Hong Kong
Though it is an eastern country, a blend of the western culture can also be found in this rapidly developing country. This is a union of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsular, Lantau Island and New Territories. Exotic bays, bluish ocean and lively ports beautify the outskirts of the country. With a subtropical cordial climate Hong Kong has ample monsoons but winter is quite nippy. So spring’s the best time to holiday. This country where wonder has worked the architecture has a radiant evening life too.
Travel to Hong Kong: The international airline is Cathay Pacific which is readily accessible from major cities. Aeroflot, Air China, Air India, Air France, Alitalia, American Airlines, British Airways, Continental, Dragon Air, Emirates Airline, Fin Air, Gulf Air, Lufthansa, Malaysian Airlines, Qantas Airways, Swiss, Singapore and Thai Airways are some of the other flight services.
Hong Kong’s aerodrome that invites flights worldwide would be Hong Kong International Airport (Chek Lap Kok) which is situated in Lantau Island. This would be about 34 km from central Hong Kong. You can access it here: http://www.hongkongairport.com . Buses, Taxis and shuttle buses provide transportation to the city. The Airport Express Line which is a speed train can also take you to the city.
Attractions:
Ocean Park: This is one of the eminent theme parks in Hong Kong. This is also an astonishing marine centre. Adults along with kids can learn a lot from this place. A number of rides are also at hand for kids. Observatories, laboratories and a education centre are also present. Giant Panda show attracts a lot of holiday makers. Butterfly garden, Aquarium, shark tank, Pacific Pier where sea lions are displayed and Sea Jelly Spectacular where over 1000 types of jellyfish are also worthy. Lively acts of sea-lions and dolphins can be enjoyed at the Ocean Theatre. Cable car unites the two parts of the park.
Disneyland: It’s the foremost theme park in the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort and it is the smallest Disneyland in the world and the newest addition too. It consists of four themed locations in which Frontierland is not present. 22 modes of amusement are in attendance now and they are planning to improve it more.
Language: Cantonese, a dialect of the Chinese language is the official language and spoken widely. English is also an official language so proves to be a no problem zone for tourists and foreigners. Spoken by more than one third of the people it is taught in schools and almost all the shops recognise it. Road signs and products are written in English too. Mandarin is also a well known language.
Shopping: This is an amazing place to shop for antiques to electronic equipments and branded items. The prices are reasonable enough too. Antiques and artefacts are sure to allure you. Porcelain, musical instruments, intricate vases, silk garments, different types of teas, furs, handcrafted souvenir, clothing, shoes, leather products, optical goods watches, tableware, diamonds, jewellery, precious gems, pearls and not to miss out on the jades. The shops pack the antiques safely for you if you’re shipping it away.Chinese herbs, dolls and toys are not to be left out too. Hong Kong’s fashion world is getting more popular and it wise to for the boutiques. The locals say that the special delicacy ‘dragon beard candy’ which is icy and has a crispy texture should be tried. This was a dessert for the emperor once.
Destinations:
Lantau Island: Once a site of fishing villages, this has turned to be the largest island in Hong Kong. It meets the Pearl River and half of the island is Country Park area. This is one of the major cities which is full of activity. Here, an 85 feet Buddha stands in bronze on Ngong Ping plateau. This is also known as the Giant Buddha. Hong Kong’s Disneyland prevails here. A picturesque village by the name of Tai O brings a lot of visitors with its beauty and ethnic quality. A marine park has been made for the pink dolphins that can be spotted here. You can reach this island by ferries or train.
Kowloon: Surrounded in the north by the mountains, this is an urban area. It woos tourists by so much exuberance. It has a cultural centre for art lovers and many museums like Space Museum and Museum of History. Temple Street in Yau Ma Tei has a high spirited night market. It is known to have a lively evening life. Walk through The Promenade in East Tsim Sha Tsui with a stunning sight of the Victorian Harbour and it looks extraordinary at night.
|
