Hongkong City
In the shadows of mountains and towers, Hong Kong goes about its business, with crowded, thronging street markets and luxury malls, dining in steamy, dim sum eateries, as well as elegant world-class restaurants and otherwise enjoying itself as a city renowned for its independent spirit, wealth and industriousness.
Hong Kong's unique mix of East and West makes for an exciting, modern metropolis full of surprises. Comprised of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, the New Territories and the Outer Islands, the Hong Kong Special Administration Region (SAR) is unlike any other place in the world. On Hong Kong Island, skyscrapers soar against a backdrop of lush peaks and ridges, with Victoria Peak providing a stunning counterpoint to architectural landmarks such as I.M. Pei's Bank of China Tower, the modular HSBC Building and the elegant International Finance Centre.
Across Victoria Harbor, Kowloon appears to be entering into competition with its glamorous opposite number (though it has a long way to go), constructing its own phalanx of new high rises - including the International Commerce Centre, which will be the tallest building in the SAR upon completion in 2010 - and tempting consumers with brands and bargains galore in Tsim Sha Tsui.
Beyond Kowloon stretch the surprisingly expansive New Territories, including large areas of undeveloped land perfect for getting away from the crowds for a day at the beach or a visit to a village with the feel of an older China. To the west, Lantau Island is home to fishing villages and trail-laced parks as well as Hong Kong's top-rated international airport and Hong Kong Disneyland.