Visually stunning Hong Kong offers a warp-speed ‘shop till you drop’ lifestyle combined with enclaves of tradition. It is a popular tourist destination and one of the world’s major business centers. Hong Kong’s 260 outlying islands, few of which are inhabited, provide a tranquil alternative to its frenetic energy elsewhere. Hong Kong Island is an eclectic mix of modern skyscrapers, colonial buildings and traditional temples. The English-language name "Hong Kong" is an approximate phonetic rendering of the Hakka or Cantonese, meaning "fragrant harbour" or "incense harbour". The original "fragrant harbour" was a small inlet between the island of Ap Lei Chau and the south side of Hong Kong Island, now known as Aberdeen Harbour in English, but still called "Heung Gong Tsai" (Little Hong Kong) in Cantonese. The fragrance came from incense grown to the north of Kowloon that was stored around Aberdeen Harbour for export, before the development of Victoria Harbour. The village of Heung Gong Tsuen on Ap Lei Chau is perhaps the earliest recorded use of the name.On 1 July 1997; Hong Kong became a Special Administrative Region of China in an arrangement lasting 50 years. Under the ‘one country, two systems’ policy, Hong Kong maintains its own political, social and economic systems. English remains an official language and Hong Kong’s border with China still exists.

Beginning as a trading port, Hong Kong became a dependent territory of the United Kingdom in 1842, and remained so until the transfer of its sovereignty to the People's Republic of China in 1997. Along with Macau, Hong Kong is one of two special administrative regions and is generally not considered as part of mainland China. Under the "one country, two systems" policy, Hong Kong has a high degree of autonomy, is largely self-governing, and maintains a highly capitalist economy. Renowned for its expansive skyline and natural setting, Hong Kong is one of the world's leading financial capitals and a major business and cultural hub. Its identity as a cosmopolitan centre where east meets west is reflected in its cuisine, cinema, music and traditions, and although the population is predominantly Chinese, residents and expatriates of other ethnicities form a small but significant segment of society.

Geography
Hong Kong is located in East Asia, just south of the Tropic of Cancer. Hong Kong Island is 32km (20 miles) east of the mouth of Pearl River and 135km (84 miles) southeast of Canton. It is separated from the mainland by a good natural harbor. Hong Kong Island was ceded to Britain in 1842 by the Treaty of Nan king; and the Kowloon Peninsula (south of Boundary Street and Stonecutters Island) in 1860 by the Convention of Peking. The area of Boundary Street to Shenzhen River and a group of 260 islands, now known as the New Territories, were leased to Britain in 1898 for a period of 99 years. The New Territories (plus the 260 islands) comprise 891 sq km (380 sq miles). Shortage of land suitable for development has led to reclamation from the sea, principally from the seafronts of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.

Official Languages: Chinese, English

Demonym: Hongkonger

Currency: Hong Kong Dollar (HKD)

Time Zone: HKT (UTC + 8)

Internet TLD: .hk

Calling Code: +852

Visa formalities for hong kong:

UK nationals: Visas are not required for travel by UK passport holders endorsed British Citizen for periods of 180 days or less. British Overseas Citizens, British Subjects, British Protected Persons and nationals of British Dependent Territories may stay for up to 90 days).

Japan Nationals: Visas are not required for travel by Japanese passport holders for periods of 90 days or less (an extension of up to 10 days is possible). Passports must be valid for at least 30 days from date of arrival.

Americans: Visas are not required for holiday travel by US passport holders for periods of 30 days or less (an extension of up to 10 days is possible). Passports must be valid for at least 30 days from date of arrival.

Canadians: Visas are not required for travel by Canadian passport holders for periods of 30 days or less (an extension of up to 10 days is possible). Passports must be valid for at least 30 days from date of arrival.

Australians: Visas are not required for travel by Australian passport holders for periods of 30 days or less (an extension of up to 10 days is possible). Passports must be valid for at least 30 days from date of arrival.

South Africans: Visas are not required for travel by South African for tourist visits of up to 30 days (an extension of up to 10 days is possible), and can travel on a temporary passport. Otherwise passports must be valid for at least 30 days.

Passport Note
All visitors must show evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.

Passports
Passport valid for at least six months after the period of intended visit required by all.

