The buzzing metropolis of Hong Kong lies in the northern part of Hong Kong Island and is the centre of the country’s economy, entertainment, and tourism. Known for its distinctive chic architectural landmarks (like the I.M. Pei’s Bank of China Tower), the city centre represents the cutting edge of modern design in the country. A major shopping destination, it offers slick malls; vibrant streets lined by stores; and the renowned, un-gentrified, historic Temple Night Street Market. Watch the skyscrapers and forest-clad hills go by on one of the legendary (and affordable) boat cruises, or take the tram up to the top of ‘The Peak’, the highest point on the island, for panoramas of the glittering city, the Victorian Harbour, and the green hills of the New Territories. Other highlights - among the many - include the city’s acclaimed bespoke tailors.
Set along Mainland China’s southeastern coast, the former Portuguese enclave of Macau is a small Chinese territory stretching over 30 square kilometres. Macau comprises the Macau Peninsula and the islands of Taipa and Coloane, which are connected by the Cotai Strip. Known as the world’s top gambling city, ‘The Las Vegas of Asia’ features flashy casinos and modern malls alongside traditional fortresses, ancient Chinese temples, and old faded mansions. This perfect fusion of East and West offers visitors a unique blend of Portuguese and Chinese cultural influences. Popular attractions include the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of A-Ma Temple and the Ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral; the 400-year-old Monte Fort, offering spectacular sunset views; and the Senado Square, which is the urban centre of Macau - boasting traditional Portuguese cobblestone paving lined with Neoclassical buildings.
Also known as the cradle of humanity, Beijing is the epicentre of China’s economic, political and educational hub. The city is famous for its Hutongs which are formed by lines of traditional courtyard residences (siheyuan). Since the mid-20th century, many hutongs have been demolished to make way for new roads and buildings. A visit to Beijing will give you a glimpse into China’s imperial past. Highlights of Beijing include: Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and the Olympic Stadium; it is also the gateway for the opportunity to climb the legendary Great Wall of China.
Located on the estuary of the famed Yangtze River, the renowned international metropolis of Shanghai is a bold and brash mix of East and West. It is home to some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers, historical shikumen houses blending the styles of Chinese houses with European design flair, and it has one of the richest collections of Art Deco buildings in the world. Must-see attractions include the Yuyuan Gardens, loaded with classical Chinese architecture; the many traditional Chinese tea houses serving a wide range of tea along with traditional delicacies; Shanghai Museum with its impressive ancient bronze exhibit; and even a Chinese take on Madame Tussauds which offers a fascinating mix of Chinese and western figures, from film stars to athletes and world leaders.
