| Types of Vacations |
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| Hong Kong, China |
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Tips for a Vacation in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is one of two special administrative regions of China, and one that has developed into a leading commercial center of the country. Hong Kong has been influenced by British culture, as well as the cultures of the Cantonese, the Vietnamese and Canadian. This gives the region a distinctive and eclectic personality. Hong Kong continues to be a major tourist attraction for China's wealthy population-which has been steadily increasing for quite some time now. If you are planning a trip to the People's Republic of China then you are in for quite a treat.
Hotel Stays in China
What should you look for when searching for hotel accommodations in China? Rooms in China tend to be on the smaller side so don't expect the "spacious rooms" featured in most hotels. You can still find hotels for cheap or pricey if you want to experience a luxurious Hong Kong vacation. The best hotels will be located on Hong Kong Island, while Kowloon and the New Territories will feature more affordable pricing. The good news is that the best hotels in Hong Kong are still cheaper than what you would expect to pay in other cities like New York or London. There are a variety of hotels, guesthouses, holiday flats and holiday camps to choose from. Some of the notable hotel names include the B.P. International House in the Yau Tsim Mong District, the Empire Hotel in Wan Chai and the Dorsett Far East Hotel in Tsuen Wan. It is suggested that you be on guard when staying at cheap hostels in the area, as consumer protection is not a great priority. Since luxury booking is cheaper than what you might expect, it's better to be safe and pay a little bit extra for an accommodating experience.
Dining and Nightlife in Hong Kong
When it comes to dining, this may well be the greatest reason to come see Hong Kong. Hong Kong cuisine is world-renowned and much appreciated by tourists all over the world. Hong Kong cuisine combines traditional and modern Cantonese cuisine, as well as other distinctive cultures of China such as tastes from Chiuchow and Sichuan. Because of the low pricing of Hong Kong restaurants, tourists and residents tend to eat out more often. In fact, the most overpriced meals you will find will likely be from western civilization. Be aware that in China tipping is not practiced, so you might as well be leaving your tip to any random passerby. In fact, leaving tips in some restaurants may actually be seen as patronizing by the locals. The more upscale establishments already include a ten percent service charge (and pay their employees well) so feel free to stuff yourself on delicious Hong Kong cuisine with no extra charge.
What are some of the most popular dishes? Hong Kong Hot Milk Tea is recommended, though it has a strong tasting brew and may not be appreciated by sensitive drinkers. Dim sum consists of morsels of Cantonese cuisine, served with a procession of carts and eaten along with tea. For roasted dishes, try the roasted duck or roasted pork. Congee is also a popular treat, as is the sweet pastry called Sweetheart Cakes. There is also a "street" for seafood in the Sai Kung area of the New Territories. If you are looking for fine Chinese dining then try the entertainment districts like Lan Kwai Fong, Soho or Knutsford Terrace. For cheaper but still delicious dishes, look for the cooked food center in Sha Kok Estate, Sha Tin. You may also be charmed by the country's love of barbecue. Some restaurants (and even some Hong Kong beaches) let you roast your own food, and do not limit your meals to sausage or hamburger; you can also roast fish, meatballs (beef or pork) chicken wings and more. Practice for your dining vacation by using chopsticks-the preferred utensil for the Chinese!
When it comes to drinking, realize that it's mainly an activity of the young locals, not a nationwide pastime. Some of the most popular drinking regions include the western-influenced Lan Kwai Fong in Central, as well as the Wan Chai, that allegedly houses bars with unusually friendly women. Some of the most preferred drinks include Tsing Tao, Imported (Philippine) San Miguel and Carlsberg. The legal drinking age is 18 and on Wednesdays, many ladies drink free! Some bars to look up by name include Ned Kelly's Last Stand, Sticky Fingers and Knutsford Terrace.
Attractions in Hong Kong
What are some historical attractions in Hong Kong? You will find yourself entertained and bewildered by the many colorful Hong Kong festivals such as the Spring Lantern Festival, the Ching Ming Festival and the Hungry Ghost Festival. As for historical attractions, don't miss the Heritages in Central District, the Che Kung Temple in the Sha Tin and the Temple of Ten Thousand Buddhas. The whole family can also get to know Hong Kong's other side, namely its nature parks. The Lantau Island offers open countryside, fishing villages, secluded beaches and monasteries, while the Hong Kong Wetland Park offers boardwalks, bird watching and an interactive museum. Other fun activities include horse racing and Hong Kong Disneyland.
Transportation is highly developed and may include traveling aboard the Octopus Transport System, train, bus, taxi, rented car, or ferry. Hong Kong is one of the most exciting destinations in the world! |
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