Hong Kong is a vibrant and busy destination, and if you are looking for a more relaxed environment for your vacation, maybe you should cross Hong Kong from your list. This city can be compared to the city that never sleeps – New York. It even has its own Times Square. It is also rich in history and architecture. It has a booming economy; capitalism and commerce are wide spread and so is modern technology. The old negative connotation of “made in Hong Kong” does not apply anymore. Hong Kong is a modern urban jungle with about 14 million inhabitants. This makes Hong Kong an exciting destination with tons of activities and diversions for the traveler.

Hong Kong has a long and interesting history. It was influenced by the Portuguese and other European cultures, in trade and commerce, especially during the 1700’s making it a focus of global interest. Its economy boomed after becoming a possession of England during the wars between England and China, in the middle of the nineteen century. Its markets developed during these years, becoming what it is today. Hong Kong was returned to China after 1997, with the condition that its government and markets remain free and democracy reigns. This has made traveling to this destination relatively easy. Besides Chinese, English is also an official language there.

For some travelers, Honk Kong offers the perfect match between rich history, busy and vibrant life, as well as latest technology. There are plenty of sites to see and experience, making it one busy vacation spot. From museums full of colorful history to a heightened shopping experience, or extraordinary Bird gardens such as Yuen Po Street Bird Garden with over 70 bird stalls and birds singing in ornate cages; or the impressive and monumental ancient architecture, the traveler will be kept busy and sensory stimulated. When looking to quiet down a bit, there are many parks and monasteries which provide a calming, sanctuary like environment – a more natural setting. Victoria Peak offers the advantages of a smaller shopping district, while the Monastery of Miu Fat and the Man Mo Temple provides you a quiet refuge.

These days it becomes easier than ever to visit this high-spirited city with the many offers of discount airfare or wholesale travel deals available out there. There is much to see in this interesting part of the world and taking advantage of cheap airfare offers makes it possible for travelers in a budget. It is well worth it to visit this part of the planet as it offers many things that you won’t find anywhere else.

History reflects itself throughout this city and is present at every corner as you tour its commercial streets. One thing is for sure, you will never find yourself in the position of looking for what to do or see in this amazing city. The combination of these two worlds, modern and ancient, makes this city a perfect destination to experience it all.

Tags: China, Hong Kong, Hong Kong history, hong kong lodging, hong kong travel, Man Mo Temple, Miu Fat Monastery, Yuen Po Street Bird Garden

Getting around Hong Kong can end up being expensive for a first time visitor. There are ways to save a bit of money so that it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg, Whether you are traveling to this great city for business or pleasure, these tips will help you save some money.

Use the Airbus

Upon arriving in Hong Kong, choose to bypass taxis and the Airport Express in favor of the slower Airbus. Although baggage handling will be more convenient and your flight may have been long and tiring, the Airbus is a far less expensive method to get from the airport to the city than the Airport Express and taxis. You do pay for the convenience of the other forms of transportation.

The Airbus make a bit longer to get to your destinations but the savings can be substantial. Taxi fares can be as high as HK345, a single trip on the Airport Express can range up to HK100, but the Airbus will cost you up to a low HK40. That represents a significant savings.

Octopus Card

Using the Octopus Card ensures that you get savings. It is an electronic preloaded card that can be used throughout most of the public transit system in Hong Kong. When using the card, fares are a bit less than if you were paying cash. Not only is the card convenient to use to get around, it can be easy to top up when it gets low.

To use the card, you can simple wave it over the card reader. Because it is a chip, the card doesn’t need to be taken out of you purse to be read. The usage is immediately deducted from the balance and you can easily check the balance.

For HK150, you get a card with a HK100 balance and a HK50 refundable deposit that is returned when you turn in the card. At the end of your visit, you can turn the card in to get any unused funds as well as your deposit. If you will be visiting Hong Kong within three years, keep the card to use on your next visit.

