Pia Wurtzbach, Jeremy Jauncey list 8 things to do in Hong Kong
MANILA, Philippines — There are places that make you fall in love, places where the stars and the planets align and the whole universe conspires to make it the perfect moment for romance for you and your loved one — and you realize how mundane the world can be without each other. It was that way for Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach and her husband, Jeremy Jauncey, when they fell in love in Hong Kong.
“Hong Kong is where Jeremy and I had our second date, and it’s where we fell in love,” Pia, in an Instagram post, affirmed in her signature tongue-in-cheek way.
Back in Hong Kong with her husband recently, Pia discovered more about what makes it special. It is one of those places where the more you visit, the more the city seems to give.
With every return, Hong Kong provides everyone who walks its streets with precisely what they need and an extra something on the side. It is culinary haven that houses Michelin-star restaurants most sought after by foodies, a shopaholic’s paradise, with no shortage of retail therapy at every turn, and other “hidden” attractions where everyone can make new memories that will last forever.
Take inspiration from Pia and Jeremy’s most recent adventures in Hong Kong in this list of activities to create the romantic getaway of a lifetime.
Serene sightseeing at Tai-O
Hong Kong is more than just the glitz and glam of city life, so Pia and Jeremy started off their most recent visit by heading for the serene and scenic fishing village of Tai-O.
They enjoyed the local delights of Hong Kong, such as the bean curd that you wouldn’t find anywhere else. For couples who wish for peaceful boat rides, Tai-O is the perfect place to see the stilt houses and canals of the village.
Romance in the waves at Sai Kung
If nature is still your thing but you prefer the excitement of bigger waves, Sai Kung is the perfect place for thrill-seekers. Speed through the crystal clear waters or dip your toes into the surfing and paddleboard experience. Pia expressed her delight at discovering this piece of nature in the midst of Hong Kong.
“The next time you visit, you have to explore the Sai Kung area, including South Ninepin Island, Sharp Island and Hoi Ha Wan!” she advised.
To make things even more romantic, you and your beau can attend the pearl jewelry-making workshop in Sai Kung, a city oasis that is just a 45-minute drive from Central. Spend your day visiting a pearl farm, learning how to cultivate the gems and creating gleaming accessories made with freshly harvested pearls — with your own hands.
Fusion of culture and religion at Ngong Ping
The Jaunceys also spent time with nature at Ngong Ping, visiting the Big Buddha, which is a trademark of the rich Buddhist culture in the area.
The city is in constant motion, its residents and tourists alike running from one place to the next, but Ngong Ping is where one can pause and enjoy breathtaking views through the Ngong Ping 360 cable car ride, ideal for those who want to feel as if they are on top of the world.
History ‘lessons’ at the Hong Kong Palace Museum
Though Hong Kong is somewhat synonymous with modernity, the city goes a long way back, with stories to be learned by tourists from the historic displays and exhibits that welcomed Pia and Jeremy at the Hong Kong Palace Museum.
The Forbidden City exhibition was also something that caught Pia’s eye, her fascination barely contained at the way people lived in Ancient China. Those looking to immerse themselves in culture and history should add the Hong Kong Palace Museum in their list of must-visit places in Hong Kong.
Dressing the part with the Qi Pao experience
When in Hong Kong, it’s best to look the part!
Pia and Jeremy immersed themselves in the experience of traditional Chinese wear through the Qi Pao experience. The couple looked picture-perfect, as if meeting in another life at some time in the far past.
Pia even referenced Wong Kar-wai films in one of her Instagram posts about the Qi Pao experience, saying “Stuck in a Wong Kar-wai film. 'In the Mood for Love,'” before mentioning her beau.
Taking center stage at the Xiqu Center
For those looking for something livelier and with a deeper look at art forms that have grown in Hong Kong, Pia and Jeremy made their way to the Xiqu Center, the newest performing arts center in Hong Kong.
They particularly enjoyed how immersive the experience is, with a large screen above the stage for subtitles to accommodate tourists who do not speak Cantonese, letting them in on the jokes and references. What’s more refreshing to the beauty queen, however, was how young the musicians were, as all of them were Gen Zs.
“How refreshing to see!,” Pia said.
Xiqu Center stages Cantonese opera and Chinese traditional theater, expanding theater lovers’ horizons to this side of the Chinese performing arts.
Elevated dining at Hutong
Nothing screams "more" than eating close to the stars. Pia and Jeremy elevated their dining experience as they enjoyed a meal at Hutong, a restaurant specializing in Northern Chinese cuisine. Located at H Zentre in Tsim Sha Tsui, Hutong welcomes all who seek the glamor of Hong Kong dining.
If you’re looking for a different atmosphere for your date, the city houses endless choices for whatever your tastes are. Sabatini Ristorante Italiano in IFC mall is perfect for those who crave the classic taste of Italian cuisine, while Cristal Room by Anne-Sophie Pic sets the benchmark for harbor-side fine dining on the 44th floor at Landmark in the center area of Hong Kong.
Hong Kong night treats
Hong Kong has an array of nightlife spots that you can discover with the Hong Kong Night Treats. Offering dining vouchers valued at HK$100, this initiative lets you redeem HK$100 worth of discounts for food and drinks at participating bars and restaurants after 6 p.m. To know more about these discounts, visit the official page for the Hong Kong Night Treats: https://www.discoverhongkong.com/seasia/deals/hk-nights-treats.html
Like chapters in a book, Hong Kong has something new with every turn, whether it’s through outdoor destinations, culturally rich museums, or opulent dining experiences. Just as it did for Pia and Jeremy’s love story, Hong Kong promises to bring you more, whatever your tastes may be.
For more information on destinations and experiences, visit Hong Kong Tourism Board’s official website at https://www.discoverhongkong.com/seasia/index.html
RELATED: WATCH: Pia Wurtzbach shares 'Queen of the Universe' not original title of debut novel