Types of Visa and Cost
Tourist; Business (single- and multiple-entry); visas generally cost HK$135, but this varies according to nationality and nature of visit. Enquire at the Chinese Consulate (or Consular section at the Embassy) or the Hong Kong Immigration Department for details. Transit: HK$70.

Validity
Three months. Extensions are possible for about HK$135. Enquire at the Immigration Department in Hong Kong or at the nearest Chinese Embassy (or Consular section).

Applications to:
Chinese Consulate (or Consular section at the Embassy), Hong Kong Economic Office or the Hong Kong Immigration Department.

Application Requirements

Passport valid for at least six months with photocopies of the relevant pages of information. (b) Completed application form. (c) Valid travel documents (onward or return tickets, unless on transit to China (PR) or Macau (SAR), and accommodation bookings). (d) Sufficient funds to cover duration of stay. (e) Two passport-size photos. (f) Evidence of employment (employment certificate, company letter etc). (g) Fee. (h) For business visas, a letter of invitation from a ministry, firm or an official Hong Kong organization is required, accompanied by a copy of the sponsor's Hong Kong identity card.

Working Days Required

Five (if the application is processed by a Chinese Consulate or Embassy); four to six weeks if the application needs to be considered by the Hong Kong Immigration Department. Note that there is no refund if the application is turned down.

Passport and Visa Information

Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in the UK

6 Grafton Street, London W1S 4EQ, UK

Tel: (020) 7499 9821.

Website: www.hketolondon.gov.hk

The Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the USA deals with enquiries relating to Hong Kong (see China (PR) section.)

Hong Kong Immigration Department

2nd Floor, Immigration Tower, 7 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong

Tel: 2824 6111.

Attractions & places to visit in hong kong:

THe Peak

There's a reason why The Peak is one of the most popular attractions in Hong Kong: It is absolutely incredible! Looking down from The Peak you'll be amazed by the spectacular view of the surrounding city skyline, the world-famous Victoria Harbour and Kowloon, towering skyscrapers and peaceful green hillsides. Getting there is an unforgettable trip. There's nothing in the world like the Peak Tram. Pulled by steel cables, the tram climbs 373 metres (about 1,200 feet). It's so steep that the buildings you pass look like they're leaning at a 45°angle! Whether you're going up or coming down, you'll love this trip.

Ocean Park

Opened in 1977, Ocean Park is one of Hong Kong’s favourite attractions, featuring rides, exhibits and conservation facilities. Ocean Park is located on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, covering more than 870,000 square metres of land. There are three attraction areas, which are the Lowland, the Headland and Tai Shue Wan. The three areas are connected by a cable car and an outdoor escalator, which is the second longest in Hong Kong. No trip to Ocean Park would be complete without a stop at the Hong Kong Jockey Club Giant Panda Habitat to see the four giant pandas. The two newest additions, Ying Ying and Le Le joined long-time residents An An and Jia Jia in this world-class panda facility. The park is also home to a fascinating Sea Jelly Spectacular, featuring more than 1,000 sea jellies of all sizes from all over the world. The Sea Jelly Spectacular offers a sensational undersea voyage for you to experience this most amazing undersea creature. The whole family can also enjoy Sky Star at Sky Fair, a huge helium-filled balloon measuring 22 metres in diameter which soars more than 100 metres into the sky. Other popular attractions have included the Ocean Theatre, Abyss Turbo Drop, the Mine Train and new and fun-filled entertainment facilities are introduced from time to time and the Master Development Plan is now underway.

Ngong Ping 360

The Ngong Ping 360 experience starts with a 25 minute cable car ride from Tung Chung to a culturally themed village high atop a mountain plateau on Lantau Island. It's here at the Ngong Ping Village, that your family can enjoy three great attractions and a choice of shops and eateries, all on this picturesque 1.5-hectare site.

The Walking With Buddha

The Walking with Buddha multimedia facility takes you through the life of Siddhartha Gautama - the man who became Buddha - and along his path to enlightenment. Travelling through the various stages of Siddhartha's life, you will witness his transition from being a Prince at Court to reaching supreme awareness and becoming Buddha. You will also learn about the Buddha's teachings through a variety of themed scenes and activities.

