Festive Hong Kong

Steve Crook on 06 December 2006
I went to Hong Kong for a long weekend. I arrived early evening and was transferred to the Excelsior Hotel on Hong Kong Island. To my surprise and delight, most of the skyscrapers were decorated in Christmas lights. This must have been a tradition that has been carried on from when it used to be a British colony. At night it has the most amazing harbour views and a 'Happy Hour' made it even better. Breakfast in the hotel was the best I've ever had. Everything from full English, sushi, fruits, pastries, cereals, you name it! If you like shopping you'll love Hong Kong! Gadgets, clothes, jewellery, souvenirs etc. A nice excursion for a few hours is a trip up to Victoria Peak on the funicular railway. It's from here that you will see the best views of Hong Kong. Another nice trip on the bus is to Stanley Market on the far side of the island. It has a great market and some lovely views on the way. The highlight of my trip was the Sound & Light Show which takes place nightly at 8pm. The best place to view it is from the waterfront opposite the Peninsular Hotel on Kowloon. Monday's, Wednesday’s & Friday's have an English commentary, and coloured searchlights and lasers dance across the sky in an unforgettable spectacular. The colony has a very impressive underground transportation system which is easy to use and very safe. Hong Kong is unique, with it's intoxicating blend Far Eastern roots and British traditions that sit happily side by side. If you are planning a long weekend or a multi-centre trip then Hong Kong should be one of your first options. It has so much to offer which I have only just touched on. An amazing destination!