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Showing posts with label Kowloon. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Kowloon. Show all posts

Hong Kong Transit: a Day Stop in Asia's World City

Author: Roni Shwartz

Although millions of people pass through Hong Kong every year, on their way from here to there, many of them don't really know what are the best ways to spend a day in this exciting metropolis.



This article will show you how to cover Hong Kong's most popular attractions in a one day stopover.



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After clearing customs and immigration, proceed to the luggage storage counter at the 'Meeters and Greeters Hall', where you can store your trolley or bag till you come back... Buy an Octopus Card from the Airport Express Counter at the Arrivals Hall and hop on the Airport Express Train, with which you travel all the way to Hong Kong Station.



Victoria Peak (or simply "The Peak") is one of Hong Kong's most popular tourist attractions and probably the best starting point. Having your breakfast or morning coffee while enjoying some spectacular views is definitely a nice way to start your Hong Kong day-tour.



The Peak Tram is the most popular (and scenic) way of getting to The Peak. It operates daily, 7 am - 12 midnight and climbs the full distance in approximately 7 minutes.



A short walk from Hong Kong Station (exit C) will bring you to the Lower Terminus, on Garden Road, where you can buy the ticket and board the tram (you can also pay with your "Octopus Card")



Pacific Coffee, near the "upper terminus", is open daily from as early as 7:30 am, and is the best place to enjoy your "coffee with a view" at such an early hour.



Down from "The Peak" walk back towards Hong Kong Station and through "the elevated walkway" to the pier from which the Star Ferry departs to Tsim sha Tsui. This historic ferry route is very popular with tourists and has long become one of Hong Kong's most prominent icons.



From the ferry building, turn right and walk along the waterfront to the Avenue of Stars: Hong Kong's answer to Hollywood's Walk of Fame, where floor plaques of Hong Kong film industry's who's who can be seen. This is also the best place to take photos of Hong Kong's spectacular skyline.



From here, you can take a short walk to the Hong Kong Museum of History, where "the story of Hong Kong" is told... From the geological changes that took place hundreds of millions of years ago, through prehistoric eras, notable historical events and until present day. The museum is fairly rich and boasts plenty of interesting exhibits.



Continue to Nathan Road, Kowloon's main thoroughfare, and proceed through Jordan Road to Canton Road, which is popularly known as Jade Street.



Jade and its products are the specialty of most of the shops along this section of Canton Road, as well of those in the neighboring Jade Market, and there is certainly a lot to see (and to buy...). From Jade Street. you can turn right to Ning Po Street where many traditional Chinese shops and businesses can be found.



The Old Tin Hau Temple, just a few minutes walk from the Jade Market, was built in the 1880s and is one of Kowloon's oldest temples. It is dedicated to Tin Hau (Matsu), Goddess of the sea, protector of seafarers and one of Hong Kong's most beloved deities.



From the temple, you can either walk or take the MTR to Mong Kok area, where some of Hong Kong's best open-air markets can be found:



As its name denotes, Ladies' Market specializes in women's clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and the like, although you can find here more than a few stalls that sell men's and children's products, including toys, clothes, bags, jeans and watches, just to name a few...



Sai Yeung Choi Street South boasts shops of consumer electronic products at street level and upstairs bookstores above.



Fa Yuen Street concentrates many retailers of sports equipment and clothing, while Fa Yuen Street Market, in the north part of Fa Yuen Street, is full of shops selling bargain-priced trendy fashion and casual wear for men, women and children.



While in Mong Kok, you should also make a point to visit the Goldfish Market, the Flower Market and the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden (or just "Bird Garden"), where dozens of bird shops are located and hundreds of colorful songbirds in exquisitely crafted cages can be seen...



Mong Kok is also packed with many authentic eateries and restaurants where you can enjoy some delicious local food at reasonable prices:



Curry A La King, on 88 Soy Street, is a paradise for curry lovers, serving a wide selection of scrumptious curries from different Asian cuisines.



Satay King, on ladies market, specializes in Southeast Asian satays.



MongKok Fung Shing Restaurant, on 749 Nathan Road, is known for its superb dim-sum and delicious crispy chicken.



Lucky Corner Restaurant, on 146 Sai Yeung Choi Street South, is a rather humble eatery which has been serving some of the best Wonton Noodles in Hong Kong for God knows how many years.



Little Sheep (4th floor, 16 Argyle Street)is one of Hong Kong's most favorite hotpot restaurants.



Fu Kei Restaurant, in King Wah Centre, is serving fabulous food from different Chinese cuisines.



