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Aberdeen
On one of the southern tips of Hong Kong Island, Aberdeen was once a pirates den later turning into a simple fishing village. In recent years, with local high-rise building developments, Aberdeen has modernized, and is now a vibrant waterfront resort. Despite modernization, traditional fishing life still prevails and hundreds of junks and sampans serve as floating homes for thousands of people.
Admiralty
Admiralty is only one MTR stop east of Central. A former British naval station, the site is now a mix of gleaming office towers and shopping malls. In Admiralty visitors will find Pacific Place, one of Hong Kong's ritziest shopping malls, and three of the region's five-star hotels: Conrad, Marriott and Shangri-La.
Wanchai
Wanchai is famous for the legendary nightlife that was featured in the film ‘The World of Suzie Wong’. Wanchai is also a bustling commercial centre and home to the Academy for Performing Arts and the Hong Kong Arts Centre, two of the most popular venues for theatrical and cultural performances in Hong Kong.
Victoria Park
This expansive parkland in the heart of Causeway Bay contains many facilities such as swimming pools, jogging tracks, tennis courts and the sight of early risers gathering to practice Tai Chi. The park is also used for special occasions such as Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival.
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The Peak
The Peak has long been the most expensive and exclusive area of Hong Kong. In colonial times this was the most prestigious district to live and today this still holds true. The views from the Peak Tower are truly spectacular and this is also a great place to get your bearings of Hong Kong and Kowloon. The Peak Tower stands at 400m above sea level and was built to withstand typhoons.
Po Lin Monastery, Lantau Island
Po Lin Monastery is located on Lantau Island. Nestled between the hills, this grand monastery was founded in 1927 and is a major centre of Buddhism in the region. The main temple houses 3 bronze statues of the Buddha representing his past, present and future lives as well as many Buddhist scriptures. The highlight of Po Lin Monastery however, is the Tian Tan Buddha, otherwise known as the Giant Buddha, which sits on the hilltop, up a flight of 268 steps. The 34m high, 250 ton sculpture is the world’s largest seated outdoor bronze statue of the Buddha.
Wong Tai Sin Temple
Probably the best known and busiest temple in the city, Wong Tai Sin Temple was built in 1973 on the site of a previous temple and serves both Taoism and Confucianism. Decorated in a riot of colours, Wong Tai Sin is an excellent example of a traditional Chinese temple.
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Kowloon Park
Kowloon Park is an oasis of greenery among the expanse of concrete and steel, which can be regarded as a welcome respite from the crowds of Tsim Sha Tsui. It was once the site of the Whitfield barracks - home to British and Indian troops, but is now a pleasant city park.
Ocean Park
Situated on the southern side of Hong Kong Island, Ocean Park receives over three million people each year who enjoy the marine life and other facilities.
Disney World
Recently opened the latest Disney venture seems to have gone down well with locals and tourists alike and could be a great day out if you’re travelling with the family.
New Territories
A visit to the New Territories is a great way to escape the hectic pace of downtown Hong Kong. Easily reached by train or the MTR they provide opportunities to walk, sit on the beach or see a couple of 16th century walled villages.
Macau
Hop on the hydrofoil at Hong Kong Island and an hour or so later you will be in the former Portuguese colony of Macao. Visit the ruins of the Church of St Paul and enjoy one of the many restaurants before heading back.
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