Travel to HongKong

It’s the birth place of Jackie Chan and the trademark venue of Wong Kar Wai’s movies. Hong Kong is a modern day paradise which is located on China’s south coast on the Pearl River delta, bordering Guangdong province and South China Sea. Renowned as one of the densely populated areas in the world, Hong Kong is a sophisticated shopping and cultural venue which should come under any traveler’s wish list.

Written history of Honk Kong dates back to early 17th century and it became a hub for the first Opium war between China and Britain. The country also played an important part in Second World War where fierce battles between Japan and collaborative forces of Britain and Canada took place. Now the pieces of those treacherous times lie peacefully at the museums such as Hong Kong Heritage Museum in New Territories, University Museum and Art Gallery in Hong Kong main island, Museum of Art in Kowloon and in several other galleries which are worth a visit.

Cultural activities play an important part in Hong Kong because of its unique blend of western and eastern characteristics. A traveler can get a complete 360 degree look at whole scenic city skyline by boarding on a Duk Ling, a traditional Chinese junk which is used for nearly 150 years to crisscross the waterways of Hong Kong. Tai Chi classes available throughout Hong Kong will provide a soothing relaxation and peace for the mind and body. Honk Kong main land offers a unique architectural walk which enhances the knowledge of its participants about the rapid development of architecture in Hong Kong and for an audio visual experience, authentic Cantonese Opera is a fascinating event that should not be missed.

If it’s Hong Kong it’s all about shopping and some of the world’s leading brands are waiting at the shimmering skyscrapers and in marbles shopping complexes in Hong Kong Main Island, especially in Central, Western District and Admiralty. If some one wants to add vibe and color to their shopping spree, they can go and visit the local street markets such as Stanley Market, Yuen Po Street Bird Garden and exotic flower market at Kowloon.

The state of the art transport system in Honk Kong is one of the great advantages when it comes to traveling. The public transportation system which is used by nearly 11 million people is fully automated and “Octopus card”, a smart card system is in full operation in busses, railways and even in car parks. The Hong Kong International Airport is the main air passenger getaway and cargo handler in Asia and it is named as no. 1 airport by SKYTRAX and other numerous entities. Most of the world renowned airlines in the business are operating in this two terminal airport which satisfies the traveling needs of both local and foreign travelers. Langham, Hong Kong is one of the best places to stay in Hong Kong because of their renowned friendly service and comforts which earn them a premier place among other Hong Kong Luxury Hotels.

Hong Kong is a renowned global business city, especially as a centre of financial markets.  After New York and London, Hong Kong is recognized as the third largest financial hub in the world and this could improve further after Standard & Poor's rating for HK was improved to the highest triple A level rating.  With a per capita GDP of approximately US$32,000 (IMF 2010 / current prices), Hong Kong's results are similar to that of the European Union and ahead of many larger nations.  Considering the importance of the financial sector to HK's economy and the impact of the financial crisis, demonstrates why Hong Kong is a popular and valuable jurisdiction.

1. Social and Political Environment

Hong Kong holds impressive rankings in global business surveys such as being the most business efficient and the 2nd most economically efficient in the world (IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook). Hong Kong is also ranked as the 13th least corrupt country in the world (Transparency International – Corruption Perceptions Index 2010).  Hong Kong has a stable economic and political environment with a pro-business government and an independent legal system. For these reasons it is not surprising that Hong Kong is a popular choice for regional operations in Asia, with 1,252 regional headquarters and 2,328 regional offices (Hong Kong SAR Government's Census & Statistics Department).

2. Location

Strategically located in close proximity to China, Hong Kong plays a vital role in accessing the Mainland China market for many foreign entrepreneurs. Hong Kong is just one hour's drive from the world's largest manufacturing region, the Pearl River Delta, which produces 30% of China's exports. Hong Kong accounts for a large share of inward investment to Mainland China and China is the largest trading partner for Hong Kong.

Hong Kong's reputation as a global financial powerhouse attracts Chinese companies for primary and secondary listings to access Asia markets. During 2010, the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKSE) became Asia's second largest stock exchange in terms of market capitalization, behind the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE). HKSE overtook Shanghai Stock Exchange partly because many Chinese companies also see Hong Kong as an efficient avenue to expand business within Asia.