That's it... You can now take the MTR to Central, from which you link to Hong Kong Station (there is a pedestrian passage) and continue with the Airport Express, back to Hong Kong Airport.


Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/destinations-articles/hong-kong-transit-a-day-stop-in-asias-world-city-755663.html


About the Author

For more travel information on Hong Kong, including recommended hotels, suggested city-walks and sightseeing, a Restaurant & Nightlife Guide, great shopping tips, and much more: visit Metropolasia - Hong Kong Travel Guide where all the information you may want or need, is compiled in one easy-to-use website.



Roni Shwartz is a travel consultant and writes for Metropolasia

Hong Kong International Airport: the doorway to Hong Kong

Starting out as a humble fishing settlement on the banks of the Pearl River Delta, Hong Kong has rapidly grown into an economic and business powerhouse. Colonised by the British in its early years, the little settlement evolved into one of the most prominent trade ports in Asia. As it evolved over the years, its focus shifted towards commerce and finance institutions becoming the home of major international corporations such as the Hong Kong Shanghai Banking Corporation.

In its early years as a trade town, ships were the only way to reach Hong Kong. Its central trading position and popularity attracted tradesmen and visitors from around the world. Even after the advent of air transport, its popularity didn’t dwindle. Its rapid development made it one of the biggest airport hubs into Asia with many flights coming from the Middle East and the West.

The Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) has lived two lives, evolving from humble roots to becoming the fourth busiest airport in the world. Originally situated on Kowloon Island, the Kai Tak International Airport was the first international airport in Hong Kong. Originating as a military air base and then private air field for personal planes, the airport grew over the years to become one of the busiest airports in the world from the 70’s onwards, on occasion handling double the cargo and passengers it was mean’t for.

In the late 90’s ambitious plans were set in place by the Hong Kong government to build a state of the art modern airport to cater to the steady flow of people and cargo to and from Hong Kong. Chek Lap Kok Island was chosen as the location for the new international airport. In 1998 Chek Lap Kok International Airport was opened to the world.

It is rumoured that residents from neighbouring countries would fly over to Hong Kong just to shop at the vast plethora of duty free shops found at the airport. Hong Kong International Airport is considered to have on of the largest entertainment and retail centres in the world let alone outside Hong Kong’s CBD.

Terminal 2 of HKIA is home to Sky Plaza and Sky Pier. The Sky Plaza is a vast multitude of shops and entertainment services that rival some of the largest malls in the world. Offering everything from designer garments to the latest electronic devices and anything your heart desires can be found at the Sky Plaza.

The Sky Pier is a retail ferry terminal linking HKIA with Hong Kong and its neighbouring islands. This allows locals and tourists unfettered access via road, rail and ferry to come experience the wondrous entertainment options of HKIA.

Terminal 1 is the world’s largest passenger terminal building in the world. Unlike its sibling (Terminal 2), Terminal 1 has a vast shopping arcade, topped off with a food court surrounded by trendy restaurants offering a vast array of food from local to international cuisine.

But that’s not all, to ensure passengers and visitors alike are kept occupied, HKIA has its very own nine hole golf course. Here visitors can relax and play a game of golf whilst taking in the amazing views of the ocean and Hong Kong Island.

Travellers to Hong Kong will find many comfortable hotels in Hong Kong to stay in. Of the many hotels in Kowloon, Eaton Hotel Hong Kong stands out as conveniently located, contemporarily styled, luxury hotel in the heart of Kowloon. Offering superior value, with a wide selection of rooms and suites, the Eaton Hotel Hong Kong is sure to make your stay a pleasurable one.

Marathon in Hong Kong

Once a British colony, Hong Kong is today one of Asia's popular tourist destination. Also recognized as the continent's financial hub it holds numerous places of interest for visitors to experience. The shopping arcades, both bargain and designer, delectable Cantonese cuisine and the entertainment options draw travellers to this territory.

Attractions in Hong Kong can be viewed according to their area. The Hong Kong main land houses sightseeing sites such as the Peak. This panoramic experience affords stunning views of the city skyline. Shopping and a sky terrace for relaxing are highlights of this attraction. Reaching the Peak is through the designated Tram which is operated via steel cables.

The Kowloon area is home to many markets, parks, gardens and heritage sites. The New Territories region in Hong Kong houses a must-see attraction heralded by both local and foreign visitors that of the giant size replica of Noah's Ark. Not simply just an Ark, this structure also holds a Resort where families can experience other activities and facilities.

