Mommy Helena Travels

Category: Travel guides

  • How to Get to Longshan Temple from Ximending by MRT

    How to Get to Longshan Temple from Ximending by MRT

    If you’re staying in Ximending and planning to visit Longshan Temple, getting there is quick, affordable, and incredibly easy.

    I’ve visited Taiwan five times and have been to Longshan Temple three times. Every visit reminds me why I love Taipei—its MRT system is efficient, tourist-friendly, and makes exploring the city stress-free.

    Whether it’s your first time in Taipei or you’re returning for another trip, here’s exactly how to get from Ximending to Longshan Temple.

    Planning your Taipei itinerary? Check out my UltimateTaiwan Travel Guide for more tips on transportation, hotels, and must-visit attractions.

    Travel Essentials for Taipei

    Hotels in Taipei — Agoda code: HELENAGODA
    Activities — Agoda code: LENAGODA
    Klook — code: MOMMYHELENAKLOOK
    GetYourGuide — code: WICKEDHELENA5
    Traveljoy Insurance
    Nomad eSIM – code HELENA
    EasyCard

    📍 View Longshan Temple on Google Maps

    Quick Info

    • Location: Longshan Temple, Wanhua District, Taipei
    • Entrance Fee: FREE
    • Travel Time from Ximending: Around 5 minutes
    • MRT Fare: Approximately NT$20
    • Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
    • Payment Option: EasyCard accepted on all Taipei MRT lines

    Table of contents

     How to Get to Longshan Temple from Ximending

    Option 1: By MRT (Recommended)

    1. Head to Ximen Station.
    2. Take the Bannan Line (Blue Line) toward Dingpu.
    3. Ride for one stop and get off at Longshan Temple Station.
    4. Exit via Exit 1.
    5. Turn right and walk for 1–2 minutes.
    6. You’ll arrive at Longshan Temple.

    It’s one of the easiest day trips you can do in Taipei, especially if you’re staying in Ximending.

    Alternative Ways to Get There

    Walk from Ximending

    If you enjoy exploring on foot, you can walk from Ximending to Longshan Temple in approximately 20–25 minutes.

    The route takes you through Wanhua District, one of Taipei’s oldest neighborhoods, where you’ll pass local shops, traditional markets, and hidden food spots.

    Taxi or Uber

    A taxi ride from Ximending to Longshan Temple takes around 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic.

    Estimated fare: NT$100–150.

    This option is convenient if you’re traveling with luggage, children, or older family members.

    Public Bus

    Several Taipei city buses serve the Wanhua area. However, for first-time visitors, the MRT remains the easiest and fastest option.

    My Experience Visiting Longshan Temple

    I’ve been to Taiwan five times and have visited Longshan Temple three times.

    What I love most is how accessible it is from Ximending. Even if you only have a few hours in Taipei, you can easily fit it into your itinerary.

    I usually visit early in the morning when it’s less crowded and the atmosphere feels especially peaceful. Watching locals pray and seeing the beautiful traditional architecture offers a meaningful glimpse into Taiwanese culture.

    Since admission is completely free, it’s one of the best budget-friendly experiences in Taipei.

    Travel Tips

    • Bring an EasyCard for convenient MRT travel.
    • Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the surrounding Wanhua area.
    • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.
    • Be respectful when taking photos inside the temple grounds.
    • Consider pairing your visit with nearby attractions like Bopiliao Historical Block and Huaxi Street Night Market.

    Final Thoughts

    Longshan Temple is one of the easiest attractions to visit from Ximending. With just one MRT stop between them, you can reach this iconic Taipei landmark in minutes.

    If you’re building your Taipei itinerary, this quick and free cultural experience deserves a spot on your list.

    Klook.com
  • 12 Things To Do In Singapore: My Favorite Places After 11 Visits

    12 Things To Do In Singapore: My Favorite Places After 11 Visits

    Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in this description are affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no additional cost to you. Thank you for supporting my travel content and helping me continue sharing hotel reviews, travel guides, and solo travel adventures.

