Image taken on 2006-08-07 06:10:50 by S Baker.
Posts Tagged ‘Kong’
Hong Kong Skyscrapers
Saturday, February 27th, 2010Cantonese Culture: Aspects of Life in Modern Hong Kong and Southeast Asia
Wednesday, February 17th, 2010
Hong Kong Travel: Not For The Faint Of Heart
Tuesday, January 26th, 2010If tranquility and serenity are adjectives you would use to describe the perfect trip, leave Hong Kong out of your itinerary. The boisterous energy of 14 million inhabitants leaves the visitor wondering if insomnia is contagious in this city. Hong Kong is the quintessential representation of east meets west, boasting its own Times Square along with artifacts from the Paleolithic Age. The far-reaching history and booming capitalist economy has propelled Hong Kong to the forefront of modern technology and commerce. The best way to navigate this urban jungle is to allow extraordinary diversions to lead where they may, while visiting a few key sites when you travel to Hong Kong.
From Opium Wars to Opulence: Hong Kong History
Since the Stone Age, the island of Hong Kong has supported a society rich with influences from Europeans and the Portuguese through steady and moderate trade. During the 1700s, increased commercial value of Asian luxury goods sparked heightened global interest in this once-neglected corner of China. Following the Opium Wars of the mid-19th century between the British and Chinese, Hong Kong was officially ceded to the British Empire as a Crown Colony beginning in 1898 for a term of 99 years. During that term, Hong Kong’s economy blossomed onto the international stage to become one of the most prosperous free markets of today. After 1997, Hong Kong was returned to China as a Special Administrative Region under the conditions that the market and government would remain free and democratic (non-Communist) while Beijing would only handle national security and foreign diplomacy (”one country, two systems”).
Today, Hong Kong has maintained a majority of its autonomy and travel to Hong Kong has remained relatively easy for Western nationals. At this time a visa is still not required unless traveling through China as well. English is still an official language along with Chinese.
The Sights and Sounds of Hong Kong Travel
The constant buzz of modern life and the ghostly prevalence of ancient life on the island will keep any traveler occupied without a moment to spare. A unique attraction that pays homage to the Chinese fixation with caged song birds is the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden where 70 different bird stalls, each elaborately decorated, fill the air with their own harmony. From anywhere in the city it is impossible to miss the looming Bank of China Tower, now Hong Kong’s national monument and a modern declaration of China’s mounting role in the global economy. In the center of the city is Times Square, a monumental 9-story shopping complex that dwarfs Western commercialism. Hong Kong museums do not skip a beat, ranging from science and space to history and art.
When the sensory overload of the city center begins to take a numbing effect it is easy to escape to one of Hong Kong’s many parks and monasteries. Victoria Peak is by far the most popular asylum, standing 1,810 feet above the city lights – only to offer more distractions of a smaller commercial district. The famous Man Mo Temple and the Miu Fat Monastery provide a mind-calming sanctuary while Kowloon Walled City Park, which once protected a private Chinese enclave during British rule, is a true natural refuge from Hong Kong’s concrete.
Once in Hong Kong, the city will guide you along its commercial corridors and through its ancient alleys. Tradition and history are alive in every corner of this modern municipality, as long as you can turn away from the neon distractions.
Experience Living Culture and Lifestyle of Hong Kong First-hand at the Street Markets
Friday, January 22nd, 2010A territory of the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong is a rapidly growing international financial centre and global metropolis. Many of the world’s biggest business and financial dealings take place in Hong Kong which is also quite famous for its expansive skyline. For the traveler, Hong Kong features an array of unique attractions ranging from the religious and cultural sites to theme parks and museums. Some of Hong Kong’s most popular attractions include Hong Kong Disneyland, Ocean Park, Repulse Bay, Victoria Peak, Kowloon Park and the Wong Tai Sin Temple.
Like in most of Asia’s major cities, the shopping experience Hong Kong is a really happening one. But of course like in most cities, the real adventure of Hong Kong shopping is best experienced in its bustling street markets and not in its posh shopping malls. So if you’re an adventurous traveler looking for a first-hand experience of Hong Kong living culture there’s no better place than its myriad street markets.
As its name suggests, the Ladies’ Market in Tung Choi Street is the perfect spot for the ladies. From bags and, shoes to accessories and garments the market features a wide array of items at really bargain prices. If the daytime is too hectic and busy, why not make a visit to the Temple Street Night Market with its brightly lit alleys and stalls. Food stalls and stalls selling items such as clothing, pens, CDs and cassettes, watches and even electronic items can be found here. If you’re looking for a place to buy a small gift or a memento, the Stanley Market is the place for you with items such as handicraft, silk, artworks and other collectibles available.
Jardine’s Crescent and Li Yuen Street West are other popular street markets in Hong Kong. Both these markets offer a wide variety of items ranging from clothing to shoes, handbags, cellular phones and VCDs.
