BESTINTRAVELMAGAZINE.COM‘Modern skyscrapers sit alongside historical sites, inHong Kong, showing what happens when the Western world successfully collides with the Orient. For the urbanite, there's hip hotels, top-notch dining. chicbars and madern shopping malls crammed with Yet conversely the city can also be appreciated as much by travellersin search of authenticity, as by ‘marathon shoppers. In Hong Kong youcan join in dave taichi, dan boat, catch Chinese operaina bamboo theatre and take aride ona historic double-decker tram, before gazing out at the glorious harbour.Nature lovers aren't neglected either: over 70 per cent of Hong Kong is mountains, while nature reserves and the outlying islands (offering beautiful walks and hike trails) are never far away. Spend even the smallest amount of time in Hong Kong-acity worth stopping in rather than using just asa transit hub ~ and youll quickly discover that you have a city break of epic proportions. It’s not a cheap destination by any means, and youll certainly return with rather less cash than you set out, but as.aclean and hassle-free introduction to Asia, Hong Kong can't be beaten Read Best in Travel’ guide tohelp youplan the perfect trip to the high-rise metropolis of Hong Kong,(On 4 September 2018, Asia and Australasia's finest travel brands were unveiled at World Travel Awards (WTA) Asia & ‘Australasia Gala Ceremony 2018 in Hong Kong. Winners at thered carpet gala evening included Vietnam, which fended off stiff competition tobe named"Asia's Leading Destination’ Meanwhile Sydney, with its iconic cityscapes and beautiful beaches, was named Australasia's Leading Destination’ Hundreds ofthe leading figures from Asia and Australasia's travel and tourism industries attended the red-carpet ceremony, which was staged at the newly-refurbished InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong, Graham Cooke, Founder & President, World Travel Awards, saic"What anincreclile evening it has been here inthe enchanting metropolis of Hong Kong We have had the privilege of recognising many of the leading hotels, airlines and hospitality providers from destinations across Asia and Australasia and my congratulations toeach of them” Inthe aviation sector, Hainan Airlines proved amuttiple winner, collecting awards for “Asia's Leading Aine Brand”, “Asia's Leading Airline ~ Business Class" and ‘Asia's Leading Cabin Crew’ Meanwhile Cathay Pacific was named Asia's Leading Airline” Singapore Changi Airport collected’Asia’s Leading Airport’ and Air New Zealand was voted “Australasia's Leading Airline. Hospitality winners included Korea's Conrad Seoul, which pickedup “Asia's Leading Lifestyle Hotel” and Asia's Leading Lumury City HotetinterContinental Hotels & Resorts was alsovictorious, collecting’Asia’s Leading Hotel Brand” and “Australasia's Leading Hotel Brand” The Ascott Limited won “Asia's Leading Serviced Apartment Branc! whilst Frasers Hospitality was voted ‘Australasia's Leading Serviced Apartment Brand’ Vietravel was recognised by voters as Asia's Leading Tour Operator’ forthe third consecutive year, whilst Abercrombie & Kent China was named"Asia's Leading Travel Agency” The evening marked the third legof the WTA Grand Tour 2018, ~aseries of regional events toacknowledge the world’s outstanding travel brands. Events on the tourinclude Ras al Khaimah (United Arab Emirates), Athens (Greecel, Montego Bay (Jamaica), Guayaquil (Ecuador) and Durban South Africa), The regional winners will pragress to the Grand Final 2018, whichis being hostedin Lisbon (Portugal) onist December. Finda fulllist of winners on the official World Travel Awards website: www.worldtravelawards.com} WORLD TRAVEL AWARDS Hite) ASIA & AUSTRALASIA bind GALA CEREMONY 2018BEST IN TRAVEL The HongKong Tennis Openis aWTA-sanctioned International Series Event and the eighth stop on the WTA Asian swing, returning for its fifth year in 2018. A number of world-class professional female tennis players wll take parti the tournament from 6-14 October 2018. More than 50 of the world's best female players will compete in