    Klook.com

    Introduction

    Singapore is one of those destinations I never get tired of visiting.

    I’ve been to Singapore 11 times already—some trips with my family and three as a solo traveler—and every visit feels different. Even after more than a decade of returning, I still discover new attractions, cafes, and hidden corners of the city.

    Some of my favorite areas include Sentosa for attractions, Marina Bay for iconic views, and Haji Lane for colorful photo spots. When it comes to shopping for pasalubong, I always find myself returning to Bugis and Chinatown.

    One thing I love most about Singapore is how easy it is to explore. The transportation system is efficient, attractions are easy to reach, and traveling solo feels safe and convenient.

    If you’re planning your first Singapore trip, these are the 12 places I personally recommend.

    Why I Keep Coming Back to Singapore

    I’ve visited Singapore 11 times, including 3 solo trips and multiple family vacations. The recommendations in this guide are based on places I’ve personally visited and hotels I’ve personally stayed at.

    My Top 12 Places To Visit In Singapore

    1. Jewel Changi Rain Vortex

    Why Visit:

    The world’s tallest indoor waterfall is usually my first or last stop in Singapore. It’s free to visit and makes a great introduction to the city.

    tip: Visit in the evening for the light show.

    2. Old Hill Street Police Station

    Why Visit:
    One of the most colorful buildings in Singapore and a favorite photography spot.

    Tip: Stand across the street to capture the entire facade.

    3. CHIJMES

    Why Visit:

    A beautiful heritage complex filled with restaurants, cafes, and stunning architecture.

    tip: Visit during golden hour.

    4. Haji Lane

    Why visit?

    One of my favorite areas in Singapore for Instagram-worthy photos. The colorful murals, cafes, and boutique shops make every visit enjoyable.

    tip: Visit early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

    5. Chinatown

    Why visit?

    Chinatown is one of my favorite places to visit in Singapore for its vibrant mix of culture, food, shopping, and history. It’s also where I usually shop for pasalubong because there are plenty of souvenir stores and affordable finds.

    Tips:

    Visit in the late afternoon so you can explore during the day and experience the lively atmosphere at night.

    Wear comfortable shoes because the best way to explore Chinatown is on foot.

    6. Singapore River Cruise

    Why visit?

    One of the best ways to see Singapore’s skyline and historic landmarks from a different perspective.

    tip: Book a sunset cruise.

    7. Singapore Flyer

    Why visit?

    A relaxing way to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

    tip: Choose a sunset timeslot.

    Powered by GetYourGuide

    8. Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

    Why visit?

    One of my favorite places in Singapore. The observation deck offers incredible views of Marina Bay and the city skyline.

    tip: Visit before sunset and stay until the city lights turn on.

    9. Cloud Forest

    Why visit?

    A beautiful indoor rainforest featuring waterfalls and lush greenery.

    tip: Bring a wide-angle lens for the waterfall.

    10. Harry Potter: Visions of Magic

    Why visit?

    A fun immersive attraction for Harry Potter fans.

    11. Universal Studios Singapore

    Why visit?

    One of Sentosa’s most popular attractions and perfect for families and thrill-seekers.

    must-try: Transformers Ride and Revenge of the Mummy.

    12. Singapore Oceanarium

    Why visit?

    An immersive marine attraction that is perfect for both kids and adults.

    Where I Stayed In Singapore

    As a solo traveler, I always choose hotels that are near MRT stations and have convenience stores or food options nearby.

    Hotel Boss

    Nearest MRT: Lavender MRT
    Why I Like It:
    Walking distance to the station and food options nearby.

    V Hotel Lavender

    Nearest MRT: Lavender MRT
    Why I Like It:
    Direct access to the MRT station and very convenient.

    Hotel Bencoolen

    Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT
    Why I Like It:
    Easy access to attractions and shopping districts.

    V Hotel Bencoolen

    Nearest MRT: Bencoolen MRT
    Why I Like It:
    Convenient location for sightseeing.

    Furama City Centre

    Nearest MRT: Chinatown MRT
    Why I Like It:
    Close to Chinatown and great for souvenir shopping.

