Hong Kong and Macau Adventure Travel Guide: Ideas and Inspiration
PureTravel Says: “Hong Kong and Macau are two of Asia's most spectacular tourist destinations. Hong Kong is famous as an international business center and former British colony with a vibrant entertainment industry. Macau, which was Portuguese territory until 1999, is world-renowned for its nightlife and Las Vegas-style casinos.”
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Tour Highlights - Hong Kong
One of the most popular of Hong Kong's attractions is The Peak. A short trip on the Peak Tram takes visitors to the top of Victoria Peak for amazing views of the city and harbour. Once at the top, visitors can stretch their legs on the Peak Circle Walk, or do some shopping at the Peak Galleria. For additional outdoor activities, Great Outdoors Hong Kong features the National Geopark, Hong Kong Wetland Park, and hiking trails like the MacLehose Trail and the award-winning Dragon's Back.
Sporting events in Hong Kong include the annual Hong Kong Marathon, the Hong Kong Sevens, a famous rugby tournament, and the popular dragon boat races. Horse racing is also extremely popular and regular races are held at Happy Valley Racecourse in Causeway Bay on the island and also at Sha Tin in the New Territories.
Hong Kong has many attractions that cater to families. Ocean Park, Hong Kong's Aqua City, Grand Aquarium and Giant Panda Adventure are among the best and should not be missed. Hong Kong Disneyland, another family favourite, features rides, shows, and the Animation Academy.
For cultural outings in Hong Kong, visitors can take a trip on Duk Ling, an old restored Chinese junk that takes a scenic trip around Victoria Harbour. There are also many Buddhist temples to explore; in fact there are hundreds of temples dotted about both Hong Kong Island and also into the New Territories, many dating back hundreds of years. The Hong Kong Heritage Museum is also a must-see for those who are interested in the history of the island.
Of course, Hong Kong is also known for its incredible film industry. Hong Kong has produced many stars, including Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, and more recently, Jet Li. A visit to Hong Kong and its famous movie studios is a truly unforgettable experience.
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Tour Highlights - Macau
About 40 miles southwest of Hong Kong, the Macau peninsula is home to many famous gambling establishments. The Sands Macau, the Wynn Macau, the Venetian Macau, and the MGM Macau are all new luxury hotels that house bustling casinos.
Macau's world-famous gambling industry is the peninsula's major attraction. Over 20 million people visit Macau each year, and many of them come for the gambling and entertainment opportunities. As a result, Macau's casinos provide the majority of the peninsula's revenue.
Macau's culture can be experienced in the peninsula's many Baroque churches, as well as in its old fortresses and Chinese temples. Macau's many parks and gardens provide a relaxing break from sightseeing.
Macau has many annual sporting events, including the Macau Grand Prix and Nam Van Lake's Dragon Boat Festival. A trip to Macau is an exciting experience any time of year.
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Hong Kong Public Holidays
1 January - New Year's Day
31 January - Chinese New Year
March/April - Good Friday, Holy Saturday, Easter Monday
4 April - Ching Ming Festival
1 May - Labour Day
17 May - Buddha's Birthday
12 June - Dragon Boat Festival
1 July - Hong Kong SAR Establishment Day
20 September - Mid-Autumn Festival
October - Confucius’ Birthday
1 October - National Day
13 October - Chung Yeung Festival
25 December - Christmas Day
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Travel Resources
By Julie Bowman
