A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Hong Kong vs. New Orleans for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Hong Kong or New Orleans?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Hong Kong or New Orleans, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a compact, dense, and cosmopolitan city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

New Orleans

New Orleans is a energetic, fun-filled, and festive city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the live music, food, and nightlife.

Hong Kong and New Orleans: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Hong Kong or New Orleans?

Both New Orleans and Hong Kong have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Hong Kong is very popular for its museums, beaches, hiking, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while New Orleans attracts visitors for its nightlife, music, historical sights, and quaint atmosphere. New Orleans is more touristy than Hong Kong and is known for its jazz festivals, local cuisine, quaint balconies, and world class Mardi Gras parties. Hong Kong is famous for its modern skyscrapers, colorful waterfront, lush parks, and amazing dim sum.

How is Hong Kong different from New Orleans?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between New Orleans and Hong Kong. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Hong Kong or New Orleans?

Hong Kong is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Hong Kong. The city's skyline is one of the most famous "landmarks", but you'll also want to visit Victoria Peak, the Tian Tan Buddha Statue, Wong Tai Sin Temple, and Avenue of Stars.

New Orleans does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Hong Kong or New Orleans? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Dining out at restaurants in both Hong Kong and New Orleans can be an enjoyable experience.

Known for it's food and restaurant scene, Hong Kong is always at the top of any foodie's travel list. The city's population is famous for its frequency of dining out, and the prolific diversity of restaurants is obvious from the moment you arrive. There are street food stalls and night markets, as well as luxury award winning restaurants. The city holds tight to its culinary traditions, but fusion restaurants are creeping in as well. Some of the most famous Hong Kong foods include dim sum, sweet and sour pork, and roast goose.

Many restaurants in New Orleans have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It has rapidly grown into one of the United State's most well known foodie destinations. It's the birthplace of bananas foster and popular for it's gumbo, crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and red beans and rice. While there are a number of celebrity chefs from New Orleans, you'll also find many local restaurants that aren't as well known but are equally worth visiting.

Is Hong Kong or New Orleans Better for Nightlife?

New Orleans is an unbeatable place for nightlife and partying. Also, Hong Kong is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in New Orleans is well established with world renowned clubs and venues. The nightlife scene is at its best during Mardi Gras. But year-round you'll find Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, spring breakers, and anyone who wants to enjoy a crazy time heads to New Orleans. New Orleans is a destination that attracts partiers any time of the year, and the French Quarter is the place to be if you're looking for a party.

Hong Kong is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. The city lights up after the sun sets. You'll find a diverse range of activities in the evening with everything from night markets to concerts and parties. There's a wonderful mix of traditional and contemporary activities, particularly around Lan Kwai Fong. Many of the most popular venues are found around Central and, like everything else in Hong Kong, the venues are full of energy.

Is Hong Kong or New Orleans Better for Music?

New Orleans is an unbeatable place for its live music scene. However, Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

With so many music venues, you're guaranteed a show any night of the week in New Orleans. The city is known for its music festivals that feature jazz, blues, and many other types of live music. The Jazz Festival is a great time to visit.

Hong Kong is not a live music destination.

Is Hong Kong or New Orleans Better for Beaches?

Hong Kong is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, New Orleans is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Hong Kong attract visitors from all over. You actually don't have to travel far from the city center to find a relatively quiet, sandy beach. The different beaches on Hong Kong Island are relatively close to each other, and each has its own atmosphere. If you need a break from the heat and the crowds, then a beach day is a fun option. Hong Kong's natural coastline give way to popular beaches including Repulse Bay Beach and Shek O Beach. Each offers a number of amenities and dining options.

New Orleans is not a beach destination.

Is Hong Kong or New Orleans Better for its Old Town?

New Orleans is a very popular place for its old town. However, Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Many visitors go to New Orleans to see the historical old town. The French Quarter is filled with old architecture and beautiful historic landmarks.

Hong Kong does not have a historic old town.

Is Hong Kong or New Orleans Better for Hiking?

Hong Kong is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hong Kong. The city is surrounded by dramatic mountains and beautiful viewpoints, making it easy to enjoy a day in nature. The hikes will offer impressive views and dramatic rock formations. Popular hikes in the area include The Peak, Dragon's Back, and the Violet Hill and Twin Peak hike.

New Orleans is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Hong Kong or New Orleans?

Hong Kong is a world-class destination for shopping. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Hong Kong. There is a high concentration of shopping malls in the city, and you'll likely find yourself cutting through malls to access different parts of town. The city is arguably one of the best shopping cities in the world. Popular items to purchase in the city include designer clothes, handbags, electronics, jewelry, watches, and tailor-made suits.