    “Looking for a convenient place to stay? These are the hotels I’ve personally stayed in during my Singapore trips.”

    Hotel boss
    V hotel lavender
    Hotel bencoolen
    V hotel bencoolen
    furama city centre

    Transportation Tips

    One reason I keep returning to Singapore is how easy it is to get around.

    From Changi Airport, it is simple to reach hotels and attractions using public transportation.

    During my earlier trips, I used an EZ-Link card. These days, I usually use my GCash Visa card or GoTyme card for tap-and-go payments on buses and MRT trains.

    I also use my GoTyme card to withdraw Singapore dollars from UOB ATMs at Changi Airport whenever I need cash.

    Klook.com

    My Favorite Areas In Singapore

    Sentosa

    Perfect for attractions, beaches, and family-friendly activities.

    Marina Bay

    Home to some of Singapore’s most iconic views.

    Haji Lane

    One of my favorite photo spots in the city.

    Bugis

    Great for affordable shopping and souvenirs.

    Chinatown

    One of my favorite places to buy pasalubong and explore local culture.

    Singapore Travel Essentials

    Before Your Trip:

    ✓ Hotel Accommodation

    ✓ Singapore Attractions Pass

    ✓ Universal Studios Singapore Tickets

    ✓ Singapore Oceanarium Tickets

    ✓ Marina Bay Sands SkyPark Tickets

    ✓ Airport SIM Card or eSIM

    ✓ Travel Insurance

    ✓ Airport Transfers

    ✓ MRT-Friendly Payment Card

    Final Thoughts

    After 11 visits, Singapore remains one of my favorite destinations in Asia.

    Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, there’s always something new to discover—from iconic attractions and hidden photo spots to delicious food and unique neighborhoods.

    And if you’re like me, one trip to Singapore is rarely enough.

    “Some places are worth visiting once. Singapore is the kind of place that keeps calling you back.”

    Klook.com

    💰 Sample Singapore Travel Costs

    One of the biggest misconceptions about Singapore is that it’s extremely expensive. While some attractions and hotels can be pricey, I find that Singapore can still fit different budgets depending on your travel style.

    Here’s a rough estimate based on my own trips:

    Budget Traveler

    Estimated Daily Budget: SGD 80–150 (₱3,500–₱6,500)

    Includes:

    • Budget hotel or hostel
    • MRT and bus transportation
    • Hawker center meals
    • Free attractions and sightseeing

    Mid-Range Traveler

    Estimated Daily Budget: SGD 180–300 (₱8,000–₱13,000)

    Includes:

    • 3-star to 4-star hotel
    • MRT transportation
    • Mix of hawker centers and restaurants
    • Paid attractions such as Gardens by the Bay, Singapore Flyer, or Marina Bay Sands SkyPark

    Family Traveler

    Estimated Daily Budget: SGD 350+ (₱15,000+)

    Includes:

    • Family-friendly hotel
    • Attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore and Singapore Oceanarium
    • Restaurant dining
    • Shopping and souvenirs

    Typical Costs

    🏨 Hotels

    • Budget: SGD 80–150 per night
    • Mid-range: SGD 150–300 per night
    • Premium: SGD 300+ per night

    🚇 Transportation

    • MRT/Bus rides: SGD 1–3 per trip
    • Airport to city via MRT: SGD 2–4
    • Taxi/Grab: SGD 15–40+

    🍜 Food

    • Hawker Center Meal: SGD 5–10
    • Fast Food Meal: SGD 8–15
    • Casual Restaurant: SGD 15–30
    • Specialty Coffee: SGD 6–10
    • Bubble Tea: SGD 4–8

    🎟️ Popular Attractions

    • Universal Studios Singapore
    • Singapore Oceanarium
    • Marina Bay Sands SkyPark
    • Singapore Flyer
    • Gardens by the Bay

    Prices vary throughout the year, so I always check the latest rates before my trip.

