Today Hong Kong is internationally known as a strong financial and corporate center. It has the world's 7th highest GDP per capita. Foreign investment has a huge role to play here still. There are over 4,000 foreign companies which have their base here. Hong Kong practices free trade, has easy regulations, and taxes are low. The economy is mainly service based, with banking (15th largest), finance (world's 6th largest foreign exchange centre) and corporate as the major emphasis. The property market, tourism and trade (11th largest trading economy) are other key drivers economically. Very little has changed after the China takeover of 1997. Ho
As Hong Kong boasts of both the Disney land and Ocean Park, children all over the world will always enjoy a visit. Besides this all tours are child friendly and quite interesting for children. To take a cruise by day or night, dolphin watch tour, just play on the beach, or go for some water sports, the best being on Lantau, is something all kids love to do.
Hong Kong Dolphin Watch is a special tour every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, mainly by environmentalists to raise sensitivity and protect the Pink Dolphin.
The Tin Hau Temple is a protected monument and located on Causeway Bay. This temple is dedicated to Tin Hau, the Goddess of the Sea. It still retains a lot of the original architecture and form.
Victoria Park, in Causeway Bay, originally built as a protection from Typhoons is today a popular park, with a statue of Queen Victoria at the main entrance. It now has many sports facilities and international tennis tournaments are hosted here. There are pools, fountains and children areas. Events like the Lunar New Year Fair, Annual Flower Show and Expositions are held in this park. People also hold their protests, demonstrations and meetings here.
Causeway Bay is in the Northern area of the Island. It is one of the world's most expensive shopping areas to rent a place. It has the famous Times Square indoor shopping plaza, the famous Japanese store Sogo, The World Trade Centre, Fashion Island, Fashion Walk, Windsor House, and Lee Gardens. It is the trendy, upmarket area popular with the fashion conscious youth. It has some great hotels and service apartments. The Royal Yacht Club is located here. The famous Noon day Gun is still shot from here as an age old tradition of signaling time.
Victoria Peak is at 550 m above sea level and as such offers breathtaking views of both the Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon area along with the Harbor. It is a must visit both during the day and at night. The main view point is on the roof of a shopping mall even though the actual peak is to the west. There is a lot of entertainment on the Peak as well as some great eateries. Tram rides to the Peak can be taken.
Zoological and Botanical Gardens are on the northern slopes of Victoria's Peak. Started as a Botanical Garden in 1871, it was renamed with the increasing interest and additions to the Zoological sections. Albany Road divides this Garden into two parts which are connected by a subway. It is in the area between Garden Road, Upper Albert Road, Robinson Road and Glenealy. The Western part is where all the mammals and reptiles can be seen. The eastern part of the Garden has a beautiful Children's playground, Jaguar enclosures, Fountains and Terrace Gardens and a Green House.
Old Man Mo Temple located on Hollywood Road was built in 1848 and is the oldest and most well known temple of Hong Kong. It pays tribute to Man Tai, the god of Literature and Mo Tai, the god of war whose images are found inside. Many throng this temple and burn incense sticks. It is believed that physical strength and intelligence is granted in the worship here.
The Central Market is in the corner of Queen Victoria Street. It has a central courtyard and six floors. One of the first markets of Hong Kong, one can find all kinds of traditional handmade Chinese goods here.
Ocean Park, Aberdeen, located in the South of this island is as popular as Disney Land. It is a marine park with amusement park rides and stunning views. The headland and lowland divided areas along the rocky coastline are connected by escalator and cable car. The Pandas in the lowland part of the park are a special attraction. The Dinosaur trail and the rides area for smaller children, the shows, the Dolphin training, the film theatre which has 4-D entertainment, the Butterfly Walk with 100's of varieties of butterflies and the Goldfish pond which has beautiful varieties of the Goldfish, are all part of this area. The headland on the other hand offers spectacular views of the South China Sea. The other attractions are the jellyfish multimedia presentation, sea lions, shark tanks, dolphin shows as well as a whale show. There is a passageway in four levels where one can see all varieties of Ocean life. The Aberdeen Revolving tower is great for views. Thrilling rides like a huge roller coaster, and raging river rides are extremely popular.
This restaurant in the Four Seasons Hotel is a specialty French restaurant where reservations are a must. The renowned Chef Vincent Thiery personally supervises the kitchen to create delicious French specialties. The décor is a great blend of modern and classic. Chinese and international art adorn the walls. The view of Victoria Harbor adds to the delicate flavors. The capelli pasta, scallops or the duck delicacies are suggested. There are fixed priced menus on offer too.
