SAR, PRC

Hong Kong has known many changes in its long history. Although British for 99 years, it is now a Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China. Today, Hong Kong is a bustling, vibrant, exotic mix of both the British and Chinese cultures, although topped with a purely unique Hong Kong taste of its own. Hong Kong is one of the fastest growing cities in the world, and the pace there is mostly very fast urban, with a touch of ancient Chinese. You can dine on traditional soup, noodles and black eggs, but also sample more than 9000 restaurants featuring every imaginable international cuisine. You can visit temples, monasteries, nunneries, cathedrals and every type of religious monument, but also see Tai Chi performed in local parks every morning. Hong Kong has a love of festivals, most notable among which are the Chinese New Year, the Spring Lantern Festival, the Cheung Chau Bun Festival, and the festivals of the Dragon Boat, the Seven Sisters and the Hungry Ghost. Certainly, Hong Kong has a well-earned reputation as a shopper's paradise, whether you're looking for malls, boutiques, or the unique open-air market experience. Some of the local specials are jade, pearls, jewelry, leather goods, custom-made clothing, electronics and cutting-edge technology. Beyond shopping and dining, there are so many things to do in Hong Kong, you'll never be bored. Walking around the city of Hong Kong is a thrilling experience in itself, but you can also hike, bike or swim, although swimming is recommended only at a patrolled beach. There are 23 protected country parks for nature lovers, including wildlife sanctuaries and wetlands. And, of course, Disneyland Hong Kong is a great diversion for the young or young-at-heart. Whatever you enjoy, you'll find much to fascinate and captivate all of your senses in the wonder that is Hong Kong.