Sport in Hong Kong plays an important cultural bridge meshing eastern and western traditions. While football acts the nation's primary sport, rowing and cricket have also gained popularity. The proactive outlook towards sport adopted by both the people and the Government, have propelled different sporting events into the limelight.

A signature sporting event not to be missed on the Hong Kong calendar is the Marathon. Also known as the Standard Chartered Hong Kong Marathon, this yearly event first began in 1997 with over 1000 participants. Today over 30,000 participants including foreign competitors arrive in Hong Kong to participate in this prestigious event. Set over a ten kilometer run the event is further divided into three categories of full and half marathons. Each of these races are also allotted separate finishing times. Cash prizes and certificates are distributed to all competitors who complete the race.

Hong Kong offers that best in hotel accommodation. A luxury hotel in Hong Kong synonymous with style and classic design is The Langham Hong Kong. Located in the central district of Kowloon, the hotel's charming interiors and outstanding facilities captivate its guests who remain loyal followers. Dine in style at a Hong Kong restaurant offering a myriad of delicacies both foreign and local at the hotel.

Adventures in a Chinese Junk - Duk Ling Ride Hong Kong

Enjoy 360 degree views of Hong Kong's famous skyline with the wind softly ruffling your hair. Moving at an easy pace in the tranquil waters of Hong Kong Island, it is best enjoyed on a on a sunny day, where you can view the multi hued sun setting or the extraordinary spectacle of the light show that Hong Kong is popular for. At night, sip on a chilled champagne or a favorite cocktail. Cruise off Lamma Island, Lei Yu Mun or Po Toi and sample a traditional Chinese sea food dinner. All this is possible aboard the Duk Ling, an authentic Chinese vessel, carefully restored to its original condition. Currently plying the water of Hong Kong bay, it offers the only opportunity of sailing in a Chinese vessel used by fisher folk 150 years ago. The experience of sailing in an authentic piece of Hong Kong's history is a very powerful and unique experience. Sailing past many of Hong Kong's iconic buildings with the red sails of the boat in the foreground and Victoria Peak in the background indeed makes a very pretty picture and offers many photo opportunities.

As it is one of a kind experience, the Duk Ling is hired by corporate and commercial entities and individuals on tailor made, even themed packages suited to their needs in terms of destinations, routes and catering. The Duk Ling can be also hired as a wedding venue and has been featured in several movies.

Used by the Hong Kong Tourist Board as a cultural symbol, the Duk Ling sails from the Kowloon public pier, Tsim Sha Sui and from the Central Pier 9 on short journeys on Thursday afternoons and Saturday mornings, noon and afternoons. Cruises on the vessel can last for two and a half to four hours. Although the boat is not luxurious and the boat trips are often short, it offers relaxing moments away from the frenetic pace of Hong Kong and Kowloon. The only sounds that can be heard out on the water are the voices of other passengers, the wind, the waves and the ambient sounds of the harbour.

As one of the recent awardees of the Travelers Choice, Top Twenty Five Hotels in Hong Kong by Trip Advisor, the Langham Hong Kong exudes a European style elegance and offers amenities and service befitting a top level luxury hotel in Hong Kong. As one of the leading luxury Hong Kong hotels, the Langham pays meticulous attention to ensuring that its accommodation is impeccable. Its ambience is of quiet sophistication, its cuisine outstanding and facilities modern and up to date. Its central location places it close to all the main commercial, cultural and entertainment areas of Hong Kong and Kowloon.

Hong Kong Museum Of Medical Sciences, The History Of Hong Kong Medicine

The Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences resides in a three storied refurbished structure at 2 Caine Lane, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong Island, Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences is also called the Old Pathological Institute. The museum was formed in the year 1996 and aims to advance the accumulation and conservation of historical artifacts which relate to the medicine and its industry in Hong Kong. 

At certain instances particular exhibitions are conducted by the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences so as to present advanced as well as basic news and information that pertains to the field of medicine. One of the primary objectives of the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences is to raise the levels of public awareness regarding the medical history of Hong Kong as well as to instruct the people on issues regarding disease and health. The building that houses the Hong Kong Museum of Medical Sciences was constructed in 1906 and has an Edwardian style to it. The building housed the Bacteriological Institute which was later named the Pathological Institute following World War II.

