Sai Kung ranks 9th in "world’s coolest neighborhoods"

Hong Kong’s back garden -- Sai Kung -- has won hearts with its beautiful beaches and greenery as it ranks 9th out of 45 in a list of the “world’s coolest neighborhoods.”

Time Out interviewed 27,000 people in its Time Out Index survey. Local editors and contributors then vetted the public vote against several criteria and made their final picks. A panel of experts then ranked the lot.

It praised Sai Kung’s “idyllic beaches, picturesque hiking trails and well-preserved country parks,” saying no wonder Sai Kung is so often dubbed the ‘back garden of Hong Kong’.

It also acknowledged Sai Kung's strong commitment to sustainability, as it houses organic farms, health food shops, zero-waste stores and environmental community groups like Friends of Sai Kung.

The magazine gave recommendations on how to spend a “perfect day” in Sai Kung:

1) See the sun rise over the High Island Reservoir and take in spectacular views of the clear turquoise lake.

2) Head back to Sai Kung Town, wander along the pier and top up on caffeine at Little Cove Espresso -- a cafe that is located right next to the harbourside.

3) Later on, browse artisan candle store BeCandle, dine at Michelin-starred Cantonese restaurant Loaf On and try traditional desserts at Miss Hui Homemade Steamed Bun, one of the oldest shops in Sai Kung.

The rest of the ranking can be found here.

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