Reuters Business Traveller

Hong Kong – Overview

The glittering high rises and frenziedly fast pace of Hong Kong have long captured the world’s imagination. Asia’s most dynamic city, population seven million, is a wonder of architecture and engineering, revealing the enterprising spirit that’s been a major factor in its success over the last century.

Ferry-scattered Hong Kong bay is one of the world’s most staggering city vistas. By day the cacophony of skyscrapers extend as far as the eye can see in either direction; by night, their silhouettes are only clarified by the neon advertising wrapped around their tops: Philips, Panasonic, LG, Siemens and Sharp compete for attention.

Only intrepid visitors know what lies above and behind the towering pillars of glass and steel that dominate the territory’s landscape; Hong Kong is much wilder than anyone gives it credit for. Incredibly, 70 per cent of land area here is covered by undeveloped open land, of which an impressive 40 per cent is protected National Park. This abundant natural terrain presents the perfect foil for the enjoyment of country pursuits like walking, trekking, bird watching, even dolphin spotting, all just minutes away from the city centre.

Back in the city, find some of the world’s best Chinese and international cuisine, stunning hotels, unlimited shopping, captivating horse racing at Happy Valley, and a relentless, debauched, expatriate-driven nightlife. Stressful, energetic… this is just what makes Hong Kong such an exciting place to be.

Money: Hong Kong Dollar (HK$).

Visitors can exchange currency at the airport, though rates are usually better in exchange offices (preferably banks) in Kowloon and on Hong Kong Island. Local currency can also be obtained by using internationally recognised credit cards at banks’ ATMs.