Out and about
From sightseeing on Lantau Island to an exciting night out at the races, check out these top destinations for the busy visitor. Read through the brief descriptions of some of Hong Kong's attractions. Match them with the names below.
This is the heart of nightlife in Central. Once the expatriate haunt for eating, drinking and dancing, the popular party area is now frequented by a mix of locals and tourists. Lunch and dinner can be enjoyed at a variety of venues, from high-end restaurants serving international cuisine to cheap, market-style eateries and snack outlets. Drinkers can explore the many themed bars that attract different types of crowds. Nearby is the popular Fringe Club gallery/restaurant/bar venue.
Located on Lantau Island, it is a monumental attraction - literally. The 26-metre-tall bronze statue sits atop a hill near the serene Po Lin Monastery. The monks here serve a good vegetarian lunch for a nominal fee.
After shopping, gambling is the next favourite pastime for Hong Kong people. From September to June, this activity takes over. Experience the thrill of the tracks by day (Saturdays or Sundays in Sha Tin) or by night (Wednesdays in Happy Valley).
The shopaholic high one gets out of this place on a weekend is a 'must-try' experience. To truly enjoy this heady experience, be prepared for the crush of the crowds, with their shopping bags and mobile phones. The retail choices are endless: malls, department stores, markets, couture boutiques, trendy shops and streetwear hang-outs. Victoria Park is located nearby.
This is a tourist hot spot, with its endless shopping choices, gourmet dining, hotels and cultural adventures. Shopaholics head for the boutiques, and culture-vultures gravitate to the Cultural Centre, Museum of Art, Museum of History, Science Museum and Space Museum. When you are through with the shopping and the museums, take a rest on the promenade. Also check out Kowloon Park, with its leafy walks, lakes and aviaries (plus a swimming pool complex, at $19 a swim).
For seaside ambience and village life charm, visit this place. Haggle on clothes, arts and crafts, knick-knacks and gifts, or dine alfresco at any of the many cafes and restaurants. Nearby sights include an old police station, a military cemetery, beaches and a Tin Hau Temple. On the bus ride, stop off at Repulse Bay or Deep Water Bay beaches.
ANSWERS: 1.Lan Kwai Fong 2.The Big Buddha 3.Horse-racing 4.Causeway Bay 5.Tsim Sha Tsui 6.Stanley
