DK Travel : Hong Kong

“A dream of Manhattan, arising from the South China Sea.” For succinctness, modern travel writer Pico Iyer’s description of Hong Kong has yet to be bettered. From opium port to Cold War enclave to frenetic financial capital, Hong Kong has never been boring. This is the hedonistic engine room of cultural fusion: East meets West in high style, and the results astonish and delight. Prepare to experience one of the most dramatic urban environments ever conceived.

Nicholini’s

You might not foresee yourself travelling to Hong Kong in order to eat Italian, but you might for Nicholini’s. Awarded the Insegna del Romano for being the best Italian restaurant outside of Italy, Nicholini’s sits comfortably at the apex of Northern Italian cooking, each dish an essay in freshness and charm.
Nishimura

Low-key eatery, one of only a few Japanese food places in Shenzhen. Reasonably priced sushi, sashimi, teppanyaki and robotayaki.
Noonday Gun

Immortalised in Noel Coward’s famous song aboutMad Dogs and Englishmen , the famous cannon has been fired at midday each day since 1860. Bigwigs pay for the privilege of firing it, with money going to charity. Otherwise, a gunner dressed in traditional military attire does the honours. Originally it was fired whenever the Taipan arrived or departed from Hong Kong.
Nova Guia

Interesting mix of colonial artifacts, not to mention the antique racing car.
Ocean Park

This large theme park is Hong Kong’s answer to Disneyland, though when Hong Kong gets its own Disneyland in 2005, Ocean Park may seem like a poor relation. In the meantime, there’s enough to keep children and adults alike busy for a whole day. Attractions range from rollercoasters to giant pandas and great aquatic displays, such as Atoll Reef, which recreates the habitats and sealife of a coral reef (see Ocean Park).

Aquarium, Ocean Park
Ocean Park

It’s not quite Disneyland, but most kids will get a kick out of the dolphin and sea lion shows and the spectacular chairlift. It’s a bit weak on rides, although this has been remedied somewhat in recent years with the advent of Adventure Land, featuring the Mine Train rollercoaster and Raging River ride. Threaten misbehaving brats with a dose of Middle Kingdom, the history and culture section. (see Ocean Park)
Old Letter Box

A few traditional green, cast-iron post boxes bearing the British Royal Cipher remain. There is one at the northern end of Statue Square.
Omega Hong Kong Open

Asia’s top golfing stars on show.
One Fifth

Unquestionably, this is Hong Kong’s buzziest bar of the moment. Take in the fabulous crowd, soaring ceilings and big city vibe. Also written as 1/5.
One Harbour Road

Cantonese cuisine is the most artful of Chinese provincial varieties, and One Harbour Road is among the most artful of Cantonese restaurants. Be prepared then for a dining experience of unusual refinement, set off by the Grand Hyatt’s art deco fantasies. The restaurant endlessly wins deserved praise.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal) and extra charges.
- under HK$100
- HK$100-250
- HK$250-450
- HK$450-600
- over HK$600