... as loose items can spill out easily with these bags)

[ebslcc]

2 hours ago, crimlaw@ecentral.com said:

Thank you for that info! I am curious what people do if they check their luggage at the metro though, do you just haul your carryon luggage with you all day or are their lockers at the metro?
 

 

From MTR Hong Kong Station services page

http://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/services/aestations_hk.html#1

Left Baggage Service

Service Hours	6:00 am – 1:00 am daily
Service Charge	Up to 3 hours: HK$60 per item 3-24 hours: HK$87 per item Over 24 hours and every additional 24 hours: Add HK$133 per piece
Service Counter	Level G - Nearby Exit B at In-town Check-in Hall
Standard Size	Dimensions: 85cm x 85cm x29cm or under Weight: 30kg or under
Rate for Outsize / Heavy Baggage	Outsize baggage: Cost will be calculated on multiples of the number of times the longest dimension exceeds the standard size. Heavy baggage: Cost will be calculated on multiples of the number of times the weight exceeds the standard size. Payment for the bag storage is to be made on collection. (CASH ONLY – Hong Kong Dollars)

 

From MTR Kowloon Station services page

http://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/services/aestations_kln.html

Left Baggage Service

Service Hours	6:00 am – 1:00 am daily
Service Charge	Up to 3 hours: HK$60 per item 3-24 hours: HK$87 per item Over 24 hours and every additional 24 hours: Add HK$133 per piece
Service Counter	Level G - In-town Check-in Hall
Standard Size	Dimensions: 85cm x 85cm x29cm or under Weight: 30kg or under
Rate for Outsize / Heavy Baggage	Outsize baggage: Cost will be calculated on multiples of the number of times the longest dimension exceeds the standard size. Heavy baggage: Cost will be calculated on multiples of the number of times the weight exceeds the standard size. Payment for the bag storage is to be made on collection. (CASH ONLY – Hong Kong Dollars)

[mking8288]

41 minutes ago, ebslcc said:

We flew on Singapore Airlines going to SF from HK ... a few months ago I am sure I saw that they didn't offer in-town checkin for our flight.  Always good advice from mk8288 to cross check with your airlines. Your hotel concierge can help you if you are doing a post cruise stay. 

Don't worry & it's all good, absolutely unnecessary to apologize - this post pulled together a LOT of very useful, current & important info about the latest in HK ...  At the you've checked, it could well be true that SG (and all other participating airlines) suspended in-town check-in, when the facilities were being "targeted".  

 

The details in the Trip Report, the transit/info about the bus services thru to Macau, etc. - very, very timely & useful/helpful ... it's been quite a few years since we visited the once tiny former-Portugese colony, now a part of the greater "Bay" area in the Pearl River Delta.  Might I suggest considering to upload some of that to Youtube for the broader audience. 

 

I am 200% sure it is vastly appreciated and welcomed by all the CC'er hoping to get the best info with boots on the ground, still quite a few nervous CC'er and other travelers about situations in HK (and, don't count on my crystal ball - the fortune tellers aren't saying either ...)   Things could, can, and been known to, change in a heartbeat next.  *** Ooops ... speaking of the disruptions: Tuesday (local HK time) mid-day lunch time protest/gathering "now" at Central on the island side, practically next to/near the AE Station HK side - just got a live-streaming feed - should be "contained" 

 

Check with the airline(s) and use the hotel's concierge or front desk/guest services staff to help/ask ... Also, I'm sure on port days - the official HK Tourism bureau staff as well as volunteers/greeters will be strategically deployed to assist all ship passengers looking for info & advice.  

 

Imagine and think for a moment - if only SFO and JFK can do and match it.  

 

Regards & have a great evening.  

Edited January 7, 2020 by mking8288

[ebslcc]

15 hours ago, crimlaw@ecentral.com said:

Laurence - The guide wanted quite a lot for Macau for the day and I think we can do it on our own.  I understand there are taxis at the port that will take you on short tours so I plan to hire one of them.  I want to see the Old Town area with Senado Square, A-Ma Temple, the panda exhibit near the Venetian, the Taipa Village colored houses, and a few of the casinos for the architecture (MGM, Grand Lisbon) and the free water show at the Wynn.  I'd like to go up the tower for the view, and possible see the House of Dancing Water show at City of Dreams casino.  I am not too interested in seeing the Venetian as we have stayed there in Vegas and it look very similar.

 

I agree with hubofhockey "if you want to do all of the things you have on your schedule, you may want the guide or driver" Even with a guide it will need to be carefully planned and the time you spend for each spot will be very limited.  e.g. if you have interest seeing the Pandas it is best to reserve Panda Pavilion ticket in advance online booking a time slot.  You can try to just walk in however if there is a large group scheduled and you won't be able to get in if capacity is reached for the time you are there. 

