BusinessTravel Guide
Hong Kong
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The dazzling skyline of East Asia
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Hong Kong
The dazzling skyline of East Asia Hong Kong is the city of endless opportunity, buzzing with life upon a backdrop of one of the world’s leading financial centres Writer: Phoebe Calver ong Kong is a city full of enticing complexities, with historical entities in plentiful supply, set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most significant financial centres that boasts the highest financial development index score recorded. Although the city is well-known for its history as a transition port, moving a significant volume of China’s exports to the rest of the world, a trip to Hong
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Kong will provide you with much more than just a harbour city view. You will be easily drawn into the city by its iconic skyline and enchanting neighbourhoods which provide a weary business traveller with a feast for the senses. Beneath Hong Kong’s commercialised facade, you will be treated to an endless smattering of dynamic cultural sites throughout your stay, including Man Mo Temple - the city’s tribute to the Gods of Literature and War - and its
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intriguing combination of Chinese roots and colonial associations which over the years have become intertwined in the city; forging its unique identity. Despite being known as Hong Kongcrete by travellers looking to find respite from the hustle and bustle of the city’s crammed streets, it is possible to escape the seven million people residing there, with more than 70 percent of Hong Kong being made up of mountains and sprawling country parks; known to display the odd
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Facts & Figures
Beneath Hong Kong’s commercialised facade, you will be treated to an endless dynamic culture
geological gem. After a long day rushing from meeting to meeting, you will find yourself in one of the top culinary capitals in the world, spoilt for choice amongst Sichuanese, Japanese, Cantonese and French dishes; with a culinary repertoire to match the best in the world. The intensity that emanates from the city’s vast population density and fast paced financial growth has had to be matched by infrastructural developments within the city,
particularly the top class transport systems the city possesses on which 90 percent of the population travels. Similar to that found in London’s underground with the Oyster card, Hong Kong has the Octopus Card - a prepaid contactless debit card - which enables you to get around the city with ease and is definitely a worthwhile timesaver. It is the combination of functionality and intriguing history that really epitomises what you will find with a
Languages: Cantonese, English Area: 1,092 square kilometres Population (2016): 7,346,248 Currency: Hong Kong dollar Time zone: UTC +8 Dialling code: +852 Internet TLD: .hk Climate: Subtropical climate
trip to Hong Kong; a streamlined and efficient way of life which makes the city perfect for a productive business trip, with endless offerings to make your time away from home that little bit more special.
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The Business End
Victoria Harbour is a natural landform harbour situated between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon in Hong Kong
H O N G K O N G I S privy to sound economic strengths, including its renowned banking system, very little public debt, a strong legal system and rigorous anti-corruption measures which over time have secured its close ties with mainland China. Due to its world-class harbour, Hong Kong’s export industry is booming, particularly the re-export centre with the predominant amount of the city’s exports consisting of re-exported goods - products made outside of the territory, mainly in mainland China which are then distributed throughout Hong Kong. The main development of the city’s economy occurred between 1950 and 1990, where Hong Kong grew rapidly and became the first for the ‘Four Asian Tigers’ - the others being Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan when all of which underwent rapid
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industrialisation and continued to maintain exceptionally high growth rates - through the development of a strong manufacturing and financial base. Now the city has been made famous for it’s placing as one of the leading financial centres in East Asia, hosting both local appeal and some of the most recognisable banks from around the world. Hong Kong has four main industries, which include financial services, tourism, trading and logistics and professional and producer services, all of which have been massive contributing factors to the city’s economic growth while also providing a pathway to encourage growth in other sectors, simultaneously creating employment opportunities.
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Now as the world’s eighth largest trading entity, the Hong Kong dollar is the world’s 13th most traded currency, the city has been elevated to the 11th largest trading entity in the world, and the total value of its imports and exports exceed its gross domestic product. It is to be expected that Hong Kong’s physical location has allowed for the city to establish a prominent logistics and transportation infrastructure, a central point being the second busiest container port in the world, alongside the busiest airport to be used predominantly for international cargo. Hong Kong is one of the most exciting hubs for business and business travel at present and it doesn’t look set to stop any time soon.
