The Rugby Sevens has descended upon Hong Kong, bringing with it a great many unknowns. Who will reach the final? Who will win? What will the weather be like? Logical questions for any outdoor sporting event, but, scratching beneath the surface a little, there are a couple of questions that can’t be so quickly related to ‘sport in general.’ What will you dress up as? How early will you start drinking? …And perhaps most important of all during the sevens, which stand is suited to your ideal weekend?

The North Stand
Beginning with the main entrance, the North stand is by far the smallest stand, although what it lacks in size it more than makes up for with proximity to the action and thus, is perfectly suited to rugby purists. The players enter the pitch and warm up directly in front of you and, more importantly, your view of the games won’t be interrupted by costume-clad shenanigans occurring elsewhere in the stadium.

Venues worth your time: Sports bars, such as Spot Bar and pubs with a screen or two - try McSorley's, The Wheel or Jaspas.

The East / West Stand
The Upper East and West stands offer a panoramic view of the pitch, but what you gain in scale you lose in detail. From these lofty seats you’ll be relying on the big screens to get an eyeful of the action. Perks include rain cover, particularly relevant this year with our proposed forecast – this elevated location is, for safety reasons, an alcohol-free zone, meaning it’s a great spot for families with younger children. The lower levels do away with both the roofing and prohibition, offering a chance to be closer to the chaos of the south stand, without submitting to it entirely.

Venues worth your time:  Chic chillout bars and relaxed lounges - try Peel Fresco,  Lotus or Hidden Vine. 

The South Stand
For many the South Stand is the defining aspect of HK rugby sevens. Combing the carefree atmosphere of a music festival with a high energy sporting event and an endless supply of beer sees the South Stand transforming into a fancy-dress melting pot of fun, jollity and unabashed alcohol-fuelled anarchy. A fantastically impractical party; no rain shelter for wet days, no shade when its hot, queues throughout the day and less space that a broom cupboard- the great news is, none of the above matters to those that belong. This party is neither decadent nor is it luxurious, but during the sevens weekend, it is undoubtedly the best party in Asia.

Venues worth your time: Heart of the action your thing? - try Stauntons, Solas or Yumla.