 

Touring on your own my suggestion is to trim your list for a day trip.  hubofhockey had a good plan to focus on just 2 main areas: Macau's historic center then to the Cotai side a taste of the Casinos there + House of Dancing Water show.  He got back to his hotel - close to midnight.  It will be a very long day but worth it for the experience IMHO.

 

Re: getting to/from Macau from the Intercontinental (TST).  The Kowloon to Macau Ferry is at the China Ferry Terminal very tempting to take since it is so "close" to the hotel.  It is still 1.1km / "15 minutes" walk. If you take the ferry I would just spend the $ and take a 4 minutes taxi ride from your hotel https://goo.gl/maps/3tv4FFKKhd3T6LzPA.  Save the walking when you have to e.g. at the St. Paul's Ruins.

 

Note also the limited ferry schedule from Kowloon to Macau. Morning sailings at 7:30 AM, 9 AM, 10:30 AM.  Coming back: there is only one ferry at 21:30. You won't be able to make the 7:30 PM run since the Dancing Water show ends at 7. 

 

The Ferry from Hong Kong island side has more frequent schedule however it will cost you a little more $ with taxi and a little more time ~12-22 minutes taxi ride in the morning to go to the Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal in Sheung Wan https://goo.gl/maps/woJj7JV2RB2AuUdw6  Google Map estimate close to midnight is ~8 to 18 minutes from Sheung Wan to your hotel. 

 

Ferry schedules has been severely cut back. Have your hotel concierge call to check if what's on the website is accurate.

 

Since you are taking taxi anyways from your Hotel I think the Hong Kong Zhuhai Macau Bridge shuttle is a much more flexible and less stressful option vs. taking the ferry.  The shuttle runs every 5-15 minutes day time to 30 minutes (late night).  It's pretty much get there, buy your ticket, hop on the bus!  When you are over on the Macau side you can take a taxi to Senado Square (write it down in Chinese) and start your DIY touring right away.  Time to get there: Taxi from Intercontinental to HZM Bridge Hong Kong Port 22 to 35 minutes on weekday 8 AM:  https://goo.gl/maps/G1g479rDjo9Zty1X6. Ticketing / HK Departure passport control / get on bus ~30 minutes. Shuttle across bridge to Macau 40 minutes, Passport control / Customs / Taxi to Senado Square.  The taxi ride to town is only ~10 minutes more than going from the Macau Outer Harbour Ferry Terminal.  The total time can be shorter or longer than taking the ferry depending how well you can align your schedule to the ferry schedule. The biggest advantages I think is you won't waste time waiting for the ferry on your return and less stress about having to get to the ferry on time.  When you get back to Hong Kong, just take a Uber or Taxi directly to your hotel in around 25 - 35 minutes.

 

Seeing the St. Paul Ruins is a must... just take your time and walk slowly on the cobblestone streets from Senado Square.  We also enjoyed the Macau Museum very much.  Look it up on TripAdvisor.  The museum has elevators and escalators!  When you are at the top floor of the Museum you can just walk outside and you are right on Monte Fort with a good view of Macau (Google for photos)... no need to hike up to the Fort!  You won't be hungry after all the almond cookies and jerky samples the shops pass out along the way  to the ruins so you may want to grab more snacks or wait to go to the Cotai side to have lunch

 

We enjoyed walking around the not so touristy area in the neighborhoods close to the St. Paul's ruins. Google / TripAdvisor search on Rua Cinco de Outubro (October 5th Street).  I think the Macau government is slowly refurbishing the area.  Some of the store fronts around the neighborhood are modernized 😞. If you go to the side streets in the area you can see how people live and get a glimpse of their daily routines.  It reminds us of some of the neighborhoods we saw in Cuba.  Google hurricane in Macau and see how previous hurricanes impacted the area.  We talk to the folks at a very famous artist shop in Macau (I will have to look it up who he is) and heard some interesting stories.  The whole area was flooded to eye level more than once.  The shop has markings where the flood lines were.  It's very safe to roam around in Macau in general even late at night.  From St. Paul you can walk down to October 5th Bakery (look it up on TA) https://goo.gl/maps/vCM5iXCTzQNW2Ni8A then down near the Sofitel Macau. You should be able to pick up a taxi from the Sofitel  https://goo.gl/maps/bHRugXM4tygCFk4c7 to head over to the Cotai side (~20 minutes drive).

