One of the great cities of the world, Hong Kong is legendary and a 'must see' for any would-be world traveler. Its very name summons imagery from a bygone era of far east trading ships laden with silk and spice, opium wars, and the mystery of the orient. Or, could it be the burgeoning metropolis of more recent times calling to mind the carnival of colour, culture and cosmopolitan panache? Sitting on the doorstep to China and serving as a portal to the largest consumer potential of any single country, Hong Kong invites the world to come and experience a unique perspective. "Live It! Love It!" is the new slogan adopted by the Tourism Board of Hong Kong. Suggesting perhaps, that all of our senses must experience this hyperactive kaleidoscope of 'humanity meets urbanity' in order to appreciate the bold character that is Hong Kong. It's one thing to see pictures of a densely packed skyline at the base of a steep hill across a bay tossed up by high speed ferries and sampans jostling for position, quite another to actually be there-part of the scenery-to feel the throbbing heartbeat of Hong Kong.

Man Shek Tong Ancestral Hall, Hong Kong

Say "Hong Kong" and one immediately thinks, "Big city", but Hong Kong is more than a massive metropolis that never turns out the lights: In 1997 China assumed control of the colony, which encompasses a group of more than 200 islands (Hong Kong island being one of the largest), Kowloon and the New Territories from the former British administrators. It is now known as a Special Administrative Region under an agreement that provides for the continuation of Hong Kong's unique social, economic, and legal systems for another 50 years beyond 1997. The region is situated among a cluster of islands, deep bays and rivers along China's sub-tropical south coast and at the top of the South China Sea between Taiwan and Vietnam.

Today, as a leading contender for global trade, finance and manufacturing, Hong Kong is hopping to the fast-paced beat of world markets. Tourism is a front-runner in the economic powerhouse of the city as well. Visitors to Victoria are treated to a sensation unlike any other. (Victoria is the compact strip of skyscrapers hugging the shore below Victoria Peak, and is one of world's most expensive and densely populated bits of real estate.) Under the looming towers, the crush of the human race in constant motion by every imaginable carriage creates a dizzying effect. Gangs of rioting signs and billboards crowd and push for dominance luring your eye every which way. A million and one sounds combine in a bizarre tempo of unrestrained street music. The nose is filled with a heady blend of aromas rising from great steaming pots, burning incense and congested traffic. This colourful festival of sights, sounds and smells invade your senses and fills you with an urge. An urge to jump in with both feet and join the momentum-the lifeblood-of the one and only, Hong Kong.

Aberdeen - home to the Tanka Boat People

Shopping galore! Entertainment 'extraordinaire'! Spectacular sights! Sizzling cuisine! Outstanding cultural and historical treasures! Hong Kong resounds with exclamations so indulge, enjoy and experience the vast array of activities available to you in one of Asia's premier destinations. The open-air markets of Kowloon specialize in everything and guarantee a bargain bonanza for everyone. Then again, maybe your tastes run to an exquisite luxury item, in which case, you should be looking in one of the uptown, upmarket centres like Landmark Shopping Mall. The giant Ocean Park entertainment complex on the south side of the island provides a fantastic family outing. It has a thrilling roller coaster ride and an aquarium and Panda bears and centres of discovery for children and grown-ups alike. On the way there, stop in Aberdeen and view the bobbing city of boat people while you wine and dine in a ritzy floating restaurant. Cross over to Tai Yue Shan Island, home to a number of different religious orders including Trappist Haven, a closed Christian order whose members have taken a strict vow of silence. On the other hand, if you lean a little more the other way, you can place your bets at the track along with as many as 75,000 other horseracing enthusiasts. Thankfully, museums, temples and parks offer the sanctuary and respite necessary to soothe the soul after a day of full-on shopping. Repulse Bay-believe it or not-is the name of one of the most attractive beaches on Hong Kong Island. And, lucky you because the Chinese lunar calendar is filled with festivals so chances are, you are never very far away from another sensational extravaganza complete with fireworks, dragon dances and fabulous food. Hong Kong-"Live It! Love It!"