9–5 | HONG KONG
Eclectic Hong Kong Wine to cocktails to cuisine, discover wildly diverse choices for entertaining clients. BY KELLY MAGYARICS CANTONESE SPECIALTY: Man Wah at the Mandarin Oriental PHOTO: © MAN WAH
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APPROACHING HONG KONG from the air, it can be difficult to appreciate this vibrant metropolis is deemed the world’s most vertical city. But the dichotomy of Tai Mo Shan and Lantau Peak forming a hazy backdrop, sprawling Victoria Harbour separating Hong Kong Island from Kowloon and, yes, those formidable buildings seemingly constructed on top of one another all serve as a metaphor for the city. Here East meets West, traditional commingles with modern sensibility, and Chinese and British history still influence while locals protectively hold onto a decidedly Hong Konger identity. The city’s economy, originally built on farming and fishing, transformed into that of a financial powerhouse with a bustling commercial port. In 1997, after 156 years of British rule, Hong Kong was turned over to the Chinese government, which guaranteed autonomy
globaltravelerusa.com
MAY 2019
for 50 years. Today it’s the world’s fourth-most densely populated region, with 92 percent of residents of Han Chinese descent. While 95 percent of the population speaks Cantonese, 53 percent speaks English. It’s easier than ever for travelers to get to Hong Kong since Cathay Pacific recently launched non-stop service from Washington Dulles International Airport (its longest route). Once at Hong Kong International Airport, visitors quickly see how effortless it is to use mass transit with an Octopus card, a contactless refillable card valid for all public transportation and accepted at retail shops. And in a most ingenious travel solution, complimentary flight and bag check-in is available in the city for a hands-free return to the airport. Each of the city’s 18 districts presents its own personality. SoHo (south of Hollywood Road) houses the Mid-Levels Escalators, a network of 18 escalators, three travelators and several footbridges offering a quirky tourist attraction and an easy way to see the neighborhood’s shops and upscale dining as well as a commuting option for 85,000 locals. Wan Chai is home to offices, bars and a thriving arts scene. Central, Hong Kong’s business, financial and administrative center, features the luxest hotels, restaurants and shopping, includ-