With 280 guestrooms that presents guests with a unique blend of comfort, elegance and convenience, the Hotel Jen is a preferred choice for travelers looking for the ultimate boutique hotel in Hong Kong. A magnificent view of the Victoria Harbour, easy access to the Macau Ferry, and the entertainment districts of Soho and Lan Kwai Fong are all added incentive for guests staying over at this charming hotel in Hong Kong.
Cheap Hotels in Hong Kong for Budget Conscious Travelers
Saturday, January 16th, 2010Hong Kong, commonly called the ‘City of contrast’ or the ‘best city’ in Asia has turned out to be favorite destination in South East Asia. Hong Kong was only a group of fishing villages, but now it had converted into modern and vibrant country. It is the second city of skyscraper after New York and considered a world class city that presents the best example of fusion of eastern and western culture. This fusion had given a distinctive character to the country. The unique, colorful and rich heritage attracts visitors towards itself. It is said to be one of the most advanced country that has given foothold to many hotels in Hong Kong. There are many luxurious hotels that cater the need of business and leisure travelers by providing them help with regard to flight arrangements, visa application, shopping advice and shuttles to international airport. But these expensive hotels are not affordable by every traveler with the desire to travel Hong Kong. So, for such people, there are many cheap hotels Hong Kong around main tourist attractions. Elegant antique galleries and traditional Chinese city garden are some famous spots around famous Hollywood road. Some cheap hotels around such spots also pamper their guests with several facilities such as beauty treatment, in-room massage, and facial treatments. Some of the hotels in Hong Kong offer various sort of discounts for family travelers for extended stay, for children, and for senior citizens. Such discount hotels in Hong Kong are not lagging behind in providing room facilities such as high speed internet access, minibars, safes, flat screen television, fireplaces and other standard amenities. Eclectic souvenir in Hong Kong to exciting nightlife and shopping malls presents a vibrant picture of the city. There are many budget hotels around international airport that are well renowned for premier shopping, entertainment venues and special dining facilities. Some other common offers for the travelers are:-
When Is The Best Time To Travel To Hong Kong?
Wednesday, January 13th, 2010I want to travel from Chicago (ORD) to Hong Kong (HKG) either this summer or next christmas. Which one’s airfare is cheaper? I can only afford tickets about 800-920 dollars.
The Central Business District – The Major Financial and Diplomatic hub of Hong Kong
Sunday, January 10th, 2010Hong Kong is a special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China. Almost a separate nation of its own, Hong Kong is a highly cosmopolitan city with a highly developed capitalist economy. It is one of the top financial centres of the world and is also the most visited destination in Asia. For the traveller, Hong Kong features a wide array of attractions to keep them busy during their visit. Some of the more popular attractions in Hong Kong include Ocean Park, Repulse Bay, Hong Kong Disneyland, Victoria Peak, Wong Tai Sin Temple and the Symphony of the Lights.
The Central Business District of Hong Kong used to be a part of Victoria City located on the city’s north shore across the Victoria Harbour in the Kowloon Peninsula. Its close proximity to the Victoria Harbour meant that the area served as a major centre of trade for well over a century. The headquarters of many multinational financial corporations, diplomatic offices, embassies, and consulate offices as well many government offices are also located here.
The Central Business District features many of Hong Kong’s most famous landmarks while it is easily accessible through all of Hong Kong’s main transportation methods including bus, train, tram and ferry. Some of the popular buildings located here include the AIG Tower, Two International Finance Centre, Entertainment Building, Prince’s Building, Hutchison House, Bank of America Building, Hong Kong Club Building and the HSBC main building. Some of the more popular streets in the Central Business District include Arbuthnot Road, Pedder Street, Statue Square, Soho, Hollywood Road and Ice House Street.
Travellers looking for a Kowloon hotel Hong Kong will love the plush comforts offered to them at the Island Shangri-La Hong Kong. Located in the most prestigious business and shopping district of Hong Kong, the Kowloon Shangri-La Hong Kong is an award winning property offering luxurious accommodations for both business and leisure travellers. This Hong Kong luxury hotel also features several award winning restaurants offering a variety of international cuisines and many more star class amenities and services.
Hong Kong Travel ? Incredible City
Wednesday, January 6th, 2010Hong Kong is among those places that are unique and multifaceted, that it becomes very difficult to describe them. Popular as the ‘city of contrasts’, ‘world class city’, and an ‘amazing city’ all aptly sum up the city. Hong Kong today is a ‘special administrative region’ under the People’s Republic of China. Earlier the Hong Kong territory was under the British for many decades as a result of the 19th century Opium wars. In 1842, Hong Kong, came under the British and remained with them until the 1997 handover to China. With the policy of ‘one country, two systems’, Hong Kong will retain its own social, economical and political systems.
Hong Kong travel is unlike any other travel experience. From a small fishing village in the early 1800s, to a modern cosmopolitan metropolis of 21st century, all through it is an amazing journey. The city has grown into a vibrant city, an important financial and economical center, full with imposing sky rise buildings. The map of Hong Kong can be clearly marked of three main important areas of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, the new territories and some 260 small outlying islands. This city of contrasts provides with an excellent opportunity, to experience at the same time an exciting modern city along with fusion of the ancient civilizations and rich traditions. It is a perfect picture out here with the city balancing the old and the new traditions, varied sights and attractions as varied as the people of the region.