    My Personal Budget

    When I travel solo to Singapore, I usually budget around SGD 100–150 per day excluding flights and hotel. This comfortably covers MRT transportation, food, coffee stops, attractions, and a little shopping for pasalubong.

    💡 Mommy Helena Tip

    Because Singapore’s MRT system is so efficient, I save a lot on transportation by staying near MRT stations like Lavender, Bencoolen, or Chinatown. It may cost a little more for the hotel, but I usually spend less on Grab rides and save a lot of time getting around.

  • Hong Kong Day 2 Itinerary: Avenue of Stars, Kennedy Town, Sunset Cruise & Symphony of Lights

    Hong Kong Day 2 Itinerary: Avenue of Stars, Kennedy Town, Sunset Cruise & Symphony of Lights

    Affiliate Disclosure Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my links. Thank you for supporting my content and helping me continue sharing travel guides, itineraries, and honest travel experiences.

    Looking for a relaxing Hong Kong itinerary for first-time visitors?

    On my second day in Hong Kong, I traded the usual rush of sightseeing for a slower day filled with harbor views, good coffee, Kennedy Town, a sunset cruise, and the famous Symphony of Lights.

    If you’re traveling solo or visiting Hong Kong for the first time, this itinerary is easy to follow and doesn’t feel overwhelming.

    🇭🇰 HONG KONG DAY 2 AT A GLANCE

    ✔ Avenue of Stars
    ✔ Clock Tower
    ✔ Victoria Harbour Promenade

    ☕ Starbucks with a Harbour View

    🚤 Water Taxi to Central

    🎡 Hong Kong Observation Wheel

    📍 Kennedy Town Basketball Court

    ☕ % Arabica Kennedy Town

    🚢 Victoria Harbour Sunset Cruise

    ☕ Luckin Coffee

    ✨ Symphony of Lights

    This Hong Kong Day 2 itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors and solo travelers looking for a mix of sightseeing, coffee stops, harbor views, and a memorable sunset cruise.

    Where I Stayed in Hong Kong

    For this trip, I stayed at Hotel Hart in Tsim Sha Tsui.

    One of the reasons I like this hotel is its location. It’s only a short walk from Victoria Harbour, Avenue of Stars, restaurants, convenience stores, and nearby MTR stations.
    If you’re visiting Hong Kong for the first time and want to stay in a central area without spending too much on accommodation, Tsim Sha Tsui is one of the best places to base yourself.

    You can book Hotel Hart through Agoda, Klook, or Trip.com.

    Check rates here

    Hotel Hart on Klook

    Hotel Hart on Agoda

    Hotel Hart on Tripcom

    Klook.com

    A Rainy Morning in Tsim Sha Tsui

    I woke up to grey skies and rain.
    Instead of forcing myself to follow my original itinerary, I decided to take things slow and wait for the weather to improve.

    One thing I’ve learned after visiting Hong Kong several times is that not every travel day needs to be packed with activities.

    Sometimes the best thing you can do is enjoy the city at a slower pace.
    Since my hotel was only a few minutes away from the waterfront, I spent the morning walking around Victoria Harbour.

    I visited the Avenue of Stars, Clock Tower, Viewing Deck, and Victoria Harbour Promenade while enjoying the cooler weather.

    Even after multiple visits to Hong Kong, the skyline never gets old.
    There’s just something special about seeing Hong Kong Island across the harbor.

    Breakfast with a View

    No travel day starts without coffee.
    I grabbed breakfast from Starbucks near the waterfront and enjoyed my coffee while overlooking Victoria Harbour.

    Simple moments like these are often my favorite part of traveling solo.
    No schedules. No rush. Just coffee and a beautiful view.

    Taking the Water Taxi to Central

    Once the rain stopped, it was time to continue exploring.
    Instead of taking the MTR, I decided to try the Hong Kong Water Taxi.

    While the MTR is definitely faster, the Water Taxi offers a completely different experience.

    The ride gives you a scenic perspective of Victoria Harbour and Hong Kong’s impressive skyline.
    If you’re not in a hurry, I highly recommend trying it at least once during your trip.