The building covers an area of 10, 000 square feet and comprises of one lecture room, one library, one game room, and one gallery for Tai Ping Shan View and eleven other galleries. The galleries are namely the Autopsy Room, History of Hong Kong Dentistry, Lower Gallery Exhibition Room, herbalist shop, The Old Laboratory, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Gallery, Class of 63 Gallery, Tung Wah Group of hospitals Gallery, Hong Kong College of Radiologists Gallery, Hong Kong Tuberculosis, Chest and Heart Disease Association Gallery and the Lui Hac Minh Gallery. When travelling to Hong Kong make sure to stay at a Hong Kong hotel. A Kowloon hotel such as the Eaton Hotel Hong Kong is highly recommended.

Things to Do and Tourist Attractions in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is the perfect getaway for the whole family. Tourists will surely not get bored since there are lots to see and do. There are so many excellent tourist attractions for them to enjoy and visit. The most popular tourist attraction so far is the local Disneyland which was open a few years ago and which attracts a lot of tourist all over the world. There are also some more unusual activities to be had in Hong Kong. One of the most unusual of the lot would surely be an escalator. Now that might sound bizarre, but when you learn that it is 800 metres long, you'll see why there is such a desire to ride it!

Spanning over eight galleries on Tsim sha Tsui's Chatham Road, the Museum of History tells the story of Hong Kong in a very interesting and enchanting manner, using all sorts of interactive devices and unique displays. Even if you are not a museum person, there's a good chance you will enjoy the visit. Yuen Yuen Institute, just a short drive from the modern town of Tauen Wan, is the only religious establishment in Hong Kong that houses the three principal local religions - Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The main draw here is the Chinese architecture and landscaping, and especially the main building, which is a replica of the famous "Temple of Heaven" pagoda (Tian Tan) in Beijing.

Ocean Park has been one of the most popular Hong Kong tourist attractions for some time now. This excellent theme park is popular with both local residents as well as tourists. There are all sorts of attractions and activities at the Ocean Park including a shark aquarium and various rides and roller coasters. If you are interested in visit the Ocean Park during your visit to this Asian city then please note that Ocean Park is located on the south section of Hong Kong Island. In addition for those with their walking shoes along, the Hong Kong Tourism Board has developed ten walks with detailed directions and insight. Each of these diverse and fascinating walks will introduce you to incredible experiences that you will cherish; from traditional culture and heritage to out of the way places beyond the city's bustling urban areas.

The hotel is near subway and railway stations within walking distance of around 10 minutes. Metropark Hotel Kowloon, Hong Kong is facilitated with hotel (Chinese & Western) restaurants, a bar, a rooftop swimming pool and Fitness Room for hotel visitors' enjoyment. Free broadband Internet access with unlimited usage is available in all hotel rooms. Hong Kong is all set to admire you with the its high rising sky scraping buildings, temples to capitalism, electric streetscapes, oriental-looking gifts and Chinese name engraved on a Chinese seal stones available at Stanley Market which are not to be missed. The Disneyland of Hong Kong is all set to attract the kids with its fantasyland, shows and rides related to jungles, Mickey's 3D show.

There are a large number of casinos in Macao that cater to every type of gambler, whether they are playing for high stakes or low, and however dressed. China is well aware that many people come to Macao for the gambling, including thousands of tourists from Hong Kong, and so China is happy to permit the sport to continue.

Hong Kong Hotel

Hong Kong is one of the largest urban areas in the world and the main city is vibrant and busy, packed with visitors and friendly locals alike. The city can make an ideal destination for individuals or families and it is also an extremely popular business location. Hong Kong hotels vary from cheap to five star luxury and you can choose from a fine selection of luxury Hong Kong hotels during your stay.

About Hong Kong

While most people think of the region between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula as being Hong Kong, this is in fact only a small part of the area. Hong Kong itself also consists of over 260 other small islands. European settlers began to arrive in Hong Kong in the 16th century and it has today become one of the most powerful and influential economic centres in the world.

Things To Do In Hong Kong

As well as being a major financial and business centre, Hong Kong hotels are also extremely popular with families. Hong Kong Disneyland is an obvious and extremely popular attraction although it is easily the smallest of the Disneyland parks. Hong Kong Space Museum and Science Museum are located very close to one another so make a great double attraction for the whole family too. This is just a small selection of sights and things to see when staying in Hong Kong.

Langham Place

The luxury five star Hong Kong hotel, Langham Place hotel is situated right in the middle of the heart of Kowloon. Not only does it have a rooftop pool that offers incredible city views but it also features 5 dining areas and is only a few minutes away from some of the major markets in the city. Flat screen TV, DVD Player, and luxurious bathrooms are standard in every room.

