Discovering Hong Kong

On the shores of the Pearl River Delta...

Hong Kong is famous for being a unique blend of confluences and contrasts, combining both man made and natural beauty, alongside both Western and Eastern cultural elements. Discover Hong Kong, and you may well discover true diversity.

Hong Kong is commonly thought of as a compact metropolis that looks out to the South China Sea. The urban areas are densely packed with awe inspiring contemporary architecture, with numerous high-rise buildings and skyscrapers creating one of the most incredible skylines in the world. There is also a very efficient transport system here, but because of the city's density you'll never be far from the major sights and shopping areas, wherever you choose to stay.

Hong Kong is a fusion of two contrasting cultures, where old meets new at every turn. The traditions of China are apparent wherever you look, mixed with the lasting influence of over one hundred years of British rule. Step aboard an authentic Chinese junk, and set sail into the scenic Victoria Harbour - from there you’ll be able to see the stunning panorama of the modern city skyline. Back on land, you might find an open-air Chinese market on one street corner, and an English pub on the next - the confluence of culture couldn't be more apparent.

Hong Kong is the wealthiest urban centre in the whole of China. There is a kaleidoscope of shops, attractions and cuisines available in this city of almost seven million inhabitants, contributing heavily to the diverse culture.

The city is home to many huge shopping malls and department stores, selling all of the latest fashions and designer merchandise. You'll also be able to find small boutiques filled with niche goods close by, and open air markets packed with Eastern charm.

Having shopped until you've dropped, you can take a cultural trip to Lantua Island and see the world's largest Buddha statue at the spectacular Po Lin Monasteries. There are also modern attractions alongside traditional wonders. Visit one of two of Asia's top theme parks - Hong Kong Disneyland and Ocean Park - both promising fun for families and thrill seekers alike.

The cuisine of Hong Kong continues the theme of diversity with a massive range of over nine thousand eateries and restaurants to cater for every taste. Head to the famous Knutsford Terrace - a collection of eateries that creates a culinary heaven. There's also the huge Whampoa Gourmet Palace, boasting many speciality Chinese restaurants all under one roof.

Hong Kong is not just an urban metropolis; the province covers some 426 square miles spread over 262 islands, and less than a quarter of that is developed. Most of the urban areas are spread over the south shore of the Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island, leaving most of the New Territories to the north close to untouched.

There are wetlands to explore, and walking trails to discover, over a network of twenty-three protected country parks. Most of these are less than an hour away from the urban centres, whilst some are only a few minutes away!

Away from land there are also four spectacular marine parks to see - beautiful underwater kingdoms to explore filled with fish and spectacular corals.

It may be the other side of the world but if you know where to look holidays in Hong Kong can be surprisingly affordable. Flights are easy enough to track down online with the likes of Expedia and Cheap Flights; at the time of writing the best deal we found was £358 inc tax flying from Heathrow with Lufthansa.