Shopping

In Kowloon, you can immerse yourself in the authentic Hong Kong shopping experience. There are seals to be had but beware you don’t get taken. The open markets in Kowloon attract tourists and some vendors are prone to overcharge. Do your research on prices before you go and don’t be afraid to haggle. Some items can be had for 50% less than they are priced.

HK2 Sight-seeing tour

For a slow, scenic ride through Hong Kong’s streets, jump on a double-decker tram. Since the fares on the trams are regulated, no matter how far you travel the cost is still HK2. If you are looking to see the city and not have to find your way around, this is the way to do it. Not only is this style of sightseeing convenient but also save money to boot.

Cheap Accommodations

Finding a cheap place to stay in Hong Kong can be a daunting task. In this city of expensive hotel rooms, the Harbourview Hotel offers affordable rooms with many of the rooms looking out over Victoria Harbour. The four star hotel is ideally located close to shopping, Hong Kong Park, The Peak Tram, and is within a short walk to the ferry terminal.

Tipping

Most hotels and restaurants add a 10% gratuity to the bill. There is no reason to leave an additional amount unless you find the service above average. Check beforehand to see how much will be added to the bill so that you do not tip too much. It is appreciated if you leave an additional 5% if you like the service.

Saving money during your time in Hong Kong is not difficult if you so a bit of research and ask the locals for information. Make sure that you do price comparisons and follow the thrifty tips to keep a bit more of your hard earned money in your pocket.

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Hong Kong, with its population of over 7,000,000, is the destination of choice for many tourists from around the globe. Spread over some 200 islands, even the far corners of this international gem offer amazing discoveries for the first time visitor.

The location of Hong Kong in Eastern Asia is ideal with its proximity to China and the South China Sea. Occupied by the British in 1841 and eventually leased for 99 years to Britain, the city has a very storied history. During a formal ceremony in 1997, Great Britain transferred sovereignty of Hong Kong to the People’s Republic of China. Because of all the influences that have impacted Hong Kong, it offers religious, cultural and lifestyle diversity.

The official languages of the city are English and Cantonese so visitors should have no problem communicating. Tourists can explore the vibrant city and experience the culture with the comfort of knowing that they will be able to find assistance if they need it.

Although the value of the Hong Kong dollar (HKD) against the US dollar (USD) varies, it is roughly 8 HKD to 1 USD.

Renowned for its exquisite food, great shopping and spectacular skylines; Hong Kong offers incredible photo opportunities. Make sure to bring a camera on your visit because you never know when a breathtaking vista, startling event or every day occurrence will move you to capture the memory for your photo album.

Tucked away in Hong Kong, there are small shops that exude local flavor and charm. On the other hand, there are several upscale shopping areas that rival high-end shopping districts found in cities around the globe. By far, the best shopping experience is found in the street markets that seem to have a life and culture all their own. In the markets you can bargain and haggle to your hearts content and, if your skills are good, you will leave with many a bargain.

As with buying anything, don’t dive in headfirst until you have looked around and compared prices. The shopkeepers and stall tenders are canny and can haggle with the best. Make sure not to get caught up in the moment. Set a price point in your mind and stick to it. Remember that the price you settle on is the price you pay because there is no sales tax in Hong Kong.

Getting around Hong Kong can be a daunting task for a novice. To eliminate any monetary issues, get an Octopus card. This card can be used throughout most of the public transportation system. Not only can you use it for your transportation needs but many convenience stores, vending machines and fast food restaurants are able to accept it.

Some of the key places in Hong Kong are:

- Ocean Park is an amazing place to spend a day or two exploring. It combines the rich marine life of the ocean, the wondrous world of nature, and a dazzling array of goldfish with the joy of being a child. Your admission to Ocean Park allows you free admission to Middle Kingdom which is a recreation of China’s history in miniature. In addition to being a fun thing to do, it is very educational as well.

- Lamma Island has a natural, almost unspoiled beauty and offers a unique experience to explore a way of life quite different from the hustle of the city. For a small island, it packs a powerful punch when it comes to activities and uniqueness.