    You can book Water Taxi tickets through Klook, Agoda, or GetYourGuide before your trip.

    Quick Stop at the Hong Kong Observation Wheel

    After arriving at Central Pier, I walked past the Hong Kong Observation Wheel.

    I rode it during my previous Hong Kong trip back in January and enjoyed the experience.

    If you’re visiting for the first time, I recommend riding it at sunset or after dark when the city lights begin to shine.

    The nighttime views are much more impressive than during the day.

    Visiting the Famous Kennedy Town Basketball Court

    From Central, I took the MTR to Kennedy Town.

    One of the most popular spots here is the Kennedy Town Basketball Court, which has become famous on Instagram and TikTok because of its unique backdrop.

    The combination of colorful basketball courts, high-rise buildings, and waterfront views makes it one of the most photogenic locations in Hong Kong.

    If you’re planning to take photos, try visiting during late afternoon when the lighting is softer.

    Expect to wait a little if you’re looking for the perfect shot since the area is popular among tourists.

    Coffee Break at % Arabica Kennedy Town

    After taking photos, I headed to % Arabica Kennedy Town.

    This branch is easily one of the busiest coffee shops in Hong Kong.
    Every time I pass by, it’s packed.
    The coffee is good, but I think what really attracts people is the location.

    The large windows, harbor views, and minimalist design make it a great place to relax for a while before continuing your itinerary.

    Sunset Cruise on Victoria Harbour

    The highlight of my day was definitely the sunset cruise.

    I’ve seen Victoria Harbour many times, but seeing it from the water during sunset felt completely different.

    The cruise lasted approximately 45 minutes and included unlimited drinks and light snacks.

    One thing I appreciated was how friendly the staff were.

    They actively helped guests take photos and even used portable lights to improve everyone’s pictures once it started getting dark.

    As the sun slowly disappeared behind the skyline, the city transformed from golden hour into a sea of lights.

    It was one of those moments that reminded me why I keep coming back to Hong Kong.

    If you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a memorable experience, I highly recommend adding a Victoria Harbour sunset cruise to your itinerary.

    Powered by GetYourGuide

    Ending the Night with Symphony of Lights

    After the cruise, I grabbed another coffee from Luckin Coffee and found a good viewing spot along the harbor.

    At 8 PM, the Symphony of Lights began.

    The colorful lights dancing across Hong Kong’s iconic skyline created the perfect ending to the day.

    Watching the show while sipping coffee and enjoying the cool evening breeze felt like the perfect way to end my second day in Hong Kong.

    Is This Hong Kong Day 2 Itinerary Worth It?

    Absolutely.

    This itinerary is perfect if you want a slower-paced day that combines sightseeing, coffee stops, photography spots, and one unforgettable sunset experience.

    For first-time visitors, it also provides a good balance between famous attractions and local neighborhoods without feeling rushed.

    Sometimes the best travel days aren’t the busiest ones.
    Sometimes they’re the days when you simply enjoy the city at your own pace.

    Final Thoughts

    Hong Kong continues to surprise me every time I visit.

    Even though this wasn’t my first trip, I still found new experiences to enjoy—from taking the Water Taxi to watching another beautiful sunset over Victoria Harbour.

    If you’re planning your own Hong Kong adventure, don’t be afraid to leave room in your itinerary for slow mornings, spontaneous coffee breaks, and unexpected moments.
    Those often become the most memorable parts of the trip.

    “Travel isn’t always about checking everything off your list. Sometimes it’s about slowing down and enjoying where you are.”

    #HongKong #HongKongVlog #SoloTravel #KennedyTown #VictoriaHarbour #SymphonyOfLights #TravelVlog #HongKongItinerary #TravelWithMommyHelena #MommyHelena

  • Taiwan Budget Breakdown: How Much I Spent in 6 Days and 5 Nights (Taichung + Taipei)

    Taiwan Budget Breakdown: How Much I Spent in 6 Days and 5 Nights (Taichung + Taipei)

    Affiliate Disclosure: Some links in this article may be affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you book through them at no extra cost to you. I only recommend hotels, tours, and travel services that I personally use or believe may be helpful for fellow travelers. Thank you for supporting Mommy Helena and helping me continue creating free travel content.