 

Depending on the time you have before you have to pick up your House of Dancing Waters ticket at the City of Dreams, you can visit the Venetian (YouTube Venetian Macau Food Court) or go to Cotai Village (pick a place with an address and have it translated in Chinese! e.g. Lord Stow's Bakery (Rua do Cunha Shop) - Taipa Village and get some famous Portuguese Tarts.  You probably only have one hour to spend here.  Target finding a taxi next to get to City of Dreams (5-10 minutes ride).  There may be some taxi around McDonald's closer to the main road.  Worst case (takes longer!!!) walk across the street from the Taipa Village gate crossing the overpass to the Galaxy Hotel. Check out the hotel's Diamond Lobby on YouTube!

 

You may want to allocate possible getting lost time to make sure you get to the show box office on time to get your tickets.

 

7 PM after the show you can call it a night and taxi back to the HZM Macau port and take the shuttle back or spend a couple of more hours to get something to eat: e.g. check out Chan Kee Roasted Goose mentioned by hubofhockey. Walk over to Wynn Palace which is right next to City of Dreams... take a SkyCab Gondola ride? see the fountain show then head back.

 

Make sure you have the destinations written in Chinese to give to your taxi drivers!

 

More later...

 

 

 

 

\

[unrealHeather]

I've traveled to Hong Kong a few times and a few thoughts to consider on land transportation:

- Transport in HK is a bit expensive and the airport is far away from the center of town.
- The Airport Express runs from 6 am to 1 am.  Tickets are 110 HKD one way.  You can buy at a counter at the airport or online (and looks like they take Visa or Mastercard) http://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/services/airport_express_index_tourist.html . 
- The price of a taxi from airport to town is about 400 HKD give or take.  You'll need cash and your hotel written down in advance
- You can split the cost by doing the Airport Express and then a taxi from the Hong Kong or Kwoolon Station depending on hotel.
- I like to use Uber in Hong Kong and you can model the cost of your journey online https://www.uber.com/us/en/price-estimate/ but I am not a fan of using Uber to pickup at airports in foreign cities as you can't always predict they have reliable access to pickup
- The Airport Express isn't so fun to use if you have a lot of bags, I would just opt for a taxi from the airport and use the free luggage trolley to save my back.  This is what we did with a party of 7 people and 7 suitcases.  We ended up in 2 taxis but it was fine.  But if you have bags you can self manage, it can save $
- We used 2 Uber XL (van with seats for 6) to drive us from the hotel to the Tai Tak cruise terminal.  They drop you in the big parking deck at departures where the luggage is dropped.  It was easy peasy and I'd recommend doing that over a ferry where you have to schlep your bags,.  

Regarding Disney 
I was able to buy senior citizen tickets in advance with a travel agent in Singapore.  That way I didn't have to wait in line.  Here is a list of authorized ticket agents: http://secure.cdn1.wdpromedia.com/media/hkdl/wholesaler-list/hkdl-faq-ticket-purchase-wholesaler-list-en-201906.pdf . 

It wasn't cheaper but we didn't have to wait in line that day and that was more important for our family.  You can buy non-senior tickets direct from the Disney website and it's cheaper than through our local agent.  https://www.hongkongdisneyland.com/book/tickets 

[mocrimlaw]

Ebsicc - wow, such a lot of very helpful information - thank you so much!  I had just thought the ferry would be more pleasant than a bus, but it sounds like the bus might be better.  The money for a taxi or Uber to get there is really not an issue as I have alloted enough for this trip.  I have some mobility issues so I always have to account for that and limit walking whenever possible. Also the time issue is more important to me, to see as much as we can because we will probably never be there again.  Do you think the Dancing Waters show is a good use of our time?  I mean, we can go to Vegas anytime fairly easily from Denver, so if it is similar to shows there, I would rather spend the time seeing other sights in Macau.  It is a pretty big time commitment for only having a day in Macau.  What do you think?

 

[MightyQuinn]

12 hours ago, ebslcc said:

... Re: getting to/from Macau from the Intercontinental (TST).  The Kowloon to Macau Ferry is at the China Ferry Terminal very tempting to take since it is so "close" to the hotel.  It is still 1.1km / "15 minutes" walk. If you take the ferry I would just spend the $ and take a 4 minutes taxi ride from your hotel https://goo.gl/maps/3tv4FFKKhd3T6LzPA.  Save the walking when you have at the St. Paul's Ruins.

 

 .... Since you are taking taxi anyways from your Hotel I think the Hong Kong Zhuhai Macau Bridge shuttle is a much more flexible and less stressful option vs. taking the ferry.  The shuttle runs every 5-15 minutes day time to 30 minutes (late night).  It's pretty much get there, buy your ticket, hop on the bus! 