- Lantau Island has expansive woodlands that take you away from the congestion for a while. There is a Buddhist monastery there that offers simple vegetarian meals if you are so inclined. A walk up the long flight of steps will take you to a 100 foot tall Buddha and incredible views.

Despite the huge population, Hong Kong has many great green spaces and a beautiful natural landscape. This can be appreciated if you take the tram up to The Peak and look out over the city. With its vibrant lifestyle, incredible beauty and eastern charm, Hong Kong should be on every traveler’s “Must See” list.

Tags: Cantonese, Hong Kong, Hong kong dining, hong kong shopping, hong kong travel, Lamma Island, Lantau Island, Ocean Park, Tips for Traveling to Hong Kong

The Chinese New Year is a time of much celebration in Hong Kong. During the festivities, one spectacular event that shouldn’t be missed is the Chinese New Year Parade. Tens of thousands of visitors flow into the city attracted by revelry in a city dressed up in bright lights and incredible decorations.

One of Hong Kong’s most important and beloved holidays is the Lunar New Year. In accordance with the animals of the Chinese zodiac, each year is symbolized by one of those animals. For the holiday, much of the city is decked out in bedazzling lights. New Year’s celebrations extend well beyond one day. A weeklong Chinese New Year Fiesta and colorfully clad dancers perform dragon and lion dances in the streets, hotel lobbies and malls. Traditionally, small, red envelopes (lai see) with money are given as gifts for luck. Flower displays are everywhere and flower markets spring up around the city. The flower markets sell flowers and plants that have special significance in their culture. Restaurants and stores have flowers on display that bring good luck and immortality.

Hong Kong’s Lunar New Year celebration is compromised of several events of which the parade is the biggest. Televised to millions and seen live by hundreds of thousands, the parade is now taking place in the evening making the light displays all the more vivid.

The upcoming celebration (2010) is for the Year of the Tiger. Dragons and lions play such a large role in Chinese culture that they are well represented in the parade regardless of the zodiac animal being celebrated. Lively dancers wearing heads representing giant lions perform as long dragons snake through the air as they are held up and manipulated by the more than 20 people needed to enchant the massive throng of parade watchers.

Hong Kong’s incredible Victoria Harbor waterfront serves as a backdrop for the parade route. Lavishly decorated, colorful floats, street entertainers, dancers and international performers entertain and amaze the crowed along the route. Music is an integral part of Chinese celebrations and the parade is no exception. The air is filled with songs from several marching bands and colorful costumes dazzle the spectators.

The night after the Chinese New Year Parade, an absolutely incredible fireworks display lights up the evening sky over Victoria Harbor to welcome the incoming year. Spectators vie for prime viewing positions along the waterfront or watch from one of the many boats that cruise around the harbor. Sha Tin racetrack hosts an impressive horseracing event on day three of the celebration.

Depending on when the first day of the lunar New Year starts, the celebrations can begin as early as January 21 and run to as late as February 19. Officially lasting fifteen days, in Hong Kong the main parts of the celebration is held over three days with the parade leading it off on February 14, 2010. Bleacher seating costs HK180 – HK300 however standing along the parade route is free.

With everything that Hong Kong has to offer, the perfect time to arrive is in time to participate in the Lunar New Year celebration. The fusion of East and West, old and new create unforgettable memories for those that immerse themselves in the sights, sounds and customs of this vibrant city.

Tags: Chinese New Year, Chinese New Year celebration, Chinese New Year Parade, Hong Kong, Lunar New Year Celebration, Sha Tin racetrack, Victoria Harbor

Formerly Wong Nai Chung Valley, Happy Valley has many activities for visitors. The name Happy Valley came about because of the high number of deaths that occurred in both the British military camp set up in that area and among the first settlers. The valley is marshland so malaria ran rampant through the population. There are five cemeteries in the valley.

