Hong Kong - Merry Hong Kong!

By: Karishma Parkash

 

Posted on: December 10, 2010

 

 

With the joyous and magical holiday season just around the corner, Hong Kong’s Winter Fest from November 29, 2010 to January 2, 2011 seems like the ideal destination to be at. Proudly proclaimed to be ‘Asia’s World City’, Hong Kong is a unique destination that has absorbed people and cultural influences from diverse places. So if you are looking for a place that has something for everyone, it is Hong Kong!

 

Now recognized as the ‘Turf World Championships’, Hong Kong International Races is one of the most important fixtures for the world’s leading horses, jockeys, trainers and owners. So for all you racing lovers out there, the Hong Kong International Races (horse racing) starts December 12, 2010. 

 

The award-winning BBC TV series, ‘Walking with Dinosaurs’ has been transformed into a stunning theatrical event for the whole family. Walking with Dinosaurs – The Arena Spectacular is a good option for a family outing from December 22, 2010 onwards. It includes 20 life-size dinosaurs bringing audiences a new level of entertainment and excitement. Marking your planners already, are you? Hong Kong has a lot of stuff for everyone and we are just getting started!

 

Come Christmas and it is a magical time to be in Hong Kong, as a warm and happy spirit embraces the city. You will feel yourself smiling as you look out for the skyscrapers and their fantastic illuminations which children seem to be so enthralled by. The ever so popular Swarovski Crystal Christmas Tree will shine in sparkling splendour enhancing the city’s festive ambience and giving you a merry Christmas you deserve. Located in Statue Square in Central, this 30-metre-tall tree is decorated with over 20,000,000 Swarovski crystals while over 200 ornaments come alive at night to project the interactive lighting effect that produces a staggering ethereal vision of beauty. A must see!

Kids can have a ‘taste’ of the new Gingerbread Village at Hong Kong Disneyland. Sure to be a complete hit with the kids, Disney’s Sparkling Christmas has already begun and will go on till January 2, 2011.

 

Don’t miss a special treat when you visit Ngong Ping Village on Lantau Island from December 3, 2010 onwards. Enjoy a mesmerizing, glittering snowfall that you can share with your loved ones. Be sure to drop by the Xmas-themed food kiosks and the free craft workshop for a whole lot of Christmas fun. 

 

See Hong Kong’s first-ever ‘Living Christmas Tree’ – two 20-foot tall trees, ride the adorable sea animals at the Sea Life Carousel and hop on the brand new thrill ride ‘The Flash’ at Ocean Park from December 15, 2010 – January 2, 2011.

 

A complete given, Hong Kong is fashionable for its shopping and for good reason. Hong Kong’s shopping malls and department stores are sure to put a smile on your face this Winter Fest. The malls and shops, all decked out in their fantastic Christmas finery, offer a holiday greeting and beckon one and all with wonderful seasonal promotions. Carol singers will perform at tourist spots spreading an inspirational message of peace and happiness. 

 

The 45th Hong Kong Brands and Products Expo from December 11, 2010 - January 3, 2011 is one of the largest outdoor expos in Hong Kong, featuring famous brands and quality products from Hong Kong and overseas. You might want to check it out as you never know what you may find there!

 

The 8th Hong Kong Mega Showcase from December 24-27, 2010 is one of the most magnificent and outstanding showcases of products in Hong Kong. The exhibition features a wide range of brands and products from all over the world, including cosmetic products, children products, health care products, accessories, electrical appliances and electrical products. This is the perfect time to visit Hong Kong and shop till you drop! 

 

Delicacies and Accommodation

The city’s popular food districts, nightspots and hotels will be serving up a sumptuous array of wintertime dishes sure to tempt the palates of discerning food lovers. Hong Kong hotels are getting in on all the fun and excitement of Winter Fest offering a stunning and competitive range of 3 day / 2 night packages. Reserve your package now and treat yourself to the trip of a lifetime in exhilarating Hong Kong. A few hotels you can choose from are Rosedale on the Park, Sheraton Hong Kong Hotel & Towers, The Charterhouse Causeway Bay and Island Pacific Hotel.

 

Hong Kong’s nightlife is pumping and big! In a town where restaurants don’t close before 2am, you have a lot to do after the sun goes down. For modern art and entertainment, Asia’s world city simply can’t be beaten. Be mesmerized by the moves of the Hong Kong Ballet, the Hong Kong Dance Company and the City Contemporary Dance Company. Catch the magical Chinese melodies performed by the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra.

 

There are a number of bars and pubs in east Tsim Sha Tsui, Lan Kwai Fong and Wan Chai. Lan Kwai Fong has become an icon of nightlife. A bustling array of eateries, pubs and bars make it Hong Kong’s trendiest nightlife area. Beer, alcohol and wine from a myriad of countries can be enjoyed here accompanied by chess, dart and music bands. Sounds fun, right? 

 

A trip to Hong Kong wouldn’t be complete without a further trip to Macau - Asia’s very own Las Vegas! Escalate your mood with bright exciting signs, casinos and bars, and basically one of the world’s largest parties. Some of the most popular spots are Casino Lisboa, Galaxy Rio Casino, The Venetian Macau (largest casino in the city) and the Sands Casino. Baccarat is the most popular game in Macau.

 

Salute the New Year Hong Kong style by joining the huge crowds that take part in the exciting countdown celebrations to welcome 2011. Welcome the New Year in style as the excitement builds up and the festive air reigns!

 

The list above is definitely not complete. There is more to be seen, heard and enjoyed at this colourful and vibrant destination. Hong Kong promises an exciting setting in which you can thoroughly indulge and celebrate the coming year. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready to welcome the New Year in style!