This restaurant is on two levels with great views of the harbor. In slick style with black furniture, high ceiling and floor to ceiling windows, it offers delicious Northern Italian food with innovative menus. It offers a variety of Italian wines to go with the food.
This is one of the best Japanese restaurants in Hong Kong. The chef is from Osaka. The décor is elegant yet subtle. Unless very familiar with Japanese food, it may be better to try the fixed menu to savor all the delicacies and specialties.
The huge selection of salads, imported meat steak selections, and a variety of the best international wines make this a memorable dining experience. The food is delicious and service impeccable.
A great choice for French food with much European influence, the service here is also par excellence. The elegant restaurant with classic French crockery is still considered one of Hong Kong's best restaurants. The ambience is beautiful and to add to the mood there is live music and a dance floor.
This restaurant is decorated with tasteful beauty and serenity. It commands a breathtaking view of the Victoria Harbor. The table is set with expensive jade. The cuisine is Cantonese but with a lot of innovations to please the palate of every international traveler. The chef is known to change the menu with each lunar month hence always offering a new delicacy to try out. The Dim Sums are delicious.
The décor here is whacky, but the sweeping views, especially of the harbor and Hong Kong's skyline are amazing. The food is excellent. It is a combination of East and West. The fixed menu gives an opportunity to try the specialties.
Not giving too much emphasis to décor, the restaurant offers very authentic Italian food. The bar is well equipped and the staff is very friendly and warm.
In the heart of the crowded Lan Kwai Fung, one is transported to this quiet restaurant. The food here is from Southern France with some mouth watering delicacies like the grilled scallops, or duck leg. The desserts are mouth watering.
The ancient décor has not been changed for years, yet the food here is perhaps the by word in traditional Cantonese dishes. Shark's fin here is the best one can get anywhere.
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This is one of Hong Kong's oldest hotels and became operational in 1928. Perhaps this is the reason it is often referred to as the 'Grande Dame'. The hotel was renovated and extended in end 1994. Historical in its charm, hospitality and elegance, it has every modern facility to make it a great choice for both the holiday traveler and business traveler. It is a favorite of the who's who visiting Hong Kong.
Set right in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the commercial sector, one may see this as yet another plush commercial office, but walk in through the doors and you are in another world altogether. The warmest hospitality with highest professionalism surrounds you from your very first step. This is a classically designed hotel, with luxurious settings and space. The Landmark Mandarin Oriental is situated near the Central Station and very close to the dining and night life areas of Lan Kwai Fong and Soho.
A winner of many worldwide awards and distinctions, this hotel is one of the world's top luxury hotels for the business and leisure traveler. It has a unique waterfront location, and the most stunning view of the Victoria Harbor and the Hong Kong Island. Known for making guests feel relaxed and comfortable, it keeps high service standards. The lobby with its fantastic views is a most popular place for that afternoon cuppa or evening drinks.
This legendary award winning architectural marvel is ideally located on the waterfront in the East side of Tsim shat Sui. It has the enthralling Victoria harbor view in front and the business and shopping hub next door. Once in the hotel, the chaos and bustle of the world's most busy city is left behind and one can loose oneself in the enveloping warmth of the hotel and its renowned service standards.
This Hotel is located in the Central district and with its 56 storeys, is the tallest hotel in Hong Kong. The lights of Hong Kong and the Peak and Harbor are unbeatable viewing from the Island Shangrila. It is the final word in luxury and splendor. It has fabulous chandeliers, the finest carpets on its floors, a number of delicate artworks and stylish settings. In fact the walls of the atrium from the 39th to 56th floor have a huge silk Chinese painting done by 40 painters and considered the largest landscape painting in the world. There is a lounge in this area as well as an extremely well equipped old world style library.
The first Asian flagship hotel of the Marriott group, The JW Marriott was inaugurated in 1989 and is the second in the trio of hotels connected to the finest shopping and dining experiences of the Pacific Place Shopping Mall. This 27 storey hotel again commands a great view of the Harbor, and the greenery of the Peak. It has the MTR station right next to it. Known as a business hotel, it has the best convention and conference facilities. Yet the flawless service standards cater to every whim and give equal attention to relax the traveler, leisure or business. There is wireless access in all public areas.
The 3rd in the trio of hotels attached to the Pacific Place upmarket shopping and dining mall. This 61 storey hotel was built in 1990. The Hong Kong Park is next door to this stylish luxury hotel, and so is the MTR station. It has easy access to all modes of transport and to sites of interest. The hotel is contemporary in style, but has enough Asian features and traditional touches to soften and give warmth to it.