 

We disembark our cruise at Ocean Terminal and immediately head to Macau for 3 nites at Sofitel Ponte 16.  We were planning to take TurboJet from China Ferry Terminal to Macau Outer Harbour.  Google maps tells me it's a straight 550 m/7 min walk along Gateway Blvd from the cruise port to the ferry terminal.  With limited luggage, it sounds easy!  On the return, we were planning on TurboJet from Macau Outer Harbour direct to HKIA. 

We figured the ferry to/from Macau would be a stress-free option but the discussion here now has me wondering.  Given our scenario, would you recommend the Hong Kong Zhuhai Macau Bridge as a better option?

[hubofhockey]

I found less people speaking English in Macau than any of the countries we visited in Asia (Hong Kong, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Cambodia).  The hotels, (some) restaurants, and ports are probably easier for tourists, but I doubt I would want to stay longer than a day.

 

As to House of Dancing Water, some say it is better than O and Ka in Vegas, but you are probably splitting hairs.  We really enjoyed it, but no more than the last two shows we saw in Vegas (Beatles Love or the more risque Absinthe).  We live on the east coast and we like going to Vegas, but not too often.    I don't think Macau touches Vegas.  There is no glitz, not the same level of entertainment or energy as Vegas either.  It is more reserved and caters to hard core Chinese gamblers.  We had a fun day, but will never return.  We chose the Macau day over Lantau Island in Hong Kong and don't regret the choice though.

[mocrimlaw]

Thanks Hubofhockey - that is helpful info.  I think maybe we will skip the show and concentrate on things we can't see anywhere else.  

[hubofhockey]

10 minutes ago, crimlaw@ecentral.com said:

Thanks Hubofhockey - that is helpful info.  I think maybe we will skip the show and concentrate on things we can't see anywhere else.  

 

You're welcome and I'll provide a little more of my reasoning for going to see Houses of Dancing Water.  We were about to go on a 15-night cruise on an Azamara ship.  Those ships hold 700 people and not necessarily known for entertainment or shows.  After that, we were spending three days in Siem Reap, Cambodia.  Knowing that, we did want some real entertainment on our vacation.  That's really it.   We did have fun on nights out in both Bangkok and Hong Kong, but a different type of fun.  

[mocrimlaw]

Thanks Hubofhockey.  I do like good shows, but if it's similar to O and Ka I don't care too much about seeing them.  I had heard Dancing Waters was really good, and probably it is, but there are many other things I want to see in our one day in Macau.  We are on Crystal - also about 700 people I think.  They are supposed to have good entertainment - we haven't been on them before - but that's never one of outmost important things on a cruise.  We mainly like cruises because we can see a lot of places without having to move our stuff (really MY stuff if I'm honest) or drive.  We drove through northern Italy a few years ago and it was way too stressful for our relationship!  We enjoy the food and the service. We were on Regent in September in Spain and really did enjoy the shows there, but I loved the destinations more.

 

[mking8288]

Sub-topic: mysterious, pneumonia-like virus

Good evening, again, folks and I hope/trust that everyone is making & adjusting plans for upcoming cruises with a stop in HK, or embarkating/disembarkation.  

 

A somewhat different heads-up ... debating on whether to put a FYI on the "other" thread, also followed by many - it is of a different nature.  We, here, in North America ... do this as a matter of our annual routine and it's called, get your flu shots done (influenza) - whether cruising or not, practice good personal hygiene and be on the lookout for norovirus-like illness, nothing really new.  Get our regular check-ups, stock-up on personal meds & bring along basic OTC just in case ... generic Bonine or what not.  

 

HK'ers (more so than mainland China) are now spinning a different fear, panic and reacting to a "mysterious, pneumonia-like virus that apparently sourced - unproven - from Wuhan, (central) China ... basically, a respiratory illness that can be spread, but this isn't the repeat of SARS of 2003.  WHO - most likely on it already along with mainland public health authorities.  HK residents are rushing out to stock up on extra N95 masks, gloves & whatever - all ports of entries, including the airport - putting extra screening (body temp - forehead scanning) measures in place & questioning travel history on arrival.  Labs are probably working 24/7 to identify what exactly it is ... A little more details here - 

https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3044957/wuhan-pneumonia-hong-kong-officials-board-trains

 

IMHO, I dont' see a solid basis to be worried, not yet from the limited data reported out - not saying it isn't serious.  Here, thousands are seen the ER daily for the seasonal flu and sadly, deaths for those with other health complications or not getting timely treatment or evaluated. 