    Quick Summary Box

    How Much Does a Taiwan Trip Cost?

    One of the most common questions I receive is:

    “How much money should I bring to Taiwan?”

    To help fellow travelers plan their budget, I’m sharing my actual expenses from my recent 6 Days 5 Nights Taiwan trip covering Taichung and Taipei.

    During this trip, I visited:

    • Alishan
    • Qingjing Farm
    • Qingjing Skywalk
    • Sun Moon Lake
    • Ximending
    • Taipei

    This breakdown includes my hotels, transportation, food, tours, travel tax, eSIM, and travel insurance.

    Important Disclaimer

    ✈️ Flight fare is NOT included in this budget breakdown.

    Taiwan was part of my multi-country trip, so airfare was booked together with other destinations and would not accurately represent a standalone Taiwan trip cost.

    Also keep in mind that:

    • Hotel costs may vary depending on your accommodation preference.
    • Food expenses will depend on your eating habits.
    • Activities can be customized based on your interests.
    • Shopping and souvenirs are excluded from the main travel budget since they are optional expenses.

    My Itinerary

    My Essential Taiwan Travel Cost

    Total Essential Travel Cost

    💰 ₱35,199

    This amount already includes:

    ✔️ Hotels

    ✔️ Food and Coffee

    ✔️ Transportation

    ✔️ Tours and Attractions

    ✔️ Travel Tax

    ✔️ eSIM

    ✔️ Travel Insurance

    My Hotel Stays

    Hotel Mi Casa (Taichung)

    CityInn Plus Taichung

    Airline Inn (Ximen)

    Check rates here:

    Klook
    Agoda
    Tripcom

    Taiwan Budget Breakdown

    1. Pre-Travel Expenses

    Before flying to Taiwan, I purchased the following travel essentials:

    ItemCost
    Travel Tax₱1,620
    eSIM₱487
    Travel Insurance₱520

    Total Pre-Travel Expenses

    💰 ₱2,627

    Need a Taiwan eSIM? Compare prices and book online before your trip.

    2. Hotel Expenses

    I stayed in three different hotels during this trip.

    Hotel Mi Casa (2 Nights)

    Located near Taoyuan Airport and convenient for travelers heading to Central Taiwan.

    Cost:
    💰 ₱5,510

    CityInn Hotel Taichung (1 Night)

    A comfortable and strategically located hotel in Taichung.

    Cost:
    💰 ₱3,265

    Airline Inn Ximen (2 Nights)

    Located in the heart of Ximending and perfect for exploring Taipei.

    Cost:
    💰 ₱7,949

    Total Hotel Cost

    💰 ₱16,724

    Average Cost Per Night

    💰 ₱3,345

    3. Transportation Expenses

    Taiwan is one of the easiest countries to explore thanks to its efficient transportation network.

    For this trip, I mainly used:

    • EasyCard
    • MRT
    • Airport MRT
    • Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR)

    The Airport MRT fare was already included in my EasyCard top-up.

    TransportationCost
    EasyCard Top-Up₱962
    THSR₱1,981

    Total Transportation Cost

    💰 ₱2,943

    4. Activities and Tours

    One of the highlights of this Taiwan itinerary was exploring destinations outside Taipei.

    Alishan Train

    💰 ₱193

    Alishan Day Tour

    💰 ₱2,321

    Qingjing Farm Entrance

    💰 ₱526

    Qingjing Skywalk

    💰 ₱324

    Sun Moon Lake Tour

    💰 ₱2,554

    Taipei Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

    💰 ₱580

    Total Activities Cost

    💰 ₱6,498

    Powered by GetYourGuide

    🎟️ Planning to visit? Check the latest rates and availability here.

    Alishan Day Tour from Taichung

    Sun Moon Lake Tour from Taichung

    Qingjing Skywalk and Swiss Garden

    Taipei Double-Decker Sightseeing Bus

    Klook.com

    Planning to visit Alishan, Qingjing Farm, or Sun Moon Lake? Compare tour prices before booking.

