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Hong Kong is a modern city which retains a British flavour and many contrasts. The skyscrapers, shopping centres and efficient transportation system reflect a city which is truly modern, but the traditional markets and temples are symbols of the past.

The British flavour sets Hong Kong apart from the mainland. Field hockey stadiums and cricket grounds are a reminder that Hong Kong used to be a British colony. Cars drive on the left, many of the buses are doubledeckers, many native English speakers remain in Hong Kong and many place names have typically British names. They include Prince Edward Station, Victoria Harbour and the New Territories.

Hong Kong is small in area but densely populated and full of tourist attractions. One of the latest is Hong Kong Disney. This modern attraction, however, is losing money. One complaint is that it is small and if compared to Disneyworld in Orlando, Florida, this is undeniably true. However, many other tourist attractions await the visitor. They include Ocean Park, the Lantau cablecar ride, Harbour City, a modern and extensive shopping centre, the Star Ferry Harbour Tour, the Peak Tram ride, the Museum of Art, the Space and Technology Museum and the Concert Hall.

Ocean Park is considered one of the best amusement parks in the world. The aquarium and the amusement park are outstanding and popular with visitors. The Lantau cablecar ride, the longest in the world, is remarkable. The 25-minute ride crosses the ocean and goes up high into the mountains to take tourists near the largest Buddha statue in the world.

Harbour City is a modern shopping centre with over 700 shops. Here shoppers can buy the latest electronic gadgets, fashions, watches, jewellery, CDs, DVDs and books to name just a few of the items to be found. Excellent restaurants of every kind can also be find. One of the best reasons to visit Hong Kong is simply for the amazing food. The lobster, duck, barbecue pork, noodles, fried rice and tropical fruits are just a few of the delicious foods that can be eaten.

The Star Ferry Harbour Tour is also popular. This famous ferry which has transported passengers between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon Peninsula for about a century is one of the most famous Hong Kong landmarks and a valuable part of Hong Kong's history. The daytime and nighttime tours offer an excellent view of Hong Kong's famous and busy Victoria Harbour.

The Peak Tram ride, located on Hong Kong Island, offers a spectacular view of Hong Kong from the top. The homes on the peak are among the most expensive in Hong Kong, a city with very high property values. Taking the tram down the peak is also very exciting because it goes fast down a steep hill.

The Museum of Art, Space and Technology Museum and Concert Hall are all worth a visit. They are an important and cherished addition to the culture of Hong Kong. The ballets and classical concerts which take place in the Concert Hall are truly first class.

Hong Kong is a very crowded city in which driving can be difficult and noise and pollution are not ideal. Also, apartments tend to be small and rents are high. Nevertheless, it is a wonderful place to visit. Attractions such as the Star Ferry, the Peak Tram ride and the Lantau cablecar ride are the reason so many tourists flock to Hong Kong. In addition to the great tourist attractions, the variety of food and shopping are bound to please visitors.

Learn more about this author, Les Zsoldos.
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