Hong Kong is quite a interesting place where East meets West.
There is no excuse for boredom in Hong Kong. The variety of
choice, whether for culture, recreation or pure pleasure, is astounding. As a gateway
where East meets West, Hong Kong has a unique blend of activities available from each
culture. Whether you prefer European opera or canto-pop, Oriental ceramics or art from the
fringe, you will find something to suit. And for a newcomer, witnessing one of the many
Chinese festivals is always a memorable event.
If your interests lie in the great outdoors, Hong Kong will not disappoint. Hidden behind
the facade of steel and glass towers, over 40 per cent of the territory is actually
parkland. Walking trails criss-cross the main island, while the New Territories and
outlying islands are heavens for the nature-lover.
There are also myriad activities for the younger set. Hong Kong boasts great museums,
extracurricular activities and sports opportunities for children and teens.
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And when you are done being entertained, or finish a hike famished and in need of
refreshment, Hong Kong comes into its own. With thousands of restaurants from the seaside
seafood specialists on Lamma Island to the glitzy and glamorous hotel-top dining rooms,
nobody need go hungry. Practically every international cuisine is represented here, from
the local Cantonese and its Dim Sum specialities to American meat, European flair and
Southeast Asian spices. |
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One of the most obvious signs of Chinese culture are the numerous temples scattered
throughout the city. With their hanging coils of incense and often elaborate offerings,
these are interesting places to visit, but do put a donation into the box before you
leave.
For organised cultural activities there are numerous major venues which offer professional
performances of Chinese opera, dance, Western opera, classical music, theatre and much
more. Hong Kong has a Philharmonic Orchestra, ballet troupe and Opera Society, all of
which perform to international standards. The city also hosts many touring productions and
concerts. Major productions are well-advertised in the local media long before opening
night. It is wise to book early as tickets can sell out quickly. |
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If you like the movies, then Hong Kong is your town. There
are four competing chains offering theatres in every neighbourhood. Western films tend to
run in English with Chinese subtitles, and although people are asked to shut off their
cell phones inevitably your movie- going experience will be punctuated by a ringing phone
followed by a loud conversation, heedless of the disruption it causes. Tickets can be
booked ahead either by phone or through CityLine at their website. You pick them up from
an automated dispenser at the door. |
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