This is a sophisticated business hotel, conveniently situated at the heart of Hong Kong Island, right next to the Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Centre. The Victoria Harbor view is stunning as this is again one of the tallest hotels in Hong Kong. It has direct access to the Tsim Sha Tsui MTR station which is located in its basement. The lobby is palatial, done up in art deco style complete with marble columns, fountains, palm trees and wood paneling, and impeccable interiors. With its charming and professional service standards it is a great choice for international travelers.
This 33 storey hotel has been awarded the best boutique hotel in Asia by Travel Weekly Asia Industry awards. It is located at the center of the financial and business district and is a walking distance from the popular and vibrant Soho and Lan Kwai Fong areas. There is efficient public transport system connecting this hotel and it has places of interest like the Hong Kong Park, Man Mo temple, The Times Square, The Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center, The Peak, Ocean Park and Disney Land within easy reach. The hotel provides complimentary shuttles to the Hong Kong Central Station, Star Ferry Pier etc. There is private self parking at a charge.
With its Japanese Heritage this modern premium hotel emphasizes on sincerity in effort, professional ethos, high service standards and a multi lingual staff well trained to handle all international and domestic guests.
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Over 90% of the people of Hong Kong are Chinese with Cantonese background; others are the Hakka Chinese who are mainly the landowners, while Hoklo and Tankla are the fishermen and 'boat people'. There is huge diversity amongst the Chinese themselves in Hong Kong, besides Hong Kong is a confluence of many Asian and western cultures and the younger generation prefers to be associated as Hong Kong residents rather than call themselves Chinese or otherwise. Amongst other Asians, the Indians, Pakistanis and Nepalese are the largest resident population. The large numbers of Philipinos and Indonesians are mainly temporary workers. The great business opportunities attract a huge force from the west and parts of Asia. These people may stay for long periods and hence there is a perpetual inflow of fresh ideas, cultures and vitality giving Hong Kong its ever moving yet very special feel.
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Pacific Place is one of the most exclusive and swanky malls in Hong Kong with designer boutiques in its top two floors. It has three luxury hotels connected to it. It is on 88 Queensway, Admirality
The Landmark has all the famous brand names. It also boasts of Hong Kong's only Harvey Nichols store. This is perhaps the most expensive shopping mall of Hong Kong. It is in Central on Des Voeux Road.
The Times Square on 1 Matheson Street, Causeway Bay, is again one of the Prime shopping malls. With international stores including Japanese, it is very popular.
The Central again has top designer shops. All the Malls in this area including the Galleria, Alexandra House, The Landmark and IFC host a number of designer boutiques, and big brands.
Stanley Street is famous for photographic equipment.
Causeway Bay in Hong Kong Island is probably the best shopping experience in this category and is popular with the locals, hence prices are lower. Everything from herbs to house ware, clothes to shoes, electronics and others can be found in the various shops and malls here. Japanese department stores are also in this area.
Nathan Road, the mile long shopping street in Tsimshatsui, Kowloon is another area with great shopping for clothes, electronics, jewelry, shoes, handcrafted items, watches, bags, luggage etc
Tsimshatsui's Canton Road has the Harbour Mall, the city's largest mall where along with some expensive stores are a host of standard selections of items.
Stanley Market for silk clothing is a good area to buy in. Horizon Plaza in Southern Hong Kong's Ap Lei Chu connected by bridge to Aberdeen has good prices for upscale items and for furniture.
The Festival Walk in Kowloon again is a beautifully designed mall with a number of individually styled shops.
Aberdeen to the south of the Island has Sampan tours around the harbor and the floating markets are a must for every visitor to see.
Stanley Market and Beach is the place with more traditional style artifacts available. There are some exclusive restaurants in this area too.
Repulse Bay is the most popular beach of the island. The favorite of the rich and famous of Hong Kong, it is the place to visit for expensive classy restaurants and high quality exclusive shopping.
Located along the Victoria Harbor waterfront, the Avenue of Stars in Tsimshatsui is the Far East's equivalent to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. It is a tribute to the great movie and TV industry of Hong Kong, a tribute to the professionals who have contributed to the territory's hundred-year history of film making. The Avenue of Stars features commemorative plaques, hand prints of movie celebrities, descriptive milestones, kiosks with movie memorabilia, a towering Hong Kong Film Awards statuette, and a life size statue of Bruce Lee, the legendary kung-fu star.
Museum of History is another landmark of this area. Established in 1975 when it became a separate entity, it finally got its permanent home only in 1998 on 100 Chatham Road, South Tsimshatsui. This colossal museum has the same colour planning as the Science Museum next door. If one is a history enthusiast, this is the place to go to. Intricate details of the history of Hong Kong can be found here. There are plenty of reconstructed facts interestingly brought out with costumes, photographs, old artefacts and even a 100 year old reconstructed street. There are five branches of this Museum around Hong Kong.
