Hong Kong
Owing to its divided history, Hong Kong is a fascinating melting pot of oriental culture and western glamour, attracting worldwide travellers on mini breaks or South East Asia jaunts. From the soaring skyscrapers of Hong Kong Island to the traditional fishing villages on the outlying atolls, quaint rural life and buzzing urbanity go hand in hand in a curious blend of the traditional and the modern. Utilising its über-efficient transport system, you can explore Chinese temples by day, before sipping an aperitif by night in front of the ‘Symphony of Lights’ over Victoria Harbour. The Hong Kongese are a population with impeccable taste, and have it covered when it comes to shopping and eating: in keeping with the country’s diversity, designer boutiques stand side by side with market stalls, while top Michelin starred restaurants are interspersed with local eateries.
Macau
A short ferry hop from Hong Kong lies Macau, an intriguing blend of European and Chinese cultural influences. Known by many as a centre for gambling in its vast and numerous casinos, Macau has far more to offer than a glitzy night out. Take a walking tour through Macau’s historic centre, its churches and museums betraying the influence of European rule, and enjoy the similarly syncretic Macanese cuisine, which blends Portuguese favourites with traditional Chinese recipes. Macau’s cultural cross-pollination also means a calendar packed full of festivals, and a show is never hard to find.
The cultural curiosities of Hong Kong and Macau are best enjoyed when you’re staying in comfort and style, and that’s exactly what our selection of hotels offers – take a look, and be inspired to let us tailor-make a trip to this fascinating cultural crossroads.
