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| A shopping mecca, Hong Kong has a wide array of shops and stores that cater to both cost-conscious consumers and luxury-loving shoppers. |
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In every sense of the word, Hong Kong is a melting pot – a truly global city that marries East and West seamlessly through its historical hutongs (narrow alleys or roads) and colossal skyscrapers.
Despite what many critics feared before the turn of the century, Hong Kong has not lost its unique cosmopolitan atmosphere since the handover to China in 1997. After over a decade, Hong Kong is as vibrant as ever.
For the business traveler, there is no better place in the world to be. The ease of movement and the familiarity brought about by its cosmopolitan atmosphere make living convenient and comfortable.
Its train system, the MTR, or Mass Transit Railway, efficiently links all the major areas of the city.
Coupled together with the trams and world-famous Star Ferries, the public transportation system of Hong Kong is rated as one of the best and most sophisticated in the world.
MTR’s Airport Express connects the multiple awardwinning Hong Kong International Airport, known locally as Chek Lap Kok Airport, to the city in as little as 24 minutes.
From here, a short ride to the AsiaWorld-Expo or the busy Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center is another reason the region is quickly becoming a financial and investment hub, not merely a gateway to mainland China.
Business aside, fashion, food and fun are what keep people coming back. One can find the world’s luxury brands, an abundance of cuisine and leisure activities to appeal to anyone’s taste right at the doorstep of your hotel.
With the tax on wine abolished in 2008 and an increased interest from the public, Hong Kong has overtaken New York and London as the world’s most important wine market.
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| The Tian Tan Buddha, the world’s tallest outdoor seated bronze buddha statue, is located on Lantau Island. |
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With a population of over 7 million and a land area less than half the size of Tokyo, Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated areas in the world. But what remains a secret to many travelers is that the attractions of Hong Kong are not limited to the inner city.
Once free from the urban hustle and bustle, the rest of the region is lush and green.
Activities such as mountain biking in the Sai Kung or Tai Lam Country Parks provide a great way to break free from the stresses of the city and balance out all the other activities that may take a toll on your body.
The annual Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon is another attraction that draws people from around the world.
Held on Feb. 28 this year, the city will become a proving ground for the world’s elite runners and amateur athletes wanting to test their spirits and push their limits.
At night, standing along the world-famous Victoria Harbour, looking at the Symphony of Lights multimedia show atop the skyscrapers of the city, one has the feeling that this is truly a special place. Gateway to China or financial hub, Hong Kong is clearly the world’s city. |