Hong Kong, China Hotels and City Guide

Its name translates literally to mean "fragrant harbor" but Hong Kong has come to be known for much more than that. The British foreign secretary in 1841 was quoted as describing it as nothing but a barren island with a house upon it". Lord Palmerston would no doubt be stunned to see the tremendous changes that have taken place since his visit!

You may have thought that the days of Hong Kong as a top travel destination were long gone but you would be terribly mistaken. The fact is that more than twelve years after changing hands from British to Chinese rule, this little city still packs quite a punch! Whether you prefer the sleek urban beauty of the city skyline or picturesque hiking and birding on any of the many trails throughout the countryside, Hong Kong is full of wonder at each and every turn.

About seven million call Hong Kong home, using only 10 percent of the available 1100 square kilometers on which to live but those numbers don't come close to accounting for the millions of visitors who flood into the city on a regular and ongoing basis to see what the buzz has been about for decades. Thought long held under British rule, now that Hong Kong has returned to the rule of its Motherland, affluent Chinese are seeing it as a desirable vacation destination as well. Still there is no denying the multicultural influences that are at work in this amazing city.

The official title is Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China but don't be misled - Hong Kong is largely self-governing and that's just the way they like it here. Thanks to the "one city, two systems" policy Hong Kong is able to enjoy the autonomy they have cultivate over the years with the exceptions of defense and foreign affairs. It is interesting to note the mix of traditional temples with colonial style buildings and modern architecture in the form of skyscrapers.

One half-joking visitor called it "Hong Kongcrete" after a few hours in the busy city but little did they know they were minutes from a far more rural and sublime landscape with misty mountains and pristine wilderness that offer a welcome retreat from the bustling metropolis and city atmosphere that Hong Kong is quite well known for.

Before you make the trip to Hong Kong for the first time it is highly recommended that you read through this guide as a way of familiarizing yourself with the city, its districts, attractions, shopping, food and nightlife as well as the climate and accommodations that you will no doubt want to be armed with well in advance of your arrival. There is a lot to learn so you don't miss out on all of the wonderful things that Hong Kong has to offer during your stay.

Hong Kong City Facts

Hong Kong Population: 7,182,000 (Source: UN Population Estimate Revision 2003)
China Population: 1,322,273,000 (Source: UN Population Estimate Revision 2003)
Currency: Hong Kong Dollar (HK$, HKD)
Time Zone: GMT plus eight hours, Eastern Standard Time plus 13 hours and Pacific Standard Time plus 16 hours
Language: Cantonese with English widely spoken

Hong Kong Districts

Hong Kong is located in East Asia just south of the Tropic Of Cancer. A wide natural harbor separates it from the mainland. It is often thought of by Westerners as a single city but there is much more going on here than just that! Each of several areas deserves your attention.

Hong Kong Island

This is where the original British settlement was located. Densely populated to the North with both people and architecture, the majority of Hong Kong's tallest buildings - including the famous skyline - are located on this island. Hong Kong Island is also where the best shopping, night life and center of government are located, not to mention this being the financial hub of Hong Kong.

The southern portion of Hong Kong island is far less populated and retains a much more relaxed and calm atmosphere where the most wealthy in the area have their luxurious homes and getaways. Hong Kong island is by far the most western of the islands here.

Kowloon

Pushing its way southward toward Hong Kong island from the continent of Asia is Kowloon. The name means literally "nine dragons", likely named for the hills that are now obscured by high rises. It is the most heavily populated part of Hong Kong and at one time was even known for being the most heavily populated area in the world. The center of Kowloon is most probably Nathan Road, packed tightly with shopping and accommodations, neon lights and non-stop people.

The New Territories

So named by the British who leased Hong Kong from the Chinese in 1898, the New Territories consist of industry, parks and small villages and farms. The New Territories are largely rural but in some cases have as many people there as some cities. This is a welcome escape from the urban areas of Hong Kong, especially for those who want a greener environment.

Outlying Islands

A total of 234 additional islands complete the entirety that is Hong Kong but don't be mistaken that these are all tiny and pointless locations. Lantau is one of these islands and it is twice the size of Hong Kong Island.

Hotels in Hong Kong, China