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Hong Kong Tourism
A lasting impression The Hong Kong Tourism Board continues to champion the city's role not just as a business hub, but as a vibrant and dynamic travel destination with numerous 'wow factors' Written by: Matthew Staff verseeing not just the business travel sector and its prevalence in Hong Kong, but also the wider tourism industry and how the city seeks to develop its attractiveness to overseas visitors, is the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB); a Government-subvented body that, for the past 16 years, has strived to address these two core strands via six clear objectives. These include: increasing the contribution of tourism to Hong Kong’s economy; promoting the city as a leading international location in Asia as well as a world-class tourist destination; promoting the improvement of facilities to this end; supporting the Government in promoting to the community the
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importance of tourism; supporting the activities of persons providing services for visitors to Hong Kong; and making recommendations on any measures which should be taken to further any of the aforementioned points. “Back in 2002 [one year after the KKTB was formed], total arrivals were more than 16.5 million with per capita
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spending at HK$4,904,” the HKTB says. “In 2016, total arrivals have jumped to 56.6 million with per capita spending rising to around HK$6,600.” In turn, hotel room numbers have almost doubled from 37,132 in 98 hotels to more than 74,000 across 263 hotels, while connectivity has also risen to the challenge, with the Hong Kong International Airport now the world’s busiest cargo gateway and one of the world’s busiest passenger airports.
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Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
“One of the most connected cities globally and situated in the heart of Asia, Hong Kong is efficiently located within four hours of flying time from the region’s key financial markets, and is less than a fivehour flight from half the world’s population, the Board emphasises. “Hong Kong’s sophisticated and reliable infrastructure makes the city run like clockwork. Its transport system is one of the most advanced and well-connected in the world, its international airport is consistently recognised for its performance and efficiency, and its enormous selection of venues and hotels accommodate MICE events and visitors in state-of the-art comfort.” For 23 consecutive years the city has been ranked as the World’s Freest Economy by the Heritage Foundation, and this ethos emanates its way across all segments of society, including the
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business world which is as dynamic as it is fruitful in unifying Chinese roots with international influences. HKTB adds: “Hong Kong may be Asia’s business hub, but the vibrant, dynamic city also enjoys international notoriety for its intriguing and exhilarating leisure offerings that will enrich your event and leave a lasting impression. Jam-packed with enticing sights and sounds that reflect its Chinese heritage and modern mindset, Hong Kong gives every MICE event the coveted ‘wow’ factor. “Hong Kong evolves itself as fast as the city’s own living pace; a slew of dazzling new products and offerings are popping up everywhere in the city, and its freshness and excitement will certainly wow even for those experienced travellers.” Such wow factors infiltrate all domains incorporated under the tourism banner, across areas of food & drink, hospitality, leisure, retail, history and entertainment.
sky100 observation deck
At Hong Kong Disneyland, recommended attractions include The Iron Man Experience and the upcoming Disney Explorers Lodge which will open its doors in April, 2017; set upon a backdrop of numerous restaurants, pools and indeed the South China Sea scenery. If Disneyland isn’t enough to get the juices flowing, then Ocean Park Marriott Hotel is set to open its own on-site
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Ocean Park Marriott Hotel's water park will be certainly something to consider for toursists
theme park in 2018, while its existing water park will be the first all-weather water world; also due to open next year. For something more sedate, Ocean Park’s The Chill Out @ The South popup serves as a unique wine and dining experience, while Old Town Central continues to be one of the most renowned spots for the more tradition and history-minded visitors. “Old Town Central, a compact neighbourhood reflects the contrast between old and new, heritage and creativity, as well as east and west,” HKTB explains. “Four thematic routes featuring arts, heritage, culture and cuisine are available for visitors. This will be a great M&I and corporate teambuilding spot, as delegates can deepdive into the city’s root and evolving culture, not to mention MICE venues are also available for a unique meeting experience. And with major infrastructures and upgrades revolving around Hong Kong International Airport, the three runway system, the Skycity plan, the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link, and the Hong KongZhuhai-Macau bridge in the offing too, Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a travel destination will only be further enhanced in the future.
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Out & About H O N G K O N G W I L L offer up a plethora of enticing and exciting cultural opportunities for you to enjoy throughout your business trip, moving away from the norm of a typical business-centred city. Despite being known as Asia’s business hub, there is so much more to be explored and taken from your time in Hong Kong, with an abundance of boutique hotels, delicious variety in your dining and endless landmark attractions to behold. When it comes to accommodation in the city, there really is something for
everyone, particularly if you wish to escape the more clinical style hotel and find yourself in a little piece of heaven, escaping the hustle and bustle after a busy day in Hong Kong. With such precious free time on business trips, you will be spoilt for choice when deciding how to spend your leisure time. If you wish to completely immerse yourself in Hong Kong’s culture, Old Town Central is a brilliant place to do so, home to Man Mo Temple and surrounded by beautiful art galleries and boutique shopping; perfectly showcasing the combination of old and new which
makes Hong Kong so individual. No trip to Hong Kong would be complete without a trip to the iconic topping point of the city’s skyline, Victoria Peak. Standing at 1,811 feet, it has a commanding view of Victoria Harbour that makes it popular with locals and tourists alike. With so much to see and do, planning ahead is definitely advisable in order to make the most of everything Hong Kong has to offer in between working hours, and to enjoy the full potential of the city that will almost certainly have you planning your next trip back before you have even left.