 

Check & consult with your own PCP or family/personal doctor before traveling, and exercise common sense - again, they are likely overreacting.  On the other hand, early preventive measures to identify, isolate and intervenue is never a bad thing - a delicate & sensitive public health matter, I know only a thing or two about (and, we traveled during the SARS panic period then ...)  

 

Thoughts, comments & responses ??  Given the likely demographics of Asia cruises among CC'ers, I rather not be completely silent.  Not sure if this has triggered the radars on BBC, CNN and other major news network, yet.  Or, start a new, standalone thread/post to discuss ... advice welcomed. 

 

Edited January 8, 2020 by mking8288

[mocrimlaw]

It was on CNN yesterday.  I am not too worried about it.  Seems confined to mainland China at the moment.  If we worried about everything, we would never travel :)

[ebslcc]

23 hours ago, unrealHeather said:

I've traveled to Hong Kong a few times and a few thoughts to consider on land transportation:

- Transport in HK is a bit expensive and the airport is far away from the center of town.
- The Airport Express runs from 6 am to 1 am.  Tickets are 110 HKD one way.  You can buy at a counter at the airport or online (and looks like they take Visa or Mastercard) http://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/services/airport_express_index_tourist.html . 

Thanks!  An advantage buying the Airport Express Pass at the MTR Customer Service Center at the airport is you can get discounts when traveling as a group. http://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/tickets/promotions_4persons.html

If you are buying the AE Pass you can use credit card.  

If you are buying an on-loan Octopus Card you need to pay in cash.

 

23 hours ago, unrealHeather said:

- The price of a taxi from airport to town is about 400 HKD give or take.  You'll need cash and your hotel written down in advance
- You can split the cost by doing the Airport Express and then a taxi from the Hong Kong or Kwoolon Station depending on hotel.
- I like to use Uber in Hong Kong and you can model the cost of your journey online https://www.uber.com/us/en/price-estimate/ but I am not a fan of using Uber to pickup at airports in foreign cities as you can't always predict they have reliable access to pickup

It can be faster to take Airport Express and MTR  to get around congested traffic and then combine it with an Uber!  Thanks for the uber estimator link.  I found it more user friendly than the estimator on the Uber App.

 

23 hours ago, unrealHeather said:

Regarding Disney 
I was able to buy senior citizen tickets in advance with a travel agent in Singapore.  That way I didn't have to wait in line.  Here is a list of authorized ticket agents: http://secure.cdn1.wdpromedia.com/media/hkdl/wholesaler-list/hkdl-faq-ticket-purchase-wholesaler-list-en-201906.pdf . 

It wasn't cheaper but we didn't have to wait in line that day and that was more important for our family.  You can buy non-senior tickets direct from the Disney website and it's cheaper than through our local agent.  https://www.hongkongdisneyland.com/book/tickets 

It is possible to get a senior citizen Disneyland ticket online also.  It is kind of hidden.  

Go here: https://www.hongkongdisneyland.com/book/general-tickets scroll the arrow to the right until you see 

 

Standard Park Tickets

Choose from 1-day or 2-day tickets.

 

Starting from: HK$639

Instant Park Admission
with Disney eTicket

 

Click on it.  The Senior option will appear.

 

Select the Number of Tickets

Please note that children aged below 3 receive free park admission.

0

General Admission

(Ages 12 – 64)

0

Child

(Ages 3 – 11)

1

Senior

(Ages 65+)

 

Price $100 HKD!!!

Edited January 8, 2020 by ebslcc

[ebslcc]

18 hours ago, crimlaw@ecentral.com said:

Ebsicc - wow, such a lot of very helpful information - thank you so much!  I had just thought the ferry would be more pleasant than a bus, but it sounds like the bus might be better.  The money for a taxi or Uber to get there is really not an issue as I have alloted enough for this trip.  I have some mobility issues so I always have to account for that and limit walking whenever possible. Also the time issue is more important to me, to see as much as we can because we will probably never be there again.  Do you think the Dancing Waters show is a good use of our time?  I mean, we can go to Vegas anytime fairly easily from Denver, so if it is similar to shows there, I would rather spend the time seeing other sights in Macau.  It is a pretty big time commitment for only having a day in Macau.  What do you think?

You are welcome!  Let me know more about your private tour HK itinerary and I can give you my 2 cents.

 

It will be a long tiring day.  Have you watch some of the YouTube videos re: St. Paul Ruins.  It is quite a walk sloping up hill.  It's best to go there first then down steps to October 5th Street area as I suggested.  Just take it slow.  It's very crowded at St. Paul and the streets leading up to it even on a weekday!

