Hong Kong (SAR) Travel Guide

Hong Kong, meaning “Fragrant Harbour”, is a Special Administrative Region of China that until mid-1997 was a dependent territory of the United Kingdom. Many of the British influences still remain, resulting in an interesting blend quite distinct from the rest of China.
 
Considered by many to be a shopping mecca for clothing and electronics among other things (in Causeway Bay, SOHO and Central, as well as Tsim Sha Tsui over in Kowloon), many are surprised to know that only 17% of Hong Kong’s territory is urbanized and that over 40% is protected as park land. 
 
For an interesting insight into urban life, ride the Escalator which climbs from the Central District up the slope of Victoria Peak through streets lined with shops, cafes, restaurants and houses.  Get off at any exit point, take a walk, have a drink or meal somewhere, and get back on until you reach Robinson Road.  From there, walk back down through the Botanic Gardens to Central, the district marked by historic and modern buildings.  Then take a ride on the 100-year old tram which crosses the island from east to west.   By then, you will have a good glimpse of what makes up Hong Kong.
 
A visit to Hong Kong is not complete without heading to the Victoria Peak for a panoramic view of the territory, once in the day time and again at night.  Yes, go there twice, because the views are literally as different as day and night and are absolutely unforgettable.

For a 360 degree view of Hong Kong with a difference, ride the Star Ferry across the Victoria Harbour.  In the middle of the harbour, you will have a good view of the shorelines on the island and on the Kowloon peninsula, as well as the bustling activities at both ends of the waterway.
 
Numerous beaches and hiking trails are available on the main island as well as in the surrounding islands. O n the south of Hong Kong Island, take a scenic drive through the winding roads and stop over at Repulse bay, stopping at one of numerous cafes overlooking a popular beach that’s suitable for swimming.  Further east is Stanley, a very lovely village with a half moon-shaped bay fronted by cafeterias and eateries good for an afternoon or evening rest.  A visit over to Aberdeen is a reminder of Hong Kong sleepy past as a fishing colony, and old style junks (a type of boat) are still available for guided tours.

Excursions onto the neighbouring islands are a must do as well with Lantau Island being the most popular. Here, you can see the Tian Tan Buddha, the world’s largest outdoor seated bronze Buddha as well as the Po Lin Monastary. Lantau Island is also where the Hong Kong Disneyland is located.
 
For those interested in nightlife, Lan Kwai Fong doesn’t disappoint.
 
Hong Kong is a food paradise.  Food lovers will not be disappointed as numerous restaurants serving cuisines from around the world can be found all over the city, across all price points. Seafood lovers in particular must visit the Lei Yue Mun, a picturesque fishing village where you can purchase fresh seafood that is prepared and cooked for you on the spot.
 
From shopping to cultural experiences, from nature treks to relaxation and food, this bustling metropolis has a lot to offer, at prices lower than many countries and no sales tax.