The Territory of Hong Kong is a group of 263 islands on the southeast coast of China. Covering 1,104 sq km, the territory is made up of Hong Kong Island, the Kowloon Peninsula and the New Territories. The island city of Hong Kong, as we know it, lies at the mouth of the Pearl River facing the South China Sea. Hong Kong Island is separated from Kowloon and beyond that, the New Territories agglomerate that runs up to the boundary with Mainland China, by Victoria Harbour. It is the New Territories that is comprised of 262 small islands, including Lantau, which houses the airport. Hong Kong or Chek Lap Kok International Airport, is the main airport in Hong Kong. The Chinese name is used because it was built on the island of Chek Lap Kok , and also to distinguish it from its predecessor, the closed Kai Tak Airport. Thus urban Hong Kong is densely populated, with over 7 million people, whereas suburban Hong Kong, which takes up 75% of its area, is just countryside with easily accessible areas designated as future country parks.
Under British rule since 1841, Hong Kong thrived as one of the strongest port cities in the world, attracting many Chinese companies who saw advantages in Hong Kong's policies and location. In a smooth transition, Britain returned Hong Kong to China in 1997 and today, Hong Kong is defined by capitalist, free market economics. China created the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) under the motto “one country, two systems.” The HKSAR would retain economic freedom and open culture but would send its proceeds to Beijing, not to the Queen. Nothing much has changed, except that the bauhinia, Hong Kong’s official flower, has replaced the British crest on the flag. Hong Kong is considered “Asia’s world city,” favourable to commerce and which is undercutting both Singapore and Tokyo as Asia’s business marketplace. The word is out that Hong Kong caters to the West-while remaining a great tourist destination.
The climate of Hong Kong is subtropical, with May to November nominated the ‘Typhoon season’ . When typhoon signal 8 is hoisted, businesses and shops close down and flights are cancelled. Heavy rain has a standard warning. March to May sees temperature and humidity rising, with cool evenings. June to August is hot, humid and sunny, with occasional showers and thunderstorms. September to November sees pleasant breeze, plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures. These are the best months of the year to visit Hong Kong. December to February is cool, dry and cloudy, with occasional cold fronts. The temperature can drop below 10° C in urban areas.
Chinese (Cantonese) and English are the official languages of Hong Kong. All official signs are in English and Chinese, as is the case in most shops and restaurants. Mobile / Cell phones and broadband Internet are widely used. Visitors to Hong Kong must have a valid passport. Visas are not required. HKSAR requires a special visa, though. Hong Kong offers a huge choice of accommodation for every budget. Hong Kong boasts of the world's most efficient, safe, affordable and frequent public transport systems, whether by taxi, ferry, rail, bus or tram. For convenience, use an Octopus Card electronic card that is accepted on most public transport. Visitors to Hong Kong are helped by the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
Hong Kong offers a host of memorable tourist attractions within its compact area, including The Peak, Victoria Harbour, the Giant Buddha, Hong Kong National Geopark, many ancient Chinese temples spread throughout the territory, as well as a diverse range of museums. For sheer variety of products and brands in all price ranges, Hong Kong is a unique shopping experience, where you can find everything from the latest designer fashions and electronic gadgets to best-value antiques and collectibles. Street Markets, such as Stanley Market, Temple Street Night Market, Ladies Market and Jade Market are popular. Hong Kong is truly a "Shoppers' Paradise" with many shopping areas everywhere.
Hong Kong boasts of more than 11,000 restaurants, which offer visitors a full choice of Asian cuisines and Western fare. Dim sum and fresh seafood are an absolute mandate. As the Events Capital of Asia, it offers a smorgasbord of fascinating and exciting events ranging from colourful local festivals to world-class arts and sports events, concerts, theatre and dance performances.
Hong Kong time is at UTC + 8 hours. Its currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD), with 1US$=7.8 HKD.