 

6 hours ago, crimlaw@ecentral.com said:

Thanks Hubofhockey.  I do like good shows, but if it's similar to O and Ka I don't care too much about seeing them.  I had heard Dancing Waters was really good, and probably it is, but there are many other things I want to see in our one day in Macau.  We are on Crystal - also about 700 people I think.  They are supposed to have good entertainment - we haven't been on them before - but that's never one of outmost important things on a cruise.  We mainly like cruises because we can see a lot of places without having to move our stuff (really MY stuff if I'm honest) or drive.  We drove through northern Italy a few years ago and it was way too stressful for our relationship!  We enjoy the food and the service. We were on Regent in September in Spain and really did enjoy the shows there, but I loved the destinations more.

 

We enjoyed the show also - more than I thought I would. It had a hooky story line, great acrobatics and a nice Christmas theme twist.  We have seen other Vegas productions like Love, O etc. I am not much of a fan vs. DW.  I think it's a good decision to skip the show and take more time at St. Paul Ruins, Taipa Village. Also much less stress watching the time to catch the show in time!  After Taipa Village if you can't find a taxi easily you can walk over to the Galaxy (or go there anyways if you want to see it).  From the Galaxy you can catch a free shuttle bus from Galaxy to Venetian - 1 stop (good). https://www.galaxymacau.com/en/getting-here/  The shuttle also goes to Wynn Palace but is the last stop after the bus goes in a BIG loop. You will be wasting time if you want to go there next vs. the Venetian.  Just take a taxi directly to Wynn if that's your next destination after Cotai Village.  

 

At the end of the day just take taxi to either the Ferry or the HZM Bridge Macau Port.  There are free shuttles to the Ferry Terminal and then to HZM Bridge Macau Port... not worth the hassle finding the shuttle and doing the connection (if needed).

 

Laurence

 

[mocrimlaw]

Laurence - thanks for the tips on Macau.  I had heard a podcast from someone who hired a taxi or car at the port which took them around to many sites for about 5 hours for about $60.  It sounded like a good itinerary and included the pandas.  Skipping the show sounds much less stressful.  I appreciate the tips about St Paul's because it doesn't look that far so I will take that into account.

 

For Hong Kong Island, Jacky's tour is flexible.  I'm sure he will have suggestions.  He will pick us up at the ship and take us to the Peak.  There is a police museum up there that sounds interesting - my friend who is traveling with us is a detective so I thought he might enjoy that.  It discusses the Triads among other things. Then we will go to Aberdeen and Stanley,  I would like to see some of the buildings in the CBD if possible.  There is a place called Tai Kwun that is now an arts/bars/restaurants area that was converted from a police building with jail cells that is supposed to be great.  Not sure if that would make sense to go with Jacky or on our own.  We do have one full day at the end on our own, as well as one day in the middle on our own when we were going to explore Kowloon. I would like to see the Temple of 10,000 Buddhas, which is in the New Territories but will have to see how I feel as it is around 450 steps up.

 

I am not sure how Jacky will handle the night food tour, which is supposed to be in Mongkok.  It will be on a Tuesday so hopefully no protests that day but you never know.  We also plan to go to the Happy Valley races on Wednesday night on our own if we can.

[ebslcc]

20 hours ago, MightyQuinn said:

We disembark our cruise at Ocean Terminal and immediately head to Macau for 3 nites at Sofitel Ponte 16.  We were planning to take TurboJet from China Ferry Terminal to Macau Outer Harbour.  Google maps tells me it's a straight 550 m/7 min walk along Gateway Blvd from the cruise port to the ferry terminal.  With limited luggage, it sounds easy!  On the return, we were planning on TurboJet from Macau Outer Harbour direct to HKIA. 

We figured the ferry to/from Macau would be a stress-free option but the discussion here now has me wondering.  Given our scenario, would you recommend the Hong Kong Zhuhai Macau Bridge as a better option?

Yep only 7+ minutes walk - very convenient.  With luggage, walking a slower pace and extra time to get oriented you may want to budget 15 minutes.  You will need to go through passport control for HK Departure, security check and check in your bag also?  There is a limit on size and number of carry on bags.  Allow for extra time so that you don't have to wait a long time for the next ferry (not as big a problem for you since you are staying multiple days if you happen to miss a ferry - it's more of a problem for those doing a day trip to Macau. Since you are so close to the China Ferry Terminal the Ferry if you can time your disembarkation right then taking the Ferry may be less stress and may be less $ considering taxi cost to the HZM Bridge Hong Kong port.  How much luggage do you have?  There is a limit of 1 bag in the luggage storage and one carry on for the HZM Bridge shuttle.  Also you will need to be able to wheel your bag to the shuttle.  There are lots of GREAT posts on TripAdvisor Macau forum.  BradJill one of the moderators is extremely helpful.  He has posted guides on the HZM Bridge shuttle and the SkyPier.  

