Hong Kong has a buzz like no other city – and still offers bargain shopping, incredible food and cultural experiences… Make the most of your holiday overseas with our guide to the top 5 things to do in Hong Kong . We’ll help you experience the best the world has to offer.

1. Take the Star Ferry across the harbour

Join the commuters on this traditional ferry that crosses Victoria Harbour between Kowloon and Central on Hong Kong Island. It only takes ten minutes, so if you want to spend longer on the water you can hop on board one of the many harbour cruises.

2. Barter for a bargain at Stanley

Take the double-decker bus from Central to Stanley, for a winding road-trip to this coastal village on the far side of Hong Kong Island. If you can’t find what you’re looking for at Stanley’s sprawling markets, you can also try the Temple Street night markets, Mong Kok or Yau Ma Tei. You’ll find everything from watches and clothing to electronics and bags – as well as yummy noodles and street food.

3. Ride the peak tram at sunset

If you can see your way through the smog, the view from Victoria Peak is spectacular – especially at sunset. Part of the fun is getting there, on a cable tram ride up the steep slope from Central.

4. Hike the Dragons Back Ridge

Hong Kong has some beautiful natural spots close to the city centre. The Dragons Back is the best short hike in Hong Kong, taking you along a ridge that forms the southeast headland of the island. Reward your efforts with a delicious meal in the fishing village of Shek-O.

5. Visit the Big Buddha

Take a ferry (or bus, MTR or cable-car) to nearby Lantau Island and meet the world’s tallest bronze Buddha. Located near Po Lin Monastery, it weighs 250 tonnes and is 34 metres tall. Entry to the monastery is free, and while you’re on the island you might be lucky enough to see some pink Chinese dolphins splashing in the waters.

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India has always attracted travellers searching for something – whether it’s spiritual guidance, exotic wonders, self-discovery, or (increasingly) a luxurious break. It’s best to travel in the cooler months, from October through to March. Read on for our top 5 things to do in India .

Visit Rajasthan

Possibly the most beautiful state in India, Rajasthan’s landscape is incredibly varied, from sand dunes to stunning beaches to lush forests. If you want to rough it, take a safari on the back of a camel or elephant. Or, make like a Maharajah and check into the Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur, a mirage-like white marble palace in the middle of Lake Pichola.

Go Goa

The tiny state of Goa on India’s west coast is famed for its beaches, temples and world heritage architecture. Conquered by Portuguese merchants in the 16 ^th century and only handed back in 1961, Goa is all the richer for this melding of cultures in its people, relaxed lifestyle and, most importantly, food.

Taj Mahal, Agra

You’ll know the Taj Mahal from countless photographs, but seeing it up close and in the flesh is extraordinary. One of the wonders of the modern world, and the planet’s grandest mausoleum, the Taj Mahal is a testament to the love of Shah Jahan for his wife, whose tomb lies underneath the central 35 metre high dome

Diwali – The Festival of Light

Diwali is celebrated all over the country on the new moon at the end of October. A shortening of the Sanskrit word ‘Deepavali’, meaning ‘rows of lights’, the festival marks change and hope, and is the beginning of the new financial year. Over five days, tens of thousands of lamps are lit on the roofs and windowsills of houses, and floated into rivers. Spectacular fireworks displays form the highlight of the festival.

Hang out on a Bollywood film set

The average Bollywood film is a lurid mix of action, music, dance and romance – the story itself isn’t so important. Films are vital entertainment all over India, and the industry in Mumbai produces more films than Hollywood. A visit to a Bollywood studio is worth organizing in advance. Watching busy technicians and actors moving between multiple sets is a chaotic and fun experience. Contact the public relations office of any of the major studios in Mumbai before you leave.

Always purchase holiday insurance before leaving for your trip.