Monkey’s Tale Theatre

The Monkey's Tale Theatre presents a charming and comical 'show' inspired by the famous Buddhist Jataka stories. Set in a magical courtyard under the branches of a majestic Bodhi Tree, this story will engage and inspire guests of all ages. Computer generated animation, combined with special effects and surround sound, will engage your senses and immerse you in the 'monkey's tale'. Be amused by the antics of the three monkey friends, as they travel on a journey of greed, gluttony and friendship.

Hong Kong Park / Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware

An oasis of green amid the urban landscape, Hong Kong Park features an aviary, greenhouse, the Hong Kong Visual Arts Centre, fountains, lily ponds, playgrounds, a restaurant and even a marriage registry. The aviary features more than 150 species of birds in a carefully designed tropical "rainforest".

Knutsford Terrace & Knutsford Steps

Amidst the hustle and bustle and the neon of Tsim Sha Tsui is an eating oasis offering a memorable dining experience. It's called Knutsford Terrace and is located right behind the Miramar Hotel on Nathan Road. This collection of eateries has transformed the area into a culinary nirvana offering food lovers more great dining options in this, the Culinary Capital of Hong Kong. It's a smorgasbord of taste treats that is sure to delight. Befitting this international eating oasis, this district is packed with gourmets keen to sample the culinary delights that Hong Kong can offer.

Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong Disneyland invites visitors into the legendary fairytale kingdom that celebrates the spirit of fantasy, the world of tomorrow and a forever-young sense of adventure. Mickey Mouse will welcome you to the happiest place on Earth complete with attractions exclusively designed for Hong Kong. Families visiting the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort will have magical journeys through four themed lands, namely Main Street U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventure land and tomorrow land, plus two Disney-style hotels. Hong Kong Disneyland will offer a diverse range of food at various restaurants in the park. In addition there are specialty stores selling Disney memorabilia and souvenirs in each themed land and at the two hotels.

‘It’s a small world’

Disney’s world-famous ‘it’s a small world’ takes you on a leisurely boat journey across the continents to discover a fresh child-like perspective on the world as you encounter animated singing dolls in their colorful costumes. This attraction has been specially adapted for Asian audiences and with its message of mutual understanding, peace, love and friendship, the whole family is bound to be delighted with this newest Disney attraction in Hong Kong.

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

Located on the Wan Chai waterfront is one of Hong Kong's most impressive and stunning pieces of architecture. The Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, with its sweeping sails and vast glass windows, is a striking visual testament to Hong Kong's ongoing development. Thanks to its wide range of state-of-the-art facilities, the HKCEC is also an ideal venue for exhibitions, trade shows and international conventions. The HKCEC was the site of the handover when Hong Kong was returned to the motherland in 1997; an event commemorated by the adjacent Bauhinia Square that is a huge attraction for mainland visitors.

Central Plaza

Located on reclaimed land in North Wan Chai, the 78-storey (374 m) Central Plaza is among the tallest buildings in Asia. After dusk, bright neon rods at the top of the building change color each quarter-hour, creating the city's most visible timepiece. It is easily accessible when walking from the Wan Chai MTR to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The vast 30 m height lobby is a palatial vision of marble, paintings and real-life palm trees.

The Center

Best view at night, this soaring harbourside skyscraper with a height of 350 m or 80 storeys located on the edge of Sheung Wan is decorated top to bottom with the latest computerized neon lighting. The Center has a vivid low-voltage neon light system consisting of 8,784 red, green and blue tubes that create a slowly changing light show during the night. It is an amazing and entertaining synchronized spectacle of color.

Climate of hong kong:

Hong Kong experiences four distinct seasons, with the climate influenced in winter by the north-northeast monsoon and in summer by the south-southwest monsoon. Summers are very hot, with the rainy season running from June to August. Spring and autumn are warm with occasional rain and cooler evenings. Winter can be cold, but most days are mild. There is a risk of typhoons and tropical storms from April to October, although direct hits are rare.

Lightweight clothing during warmer months, with warmer clothes for spring and autumn evenings. It should be noted that even during the hottest weather, a jacket or pullover will be required for the sometimes fierce air conditioning indoors. Warm medium weights are best during winter. Waterproofing is advisable during summer rains.