Rooftop Bar, Wooloomooloo, in Hong Kong
Discoveri ng Old To wn Centr al
with Jere my
Pang
Partying in Hong Kong: Best Bars in Lan Kwai Fong
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The tranquil atmosphere of Concerto Inn attracts many poets, artists and travelers who want to escape from city life.
An ideal getaway in tune with nature.
Concerto Inn has 24 roo ms and is situated at beach, under environmenta l protection zo ne. No cars or tax i here! All rooms are specially desig ned for honeymooners and family esca pe, most of the rooms hav e sea view balco ny. Apart from usual A L a Carte menu, guests can enjoy special d ining and BBQ plus our tailor mad e cocktail drin ks at our beach cafĂŠ .
The Only ly dog friend g n o H in hotel g n Ko
Hotel booking: 852-29821668 | booking@concertoinn.com.hk | www.concertoinn.com.hk Social media links for reservation: booking.com, Expedia and Agoda
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Outlook recommends “Hong Kong may be Asia’s business hub, but the vibrant, dynamic city also enjoys international notoriety for its intriguing and exhilarating leisure offerings that will enrich your event and leave a lasting impression.” - Hong Kong Tourism Board
HOSPITALITY
Concerto Inn “Let your heart in tune with nature” is an ethos which resonates throughout the Concerto Inn, as idyllic surroundings meet stylish luxury to create one of the city’s most sought-after locations. Situated on Lamma Island and thus comprising one of the best beaches in Hong Kong, “Concerto Inn provides a place for a relaxing escape from the busy Hong Kong city”, it states.
Mira Moon Hotel The Design Hotels’s Mira Moon Hotel is Hong Kong’s most awarded boutique hotel and as such exists as one of the city’s most popular hospitality choices. Located in the heart of Causeway Bay and within walking distance of numerous major attractions, reinterprets Chinese mid-autumn festival mythology across its 90 unique guestrooms and striking penthouse suite; while its peripheral services affirm its status as one of the most attentive, luxurious and refined hotel options in the region. “The rooms are the main reason you’d want to choose this hotel: for Hong Kong, they’re unusually spacious and 68 of the 91 rooms have baths, complete with marble holders for your champagne glass,” the Telegraph affirmed in a recent review.
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Gloucester Luk Kwok Submerged into the architecture of Wanchai, the 80-plus year-old hotel offers a touch of tradition to your stay; evolving with the times to achieve a balance of “established heritage” and “fresh encounters”.
Panda Hotel
Xi Hotel Combining artistic flair with heartfelt service, Xi Hotel channels Honk Kong’s reputation for trendsetting via its Tsim Sha Tsui based hotel which looks to set the scene for your lively nights out.
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The Kerry Hotel
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Outlook recommends
LEISURE
TRANSPORT & TRAVEL
Hong Kong Disneyland Old Town Central Happy Wednesday
Avis Hong Kong Avis is a reputable global car rental brand with three branches in premium locations across Hong Kong. Offering one-stop car rental services including short-term rental and long-term leasing, Avis’ latest tourism package with chauffeur service and free airport transfer provides a convenient and luxury experience for customers during their vacation or business trip in Hong Kong.
PHOTO: HK ARUN
Citibus Committed to providing Hong Kong with the best possible bus service at socially-acceptable fares, Citybus and NWFB’s Rickshaw Bus proves the most popular option in providing a hop-on hop-off service to allow visitors to see Hong Kong in all its splendour. The Rickshaw Sightseeing Bus takes you to 50 different attractions including Man Mo Temple and Victoria Harbour.
Hong Kong Disneyland
FOOD & DRINK
Air India As India’s third largest, and flag carrying airline, its reach to the rest of Asia and beyond has grown exponentially over the years to now comprise more than 90 destinations. Just 90 minutes from Delhi or Chennai to Hong Kong, the connection between the two key regional destinations is an indictment of the growth that Air India has enjoyed as a business.
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The Chill Out @ The South Sky Shuttle Helicopters The highest standards of safety, customer service and operational excellence serve as context to one of the largest and most respected commercial helicopter companies in the world. The award-winning Sky Shuttle operates in both leisure and business travel domains and, as such, has become one of the region’s most renowned options when it comes to alternative, executive, luxury travel.
