I was in Hong Kong recently and let me tell you, it is an extremely busy place. It is a landmass of about 1100 square km but somehow more than 7 million inhabitants have managed to squeeze in there. The skyline is what it’s all about here, it really does live up to expectations and you really feel like you’re in Hong Kong when gazing out from a hotel bar or skyscraper restaurant.
Kowloon is the main tourist area and is a great spot to base yourself for a visit. As you will find in many areas of Asia there is some serious quality to be had in accommodation for very reasonable rates. My personal favourites would be the Marriott Courtyard Hong Kong and the stunning Langham Place Hong Kong. Both are top hotels and offer great value for money. They are also both very well located near a host of attractions.
In terms of things to do, there are many smart and fashionable shopping streets, considered comparable to Fifth Avenue or the Champs Elysées. In Yau Ma Tei on Temple Street over 1300 makeshift stalls and carts appear from nowhere for the Night Market, selling everything from electrical goods to incense sticks. An area called Mong Kok is another traders paradise with almost every good imaginable available. Hong Kong’s markets are an unparalleled phenomenon with something for everyone; miss them at your peril.
The city is a bustling mix of old and new culture. Whilst you will find many areas extremely westernised, loud and busy, there is always a decidedly Chinese undertone to the city. Embrace the variety and enjoy one of the world’s truly great cities.