Travel Hong Kong has in store a fantastic holiday destination for the travelers. A city that is always in the process of evolving and taking in on the modern advancements, tourists return with memorable times. The best time for Hong Kong travel is the period from October to December, when the days are sunny and cool comfortable nights. Even the months of January, February and March are good times to travel. However, summer months can get too hot and humid and even the cheapest months for the reason that it the low season for tourists because of the weather.
Traveling to Hong Kong would see unfolding of a city that is soaked in traditions yet taking in on the modern developments. In fact, it is an odd combination of everything one could expect to find here and asume of the city. The city’s vibrating commercial activity is the highlight of any holiday here. A vacation to Hong Kong is going to be packed, full of bright lights, exciting shopping opportunities, moving nightlife and an array of tourist attractions. For sure, every age group would find something to intrigue them and enjoy to their fullest. The attraction of ‘Symphony of Lights’ on the Hong Kong Island is a favorite place among the romantic couples, whereas the visitors with a family find the Ocean Park and Disneyland very interesting options. Catch the city’s best picture of the skyline from the Victoria Peak, considered to be amongst the best in the world.
Travel Hong Kong gives many reasons to travelers, who flock here from all over the world. However, it is the exceptional shopping, excellent food, cruising to the outlying islands and spending some relaxing moments in the lap of the nature that are not to be missed when traveling to Hong Kong.
Make Your Christmas Truly Special By Traveling Hong Kong
Sunday, January 3rd, 2010Christmas is fast approaching. All of you may be weaving some kind of specialties and gifts to delight your dear ones during the Christmas. Some category of people such as those who are studying or working in offshore places may be anxiously waiting to visit their native place and celebrate Christmas with their loved ones, while some may be planning to tour a unique destination outside their home towns to celebrate Christmas this time.
Whatever your choice or requirement may be, an array of options are available to travel around happily and that too for exceptionally cheap flight rates.
Formerly a crown colony of the British, Hong Kong has now become one of the world’s most intriguing destinations. Despite its natural surroundings and an array of attractions spread over its four prominent regions such as the Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, the New Territories, and the Outlying Islands, Hong Kong’s glory and fame is not only as a favorite tourist spot. But, it also boasts of a great atmosphere for education purposes as well as to conduct businesses.
No wonder why many people from across the world such as Canada, the UK, and the US, comfortably function their businesses here. Likewise, many children also study here, the evidence for which is a great number of international schools that operate here. In addition, many Hong Kong natives also work and study in other prominent locations across the world such as Vancouver and London.
Understanding the growing importance as well as close relationship of Hong Kong with other destinations such as Canada, the UK, and the US, many of the major as well as leading airlines in the destination provide superb services to fly to and from Hong Kong to the world’s other prominent locations and that too for superb rates.
Now the flight rates have been even slashed since it is holiday season and Christmas is nearing. Based in Kowloon, Hong Kong, Hong Kong International Airport, also known as Chek Lap kok Airport, is one of the busiest in the world, with more than 600 take-offs and landings each day. According to certain records, it catered to more than 45 million passengers during 2006.
Since it is festive occasion and many people from western nations flock here during Christmas, some airlines providing superb value packages to visit and experience the incredibility of the destination. Usually, these packages are categorized into standard, deluxe, and family. Included in the standard packages are economy flights and accommodation in quality hotels.
Deluxe packages cover traveling in business class flights and accommodation in one of the most sophisticated hotels. As in the case of standard, family packages are inclusive of economic flights and accommodation in budget family hotels.
In addition, many of the established airline companies provide opportunities for the people to travel to and fro Hong Kong for half of the original rates during festive seasons like Christmas. This in turn allows passengers to enjoy all the superb on board comforts for relatively cheap rates. You can further enjoy the full benefits of budget travel during Christmas, provided you are ready to do some home work.
In order to not to get disappointed, it is advisable to make bookings early before two weeks or a month before the date you are planning to depart. This allows not only to enjoy the discounts that are available during the Christmas but also the benefits derived as a result of advanced booking.
It would be also better if you take some time to browse through the internet and compare the rates charged by different airline companies, which in turn enables you to choose a service provider offering most competitive rates. Additionally, it would be even beneficial and cost-effective if you make bookings online, since it may costs you much when you make bookings via a travel agency or book directly with an airline.
How Can I Travel From Hong Kong To Yuanyang In The Yunnan Province Of China?
Monday, December 28th, 2009What methods of transportation are available to travel from Hong Kong to the city of Yuanyang in the Yunnan Province of China?
Alternatively, from Hanoi, Vietnam to Yuanyang in the Yunnan Province of China?
What kind of Visa do I need to enter the Yunnan Province if I am staying in Hong Kong?