singles and doubles for prize money of USD 500,000 at the iconic Victoria Park Stadium n the heartof the city. wor hktennisopen hk/enHONG KONG ® CULTURAL CELEBRATIONS, FESTIVALS, SPORTS, ENTERTAINMENT, SHOPPING AND DINING - ASIA’'S WORLD CITY Y LOVES A PARTY AND OFFERS A YEAR-ROUND CALENDAR OF ) EVENTS. AS WITH SO MUCH IN HONG KONG, THE CHALLENGE IS IN THE CHOOSING. START WITH ‘THESE MAJOR CROWD PLEASERS AND TAKE IT FROM THERE. Sun Hung Kai This year, some of the world's top ‘ professional cycling teaswil vie for glory Properties Hong Kong inthe first Hammer Series Race in Hong Kong, The start/finish lineis on Salisbury Cyclothon Ren atthe sensi Sh ui Promera 14 October 2018 ‘The 2018 Sun Hung kai Properties Hong Kong Cyclothon willkick off on14 October morning with thousands of amateur and professional riders fromall over the world joining the popular $0kmride. Those looking to challenge themselves can speed across iconic landmarks in Hong Kong, while young riders and families can take partin leisurely rides in thecity centre sobe sure to pop by and cheer on agalaxy of cycling stars on their first race in HongKong. News:The otheditionof the CCB (Asia) Hong Kong Wine &:Dine Festival brings together world-class food, drinks and entertainment Tight next tothe stur-ning Victoria Harbour skyline. Aside from wine-pairing meals designed by master chefs and tasting classes byindustry experts, there are well over 400 booths featuring everything from single malts to craft beer to keep you palaterefreshed hkwdf-discoverhongkong.com Set your tongue tingling with Hong Kong Great November Feast — amonth-long series of gourmet happenings, with everything from special tast-ingmenus toworld-ciass wine and spirit expos, and fromgourmet carnivals tolocal gastronomy tours.Invwinter, HongKonggets dressed up with citywide decorations and cele- brates with spectacular light shows, seasonal events at top attractions, spe-cial shopping offers and festive menus! To topitall off itringsin the new year witha fantastic fireworks display over Victoria Harbour inthe Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations ts HongKong WinterFest, so shop, eat, drink and bemerry! HONG KONGBEST IN TRAVEL CTS Hong Kong New Year Countdown Celebrations asastunning pyram you watchitZ g HONG KONG Lucky youif youre in HongKong during Chinese New Year, the citys big-gest and most colourful festival Itis impossible to not be caughtup in the energy as you squeeze into crowded temples to pray for good fortune, browse festive markets selling auspicious foods and blooms and photo-graph the shock-red lanterns that adorn the city This ancient festival also gets a makeover that is uniquely Hong, Kong, So, youwill experiencea Chinese New Year lke no other, with a fabulous pa-rade of floats, international and local performers, a stunning fireworks show over the harbour, heart-pounding action at the race track, and so much more.Hong Kong Arts Month March 2019 Every March, the city revels in the annual Hong Kong Arts Month, when lo-cal and overseas artists converge tobring about inspiring programmes in-cluding exhibitions, dance. music, theatre and more. Inadgition to majorin- ‘ternational events, take time to explore vibrant neighbourhoods and art communities where hidden masterpieces are waiting tohelp you discover the soul of Hong Kong,Hong Kong Dragon Boat Carnival 14-16 June 2019 Follow the lead of Hongkongers and make aparty ‘out of an ancient Chinese festival under the modern skyline of Victoria Harbour. Every year, thousands of the world’s tap dragon boat athletes battle it out at the CCB (Asia) Hong HONG KONG © Kong international Dragon Boat Races — three days of intense racing that fil the harbour with heart-poundingaction, a profusion of colour and ‘the sounds of drummers and fans cheering, paddlers on to the finish line, Only Hong Kong could take an ancient Chinese tradition and transformitin-toamodernsport and international party. News:BEST IN TRAVEL LAN KWAI FONG HOTEL ‘Award-winning Hong Kong luxury hotel the Lan Kwvai Fong Hotel is situated in the