If you're looking to go shopping, New Orleans has some nice offerings. New Orleans shopping is mostly centered around shopping malls and chain stores.

Is Hong Kong or New Orleans Better for Families?

Hong Kong is a world-class destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its family-friendly activities.

Hong Kong is an extremely popular city to visit for families. In addition to its many fascinating cultural experiences like visiting the markets and historical landmarks, this city also has a diversity of kid-friendly entertainment options. The most obvious is Disneyland, but there are also other amusement parks and aquariums like Ocean Park. Make sure you check out the Symphony of Lights in the evening and head to The Peak Tower during the day.

New Orleans doesn't usually come to mind when thinking about kid-friendly destinations. While there are some family-friendly activities in New Orleans like a zoo and several great parks, the city is more known for its parties and nightlife scene. Particularly during certain seasons, most people choose to visit New Orleans without kids.

Is Hong Kong or New Orleans Better for Couples?

Hong Kong is a world-class destination for romance. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Hong Kong is a great city for couples, as it has plenty to offer. This city is filled with luxury hotels, beautiful parks, and impressive restaurants. For a romantic evening, check out the Symphony of Lights over Victoria Harbour after the sun sets.

New Orleans makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy a lively evening, fun festivals, and exploring absolutely amazing restaurants will enjoy a visit to New Orleans. It has a festive and unique atmosphere any time of the year. There are also nice hotels and beautiful parks.

Is Hong Kong or New Orleans Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Hong Kong is a city with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for backpackers.

Hong Kong is a good city to visit for backpackers. The city is more expensive than many places, but cheap eateries and free activities are abundant. Many backpackers stay in the Tsim Sha Shui area of Kowloon. This is where you'll find the frequently talked about Chungking Mansions. Times are changing though, and you'll find more hostels on Hong Kong Island these days as well.

New Orleans is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a handful of hostels in New Orleans that are good options for backpackers who want to meet other travelers.

Is Hong Kong or New Orleans Better for Students?

New Orleans is a nice place to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit New Orleans. Students head to New Orleans to enjoy spring break and Mardi Gras.

Hong Kong is not popular with students.

Is Hong Kong or New Orleans Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Hong Kong is a world-class destination for times when you don't have a car. However, New Orleans is lacking in options for its public transit.

With a huge network, the transit system in Hong Kong can get you around easily. Land transportation includes the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, minibuses, and tramways. There are also ferries that connect the different parts of the city.

Public transit is generally limited in New Orleans. The city has streetcar lines and bus lines that you can use, but you'll want to have a car if you want to venture outside of these main areas.

Is Hong Kong or New Orleans a more walkable city?

Hong Kong is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, New Orleans is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Hong Kong. The city has many parks and walking paths that connect different areas.

New Orleans is a somewhat walkable place. If you stick to the French Quarter and downtown areas, most things are walkable in New Orleans.

For even more information, also check out Is Hong Kong Worth Visiting? and Is New Orleans Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in New Orleans or Hong Kong?

How long in Hong Kong or New Orleans?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Hong Kong and New Orleans. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Hong Kong than in New Orleans. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Hong Kong, and 2-3 days is enough time in New Orleans.

Families should spend more time in Hong Kong than New Orleans. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Hong Kong, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Hong Kong than New Orleans. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Hong Kong that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Hong Kong than New Orleans if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Hong Kong.

One day in Hong Kong or New Orleans?

Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan city where you can fill many days. It's also a great beach destination, too. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find live music and food around the city of New Orleans. Visiting the old town is also a must. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Hong Kong or New Orleans?

Hong Kong is a diverse big city where you can fill many days. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

You'll find food and nightlife around the vibrant destination of New Orleans. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Hong Kong or New Orleans?

Hong Kong is a cosmopolitan city where you can fill many days. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the festive city of New Orleans. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Hong Kong or New Orleans?

Hong Kong is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most people come for the beaches. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

New Orleans is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, and The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Hong Kong and New Orleans, we can see that New Orleans is more expensive. And not only is Hong Kong much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Hong Kong is in Asia and New Orleans is in North America, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Hong Kong would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Hong Kong and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in New Orleans would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in New Orleans than you might in Hong Kong.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Hong Kong Expensive? and Is New Orleans Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Hong Kong or New Orleans?

Hong Kong has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of New Orleans. When comparing the sizes of Hong Kong and New Orleans, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.