Prince Hotel, Marco Polo

The four star Honk Kong hotel, Prince Hotel is found near the China Ferry Terminal and, as such, is a very short distance from a number of popular tourist attractions. Beautifully decorated rooms which include a TV and tea facilities, and 4 different dining options make this a popular choice for travelling businesspeople and with families and couples.

Travelling through Hong Kong via the Railroad

Some say it's the best holiday hub in the world and some believe it's the best place for business, whichever way you look at it Hong Kong is a pretty special place and it would be wonderful to visit at least one time in one's lifetime. And what better way to see all of Hong Kong's beauty and history in one go than to discover Hong Kong by rail.

Any tourist visiting Hong Kong may find it hard to fit all of Hong Kong's best attractions in to their holiday plans. The Hong Kong government has made things easier for all of them by promoting the rail system to see all the sites Hong Kong can offer. The new territories and the Kowloon province which carries a lot of historical attractions are covered by the train ride and it's a very time saving and cost effective way to view many of it in one trip.

The traveller will start the journey from the rather modern commercial parts of Tsim Sha Tsui continue onwards towards the beautiful scenery and peaceful nature of the new territories.  The New territories will help you discover the more rural side of Hong Kong which will surely be a wonderful memory. The two rail lines which is MTR East & West carry the traveller through two diverse tracks with the East Rail follows a track that is lined with modern apartments and businesses with small village type communities in-between which offers the visitor a peek into another fascinating aspect of life in Hong Kong.

There are many hotels around the area that provide easy access to both East Rail and West Rail lines and there is no better option than Eaton Hotel Hong Kong when you consider hotels in Hong Kong. Many of the travellers interested in a quite drink in the city would obviously enjoy visiting the many Hong Kong bars around the area.

Hong Kong Sites and also Key Places of Interest For the Visitors

Hong Kong created from little doing some fishing village, is abounding along with hectic harbor, large increases which is deemed among an essential monetary as well as monetary heart. Using sense associated with modernization, it has many market sectors in neuro-scientific technological know-how, enjoyment, way of living and also vehicles. Additionally purchasing within Hong Kong can also be getting popular together with many regarding stores in addition to market segments.

Hong Kong is also attaining title along with recognition with tourists' places. It has become a choice of this visitors these days as the increasing numbers of Hong Kong attractions get put the particular charming effect within the vacationers. Their own industrial attractiveness and designs are actually splendid. Accommodations the following have likewise produced good preparations because of their holiday accommodation, as a result, atlanta divorce attorneys approach; Hong Kong can be portion visitors with it's best. A number of the main locations to see within Hong Kong are usually:
  • Hong Kong island- it's the isle inside the southern part of section of Hong Kong, whoever core place may be the key historical, financial and political middle involving Hong Kong. To the the southern area of aspect with this tropical isle, there may be Aberdeen Isle, as their Sampan tour will probably be worth going to. The most popular beach front Repulse These kinds of is usually for the lower facet with the is and it is typically congested for fun on saturday. The previous Male Mo Forehead as well as organic as well as zoological are back yards are a couple of the primary destinations in the island.
  • Kowloon- there's a renowned holidaymakers place, called Tsim Sha Tsui, for the suggestion associated with Kowloon peninsula, composing of cafes, outlets, eating places, bars as well as photographic camera outlets. It is usually a home to the Hong Kong Ethnic hub, memorial associated with background, popular peninsula lodge and the area art gallery. There's a good way pertaining to walk, the actual Balcony, within Far east Tsim Sha Tsui, coming from in which spectacular sights associated with Victoria harbour could be loved. Ladies wonderful offering of Tsimshatsui Hotels and also overnight accommodation accessible in the area.
  • Victoria Peak- vacation to Victoria Maximum in Hong Kong really should not be have missed mainly because it offers beautiful scenic opinions in every direction. The rooftop of huge nearby mall additionally demonstrates the principle Hong Kong design.
  • Hong Kong Marine Park- it can be on the To the south finish involving Hong Kong Area. It really is on the list of biggest ocean theme parks in the world. It really is regarded as about of the most popular leisure place in Southeast Asian countries, masking a location involving 170 acres. It's got a pair of entrances, related jointly by way of wire vehicle. Shark's corridor Sea theater as well as Ocean corridor provide a possibility to explore mysteries of the marine.

Individually, I believe Hong Kong is a great destination for a go to, keeping one of several excellent Resorts inside Tsim Sha Tsui as well as exploring the location by walking, could be a excellent experience for holidaymakers along with individuals.