Being in the centre of Asia, HK is also efficient in terms of links to international markets.  The Hong Kong airport is within 5 hours flight to all major trading jurisdictions in the region.

3. Infrastructure

Hong Kong is one of the most modern cities in the world. It is well equipped in terms of infrastructure such as transportation, telecommunications, IT connectivity and utilities. Combining the world-class international airport with efficient logistics facilities such as the cargo airport and shipping container port, makes HK attractive for international business that relies of efficient transport of human personnel and products around the world.

4. Policy and Taxes

Companies that incorporate in Hong Kong also benefit from its low and simple tax system. With a corporate tax rate of 16.5% (maximum) and personal income tax peaking at 15%, Hong Kong has the 3rd lowest tax misery in the world, as rated by Forbes' Tax Misery Index. Company registration in HK also benefits from having no sales tax or VAT, capital gains tax, no withholding tax or dividends tax and ultimately, despite providing such significant tax benefits, Hong Kong is not perceived to be an international tax haven.

5. Company Registration Requirements

The Hong Kong company registration process is relatively straight forward.  The main requirements for Hong Kong company formation are:

- confirming the company name and corporate structure

- confirm the details to meet the HK company law requirements which include: i) minimum one company director (doesn't need to be resident in HK), a Hong Kong resident company secretary (director and secretary cannot be the same person), a minimum issued capital requirement of HK$1.

- Register the business

- Operational requirements such as opening a Hong Kong corporate bank account, setting up office (virtual office is an option), securing employment visas etc.

Hong Kong is an excellent location for international entrepreneurs to register their business.  Besides benefitting from the geographic location to the booming China economy and an efficient tax system, Hong Kong is a diverse multi-cultural environment that is efficient for international business and exciting as a place to live.

Regardless of time of the year, if there's one Asian city that knows how to pull out all the stops for a world class celebration it's the island metropolis of Hong Kong. With its distinctly cosmopolitan atmosphere bordered by the stunning Victoria Harbor and a skyline pierced with skyscrapers Hong Kong is also the venue of choice for the party people of Asia come New Year's Eve. With a plethora of events and activities on offer the whole of Hong Kong comes alive at the brink of a new year to count down the last seconds of the passing year in a spectacle of light, music, dance, pyrotechnics and street celebrations.

The hot pick of all Hong Kong New Year's Eve countdowns is concentrated in the Times Square region where the signature countdown event takes place every year amid the cheers of literally thousands of street travelers. Taking cues from the New York Times Square celebrations the Hong Kong installment encompasses a variety of live music events and entertainment that keep the crowds pumped up till midnight rolls around.

The Victoria Harbor New Year's Eve celebrations are also a sought after event in the capital as it also offers the best view of the illuminated skyscrapers bursting at the seams with vibrant pyrotechnics. In fact the spectacle of fireworks and music is best viewed on board one of the harbor's all-inclusive F&B cruises that take guests along the harbor to witness the skyscrapers illuminated against the night sky. Those who are unable to get on the boats can also take in the sights from Tsim Sha Tsui's Avenue of Stars where the views are no less captivating.

Serious party animals on the other hand can head down to Lan Kwai Fong which is literally packed with street revellers enjoying the all-inclusive drinks and buffet deals on offer in the region. Ideal for groups and bar hoppers, the chic pubs down the streets of Lan Kwai Fong are perfect party venues on the 31st of December while other high profile parties take centre stage at Aqua, Drop, Dragon-I and at selected venues in the Tsim Sha Tsui district.

Those who wish to experience the New Year without the maddening crowds can head down to any one of the city's five star hotels that offer unhindered views of the celebrations from their rooftops. Special beverage prices and exquisite fine dining options are also on offer at these high-end establishments come New Year's Eve. Famed as a luxury hotel in Hong Kong which offers exceptional dining experiences, The Langham Hong Kong is the preferred rest of seasoned travelers to the island nation. Home to the culinary powerhouse known as L'Eclipse, this popular Hong Kong restaurant at the Langham is renowned for its signature Asian, Chinese and Western dishes.

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.