Family Holidays in Hong Kong

The abundance of discovery to be found in Hong Kong can be overwhelming at first glance. Although compact and densely populated, there is much room to see and explore in this Far East wonder. The neon-lit high rise buildings and mirroring towers on the waterfront represent the keystones of the city, serving as icons of its fast paced business life.

As one of the safest countries in the region, Hong Kong is well organised and although busy, things move quickly and efficiently. 

The city is divided into four main areas: Kowloon, Hong Kong Island, The New Territories, and the outlying islands. Kowloon and the new territories are spread out on the peninsula. Facing the southern side of the famous harbour, Hong Kong Island is easy to access from the mainland.

The city centre is based around Victoria Harbour where the main business district operates and where you will most likely spend your time sightseeing, shopping, and dining.

There are a variety of things to see and do during your visit to Hong Kong. Listed below are a few of W&O's must-see highlights:

Tsing Ma Bridge - the world's longest road and rail suspension bridge and a marvel of modern engineering. It provides a link between Hong Kong for the high speed Airport Express.

Victoria Peak - the first choice on most visitors wish list. In approximately 7 minutes you will be up in the clouds via the Peak Tram to view a panorama of modern skyscrapers and mountains. The tram has been in operation since 1888.

Star Ferry - take a nostalgic trip across Hong Kong's famous and picturesque harbour.

Man Mo Temple - a colourful mid 19th century temple dedicated to the Taoist Gods of Literature and War.

Wan Chai - famous as the home of Suzy Wong as portrayed in the 1957 movie. Today Wan Chai is more notable for its array of small shops and its trendy nightlife.

Causeway Bay and Happy Valley -  extremely popular for shopping and entertainment. The area also boast one of the greatest horseracing venues in the world at Happy Valley.

Aberdeen Harbour - ringed with high rise housing estates Aberdeen is still home to the fishermen who live on their high-sterned varnished wood junks. It is also home to the famous Jumbo floating restaurant.

New Territories - sprawling between Kowloon Peninsula and mainland China, the 287 square miles of the New Territories area provides a rich tapestry of scenic contrasts. Hilly, rolling woodlands, new towns, duck farms, wildlife reserves, ornate temples and bustling markets.

Sai Kung Peninsula - in the eastern part of the New Territories, the peninsula of Sai Kung is a designated prime recreational area. It is a popular destination for walkers, picnickers, swimmers and yachtsmen.

Lantau Island - a must for hikers and lovers of the great outdoors. Home to the world's largest seated outdoor buddha and the tranquil fishing village of Tai O.
 

Bars and Nightclubs - When the city shuts down for the day Hong Kong's nightlife kicks in! This is a late night city with British pubs, American bars, karaoke clubs and all-night dance clubs. Lan Kwai Fong is the city's premier night time entertainment spot with dozens of bars, restaurants and night spots crammed into a 3-block radius. A quick walk on the Central Mid-levels escalator will take you to nearby SoHo (south of Hollywood Road) packed with upmarket eateries and bars. Wan Chai, just east of Central, features a number of bars and nightclubs that are still going strong when the sun comes up.

Performing Arts - The arts are a significant part of Hong Kong's cultural landscape. Highlights include Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, one of the largest of its kind in the world, the internationally recognised Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, in residence from September to July, the Hong Kong Ballet, the City Contemporary Dance Company and the Hong Kong Dance Company Chinese Opera.

Museums and Galleries - Blessed by its cultural connection to mainland China, Hong Kong's museums and galleries showcase collections of Chinese antiquities dating back thousands of years. They include University Museum and Art Gallery, the Hong Kong Museum of Art, the Hong Kong Science Museum, the Hong Kong Space Museum and the Hong Kong Museum of History.

Arts and Cultural Festivals - The Hong Kong Arts Festival is held each February/March and showcases renowned artists from around the world. The Hong Kong International Film Festival is held every April, featuring a good selection of local and regional films. Other notable festivals include Le French May and the International Arts Carnival held in July/August.

Shopping-  the number one pastime in Hong Kong. There is something for everyone here and if you time it right - July to September and December to February - the city erupts with sale fever with discounts of up to 70%! Local favourites include Chinese Arts and Antiques - Hollywood Road and its side streets in Central are the favourites for this with silks, pottery, figurines and furniture. Asian Crafts - Korean cabinets, Thai buddhas, Indian brassware and Indonesian batiks. A favourite spot for this is Cat Street or Upper Lascar Row. Tailor-Made Clothing - a Hong Kong tradition! The days of the 24 hour suit are gone but you can still pick up a custom tailored suit over a couple of days. hand made shoes are also an option not to be overlooked.

Electronics - Every gizmo on the planet is available, all at tax free prices. Be sure to check the selling prices though as many items are not the bargains they may appear to be! Fashion - For cutting edge fashion head for Beverley Commercial Centre and Rice Commercial Building  in Tsim Sha Tsui or Island Beverley in Causeway Bay. Local Markets - These markets are a way of life with a lively atmosphere all of their own. Popular options include Temple Street Market, Goldfish Market, Ladies Market, the Flower Market, Yuen Po Street Bird garden and the historic Stanley Market. Department Stores and Shopping Malls - a vast choice of outlets located all over the city. From Kowloon to Mongkok, Pacific Place to Citygate.
 

Hong Kong as well as the Far East in general is considered one of the safest regions in the world. As advised when travelling to all tourist spots, be aware of your surroundings and be cautious when travelling to unknown areas, particularly at night.

As a precaution, also leave valuables in your hotel room safe before venturing out during the day to avoid petty theft.

Hong Kong has a sub tropical climate. The winter months of November to March can be cool, and a jacket will probably be required. The spring and early autumn months are particularly pleasant. The mid summer months can be hot and humid, with tropical storms and occasionally cyclones or typhoons.

Spring - March to mid-May - Temperature and humidity rising. Spring evenings may be cool. Temperatures range from 18 degrees Celsius to 27 degrees Celsius. Humidity about 82%.

Summer - late May to mid-September - Hot and humid. Temperatures range from 26 degrees Celsius to 33 degrees Celsius. Humidity about 86%.

Autumn - late September to early December - temperature and humidity drop. Clear sunny days. Temperatures range from 18 degrees Celsius to 28 degrees Celsius. Humidity 72%.

Winter - mid December to February - Cool with low humidity. temperature can drop to 10 degrees Celsius. Temperatures range from 14 degrees Celsius to 20 degrees Celsius. Humidity 72%.
 

AVERAGE CLIMATE IN HONG KONG

Vaccination certificates are usually not required. Check with your doctor when making travel arrangements as requirement may change.

The principal airlines serving Hong Kong's prestigious Chep Lap Kok airport from the UK are:

• Qantas- flights leave London Heathrow twice daily with an 11 hour 45 minute flight to Hong Kong International Airport. Regional add-ons are available on request.
  
• Virgin Atlantic - flights leave London Heathrow daily with a 12 hour 20 minute flight time directly to Hong Kong International Airport.

Cantonese is the Chinese dialect and is spoken by the majority of people in Hong Kong. English is widely used by government officials and other business professionals and is also commonly used in most areas across the city that are frequented by tourists.

The local currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HK$). Denominations are HK$10, HK$20, HK$50, HK$100, HK$500 and HK$1,000 notes. Coins come in denominations of 10, 20 and 50 cents and 1, 2 5 and 10 dollars. Travellers Cheques are widely accepted and money may also be withdrawn from local ATM machines.

The time difference from the UK is GMT +8.