The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region was a British colony dating back to 1842 until sovereignty was transferred back to the People’s Republic of China in 1997.  Hong Kong has a population of 7 million people with a landmass of approximately 1,108 squared kilometers.  It remains self-governed and with a high degree of autonomy with its own currency, judicial system and legal systems in all areas with the exception of foreign affairs and defence.

The bustling city of Hong Kong never sleeps, and is famously known for its stunning skyline. It is a sophisticated global metropolis that is never short of excitement, surprises, vibrancy, and energy.

Shopping

Hong Kong is an exceptional world class shopping destination, whether one is looking for luxurious brands, factory outlets, digital products or anything else.  The city is known as a "Shoppers Paradise" with its variety, and the fact that shopping malls are the biggest and most impressive in the world.  There is no doubt that it is a city for shoppers, for both locals and tourists.  Several malls worth a mention are Times Square, The Landmark, and Pacific Place – which are all situated in Hong Kong Island.  Harbour City, Festival Walk and Elements also carry reputations as magnificent shopping destination on the Kowloon Peninsula.  Luxury brands can also be found on both Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula – namely Canton Road in Tsim Sha Tsui, as well as various destinations in Central.  Products from factory outlets would provide a cheaper alternative near the airport at Citygate Outlets in Lantau Island.  Shopping that also deserves a mention would be local Hong Kong merchandise for tourists, which can be found in places such as the Stanley Market in the Southern District.

The Peak

The Peak is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.  Hong Kong is renowned for its stunning skyline and bright lights at night, and there is no better way in capturing the view than from The Peak.  Located right in the heart of Hong Kong, tourists are able to take the Peak Tram that ascends to The Peak.  Tourists are then able to enjoy the spectacular view of the bustling Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula.  This will certain shape an experience of a lifetime for tourists.  For further details, please go to http://www.thepeak.com.hk/en/home.asp

Star Ferry Ride

The Star Ferry has over 100 years of history and was once the common way of travelling between the Kowloon Peninsula and Hong Kong Island.  It remains an important part of Hong Kong’s heritage and adds an extra dimension to the entire experience, which includes a light breeze and the stunning view across The Victoria Harbour.  A trip to Hong Kong would simply not be complete without a casual cruise across one of the busiest harbours in the world.
For details on their operating times and fares, please go to http://www.starferry.com.hk

The Ocean Park is a one of a kind theme park located in Southern Hong Kong, and offers a unique opportunity for individuals and groups to experience various sources of attraction.  These attractions include rollercoasters, aquariums, and opportunities to see various species from Giant Pandas to dolphins.  For further details please refer to The Ocean Park website - http://www.oceanpark.com.hk

Giant Buddha

Located on Lantau Island, the massive Giant Buddha statue offers an insight to how significant Buddhism is in Hong Kong.  The monument is the largest outdoor bronze Buddha statue in the world.  One will be able to see the Buddha from as far away as the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car Station.  The cable car in itself is worth a special mention – it stretches 5.7 kilometers long and takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the end.  A gorgeous view from above of the natural side of Hong Kong simply makes this 25 minute ride a more than enjoyable one.

Hiking

Hong Kong is not commonly known for its hiking trails and nature, instead as a city with skyscrapers and neon signs but unsurprisingly, there is a greener side to Hong Kong.  The naturally steep and hilly landscape of Hong Kong means that trails can be a little challenging and satisfying at the same time, and the scenery is unlike much of urbanized Hong Kong – it is absolutely amazing.  Whether you are looking to explore the other side of Hong Kong or for an adventurous challenge – trails in Hong Kong are definitely worth exploring.  A few hiking hotspots worth a mention would be the MacLehose Trail, Mount Butler, Tai Mo Shan, and the Wilson Trail.  For a more detailed list of hiking trails, please refer to the Hong Kong Tourism Board website listed below.