purple monkey; e-publication                 
Travel Asia, Hong Kong

Latitude 22 20 N   Longitude 114  11E

By: T360 Travel Group Staff

Hong Kong is simply dazzling. Experience the distinctive blend of East and West in this dynamic city. Feel the rush as you indulge in shopping. Savour culinary delicacies. Open your senses to Hong Kong's amazing skyline, bustling harbour and peaceful countryside. Come discover the diversity and sophistication that is Hong Kong. You'll love it

With its intriguing blend of East and West, with its Chinese roots and British colonial heritage, and its ultra modern sophistication and ancient traditions, Hong Kong is one of the most diverse and exciting cities in the world. What's more, it's also one of the most convenient and comfortable destinations for mature visitors. 

Visitors from most countries can enter Hong Kong without a visa for periods of seven days to six months, depending on nationality. Check with any Chinese embassy or consulate for the latest status.

Hong Kong is compact, so visitors are never too far from shopping and major sights. Hong Kong also has an excellent transportation system so visitors can easily reach other areas, no matter where they stay. Most hotels are located in the heart of the city, in Central, Wan Chai and Causeway Bay on Hong Kong Island and in Tsim Sha Tsui and Tsim Sha Tsui East in Kowloon. There are also a growing number of resort-style hotels in the New Territories that offer relaxing alternatives.

Hong Kong is an all-year-round destination. It enjoys a mild climate from the middle of September to the end of February, while the weather from May to mid-September is rather warm and humid.

Eighty per cent of Hong Kong's precipitation occurs between May and September, with August registering the highest rainfall

Public transportation via bus, ferry or train is efficient, relatively inexpensive and user-friendly. The system covers extension areas of Hong Kong with signs in English and Chinese.

Most restaurants will levy a 10 per cent service charge but waiters will expect to be given some loose change. Restaurants that don't add a service charge will expect a 10 per cent tip. However, tipping is left to your discretion. Bellboys, porters, restroom attendants and taxi drivers will happily accept loose change

Most hotels have Internet access. You can also access the Internet for free at many coffee shops, large shopping malls, major MTR stations and public libraries in town. For people bringing their laptops to Hong Kong, Wireless Broadband service is common at major shopping malls and coffee shops. 

Hong Kong is one of the safest cities in the world even at night, when people may walk alone with confidence.  English is widely spoken.  There will be no problems in communicating with people in most hotels, restaurants and even some taxis.

Lovers are spoilt for choice in Hong Kong. Romantic days might start with a champagne breakfast in a luxurious hotel room or suite with a stunning view. Many establishments offer special honeymoon packages that include little luxuries such as limousine service, flower and fruit