The Chinese Special Administrative Region of Hong Kong is located on the Southern Coast of China, a rugged, mountainous peninsula jutting out into the South China Sea.
Over seven million people, of mainly Chinese origin, somehow manage to jam themselves into 1100 square kilometres, most of which is inhospitable! That means, there are 6480 people per square kilometre, as opposed to Australia’s 6.
Concentration is the key to the spirit of the world’s most vertical city, boasting over 7500 skyscrapers. The brimming, bustling energy of the state is the magic ingredient, a place where steamy footpaths overflow and constant chirping of conversation fills the air. A place where 90% of the citizens rely solely on public transport and night traffic, a long stream of supercars, resembles a slithering neon python.
Hong Kong was under British rule from 1842 until 1997. Despite monolithic modernisation, rendering Hong Kong one of the world’s major financial centres, shades of Colonial splendour are everpresent. High tea, a gin and tonic
The tax haven status of the region has given rise to a fantastic, often lavish culture. Dining and shopping are primary pastimes of residents and visitors alike: the choices are endless. Hong Kong is best at the far ends of the spectrum: the cheap and the horribly expensive. Delight in the street vendors’ delicious beef brisket soup or fried noodles, the hawkers’ acres of “genuine” designer clothing or splash on brand names in retail palaces where you are treated like royalty followed by a 12 course degustation menu prepared by celebrity chefs, served on the 72nd floor.
Locals are notoriously wild for events. Highlights are The Rugby Sevens and Dragon Boat Races, however, gambling is the national passion. Every year, over $72 billion dollars of bets are laid down! This primarily occurs at the Hong Kong Jockey Club’s aptly named Happy Valley Racetrack, a day at the races is a day to be remembered. If you win big, stay at The Peninsula. They have 14 matching Rolls Royce Silver Phantoms with monogrammed leather and signature paint jobs. Enough said.
Sights not to miss: Victoria Peak and a ferry or Junk Boat trip across Victoria Harbour. The views are phenomenal.
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