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MIKE’S SNAPSHOT REVIEW:

• WHEN: November, December, 2011
• DURATION: 8 days
• STAYED: Kowloon. Rented a 2-bedroom apt. w/ friend (3 nights), crashed in another friend’s hotel room (4 nights)

POSITIVES:

• Culture/History– It’s technically a part of China, but is independent in many ways. Ruled as a British colony since the 1800’s, lost to Japan during WWII, then finallly handed over China in 1999, Hong Kong is a wonderful mix of China and England, and East and West. It is an international financial hub where you’ll meet visitors and residents from every corner of the globe. Some neighborhoods look like Beijing, while others, London. Not to mention the HK film industry is massive and respected world-wide, especially for the action genre.
• Transportation– The city basically consists of Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula, with Hong Kong Bay in between. It is linked by a comprehensive subway system, ferries, and tremendously convenient airport express train.
• Language– Thanks to its British past, English is spoken most everywhere and is prominent on signage.  Keep in mind, most Hong Kong natives speak Cantonese, rather than the Mandarin of mainland China.
• Food– Not only can some of the best Chinese cuisine be found here, virtually any cuisine from around the world can be had.
• Nightlife- Bars and clubs aplenty.
• Shopping- street markets are legendary, high-end luxury stores abound, custom tailors are everywhere, and for those who are into electronic gadgetry, you’ll be in heaven.
• Architecture– It hurts me to say this as a native Chicagoan, but Hong Kong may just have the best city skyline I’ve ever seen, especially when viewed at night from the bay.

NEGATIVES:

• Cost– While food and shopping choices can fit any budget, hotels are at a premium and can be pricey.
• Crowds– This city is busy and packed tight. The sidewalks and trains are jammed. A tranquil city, this is not.
• Weather– It can get damn hot and muggy, which can be rough in a city built for walking and public transport. Try to avoid the hottest months.
• Distance– Yes, it’s the other side of the world, but the good news is that it’s a major transport hub with direct flights to many countries. It’s common for Asian flight itineraries to pass through Hong Kong.

MUST DO:

• Walk. Stroll through the various neighborhoods in Hong Kong Central. Grab a pint or two in Soho, and you’ll think you’re back in London. Take the world’s longest escalator. (Yes, it’s here.)
• Go to The Peak and check out the skyline.
• Go out for Dim Sum. Get a custom tailored suit made.
• If you need any kind of gadget, visit the Golden Computer Center– nerd mecca.
• Take a ferry boat between Kowloon and Hong Kong at night and marvel at the skyline.
• Eat and shop at the Ladies’ Market in Kowloon for all your cheap souvenirs and clothing. Don’t forget to haggle!

RECOMENDED?

 Absolutely!