Tourism

Hong Kong had 42 million tourists in 2011, up from 38 million the previous year, and that is in a city with a population size of just over 7 million. Many come to enjoy the scenery and nature in the New Territories up North, but the thrill of Hong Kong is without a doubt the shopping and city life. Today was our turn.
 

The exchange committee for The Chinese University of Hong Kong had arranged a city tour all new students on campus. We visited Victoria Peak, which with its central location on Hong Kong Island and its 552 meter altitude provides a spectacular view of Victoria Harbour to the North. The day was overcast, but on a clear day one can see all the way to the hills separating Kowloon from the New Territories.


We then drove South to Stanley, especially to experience the Stanley market (pictured). The town's waterfront, and the nearby Repulse bay (named after the H.M.S Repulse which was docked here during WWII, and not after the murky water) provide picturesque scenery for the expensive villas built around the hillside, and the abundance of wealth was also illustrated by the enormous yachts docking in the harbour and the modern shopping malls with huge commercials for Cartier watches and Burberry clothing.

Our final stop was the Avenue of Stars. Although it is meant to be a tribute to the Hong Kong film industry with artists such as Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan represented, it is all about the view across the harbour to Hong Kong Island.

What was interesting about this trip is the Hong Kong idea of what western tourists want. The Peak is literally a huge shopping centre, with McDonalds, Burger King, Starbucks, 7-11, etc. Stanley market, which used to be famous for small shops and good bargains, has now been so overrun by tourists that it rarely offers prices below that of the city. And of course all the areas have to be something that can be photographed.