Hong Kong Destination Guide

A big city with overwhelming bright lights and bustling urban areas, Hong Kong is huge on entertainment, heritage, retail therapy, and dining. The skyscrapers of modern day Hong Kong sit cheek by jowl with old Chinese markets and sampans and junks bobbing in the harbour. Full of unexpected sights of traditional culture mixed with 21st century commercialism.

The place

Whether you opt to stay on Kowloon side or on Hong Kong Island is very much a matter of personal preference, but whichever you choose, you are never far away from anything in Hong Kong. Hong Kong Island is joined to Kowloon by three road tunnels and the MTR (underground system) and of course the famous Star Ferry – an essential Hong Kong experience, and for a just a few pence, the best value sightseeing anywhere! For a taste of home, take a green double decker tram through Central District.

The culture

The cynics will say that the culture of Hong Kong is capitalism, and there is no doubt that it still thrives, but Hong Kong is far more than just big business. The Hong Kong Chinese have a strong work ethic and retain many traditional customs keeping very much in touch with their cultural roots. There are over 350 temples in Hong Kong and more religious festivals than you can count. On the other hand, gambling is a national sport and most Hong Kong residents will be found paying homage at the racecourse at some time!

The shopping

Experience modern shopping malls awash with designer glitz, busy street markets and neighbourhood shops in old cobbled streets. Step into old Hong Kong in Mong Kok and be confronted with a blaze of colour and street stalls from Ladies Market, the Jade Market, Bird Market and the Flower Market. Hong Kong offers some of the finest made-to-measure tailoring in South East Asia.

The nightlife

Hong Kong by night is like Hong Kong by day – chaotic and bustling and big on evening entertainment to suit everyone’s taste. Head for  Wai Chai – well known for its lively bars, pubs and restaurants, or Lan Kwai Fong – home to a plethora of trendy nightclubs, cafés and live music venues.

The sights

Western District – The original settlement area and the Chinatown of Hong Kong and today one of the most densely populated. Explore by foot Li Yuen Street East and West (The Lanes), Hollywood Road, Cat Street, the Western market and discover the many antique and curio shops hidden amidst alleyways and up "Ladder" Street.

Causeway Bay – Home to Victoria Park, local shopping & restaurants and the famous Happy Valley race track.

Repulse Bay – Lying on the south coast of Hong Kong Island is one of the most picturesque beaches in Hong Kong.

Nathan Road – In the heart of Kowloon and Hong Kong's equivalent to Broadway, is this neon lined street surrounded by hotels, restaurants and shops and often referred to as "The Golden Mile".

Victoria Peak – An eight minute tram ride to the peak will reveal the best panoramic view over the harbour and city.

Aberdeen – A floating city where 12,000 people live on 3,000 vessels and floating restaurants can be found.

Stanley Market – A popular venue for bargain hunters in sports, casual wear, arts and crafts.

Disneyland Hong Kong – The magical world of Walt Disney’s theme parks. Located just 24 minutes from downtown Hong Kong on Lantau Island and offering unique Chinese elements it is an experience not to be missed. For further details please visit www.hongkongdisneyland.com

New Territories – Here you will find agricultural villages, country parks, fishing villages and a life more in keeping with Mainland China.

Lantau Island – The largest of all the outlying islands, offering beautiful beaches, country walks, a hill top monastery, the fishing village of Tai O and the worlds largest seated bronze Buddha. You can now reach Lantau via a breathtaking 31/2 mile cable car - the Ngong Ping 360.

Canton – To come to Hong Kong and miss out on a taste of China would be a shame and Canton is just over the border. Definitely worth a day trip.

The options

As a destination in its own right, Hong Kong makes a holiday to remember and it is the obvious place to start (or end) if you are planning a visit to China. However, direct flights to Bali, Malaysia and Thailand mean that it offers great options for more complex itineraries. Or for something a bit different, you can also fly direct to Mauritius or Vietnam or you could even consider a side trip to the Chinese beach resort of Sanya.

Private sightseeing

 A private car and driver/guide can be hired for a tailor made sightseeing excursion. Please ask for details and prices.

In a nutshell...

“Hong Kong is an experience of a lifetime! A fascinating destination, and an easy city to get to know. Explore its environs to discover Hong Kong’s unique character and history of yesterday and today!

The facts

Geography: The territory is divided into four main areas – Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, the New Territories and the outlying islands. 6.8 million people live in an area of just 424 square miles making it one of the most densely populated regions in the world. Surprisingly, though, over 40% of the territory is given over to country parks.

Language: Cantonese is the first language, although as you might expect with its colonial past, English is also widely spoken.

Passports: You will need a full British passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of return.

Visas: No visa is required for British passport holders staying less than six months. Non-British passport holders should check with relevant embassy for documentation requirements.

Vaccinations: Vaccinations are recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.

Travelling time: Hong Kong is approximately 12 hours by non-stop flight from the UK.

Local time: GMT + 8 hours

Currency: Hong Kong dollar