Hong Kong is a city of contrasts, a place where modernity and tradition collide on every corner: sky-bound towers sit beside colonial architecture. Temples emanate the scent of incense and street food vendors serve noodles and sandwiches to those who have followed keen noses. Looming concrete towers are interspersed with bursts of fuchsia bougainvillea and heaving crowds hum beneath neon signs.
From an expedition to Art Basel to the colourful food markets of Mong Kok, Arts Editor Victoria Pearson shares postcards from Hong Kong, captured on the Samsung Galaxy S10.
"Hong Kong-bound on Virgin Australia's direct flight - Economy X seating for priority screening and boarding is the stress-free way to fly."
"Virgin's noise-cancelling headphones are essential, and all the better for sinking into the in-flight entertainment selection (The Favourite is a must)."
"My favourite place to stay in Hong Kong is Ovolo Central's boutique hotel, situated on Hong Kong Island for easy access to the vibrant surrounds."
"Breakfast each day (and dinner if you can swing it) at the adjoining restaurant, Veda, for the best in vegetarian cuisine. Local produce is accompanied by Australian wines for an East meets West feast for the senses."
"A short stroll from the hotel leads you directly to Victoria Harbour, and its iconic Central Pier."
"Connecting Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Peninsula is the Star Ferry, whipping across the harbour since 1888. Buy a ticket, sit back and watch the beauty of Hong Kong's cityscape from the water."
"Hong Kong from the sky - the harbour's Observation Wheel gives a birds eye view of the city, best captured with the Samsung Galaxy S10's incredible ultra-wide angle lens setting."
"Hong Kong may not be the instinctive thought you have when reflecting on the arts, but look a little closer and you'll discover an abundance of galleries, auctions and international exhibitions that have transformed the harbourside city into a cultural epicentre."
"International art fair Art Basel first laid its roots in Hong Kong in 2013, and continues to captivate locals and travellers, established and emerging artists, collectors and dealers alike. Get your hands on a ticket and make your way to the city's turtle-shaped Convention Centre early - the crowds lead to massive queues later in the day."
"My favourite feature of the Samsung Galaxy S10 is the PowerShare function: the ability to reverse wireless charge other device without connecting to wall power. Perfect for travellers in need of a mid-afternoon battery boost (it automatically stops the power share once your phone reaches 30 per cent battery, so you're not also left high and dry)."
"Self-portrait in neon - overlooking the bustling streets of Mong Kok."
"The Galaxy S10's ultra-wide angle lens is best in moments like these at Art Basel, where you want to capture the full spectrum of a piece of work."
"An eternal favourite - Agnes Martin's line works are a masterclass in light touch."
"The best way to travel in Hong Kong is by foot - and don't forget to look up. I couldn't get enough of the pink and orange skyscrapers dotted around the city."
"Street moments."
"Hong Kong's iconic red taxis racing through the city."
"Ombré coloured eggs at Mong Kok's outdoor food market."
"More neon - so beautiful at this hour when the sun is setting and the sky turns to the same pastel hue as the faded buildings."
"A must-see is the restored Central Police Station compound, transformed into a centre for arts and culture. Explore in the day but for the best experience revisit once the sun goes down, pockets of bars and restaurants open within and around every corner there's an exhibition or launch event."
"Street view of the Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts."
"My life is henceforth devoted to golden egg yolk custard buns, captured in all their glory using the Samsung Galaxy S10 food setting (ideal for pros and novice food bloggers alike)."
"Mong Kok food markets are practically lit up with produce. Make sure you try the curry fish balls. I am a convert."
