Hong Kong, China - November 5 to 10, 2002

Hong Kong - "City of Life" - is a small place that lives large. Hong Kong, with its unusual blend of East and West, of Chinese roots and British colonial heritage, of ultramodern sophistication and ancient traditions, is one of the most diverse and exciting cities in the world. It is an international city brimming with energy and dynamism, yet also a place where peace and tranquillity are easily found.

Hong Kong was handed over to China on July 1, 1997 but one can still find influences from both cultures - British and Chinese - in this vibrant city: monolithic skyscrapers wedged between squatter huts, Christian churches next to Taoist and Buddhist temples, minimalist fusion restaurants besides noodle shops and food stalls. The meeting of these two worlds shakes an invigorating cocktail of color and aroma, taste and sensation.

The City of Life has something for everyone no matter what time of year you visit this city:

• When it comes to sightseeing, you will be amazed by just how much there is to see and do. You can be inspired by the beauty of the wild mountains and thrilled by the bustle of the urban heartland all in one day. My most favorite spots in Hong Kong were on the one hand, the breathtaking skyline of the city seen either from atop the Peak or across Victoria Harbor and on the other hand, the laid-back atmosphere of Po Lin Monastery with its huge Tian Tan Buddha Statue on Lantau Island.
• When it comes to a serious shopping experience, Hong Kong has everything in abundance, from bustling open-air markets to cool, glitzy malls. I had my best shopping experience definitely at Stanley Market at the Southeast side of Hong Kong Island, whereas I was really disappointed by the Temple Street Night Market (too touristy and too crowded).
• With a certain amount of money at your disposal you can be pampered in some of the finest hotels in the world and sample through the mouth-watering selection of cuisines from East, West, and everywhere in between. For me, to be frank, food was too expensive in Hong Kong.
• ... and lots more!

Hong Kong has much much more to offer… for me, this first stop on our Southeast Asia trip was a great (but expensive) start. This city truly fascinated me!

More on Hong Kong - check out the respective Online Diary entry.

Following you find a small selection of my pictures - enjoy!

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