Is Hong Kong still a top destination for tourists?

Cathy Chan, 16, CCC Kei Chi Secondary School

In the eyes of tourists, an ideal destination should have a variety of attractions and Hong Kong fits the bill perfectly. Therefore, Hong Kong remains a premier tourist destination.

Hong Kong has long been known as a shoppers' paradise. From splendid shopping malls to unique street markets, visitors can surely find their favourite products at an affordable price. What's more, under the Quality Tourism Services Scheme, tourists can easily find shops and restaurants that ensure high standards.

In addition, Hong Kong boasts more than 11,000 restaurants which cater to the tastes of people from all over the world. These include the Hong Kong-style tea restaurant, cha chaan teng, and Thai, Japanese, Indian, Vietnamese and Western eateries.

Hong Kong also boasts many tourist hotspots like The Peak, Victoria Harbour, Stanley, and the giant Lantau Buddha statue. They offer spectacular scenery as well as a unique cultural insight into the city. The people are also warm and friendly and help to maintain Hong Kong's status as a top tourist destination.

Tourists flock to the city because they admire its cultural diversity and cosmopolitan lifestyle. With innovative plans, Hong Kong will be able to maintain its competitive edge and stay ahead of the pack.

Jessica Leung, 16, Our Lady of the Rosary College

This is a good question. Some people think Hong Kong is still a top tourist destination simply because millions of mainlanders visit the city every year. I don't agree.

First, leading mainland cities pose a serious threat to Hong Kong. For example, Shanghai is one of the country's economic centres and attracts a lot of tourists. It is building a Disneyland which is set to open in 2014. Besides, the Shanghai World Expo, which ended recently, was attended more than 73 million people.

The city has also replaced Hong Kong as a food and shopping paradise.

Second, tour guides have tarnished Hong Kong's image. They force mainland tourists to go shopping so they can earn commissions. This has resulted in a sharp fall in mainland package tours.

Third, Hong Kong does not have any special attractions. We have Disneyland and Ocean Park but there are similar theme parks in some Asian cities. We lack traditional attractions which could bring in a lot of tourists.

In conclusion, I believe Hong Kong is no longer a 'must-see' for foreigners. Our competitors have better facilities and new attractions. There's a shortage of ideas on what Hong Kong can do to promote the city and bring in more tourism dollars.