The meaning of “fragrant harbour’ in Cantonese, Hong Kong may not be literally fragrant, but it completely is a busy modern harbour city offering one of the world’s major financial hubs. Though officially a Special Administrative Region of China, Hong Kong enjoys a capitalist economy without various restrictions that apply in China under the “one country, two systems” policy. It boasts a unique east-meets-west culture, with plenty of modern tourist attractions set amidst its unmistakable Chinese heritage. With a thriving tourist industry, you can get Hong Kong travel deals if you know where to look.
Hong Kong is made up of four areas: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories and Outlying Islands. Both the waterfronts of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon have picture-perfect skylines. Standing on either side of the harbour, you’ll find towering skyscrapers dotting the horizon, creating a bar chart-like effect. The view is incredibly spectacular at night when the buildings are brightly lit, conferring them an decided feel of authority. Plenty of attractions feature the famous skyline, such as the Peak Tower observation deck on Hong Kong Island and the Symphony of Lights, a colourful light show staged atop prominent buildings on both sides of the harbour every night at 8pm.
Shopping is exceptional in Hong Kong. With venues ranging from high class malls to street markets, Hong Kong is scattered with shopping sites. Look forward to incredible deals during the mid-year and year-end grand promotions. Meanwhile, the street markets placed in Kowloon are a unique experience, and you’ll behold a variety of wares from fake leather bags to electronic toys. Haggling is a culture!
Take a trip to Disneyland in Lantau Island, arguably one of Hong Kong’s most popular tourist destinations in recent years. Opened in 2005, Hong Kong Disneyland has captured countless hearts and imaginations with its exciting offerings. When you’re still in Lantau Island, remember to have a look at the Ngong Ping 360, a 5.7km cable car system that offers panoramic views of the island’s undulating hills and a 360 degree view of the Ngong Ping plateau.
Hong Kong surely lives up to its billing as the Pearl of the Orient. With a bustling, high-speed pace and a modern, cosmopolitan feel, Hong Kong does feel very congested. But therein lies its beauty – a city full of life steadily moving ahead with the times, yet contentedly embracing its rich Chinese heritage of old.
