Hong Kong

Clinging to the southern edge of the province of Canton, Hong Kong lies on a peninsula and surrounding islands that has always been a neglected corner of the Chinese empire. Between 156 years of British rule, deadly opium wars and a strong independent movement towards democracy, Hong Kong remains a complex society lost within the Chinese national identity. The metropolis is a major Asian hub for commerce, culture and business, proudly calling itself “Asia’s World City.”

Between the luscious mountains, glorious harborside and natural conservations, the basis of Hong Kong is its sprawling beauty. This contrasts against the modernist architecture shaped by feng shui. The Hong Kong cuisine is felt in a widespread love for food that stretches from local favorites of Cantonese, Sichuan to international flavors of Japanese, French and Italian. There are endless amount to experience in this sprawling metropolis from shopping and a dynamic culture and history that is proudly its own.

Your first experience on Hong Kong’s sophisticated public transit system puts all others to shame, with 27 ferry routes simply the icing on the cake for transportation between the islands. Hong Kong has sweltering heat and humidity during the summer months, where the city is more susceptible to typhoons. Prime time for visits fall between October and December where the temperatures are pleasant. While home to all variations of Chinese cuisine and more don’t forget to dive head first into the local specialty, Cantonese. Dim sim lies at the heart of Hong Kong's culture and literally means “to touch the heart” referring to its original purpose as an accompaniment to tea. It's a prominent example of how dining is a social custom meant for socializing and bonding.