We, like most visitors, opted for the Peak Tram to take us to the summit. We had an Octopus card so didn’t need to wait in the queue, but were ushered to stand and wait at the side of the platform. Here we were able to read a little about the history of the tram, that’s been carrying people up to the top since the 1800s, before the vehicle came into view. We’d positioned ourselves at the bottom end so we could appreciate the view behind us. As we made our steep ascent, we "grabbed" different glimpses of Hong Kong and the harbour.

The Peak Tram is an experience in itself as it chugs its way up to the top. It was absolutely crammed with riders and it looked as if the queuing was fairly constant. At the top there was a fairly short indoor walk to the viewing stations and hold on to your hats because the views of Hong Kong are supreme. But before the views there are shops to pass. This first precinct is small and about to receive a refurbishment. This was lucky for us because there were bargains to be had, although our son said the prices were usually double what you’d find at the markets. A more modern mall with exclusive shops was just over the road, and although we didn’t buy (prices did seem on the high side), even I enjoyed looking.

But back to the view! We went to the top, and although the view was great, it did not provide good photo opportunities. You need to be down a stage, where the panorama is much better for the lens. We could see Kowloon, the towers on Lama Island, and all key buildings that make up Hong Kong’s stunning skyline. The river was busy with "traffic", the constant flow of ferries to the islands, some heavy freight transportation, small motorless crafts, and the occasional leisure boat speeding across the water, creating picturesque wakes even at our distance. In the foreground was the Peak Tram, some interesting local residences, and constantly circling above us, large birds (looked like eagles to me).

Hong Kong’s "smog" never seems far away, but it does create some interesting views of the islands. We never did make the Peak at night, but our son assured us that we would have loved it! He often goes up there and enjoys a romantic meal overlooking the mighty illuminated skyscrapers of Hong Kong Island.

As we made our way through Hong Kong Park towards the western end, we suddenly stumbled upon an influx of white people—yes, there it is, the tram station for trips to the top of the peak. Don’t sweat the long queue you’re likely to encounter here—it moves relatively quickly, and of course, the goods up top live up to the hype. Prepare to cough up the modest round-trip fee of HK$30 for your tram ride, with the option to pay a little more for admission to Ripley’s Believe It or Not and other gross tourist stuff located at the top. Skip it and save that money for some candy from Aji Ichiban.

As you grab a seat inside the red tram, adorned with dangling red bulbs tacked on around the ceiling, you’ll likely be amongst a near-equal mix of tourists and locals. This tram has been running since 1888, and holds 95 people max, with room for 25 to stand. That may be the case, but you will NOT get me on this tram with 95 people crammed in it. Inching up the side of the mountain is somewhat harrowing, as you’ll hit a 27-degree incline. Don’t worry, though—the tram staff know you’re very anxious to see Ripley’s, and uphold the highest of safety standards.

After making your way past the inevitable souvenir shops and stands, you’ll finally emerge onto the main viewing deck, where you can play Joe Tourist all you want and fill up rolls of film with eye-popping views. There are coin-operated binoculars here too, like the ones Clark and Rusty Griswold used in Paris. After you’ve seen enough, there are plenty of other diversions to prolong your time at the Peak, such as a shopping mall, restaurants, bars, and Madame Tussaud’s, which boasts what has to be the most unpopular wax likeness ever—George W. Bush. "Look, Mom! Isn’t this hilarious? I got my picture with Dubya!" "Son, put that picture away—and never show it again."

Even though we didn’t get the pure, undulating views of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon on our visit, it was still an excursion well worth taking. Now if only I can find me a pair of khaki shorts that don’t quite hit my knees, I’ll be all set.

***My photos were taken at too high a resolution, and I couldn't shrink them for the site. I've included two shots here of buildings you'll see from up top. I've learned my lesson, Mr. Miyagi.***

First off, let me say that the walk from the Ferry Pier to the Peak Tram terminus is not a minor thing. It is pretty much all uphill and although it is not too far, in the heat of Hong Kong, it soon becomes a struggle.

Once you have found the Peak Tram Terminus (Big building with PEAK TRAM written on it), you can choose your ticket type. On my first trip up the Peak, I bought a return ticket but for my second trip, I had an Octopus card. The fair is only a few HK$ and takes you up a very steep incline to the Peak terminus. As you exit the tram, you go through a zig zag of isles and escalators, past lots of shops and a few restaurants. You can keep heading up until you reach the observation platform or you can leave the building at about the second floor and head over to a shopping mall.

The observation platform is where most tourists head for first. The views over Hong Kong are great (mist and cloud permitting) and a clear day is strongly recommended. I took a second trip up the peak at night but the low cloud meant I couldn't see a thing, and I mean Not A Thing! Very spooky.

The Shopping Mall has a couple of restaurants, food shops, a supermarket, clothes shops and tourist shops. Pretty standard stuff. The only thing I can report is that when I went there, it seemed quieter than most shopping malls in Hong Kong. I bought some clothes there from a great chain store. They were good quality and cheap.

On my second visit to the Peak, I stopped at the first shop you come to on the right as you leave the Peak Tram terminus. They sell traditional Chinese clothes and items. The old man that was working there was very nice and patient, and I bought some great stuff at a much cheaper price than the big Chinese Products shops in Kowloon.

The Peak Tram leaves from near to the Botanical Gardens on a regular basis though you can expect a queue no matter when you go as it's probably Hong Kong's top attraction. (Alternatively take a bus up the winding road to the top). The tram is on a steep incline and interesting in it's self. Once there the view from the Peak Galleria is great. On one side is the city of Hong Kong with Kowloon in the distance, the other side you have outlaying islands and boats. There is the option to trek up to the very summit of Victoria Peak but I opted for ice cream and the view from Peak Galleria. You can get out on the roof from many angles to take any variety of photos too which is fun.

You can walk back down via the Botanical Gardens or take the tram or bus back down dependant on your energy levels. Don't miss this fantastic view.