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Temple Street Night Market
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Transport Links
Hong Kong Tram in Johnston Road
H O N G K O N G I S a very small place when taking into account the seven million inhabitants that are squeezed into the city, therefore transportation has to be top notch to keep it moving. This makes it the perfect setting when faced with a jampacked schedule, while also providing you with plentiful opportunity to explore the city’s cultural offerings. The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) is the quickest and most modern way of navigating your way around urban destinations, however, if you have a little more time on your hands in between meetings and wish to take in more of the city on the way to your destination, this is perhaps not
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Tung Chung line train, near Sunny Bay Station
the most preferable option. Hong Kong comprises five underground lines, including the Kwun Tong, Tsuen Wan, Island, Tung Chung and Tseung Kwan O lines; three suburban rail lines including West, East and Ma On Shan lines; the Airport Express; and a complex network of modern tram lines in the North West New Territories. Generally as a visitor to the city, you will become familiar with the busy Tsuen Wan Line, which runs from Kowlook to the New Territories and it is important to note a few things before entering. Firstly and perhaps most importantly, the consumption of food & drink both on the trains and in stations is forbidden and if you are caught, you could be liable to incurring up to a $2,000 fine. Fares will of course depend on the distance you are travelling and most ticket machines will not accept
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PHOTO: BAYCREST
PHOTO: WPCPEY
Mong Kok is a rapid transit station on the Kwun Tong and Tsuen Wan Lines of the MTR system
anything larger than $10, however, customer service points will provide change for you and you have the option to use your card on the Airport Express. When seeking a slightly more traditional mode of transport, the city’s double-decker trams have been servicing Hong Kong for more than a century, and although they are perhaps a slightly more bumpy and rustic way to travel, for a flat rate of $2.30 you have the opportunity to see a lot more of the city and get in a little sightseeing. Busses and taxis are also a perfectly good option for finding your way around Hong Kong, however, it is important to remember that those options will only be as practical as traffic will allow, so be sure to afford yourself plenty of extra time when faced with a busy schedule to avoid any hold-ups.
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Ideal Choice for Business and MICE Travellers
72 Gloucester Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong Room Reservation Hotline: (852) 2865 1997 General Line: (852) 2866 2166 Fax: (852) 2866 2622 Email: rsvn@gloucesterlukkwok.com.hk info@gloucesterlukkwok.com.hk www.gloucesterlukkwok.com.hk
COMBINING ARTISTIC FLAIR WITH HEARTFELT SERVICE
- Centrally located in Wanchai Business District - 5 minutes walk to HKCEC and MTR Station - Spacious & well-appointed rooms all located on high floors - Great value & affordable room rates year round - Meeting & Function rooms for small & medium size events - Free Wi-fi in all guest rooms & outlets - Superb western & chinese restaurants - Extra discount for direct reservations
Tel: (852) 2739 7777 Email: rsvn@xihotel.com.hk
www.xihotel.com.hk
WE PROVIDE CONTEMPORARY COMFORT RIGHT IN THE CENTRE OF VIBRANT TSIM SHA TSUI IN KOWLOON THE HOTEL HAS 64 ROOMS, DESIGNED FOR YOUR STYLE AND COMFORT
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Landmark Attractions Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
PHOTO: K.C. TANG
“Starting at the colonial-era Clock Tower and stretching all the way to Hung Hom, a stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade takes one past the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and the Hong Kong Space Museum. But like most of the love birds and shutterbugs on the promenade, your gaze will be drawn south to the dramatic topographical and architectural spectacle that is the Hong Kong Island skyline towering over the busy waters of Victoria Harbour.” - Discover Hong Kong
The Avenue of Stars at Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
Victoria Peak
“Victoria Peak is Hong Kong Island's highest point and a landmark of the Hong Kong skyline. At 1,811 feet or 552 metres high it has long been the address of choice for the Taipans of old and new. With the commanding views over Victoria Harbour, it is understandable why it is some of the most sought after real estate in the world.” - Hong Kong Traveller
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Man Mo Temple
“The Man Mo Temple is a picturesque tribute to the God of Literature (Man) and the God of War (Mo), both of whom were worshipped by ambitious students looking to succeed in the civil examinations of Imperial China. These involved rigorous systems aimed at finding the best administrative officials for the state. Man Mo Temple is part of a complex that also includes the areas Lit Shing Kung and Kung Sor. t was listed as a Grade I historic building in 2009 and is preserved as a Declared Monument.” - Discover Hong Kong
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BusinessTravel Guide ENQUIRIES joe.palliser@outlookpublishing.com
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