What’s even better than a guest post?

A guest post about a city I’m desperate to visit. Before her jet lag had even worn off, Liv from It’s a Beautiful Life contributed this post about Hong Kong (with a bit of Shanghai to make me extra envious).

I was much honored to be asked by The Anthology to write a guest post; it’s been so much fun watching this blog grow and I look forward to the updates in my RSS reader every day. I recently went on a whirlwind of a trip to Asia to two very happening cities: Hong Kong and Shanghai.

I was born in Hong Kong so going back is like slipping on a pair of well-worn jeans — the comfort of familiarity sinks in as I drive past the dazzling city lights and formidable skyscrapers.

As for Shanghai, well I was a Shanghai virgin.  It is fascinating city which not only shows the best of East meets West but is also a great example of China’s economic progress.  Construction is everywhere, and the well-heeled Shanghainese strut their stuff on the great catwalks of Shanghai.

I’ve put together my hot list for Hong Kong – a composite of places and things I love. I hope you get to visit them soon.

Swankiest place to stay: The Peninsula: I have a love affair with this regal hotel. Built in 1928, The Peninsula is a landmark in Hong Kong. It even has a private helicoptor landing pad on the roof!

Party like a rockstar: at Lan Kwai Fong, a neighbourhood consisting of bars, clubs and restaurants on a steep cobbled square.  Get on the VIP list at Prive or ride up the elevator at the LKF Hotel and sprawl out in the very grown-up FINDS a Scandinavian inspired lounge featuring the best of Nordic vodka and tapas.

Act like a local: Go shopping!  Browse and haggle at a market like Temple Street Market or Fa Yuen Street or go for the latest runway goodies from Paris and Milan.  Kind of like Starbucks in Vancouver, there’s bound to be a Gucci, LV, or Prada store near you.  Don’t forget to visit Muji, Japan’s answer to minimalistic consumerism.  For trendy, one-of-a kind finds, hit up Causeway Bay.

Chill Out: Hong Kong isn’t all concrete, there’s lots of greenery and nature to be had once you leave the inner city.  Take a ferry to Lamma island, a fishing village for pedestrians and bicycles only.  There are also many hikes and walks on Hong Kong island so check them out.

What I’m wearing:

Boyfriend Blazer – from a small boutique in Causeway Bay.  The boyfriend blazer was an item from my HK Hit List.  I love the smooth inside lining and how I can roll up the sleeves to show off the menswear inspired pin stripes.

Zebra slouchy tee – from a boutique in Tsim Sha Tsui
White woven wrap around belt – also from Tsim Sha Tsui
Purple Grey pointed flats – from yet another boutique in Tsim Sha Tsui
Grey J Brand skinny jeans

Want to contribute to the Anthology? (Yes! I can’t wait!) Send me a note at theanthology@live.com. Thanks Liv! You’re a star!