    Klook.com

    5. Food and Coffee Expenses

    If you’ve been following my Taiwan adventures, you’ll know I love exploring local cafes as much as tourist attractions.

    This budget includes meals, coffee stops, milk tea, snacks, and convenience store purchases.

    DayCost
    Day 1₱948
    Day 2₱921
    Day 3₱795
    Day 4₱1,361
    Day 5₱1,350
    Day 6₱1,032

    Total Food Cost

    💰 ₱6,407

    Average Daily Food Budget

    💰 ₱1,068 per day

    Taiwan Budget Summary

    CategoryCost
    Pre-Travel₱2,627
    Hotels₱16,724
    Transportation₱2,943
    Activities₱6,498
    Food₱6,407
    TOTAL₱35,199

    Is Taiwan Expensive for Filipinos?

    Based on my experience, Taiwan offers excellent value for money.

    For approximately ₱35,199 excluding flights, I was able to:

    ✔️ Stay for 6 days and 5 nights

    ✔️ Visit Alishan

    ✔️ Visit Qingjing Farm

    ✔️ Explore Sun Moon Lake

    ✔️ Travel between Taichung and Taipei

    ✔️ Enjoy cafes, local food, and sightseeing

    Compared to many other destinations in Asia, Taiwan remains one of the easiest and most budget-friendly countries to explore independently.

    Final Thoughts

    My total essential travel cost for this Taiwan trip was:

    💰 ₱35,199 (excluding flights)

    If you’re planning your own Taiwan adventure, I hope this breakdown gives you a realistic idea of how much to budget for hotels, transportation, food, and attractions.

    Taiwan continues to be one of my favorite destinations because of its convenient transportation, beautiful scenery, delicious food, and beginner-friendly travel experience.

  • Everything I Bought in Hong Kong 🇭🇰 Disney Merchandise, Outlet Finds & Souvenirs

    Everything I Bought in Hong Kong 🇭🇰 Disney Merchandise, Outlet Finds & Souvenirs

    “Some people collect stamps. I collect memories… and a few shopping bags along the way.”

    My last trip to Hong Kong was in January 2026, and while the main purpose of the trip wasn’t shopping, I still came home with a suitcase full of goodies—from Disney merchandise and outlet finds to unique Hong Kong souvenirs.

    If you’re planning a trip to Hong Kong, here’s a look at everything I bought, where I found them, and a few shopping tips based on my own experience.

    🎥 Watch My Hong Kong Shopping Haul

    Quick Trip Information

    📍 Destination: Hong Kong

    🏨 Hotel: Novotel Citygate Hong Kong

    🧳 Travel Style: Solo Travel

    🛍️ Main Shopping Stops:

    • Hong Kong Disneyland
    • Citygate Outlets
    • Causeway Bay

    Adidas Hong Kong Exclusive Shirts

    One of my favorite purchases from this trip was a pair of Adidas Hong Kong exclusive shirts. I always enjoy bringing home something unique from each destination, and these shirts were a perfect souvenir that I can actually wear.

    I also found an Adidas jacket at Citygate Outlets at a discounted price. Definitely one of my best outlet finds during the trip.

    Hong Kong Disneyland Merchandise

    I can never visit Hong Kong Disneyland without bringing home a few Disney treasures.

    This time, I added several LinaBell items to my collection. If you’ve visited Disney parks recently, you’ll know how popular this adorable pink fox has become.

    My purchases included:

    • LinaBell headband
    • LinaBell small bag
    • LinaBell shoulder plush
    • Other LinaBell accessories

    I also noticed they have a wallet version of their tote bag which looked really cute.

    Don’t Skip the Sale Section

    One of my biggest tips for Hong Kong Disneyland shoppers is to check the sale section before buying anything.

    During my visit, some merchandise was discounted by almost 50% to 70% off.