Horseracing is a huge attraction in Happy Valley and Happy Valley Racecourse is the center of it all. Originally built in 1845, a devastating fire broke out in 1918 causing 576 deaths. Rebuilt in 1995, the racecourse was turned into a world-class facility. At night, the wall of skyscrapers behind it forms a spectacular neon backdrop for the races. The course offers only flat races and most races are held in the evenings.

Very much a social event, attendance at the track is a “must do” activity for any visitor to Hong Kong. Since racing enthusiasm is fueled by the obsession with racing and gambling, the racetrack is a noisy place. The crowd is brought to a fevered pitch during the race and are extremely vocal in their support of their chosen horse. If you are used to the more sedate crowds of the western world, prepare yourself to be amidst a maniacal Hong Kong crowds. Let yourself get swept away on the wave of excitement that runs through the massive crowd of people.

There are hotdog stands and beer tents to keep everyone well watered and fed. With an attendance of around 40,000; the area becomes a massive bar with races and gambling. People mingle and socialize making the most of the night out.

In the Happy Valley Stand, on the second floor, resides the Hong Kong Racing Museum. The museum was opened to the public in 1996 and attracts many tourists. The museum outlines the history of horseracing in Hong Kong and has four galleries, with each gallery dedicated to a specific topic. In addition to the galleries, the museum also houses a souvenir shop and a cinema.

For a night of excitement and delight, immerse yourself in the Happy Valley experience.

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After visiting Happy Valley and getting caught up in the enthusiasm and excitement, you want to explore further afield. The gambling and tourism mecca of Macau will surely beckons you.

Just 60 km from Hong Kong, ferries operate around the clock shuttling people between the two cities. The Portuguese turned Macau over to the Chinese government in 1999 and part of the agreement was that, for fifty years after the transfer, Macau must be able to operate with a high degree of independence. The Chinese government is responsible for foreign affairs and defense while Macau is responsible for almost everything else.

Unlike many governments around the world, Macau operates with very solid fiscal responsibility. Budgets are formed with expenses falling within the range of revenue. So solid are their finances, Moody’s Investors Service upgraded them to A1 in 2007. Decisions made are soundly based on their fiscal principles.

This bustling city is the world’s most densely populated area with some 18,500 people per square kilometer. Aside from the Las Vegas style casinos, there is a lot to see and do in Macau. Much of the architecture reflects the Portuguese influence on the city in its quaint cobblestone streets, Art Deco buildings, stone fortresses, and baroque churches. In 2005, Unesco designated the Historic Centre of Macau World Heritage Site as a collective group of 30 buildings and squares.

The entry of the world’s largest casino based on gaming tables, Sands Macau, in 2004 brought the gambling in Macau to a new level. Although the hotel no longer can lay claim to that title, it is still an impressive place to see. This also marked the first Las Vegas operated hotel and casino. The mega-casino was upon them and with that type of casino; the visitor level went up dramatically. Wynn Macau followed in 2006 and a landmark was set. Macau’s gambling revenue exceeded that of the Las Vegas Strip for the first time and making it the world’s highest volume gaming center. Other Las Vegas casinos have since opened.

The casino to visit in Macau is the Venetian Macau Resort Hotel located in Taipa. There is a convenient shuttle between the Sands and the Venetian casinos every 15 minutes so getting there is easy since the Sands is a short 15-minute walk from the ferry. A larger and more opulent version of its Las Vegas sister hotel, the Venetian Macau features incredibly detailed replicas of some of Venice’s most notable landmarks. This hotel resort has the distinction of being Asia’s largest building.

This amazing complex has some 20 restaurants, 3000 suites of 750 square feet or more, 3 floors designed to house some 350 shops, several bars, an arena that seats 15,000, a theatre, and the magnificent casino. Laying claim to the title of the world’s largest casino with its 600,000 square feet of gaming area, the casino will leave you awestruck. If you are used to the Las Vegas casinos, the Venetian Macau is about five times as large and much busier.

Plan on staying in Macau for a few days in order to be able to explore the casinos. Longer stays will be needed if you intend to roam the city taking in the sights.

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