With 150 years of colonial history and a largely Chinese population, Hong Kong is a unique fusion of Western and Eastern cultures where the old and the new live side by side. Its incense-filled temples, colonial buildings and glass-and-steel skyscrapers, along with its ancient traditions and lively festivals, have made Hong Kong a living culture experience.
Hong Kong has many ancient Chinese temples spread throughout the territory. They serve followers of Buddhism and Taoism as well as a number of deities. The most popular is Tin Hau. There are also a number of monasteries and nunneries, some in very remote areas.
Many fascinating Chinese and colonial heritage sites still exist in Hong Kong, reflecting more than 5,000 years of Chinese and more than 150 years of British colonial heritage. The following is a list of important heritage sites that are easily accessible. Government House is open on special occasions.
More details: www.discoverhongkong.com
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Renowned as the culinary capital of Asia, Hong Kong boasts more than 11,000 restaurants, many of them clustered in defined food districts. Apart from enjoying the best Cantonese and regional Chinese food, visitors can sample a full choice of authentic Asian cuisines and Western fare. Local must-try dishes are dim sum and fresh seafood, with some of the top examples found in Best of the Best award-winning restaurants.
Dim sum is a wide range of delightful Chinese snacks served in bamboo baskets accompanied by Chinese tea. Having dim sum in Hong Kong is a unique experience you shouldn't miss.
For a distinctive culinary experience, try the fresh seafood. The freshness is guaranteed as you can select live fish from tanks at the restaurant. Whether you like steamed, fried or grilled seafood, try it cooked Hong Kong-style!
The QTS Scheme makes it easy for you to find restaurants that you can trust. Just look for the QTS sign displayed prominently by restaurants that have qualified for this exclusive award.
More details: www.discoverhongkong.com
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Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Typhoon season is May to November. When a typhoon is approaching, warnings are broadcast on TV and radio, and signals indicate its significance, the latest position and expected movement of the centre of the tropical cyclone, information on the wind strength, rainfall and sea level in the territory. When typhoon signal 8 is hoisted, businesses and shops close down and flights may be cancelled. There is a separate warning for heavy rain.
Spring (April – June)
Temperature and humidity are rising. Evenings can be cool.
Summer (July – September)
Hot, humid and sunny, with occasional showers and thunderstorms. The temperture can exceed 31°
Autumn (October – December)
There are pleasant breezes, plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures. Many people regard these as the best months of the year to visit Hong Kong.
Winter (January – March)
Cool, dry and cloudy, with occasional cold fronts. The temperature can drop below 10° in urban areas.
Avg. Highest 25.8 Avg. 23.1 Avg. Lowest 21.1
Hong Kong Observatory - www.hko.gov.hk |
The legal tender is the Hong Kong dollar (HK$), which is linked to the US dollar at a rate of about 7.80 HKD to 1 USD, although exchange rates may fluctuate slightly. Interestingly, Hong Kong banknotes are issued by three banks (HSBC, Standard Chartered Bank and Bank of China), and vary in design and colour for each denomination.
Banknotes: $10 - green or purple (The purple note is issued by the government) , $20 - dark blue or light blue (old or new) , $50 - purple or green , $100 – red, $500 – brown, $1000 - yellow
Coins (issued by the government) : 10cents, 20 cents , 50 cents , $1 , $2, $5 , $10
More details: www.discoverhongkong.com |
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