Local Folkals: soul coach and entrepreneur Coco Chan shares her favourite things to do in Hong Kong

You might not know this, but Hong Kong is actually the birthplace of The Hotel Journal! So if you’re looking for some tried and tested local hangouts, we know where to go. Here, soul coach and business owner Coco Chan is giving us the lowdown on the best things to do in Hong Kong, many of which you won’t find in the usual guidebooks. And when you need a place to rest your head, take a look at our tried and tested guide to the best boutique hotels in Hong Kong too.

Coco Chan’s best things to do in Hong Kong

Hi, Coco. Thanks so much for sitting down with us. Tell us a little about your relationship with Hong Kong.

Hong Kong and I are like old friends that met 38 years ago – we’ve been through a lot together, but we always come out stronger on the other side. I admire the city’s resilience in the face of challenges and its Spirit to always bounce forward after adversity.

There’s a certain magic to Hong Kong that I haven’t found in any other place – it’s a city that’s always in motion, always evolving, and always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. And yet, amidst all the hustle and bustle, I’ve found a sense of belonging and community that makes me feel truly at home here.

And how do you spend your time day-to-day?

I pour my energy daily into my spiritual practice, businesses (Coco Alexandra Holistic Consulting, Voltage X, and Victoria 22) and home life, so every day looks a bit different for me but I love the versatility and flexibility of my schedule.

A common thread within my days is my morning practice at home, which is sacred for me as it’s my source of grounding and clarity to amplify my energy to manage everything in life. Other times you’ll find me walking in Discovery Bay listening to my favourite podcasts, in the city trying out new restaurants, or spending quality time with family and friends. My life has gotten more simple now that I’m a mother (haha!)

How does Hong Kong influence your soul coaching?

Hong Kong has had a profound impact on my soul coaching practice. Living in such a fast-paced and dynamic city, I’ve seen first-hand how stress, anxiety, and burnout can take their toll on individuals and communities. But I’ve also witnessed the incredible resilience and creativity that emerges in response to these challenges.

As a soul coach, I draw on these experiences to help my clients navigate the ups and downs of life in Hong Kong and beyond. I work with them to cultivate a deep sense of self-awareness and compassion, so that they can access their inner strength and wisdom even in the most difficult of circumstances.

Hong Kong has shown me that even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty, there is always the potential for growth, transformation, and healing. As a soul coach, I’m grateful to be able to hold space for clients to tap into that potential and create lives that are full of meaning and purpose.

You’re a mum, so for readers with children, do you have any special recommendations?

Maggie & Rose @ The Pulse – a safe indoor and outdoor space with an amazing ocean views, fun interactive kid activities food and “drinks” for adults 😉  If you really want to make a day out of it, bring your beach gear to have some fun in the sun after!

Island hopping onto the outlying islands: Lantau, Mui Wo, Cheung Chau, and Discovery Bay to immerse your children in local flavours, nature, and a slower way of living.

Do you have some favourite hang outs that you would recommend for first-time visitors to Hong Kong?

Wander around Sheung Wan with its hipster cafes, cool restaurants, and don’t miss Cat Street for vintage and antique trinkets.

Also, HK’s biggest Kwan Yin statue at Tsz Shan Monastery in Tai Po. The energy there is AMAZING! Remember to make an appointment though.

Our readers love to eat. Any must-visit restaurants, bars, or cafes?

The Chairman for delicious Cantonese cuisine but remember to book waaaay in advance.
T’ang Court for Cantonese fine dining. It’s a fam favourite for us. We’ve been going there since I was three months old!
Fineprint for coffee.
Matchali for all things matcha!
Bakehouse for baked goods – their sourdough egg tart is DIVINE!
The Square for dim sum that’s also kid friendly.
Argo – best cocktails and service in town.
The Diplomat – it has a hidden secret pink VIP room!

What’s the best way to get around the city in your opinion?

Taxi or MTR are the best way to travel around the city. For those who want to experience a unique means of transport then I highly recommend taking the tram to see the city. Sit on the upper deck to get a better view.

Another fun means of transport is the Star Ferry that takes you from Central or Wanchai to TST. I recommend taking this during the evenings when the sky is clear to take in the view of one of the world’s more breath taking skylines.

If you want to the full harbour skyline experience, the Aqualuna is a fun way to spend an evening with friends over bubbles.

Any other Hong Kong secrets that you want to share?

Chi Lin Nunnery for epic Vegetarian cuisine and a calming environment.
Po Toi Fishing Village for Seafood.
Mongkok for street food.
GET A full body or foot massage because there’s A LOT of walking done in Hong Kong. My favourites are Ten Feet Tall and Tai Pan Reflexology.

What do you love most about living in the city?

I’ve been in HK for over 30 years and what I love most about it is the range of cultures, the robust cuisine options (we have some of THE best restaurants in the world here!), and ease of access to the great outdoors, just minutes away from the city.

And if readers want to follow you, where can they find you online?

IG @iamcocoalexandra
Cocoalexandra.com

But wait, there’s more…

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• And be sure to pick up some hardworking travel sunscreen, as recommended by an MUA