 

 

Kowloon to Macau Turbojet schedule https://www.turbojet.com.hk/en/routing-sailing-schedule/kowloon-macau/sailing-schedule-fares.aspx:

 

Regarding Macau directly to HKIA SkyPier - it is a very convenient way to get to the HK Airport from Macau. The ferry scheduled has also been reduced drastically to just 3 times a day.  Again you have to make sure you allocate enough time to get to the ferry terminal, go through Macau exit / security screening / passport control / check in your bag,  What time is your flight home? 

 

I looked into this option. The problem I have is once you checkin on SkyPier, you are in the secure area of the airport.  Ours didn't leave until 11:30 PM. We took the HZM Shuttle early morning. We then check into our flight, store our carry on baggage at the luggage storage and took the MTR Airport Express to HK and spend ~9 hours in town Hong Kong before our flight.

 

 

If you miss the Kowloon to Macau Ferry, you can also go to Cotai.  Taxi from the Cotai Ferry to your hotel should be only around 100 MOP more than from the Macau Outer Ferry Terminal.

 

 

When are you arriving in HK?  Check the ferry schedule again before you trip. Please note that ferry schedules are subject to change.  Our hotel Concierge told us that passenger traffic for the ferries has reduced by 70% last year since the HZM Bridge opened end of 2018.  Most people now take the bridge shuttle. There has been drastic cuts in Ferry schedule. There may be layoffs and further schedule cuts.

 

Laurence

Edited January 8, 2020 by ebslcc
corrected content

[TGBoss]

This has been very useful infomation. Will be arriving in HK mid February for a cruise. I was planning on getting the Octopus card at the airport and using it for transport, including taking the airport express to our hotel. Did I read correctly that must pay cash in HK dollars for the initial Octopus card? 

[ebslcc]

4 hours ago, crimlaw@ecentral.com said:

Laurence - thanks for the tips on Macau.  I had heard a podcast from someone who hired a taxi or car at the port which took them around to many sites for about 5 hours for about $60.  It sounded like a good itinerary and included the pandas.  Skipping the show sounds much less stressful.  I appreciate the tips about St Paul's because it doesn't look that far so I will take that into account.

 

For Hong Kong Island, Jacky's tour is flexible.  I'm sure he will have suggestions.  He will pick us up at the ship and take us to the Peak.  There is a police museum up there that sounds interesting - my friend who is traveling with us is a detective so I thought he might enjoy that.  It discusses the Triads among other things. Then we will go to Aberdeen and Stanley,  I would like to see some of the buildings in the CBD if possible.  There is a place called Tai Kwun that is now an arts/bars/restaurants area that was converted from a police building with jail cells that is supposed to be great.  Not sure if that would make sense to go with Jacky or on our own.  We do have one full day at the end on our own, as well as one day in the middle on our own when we were going to explore Kowloon. I would like to see the Temple of 10,000 Buddhas, which is in the New Territories but will have to see how I feel as it is around 450 steps up.

 

I am not sure how Jacky will handle the night food tour, which is supposed to be in Mongkok.  It will be on a Tuesday so hopefully no protests that day but you never know.  We also plan to go to the Happy Valley races on Wednesday night on our own if we can.

You did a lot of research and figuring out what works already!!!  Since your guide has a car/van it's best to have him take you to places that are harder to get to by yourself.  It's good that your guide is flexible and can adjust your itinerary as needed (e.g. bad weather = not a good time to go to The Peak).  This is big advantage with a private guide vs. a set tour!!!

 

Lets see if I can use your itinerary and try to frame my suggestions that would be helpful to others reading this.  Please let me know your schedule day by day e.g. Day 1 disembarkation, check into Intercontinental TST (first or later?? - Luggage will be secure and hidden in the van?), Guide will take you to The Peak, Police Museum,  Aberdeen, Stanley, Central then back to hotel by what time?  Day 2 day time with guide?  Day 2 Night time guide to Mong Kok Night Market, dinner there?  Day 3 on your own + Happy Valley at night?  Day 4 Macau?  Day 5 in-town checkin then tour on your own and then Airport Express?

 

Some suggestion: Check out Kowloon Wall City see if you are interested, have this as part of your guide's itinerary since he has a car/van.  10,000 Buddhas is too many steps walking IMHO.  Look into Wong Tai Sin - easy MTR ride however can be added to your Kowloon Wall City tour with the guide.  It is a very different atmosphere than the Nunnery.  

