While the name ‘Hong Kong’ means ‘Fragrant Harbour’ in English, its official name is the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Home to several territories including Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, the district retains a great deal of control over its own policies albeit foreign and defence policies which come within the purview of the Republic of China due to the taking over of the region by the British subsequent to the Opium War in 1842 and which was later administratively handed over to China. With a free market economy that has supported Hong Kong’s reputation as an international business centre, it is an Asian destination often visited by businessmen staying in hotels such as Cosmo Hotel Hong Kong. However, this is not to say that there is nothing much to see in the city. The tourist attractions Hong Kong are diverse and intriguing and can be helpfully divided into the classic landmarks, the skyline landmarks and the cultural landmarks.
The classic landmarks are those that are invariably linked with the very essence of Hong Kong and are amongst the images that are invoked at its mere mention. Thus, undoubtedly, the Victoria Harbour is amongst the classic landmarks of the region. The primary allure of Victoria Harbour lies in the beautiful picture it frames of Hong Kong’s skyline. Complete with high rise buildings and skyscrapers, the Harbour energises the city by providing a break from the monotony of concrete and artificiality. With the mountains as a beautiful backdrop, Victoria Harbour creates a beautiful picture of Hong Kong.
Atop the mountains lies Victoria Peak, the highest point in Hong Kong which is nearly 2000 feet tall. This is one classic landmark that should not be missed for it provides tourists with an excellent bird’s eye view of the island. To explore the island from sea level, the Hong Kong Ferry known as the Star Ferry is a must do. While it provides tourists with a convenient mode of transportation, it also affords them with the opportunity to admire the glamour of Hong Kong from a different perspective.
Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+