The Kowloon Walled City Park is a beautiful lush park where both tourists and residents go to unwind and find peace from all the chaos of Hong Kong.
1st January. The English Calendar New Year is celebrated with fanfare, parties and fireworks.
Chinese New Year is the first day of the lunar month. This is the most important festival in the calendar based on the legend of Nien, the fearsome monster that attacked the homes and people of the Yellow river area. Nien was afraid only of the color red, noise and bright lights. It is believed that on the 365th evening the dragon disappeared after the villagers used this against him. Every year, traditionally the 365th evening (and at least for three days afterwards, traditionally for 15 days) is celebrated with drums, bright lights, fireworks, parades, dragon and lion dancers. A lot of red is used in the dresses, head gear, the painted masks, and street decorations. Children run around with bright red envelopes carrying money (Lai see). This dazzling fervor and gaiety is bewitching and probably this is one of the most unique festivals of the world. Bonus is given in companies, great feasts are held and delicious food prepared, Chinese age old traditions and the Gods of wealth, food and prosperity are remembered.
Birthday of Che Kung falls on the second day of the first lunar month. This is celebrated in memory of Che Kung. It is believed the Sung Dynasty general became a Taoist deity after he saved many from plague. Thousands now go to his temple. Luck is believed to befall those visiting the temple at this time.
Spring Lantern Festival- Also known as Valentine's Day, is celebrated on the 15th day of the Chinese New Year, marking the end of the New Year festivities. One will find colorful lanterns with beautiful designs everywhere; in the markets, streets, parks, homes, food joints. In the evening there is a special public celebration in popular places of the city like the Victoria Park.
Tin Hau festival falls on the 23rd day of the third lunar month. It is in honor of the God of the sea and is celebrated in all places near the sea. A special day is set aside to offer prayers and go to the Tin Hau temple. Boats are decorated and offerings are made to the sea.
The Gray Line bus service has its own local sightseeing tours organized daily. These are safe and better for the individual traveler. One can book from most hotels as well as from the Gray Line office directly. The 5 hour program is both in the mornings and evenings. Areas covered are Victoria Peak, Man Mo temple, Aberdeen and Stanley. The price is HK 295 per adult and HK$ 190 for students and children.
Like the Gray Line, they also offer day and night city tours. Cruises, trips to Lantau and other areas, historical tours, entertainment tours and others are there to choose from.
There are a number of boat tours as the harbor cruise is a major attraction of Hong Kong. Perhaps the most popular is the one hour cruise by the Star Ferry Company. One can board the ferry at various places. The cost for adults is HK$ 40 and for children it is HK$ 36. The night cruise includes the Symphony of Lights and costs HK$ 85 for adults and 76 for children. The company also offers 2 hour cruises.
Water tours are the largest for cruises and boat tours. They have a special tour for 2 hrs which covers Noon Day Gun and typhoon shelter. They also have some long tours, during the day, which have a combination of water and land tours. Besides, they also do evening, sunset and night tours.
This is a 4 hour trip to see the natural habitat of the Pink Dolphins which are now endangered. The cruise aims to promote protection of this species. This also includes a bus ride to Tung Chung, a new satellite town. This is only on three days of the week and advance booking is a must. The tour cost is HK$ 320 / 160 for adults/children.
Hong Kong's first Mosque, built in 1850, is the Jamia Masjid in Shelley Street in the Mid Level area of Central district. This Mosque can accommodate up to 400 people.
The most famous mosque in Hong Kong is the Kowloon Mosque and Islamic Center. It is at the crossing of Nathan Road and Haiphong Road. The Mosque has 3 storeys, lovely arches, domes and marble grille work. It can hold up to 2,000 worshippers. There are prayer halls, clinic, library and a community center here too.
The third Mosque built in recent years is the Masjid Ammar and Osman Ramju Sadick Islamic Centre in an 8 storied building in Wan Chai area. Besides the Masjid on two floors, there is a clinic, library, lecture rooms and a community hall. It can accommodate from 750 to 1400 people.
The fourth masjid is at Cape Collinson in Chai Wan.
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105 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong2724 0095
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This is not a very popular option in Hong Kong given the ease with which the other public transport systems work. However, for family travel one can easily get cars. Some of the options are:
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One can drive in Hong Kong on an international license or country issued license for a temporary period, i.e. not beyond 12 months. If the license is in any language other than English or Chinese, a full translated version is required.
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