Renowned as one of the sophisticated cities, Hong Kong's a place of myths and legends inhabiting mountain peaks and wooded valleys. Discover the wonder, history, culture and its soul
2009-06-04
WHY GO...
Culture isn?t defined until a visit to this city. The western influence in this illuminated neon metropolis, and the fusion of heritage and culture is amazing. The smell of fresh seafood, the flashing naked light bulbs, skyscraper buildings and the gridlock of Chinese elbows, all contribute to the amazing experience of Hong Kong's rich Chinese culture, where centuries-old traditions live on amongst the Hong Kong people.
Best time to visit Hong Kong: Hong Kong is an all-year-round destination. For a more detailed weather forecast be sure to, visit www.hko.gov.hk.
STAY...
Hong Kong is split into 3 islands:
1. Hong Kong Island ? the financial capital of the city
2. Lantau Island - holds the cities airport amongst many other attractions.
3. Kowloon - where you will find most of the hotels, bars, restaurants and Hong Kong?s famous Nathan Road better known as the Golden Mile.
Hong Kong is compact, so you?re never too far from shopping and major sights. The city has an excellent transportation system so you can easily reach other areas, no matter where you stay.
Accommodation tip: Check if your hotel has shuttle service to main tourist areas, this will save money along the way, as taxis aren?t so cheap.
SHOP...
Shopping is certainly something else in Hong Kong. Words can?t describe the experience of the hectic streets lined with market stalls and the smell of fresh seafood.
For the serious designer shopper the Harbour Plaza is full of designer stores and many restaurants for fine dinning. However the best shopping experience comes with a visit to the many different street markets. Typical of the Chinese everything is well organised and split into specialised streets.
Top markets to visit
Temple Street Night market
Visit this hectic night market as it comes to life after dusk with many stalls where you can find all your little nik naks to bring back home, from replica handbags, watches, and jewellery to traditional crafts.
Also after 9pm you will find tarot card and palm readers setting up their stalls, which may also be worth a visit.
Flower market
Open from 7am in the morning to 8pm in the evening, it conducts a wholesale and retail business. The fragrance and beauty of the flowers displayed in this market create a charming aura. This is almost definitely worth a visit. Many bonsai trees and indoor plants signifying good luck are also sold out here.
Jade Market in Yau Ma Tai
A visit to the Jade Market in Yau Ma Tai will provide an insight into something near and dear to the hearts of the Chinese people.
Located on Kansu and Battery streets in Yau Ma Tai, the Jade Market is a collection of around 400 stalls selling a wide range of jade pendants, rings, and bracelets, carvings and ornaments.
Ladies Market
Caters exclusively to women's clothing, accessories, and cosmetics. It is open daily from noon to 10:30pm at Tung Choi Street on the east of Nathan Road. Typically, where there is a market, there are also food stalls selling noodles, seafood, and congee for late-night snacks.
Reclamation street market
Reclamation street market is worth a visit to experience the Hong Kong life. This fruit and vegetable, and household essential market also provide some great photo opportunities.
EAT...
Many of Hong Kong's districts have a unique ambience and selection of food. No trip to Hong Kong would be complete without trying Dim Sum. These are delightful, mouth-watering snacks served in steaming bamboo baskets and eaten with pots and pots of Chinese tea for breakfast or lunch. Steamed pork buns, shrimp dumplings, beef balls and pan-fried squid with spicy salt are also just some of the local favourites.
If one is daring enough it?s also an experience dining at one of the many street restaurants where you can see fresh seafood prepared to your liking.
EXPLORE BY DAY...
The Peak
This is worth a visit early morning, before the heat kicks in. The Peak holds stunning view of Hong Kong?s skyline. Getting there is an unforgettable trip. There's nothing in the world like the Peak Tram.
Pulled by steel cables, the tram climbs 373 metres (approx 1,200 feet). It's so steep that the buildings you pass look like they're leaning at a 45?angle. Whether you're going up or coming down, you'll love this trip. For more information visit www.thepeak.com.hk
The Tian Tan Buddha & Ngong Ping 360
Start your journey of enlightenment on Ngong Ping Sky rail, a stunning cable car ride up a mountainside offering 360-degree breathtaking views over the sea, HK International Airport, valleys and rugged terrain.
As you leave the cable car station you will enter a village leading up to the great Tian Tan Buddha. The Tian Tan Buddha on Lantau, Hong Kong, is the tallest outdoor Buddha statue in the world. Other then being a very relaxing day out ensure to learn the history of Buddhism in the Monkey Trail Theatre and visit the tranquil Po Lin Monastery. For more information visit www.np360.com.hk
Language tips: Many Chinese, especially young people, are studying English and welcome the opportunity to practice their English with foreigners. You will usually be rewarded with a polite and often heroic attempt of help.
EXPLORE BY NIGHT...
Hong Kong never sleeps. An energetic city at all hours, Hong Kong is the perfect place to enjoy an evening tour. You can experience nightlife with a romantic harbour cruise, a magnificent view of the glittering city or a feast at one of Hong Kong's notable seafood destinations or a restaurant with harbour view.
Symphony of Lights
The Symphony of Lights is a spectacular multimedia display. Already named the ?World?s Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show? by The Guinness World Records, it has been further expanded to include 43 buildings on both sides of the Victoria Harbour.
See the beautiful harbour light up with an array of spectacular colours lights, and see the sky come to life.
You can witness this event every night at 8pm at Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront or Victoria harbour if staying on main Hong Kong Island. For more information www.tourism.gov.hk/symphony
Victoria Harbour
Victoria Harbour is one of the world's busiest and most impressive natural harbours. The spectacular backdrop of Hong Kong Island's stunning skyline will fire your imagination as darkness falls and a dazzling neon cityscape emerges. Cruises set sail from piers on either side of Victoria Harbour.
