The exotic Far East is personified by Hong Kong. This cosmopolitan city, once known as the most eastern of western cities, is now regarded the most western of eastern cities. Its colorful past is revealed through its distinct blend of carefully preserved colonial buildings overlooked by skyscrapers designed by the worlds leading architects. You have endless leisure activities to enjoy in the shopping and financial hub of Asia. Attend the theater, view the arts, taste an array of international food or visit one of the numerous world-class museums and monuments dotted throughout the four districts of Hong Kong. A great way to get your bearings is to take a sightseeing cruise in Hong Kong harbor.

The Majestic Peak
The famous Victoria Peak looms above the crowded streets of Kowloon and the bustling waterway of the harbor. The best way to reach the top is on The Peak Tram, a finicular railway which takes a steep path up the lush mountain. Views of the harbor and the city spread below are breathtaking. A visit at night is one of the wonders of the world.

High Stakes
A wander along the Hong Kong streets to unearth antiques or select designer clothes will thrill. The abundance of choice and symbols of the wealthy island are further magnified by the luxury cars cruising the curb beside you. There is no better demonstration of that wealth than at Happy Valley Racecourse, renowned as the entertainment venue that truly showcases the money loving tune of Hong Kong. The weekly Wednesday races are enjoyed by everyone. Flowing champagne and gourmet food served in private boxes is standard fare for corporate hospitality, while blue-collar workers enjoy simple food and beer in the stands. The picturesque evening races are filled with suspense set within the ring of skyscrapers. The high stakes races are run on the weekends at suburban Sha Tin Racecourse.

Symbolic Jewelry Abounds
Hong Kong has more jewelry stores per square mile than any other city in the world. Gems are imported duty free from around the globe. Jade is the most popular item purchased. The Chinese believe that jade protects wearers against illness and wards off bad luck. Pearls, one of the "eight jewels" have long been a symbol of purity in China. These miracles of nature, lustrous sea water and fresh water cultured pearls are available in all shapes, sizes and colors - the perfect prize after collecting your race winnings.

Chinese Festivals Fill the Air
Chinese festivals are celebrated throughout the year. The streets are festooned with decorations at Chinese New Year, the Cheung Chau Bun Festival or during the Mid-Autumn festival. Take part in the myriad traditions related to each festival by savoring from the variety of food specialties available at street side stalls or served formally in one of the many famous restaurants.

For one lunar month during the Hungry Ghost or Yue Laan Festival, the Chinese believe ghosts roam the earth. In some areas of Hong Kong, you will see small roadside fires, where believer's burn paper money and other offerings to appease the restless spirits during the celebrations held in August/September. The festival also features Chinese opera. Popular venues to view the performances are King George V Memorial Park in Kowloon and Moreton Terrace Playground in Causeway Bay. The elaborately decorated costumes and singer's faces surpass Broadway or London's West End shows.