The Pearl of Orient: Hong Kong

I remember learning in geography on Penang being the ‘Pearl of Orient’. That aside, another famous “Pearl of Orient’ in Asia I want to talk about today is none other than HONG KONG.

Situated on the Southeastern coastline of China, Hong Kong is a vibrant city that has grown so great that it has now brand itself as ‘Asia’s World City’. What (used-to-be) British Dependent Territory of Hong Kong consists of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories and more than 200 outlying islands off the coast of Hong Kong.

3 main Hong Kong districts: Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, New Territories

But there are 3 main areas in Hong Kong which attracts the throngs of visitors and tourists to the Pearl of Orient in all seasons, namely Hong Kong Island (also known as Victoria), Kowloon, and New Territories.

1. Hong Kong Island
You will find familiar names such as Central, Western, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay, Aberdeen, and South Coast in Hong Kong Island. Head over to Central if you want to feel the vibe of government headquarters, financial hub, central transportation hub, and exclusive shopping. Or walk around Western market where you can see the most typical Chinatown of all. Wan Chai is more an artsy district where colourful nightlife and arts centres is offered to its people. Try out at some of the excellent ethnic restaurants there too! If you want to seek a more nature’s cultural experience, Aberdeen is an old fishing port that offers you scenic delights. You can also hang out for a relaxing afternoon at the beaches of Repulse Bay, Deep Water Bay, or the fishing village of Stanley.

Have a cup of tea at Wan Chai

Old boats at Aberdeen

2. Kowloon
The name ‘Kowloon’ translate to nine dragons. The most famous area of Kowloon is Tsim Sha Tsui. Catch some Hong Kong celebrities at this neon light districts where major shopping (Nathan Road), dining and entertainment areas congregate together to give you the full blast of modern city life rhythm. Another two areas name you should remember is Yau Ma Tai and Mong Kok. You will be fascinated at the many specialty shops and open markets with names such as Ladies Market, Jade Market, Yuen Po Bird Market, Flower Market, Goldfish Market. It’s pretty straight forward when it comes to naming places here and I’m sure it’s not hard to find the places where you want to visit.

Tsim Sha Tsui Street

6 floors for you to shop until you drop!

3. New Territories
Though New Territories cover a large land area, it serves more of a rural retreat to the residents. You’ll be charmed by the traditional villages, walking trails, parks, and temples. It’s not all that backward at New Territories as many chic New Towns are slowly emerging in various areas. You can walk the Lung Yeuk Tau Heritage Trail to find out about the stories behind the neighbourhood, make some wishes at Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees and Tin Hau Temple, and be delighted while you explore the streets of Sai Kung.

City Parks

Sai Kung Walking Trail

But most of all, in Hong Kong, no matter where you go, be it Hong Kong Island, Kowloon or New Territories, it is another food heaven that will be sure to make your stomach happy. But I’ll let you explore, and you come back and let me know what’s the best to eat and where to try them! Let’s go Hong Kong!

Re-Discover Hong Kong

To me, the name “Hong Kong” sounds familiar as I grew up watching Hong Kong movies and dramas. Almost my whole life has been impacted by Hong Kong artistes and their culture. Basically, everyone knows who people like Andy Lau, Jacky Cheung, Tony Leung and Kelly Chen are. Having a chance to visit Hong Kong is one of my best experiences ever.

There are a few places where every visitors must go while discovering Hong Kong, especially first time visitors. Why? Simply because these are the basic spots where you get to understand Hong Kong more!

1) Victoria Peak
A place where you can embrace the whole view of Hong Kong! Take a tram up the hill and upon reaching, you’ll see the stunning views of Hong Kong city skyline. The Madame Tussauds Wax Museum is also located on the Peak. You will find your favourite singers, actors, politicians, royal families and many more here (in wax!)

2) Aberdeen Fishing Village
You would discover another kind of experience here in the fishing village. Take a boat ride around and you’ll know what I mean. It will bring you around the village. Do expect a lot of boats, parked in the middle of the sea. These are the home of fishermen who go out the sea to catch fish. They live in the boats which are facilitated like a home. Some are even installed with air-conditioners!

3) Repulse Bay
Yet, another landmark of Hong Kong. Never leave Hong Kong without dropping by this tourists’ attraction. There’s a temple here where you may want to offer your prayers here. Also, you will see a lot of bungalows and high-end condominium built by the seaside and along the hillside. It is said that the rich and famous live here. Could it the good feng-shui here?

4) Victoria Harbour
This is the place where we always see in Hong Kong dramas. You may want to take a ferry ride at the Star Ferry jetty and witness the beautiful scenery of Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. Around 8pm daily, do not miss the Symphony of Lights which is recognized as the World’s Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show. Within walking distance, you will reach Avenue of Stars where hand prints of famous people are placed on this stretch of walkway. You can also find our very own Dato’ Michelle Yeoh’s here!

There are definitely more to discover in Hong Kong. Grab hot seats here before they are out!

Where dreams come true...

• Anaheim, California

• Orlando, Florida

• Tokyo, Japan

• Paris, France

• Hong Kong

Can you tell me a similarity that these 5 places share?

Hint:

Yes! You got it right! It’s Disneyland!

I remember the time when I was still a little girl. I would excitedly read my Mickey magazine from cover-to-cover when it got delivered to my classroom. I would have my Minnie Mouse stuffed toy accompany me to Disney Land in my dreams. I would watch every Disney cartoons more than a zillion times.

I am proudly a Disney fan!

Are you one too?

Even if you’re not, Disneyland has a place for everyone. Whether you are going there with friends, with your special love one, with your family… expect a great time there!

I did! It was awesome! Last year, I just had my chance experiencing childhood again at Walt Disney World, Orlando in Florida, USA. I giggled like a little girl as I explored the four parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, MGM, and Animal Kingdom. But that’s not where I want to talk about today. With H1N1 threatening so many lives in the US, let’s go to an alternative that is equally nice, and much more nearer to us– Disneyland, Hong Kong.

Disneyland Hong Kong encompasses Fantasyland, Adventureland, and Tomorrowland. Before you actually get to the main entrance to these enchanted lands, you’ll walk through the exciting Main Street, USA.

Here’s to give you a tiny glimpse of magic for you at what you’ll find at Disneyland, Hong Kong, where dreams come true.

courtesy by: www.kahsoon.com