    I managed to grab:

    • Bucket hats
    • Keychains
    • Minnie Mouse bag charm

    The selection was limited, but the savings were definitely worth checking out.

    Important Disneyland Shopping Tip

    Hong Kong Disneyland does not automatically provide plastic shopping bags with purchases.

    If you don’t want to purchase their reusable tote bag (the cheapest one I saw was around HK$25), make sure to bring your own reusable shopping bag.

    It’s a small thing, but it can save you money if you’re planning to buy lots of merchandise.

    Hong Kong Souvenir Shopping

    One thing I love about Hong Kong is the huge variety of souvenirs available.

    Of course, I couldn’t leave without buying magnets.

    What surprised me was how creative the designs have become.

    Some of my favorites included:

    • Mahjong tile magnets
    • Light-up train sign magnets
    • Egg waffle magnets
    • Hong Kong-themed street sign magnets
    • Traditional Hong Kong landmark magnets

    There were honestly so many designs to choose from that it was difficult to pick just a few.

    If you’re looking for affordable souvenirs for friends and family, magnets remain one of the easiest items to pack and bring home.

    Powered by GetYourGuide

    North Face Finds at Citygate Outlets

    Just before checking out of my hotel, I made one final stop at Citygate Outlets and picked up a few North Face shirts.

    If you’ve never visited Citygate Outlets, it’s one of my favorite shopping destinations in Hong Kong.

    Most stores offer discounts year-round, and it’s not uncommon to find items marked down by 40% to almost 70% off.

    Popular brands include:

    • Adidas
    • Nike
    • The North Face
    • Coach
    • Kate Spade
    • Calvin Klein

    and many more.

    Why I Love Staying at Novotel Citygate

    One of the reasons I keep recommending Novotel Citygate Hong Kong is its location.

    The hotel is directly connected to Citygate Outlets, making shopping incredibly convenient.

    You can literally walk from your room straight into the mall.

    It is also:

    • Near the airport
    • Near Tung Chung Station
    • Convenient for airport transfers
    • Great for last-minute shopping

    For shoppers, this location is hard to beat.

    And Of Course… Bakehouse Egg Tarts

    No Hong Kong trip is complete without a Bakehouse egg tart.

    Thankfully, there is a Bakehouse branch inside Citygate Outlets.

    Before heading to the airport, I made sure to grab a box of their famous sourdough egg tarts.

    Still one of my favorite treats in Hong Kong.

    If it’s your first time visiting, I highly recommend trying one.

    Is Shopping in Hong Kong Worth It?

    For me, absolutely.

    I love that Hong Kong offers a mix of:

    • Disney merchandise
    • Outlet shopping
    • Luxury brands
    • Local souvenirs
    • Food souvenirs

    Whether you’re looking for exclusive collectibles or discounted branded items, there is something for every type of traveler.

    Travel Essentials for Hong Kong

    Before your trip, don’t forget these essentials:

    🏨 Hotels

    Book your Hong Kong accommodations through Agoda.

    Use my code:

    HELENAGODA

    for extra savings on eligible bookings.

    Book through Klook and use:

    MOMMYHELENAKLOOK

    for additional savings.

    Klook.com

    🎟️ Attractions & Tours

    Planning to visit Hong Kong Disneyland, Ngong Ping 360, or other attractions?

    You can buy your tickets in advance through Agoda, Klook, GetYourGuide, or Tripcom.

    Powered by GetYourGuide

    SIM Cards & eSIM

    Stay connected throughout your trip with a Hong Kong eSIM or tourist SIM card.

    Klook.com

    Airport Transfers

    For a smoother arrival, consider booking:

    • Airport Express
    • Private Airport Transfer
    • Octopus Card
    Klook.com

    Share Your Hong Kong Shopping Finds

    Have you visited Hong Kong recently?

    What was your favorite purchase?

    I’d love to hear about your best shopping finds in the comments below.

    And if you found this guide helpful, feel free to share it with your friends who are planning a trip to Hong Kong.

    ✨ Happy travels and happy shopping!

    – Mommy Helena

    Affiliate Disclosure

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