 

Re: trying to get a taxi guide outside the Macau Ferry Terminal.  I haven't noticed.  May be you will have luck finding one.  If you take a ferry you can just walk out of the terminal and check. If you take the HZM Shuttle bus you can take the free shuttle from the HZM bridge to the Ferry Terminal and see if there are such guides around (as you exit the HZM building - the free shuttles to either Ferry Terminals are straight across in the middle island).  Another option I found is a Chauffeur Service in Macau that has reasonable hourly rates.  You may want to contact them and see if they have English speaking drivers available.  https://www.virentacar.com.mo/en/chauffeur-drive.html Will you have mobile service while in Macau?  Do you have a What's App account?   The Chauffeur Service has What's App access - it may be a good way for them to drop you off at sights and pick you up later and you can communicate to them via What's App.

 

Laurence

[hubofhockey]

The daredevil (FMX) motorcycle stunt show as part of House of Dancing Water is amazing.  I would say that is what some might say would set it apart from the Vegas cirque shows. Other parts of the show are more like O and Ka, but not that.  I don't mean to steer anyone away from that show.  I certainly recommend it and it was the best entertainment we had in our 23 days in HK/Macau/Southeast Asia vacation.

[ebslcc]

14 minutes ago, TGBoss said:

This has been very useful infomation. Will be arriving in HK mid February for a cruise. I was planning on getting the Octopus card at the airport and using it for transport, including taking the airport express to our hotel. Did I read correctly that must pay cash in HK dollars for the initial Octopus card? 

Yes cash only for Octopus Card for initial purchase and top up.  It's $150 minimum for Adults $70 minimum for Elders for initial purchase.  If you are traveling with more than one person, it is cheaper to buy the group Airport Express Pass separately and not use your Octopus Card for the Airport Express.  For example if you have 2 people and your pre cruise hotel is in Kowloon, AE to Kowloon for 2 people is HKD $150 total, $75 per person.  You can also use your credit card to purchase the AE Pass.  Single person price is $105 to Kowloon Station ($115 to Hong Kong Station)

http://www.mtr.com.hk/en/customer/tickets/promotions_4persons.html 

 

 

[ebslcc]

16 minutes ago, hubofhockey said:

The daredevil (FMX) motorcycle stunt show as part of House of Dancing Water is amazing.  I would say that is what some might say would set it apart from the Vegas cirque shows. Other parts of the show are more like O and Ka, but not that.  I don't mean to steer anyone away from that show.  I certainly recommend it and it was the best entertainment we had in our 23 days in HK/Macau/Southeast Asia vacation.

I agree. The motorcycle stunts were amazing!!!  It was a nice surprise, so was the Christmas theme extras at the end of the show. I think the show was the best Cirque type shows we've seen.

 

An extra tip buying tickets online: it appears that if you select the lower price seats the system will offer you badly located seats to encourage you to bump up to the next level.  If you login again later better seats may be offered.  I tried it on different laptops and I think my theory is true.  We opt to buy the ticket right at the box office since we were unsure when we want to see the show.  I think the online reviews are right, I don't think there is a bad seat in the house!

 

 

[hubofhockey]

1 minute ago, ebslcc said:

I agree. The motorcycle stunts were amazing!!!  It was a nice surprise, so was the Christmas theme extras at the end of the show. I think the show was the best Cirque type shows we've seen.

 

An extra tip buying tickets online: it appears that if you select the lower price seats the system will offer you badly located seats to encourage you to bump up to the next level.  If you login again later better seats may be offered.  I tried it on different laptops and I think my theory is true.  We opt to buy the ticket right at the box office since we were unsure when we want to see the show.  I think the online reviews are right, I don't think there is a bad seat in the house!

 

 

 

I did the same thing and kept selecting find new seats until some nice ones popped up, but it is a great venue for a show.  

 

I felt awful after comparing Dancing Water to those Vegas shows.  It does stand out.  The story was pretty good.  

 

We had a great day in Macau, but the language problem for anglos is very real.  Nobody on the street or in any stores can help you at all (unless you speak Cantonese).  They say 2% in Macau speak English, but all of them must work in the casinos and other hotels.  Also, google maps doesn't work well there, so . . . . 

 

I don't want to sour people on a trip to Macau, but two hours in the old town, lunch, a trip to City of Dreams, the show, and dinner was more than enough for us.  I was happy to be back in Hong Kong for the next day and the following day to Ocean Terminal.  

 

As for Octopus card, I have seen many posts about people ordering these things online through Klook and that is totally not necessary and probably a waste of time.  Those things spit right out of machines at the airport.  Put in your credit card, press loaned card and minimum amount, and a few seconds later you have your card.  I would love to return to Hong Kong and hope that things take a turn for the better for the Hong Kongers.