Hong Kong's expansive skyline makes for a breathtakingly beautiful destination. Make your way into the thick of its teeming side-walks and be excited and enlivened...even overwhelmed. Hong Kong is likely to push you out of your comfort zone, but you will be rewarded for it, with unique and authentic discoveries.
Hong Kong translates into 'fragrant harbour' in Cantonese, which is an indication of just how many culinary delights there are waiting for you to experience. It is also renowned for great shopping; from luxury malls to trendy street markets. Splurge on something special or barter your way to a bargain. In addition to its year-round attractions, it boasts a number of seasonal festivals and events. Don't miss the Hong Kong Summer Spectacular.
Dining
Hong Kong is renowned for being a culinary king of Asia. There are over 10,000 restaurants to try, some offering the very the best Cantonese and Chinese food.
Dim Sum
You can't travel to Hong Kong and not eat dim sum. These sumptuous Chinese snacks are served in steaming bamboo baskets. Choose from steamed pork buns, shrimp dumplings, beef balls and pan-fried squid. Don't forget the spicy salt!
Seafood
Hong Kong boasts some of the best seafood - whether you choose to try it steamed, fried or grilled. Better yet, select it live from the tanks of the restaurants. There are a handful of main seafood locations to choose from throughout Hong Kong.
Our favourite is Lei Yue Mun. This seaside village is nestled in the southern-eastern corner of Kowloon and offers an insight into traditional Hong Kong, unlike elsewhere in the city. It's renowned for its numerous options of indoor and outdoor dining options; each offering high quality, affordable seafood.
Eating in Lei Yue Mun is hands-on; make your choice from the live seafood stalls and take it to a restaurant to be cooked to your liking. Sink your teeth into a scallop, whilst absorbing the excellent atmosphere and great views.
To get there, take a taxi from Yau Tong MTR on the Kowloon side, or MTR to Sai Wan Ho on Kong Kong Island and then catch the ferry across to Lei Yue Mun.
Tea:
Yum Cha (drinking tea) is an essential part of Hong Kong culture. A cup of steaming, fresh tea is the perfect accompaniment to many Hong Kong dishes. Breathe in its delicate fragrances and learn about the art of tea appreciation, from tea masters in Hong Kong.
Shopping:
There is an astounding range of jewellery and watches on offer and the designs are sure to capture the attention of (envious) friends back home. Hong Kong is also home to a huge variety of clothing stores. Satisfy your shopping urge; whether you're after a designer gem or a traditional Chinese piece.
It's worth taking a look at Causeway Bay, a shopping hub popular with tourists. Did you know rent in this shopping area is ranked as the second highest in the world (following New York's Fifth Avenue)?
For a little less hustle-bustle but just as much shopping stimulation, consider Admiralty. It's famous for brand name, luxury goods. You'll also find Pacific Place here. It's one of Hong Kong's most popular malls and a great place to find gifts. It's also easy to get to; connected to the Admiralty MTR Station.
Hong Kong Summer Spectacular:
22 June - 31 August 2012
Hong Kong Summer Spectacular encompasses all that's great about summertime in Hong Kong, with a fun-filled city-wide programme of events and activities. Indulge yourself with numerous tempting privileges and discounts in the city's various shopping malls and department stores.
Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival
2, 4 - 8 July
This is a feast to treat all the senses, combining exhilarating competitions, traditional customs, colourful entertainment and Beerfest!. The excitement is intense, as super-fit teams of men and women paddle furiously in international races staged in Victoria Harbour off the Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront.
Lan Kwai Fong Beer & Music Fest 2012
14 -15 July
Lan Kwai Fong is the place to be this weekend of July, with over 50 booths and 3 performance stages to entertain you from the afternoon into the evening. Join in the celebrations of live shows, and food and beer tasting from around the world.
Summer in Hong Kong showcases the very best of this diverse and divine destination. Marvel at the myriad of things to see and do...
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