Hong Kong City

It is hard to believe that what was once a sleepy, sparsely populated area of farmland and fishing villages has now become arguably the world's most influential financial capital and commercial port. Past and present fuse in Hong Kong to create a capitalist utopia embedded within the world's largest Communist country. There is nowhere on earth quite like Hong Kong, which is reason enough for anyone to travel here.

The city, or 'Central' as it has become known, sits on the north shore of Hong Kong Island, the original territory colonised by the British, and the tourist capital of the region. Central is backed by the green-blanketed hills of Victoria Peak, and looks out over Victoria Harbour, home to annual firework displays and promenades forming natural meeting points for tourists and locals alike.

The city of Hong Kong, despite its surviving traditional enclaves, feels delightfully futuristic. The vast majority of the more than 350 skyscrapers in Hong Kong are concentrated in Central, and this glittering night-time skyline is one of the most iconic in the world. The speed of modernisation and construction means that few colonial buildings now remain. The oldest surviving Western-style building is Flagstaff House, dating back to 1846, now home to the Museum of Tea Ware.

Hong Kong is a booming business hub, a fashion centre and a celebrated foodie destination. The diversity of its population and cultural influences adds hugely to its unique appeal. In addition to all its impressive sightseeing attractions visitors will be happy to discover just how well everything seems to work. Most notably, the efficient transport system makes getting around a pleasure.