bustling central district of Hong Kong with stunning views over the city, ‘mountains, and harbor.It provides easy access to the shopping precinct, Causeway Bay, and sightseeing areas, as well a the popular dining, drinking and entertainment districts of SoHoandLan Kwvai Fong, Occupying 33 floors ofa medium-rise building, the Lan Kawi Fong, Hotel Hong Kongis a boutique hotel renowned for its facilities and hospitality. The hotel has a24-hour fitness centre, arestaurant serving Cantonese cuisine, and executive travelers can set up office in the state- of-the-art business centre. The LanKwvai FongHotel’s 62rooms and5 suites are decorated in traditional Oriental style, with high speed internet and cable TV, magnificent views, and even the option of atraditional Chinese massage. To find andreserve the perfect roomat the Lan Kwai Fong Hotel Hong Kong, why not look at our rates and availability? wormworldhotels.com/en/hotel/lan- kwai-fong-hotel—jj33oog Ss Sew WAAAAS NS SS RERReeeeerercenememeenes ~~ SSG SGN wf fF itll Ul eric = = fiBEST IN TRAVEL LANSON PLACE HOTEL Torco ee eRe inspiring city skyline, abustiingblend of east Deseret cme ents ‘as much wonderment.as this destination, with sevenmillion industrious residents packed into justover 1000 squarekilometres. A tour of the ence coe Une SeS blurs ancient Chinese tradition, colonial Pe een ec Ree Dre eae ere a4 stores. Youmight stop to nibble on local delights ety eeae eens eee OU eee ee ced Beare eet sights change as often as the sounds, eachnow Ceo eee -enend cenaHONG KONG bestBEST IN TRAVEL Ital traces back to 1902, when a permanent police station was built on the small hill next to Tai O Ferry Pier, toreinforce the police forces on Lantau Island. As one of the earliest police stations on the outlying islands of HongKong, itwas established to combat pirates prevalent inthe neighbouring waters. Yet, the policemen's lives didnot centre around crime as such, rather it served as an administrative centre. The police had quite a community role of the rural setting in Tai O. They were brought intohelp with family disputes and arguments between villagers. wwrwctaioheritagehotel.com/eng/homepage/ Homepage.htmtCoan a Re ae ea nay cen eee eee! Pe EE eR ec Ce place of tranquility in the heart of HongKong. Nese cea en MANORTate Col (CLsHONG KONG’S =] Fy BUSINESS HOTELS APA oN (ates nreLe=l Raat =1 8) \ (—s executive travel doesn't have to be boring.High above Pacific Place, Conrad Hong Kong offers impeccably designed guestrooms and suites, each witha breathtaking view of Victoria Harbour or the Peak, 2 well as, first-class facilities, including an outdoor heated pool, a 24-hourhealth club and extensive event space. Exceptional hospitality is complemented by enticing HONG KONG dining optionsat the hotel's sixrestaurants and lounges, including award-winning Golden Leaf, whichserves innovative Cantonese fare conradhotels3hilton.com/en/hotels/china /conrad-hong kong HKGHCCI NEWSBEST IN TRAVEL Located in Hong Kong's downtown area of Mongkok enjoy Michelin star Food, a rooftop pool withbrilliant views, thousands of Chinese artworks anda spa. Allof therooms offer luxurious, contemporary decor, a 42inch plasma TV.a DVD/CD system (on request) andaDream Bigbed Themarble bathrooms are separated from therooms with aglass partition and feature an indulgent rain shower. Facilities include the Chuan Spa, pool, an Orientathot tub and a steam room After you have detoxed your body, ilit back up againat one of hotel'sexcellent restaurants and bars, cordlshotels.com/en/hong-kong,Internationally renowned, this hotel offers both business andleisure travellers the highest levels of service ina friendly. yet elegant five-star hotel environment. Luxury guest rooms and suites offer spectacular city. harbour or garden views, tempting you toexplore this unique city. Equally tempting areits wide selection of world-class dining outlets, together with the wellness facilities, including the outdoor heated pool, gymand relaxation lounge (for treatments, andmassage). HONG KONG ® k INTERCONTINENTAL GRAND STANFORD HONG KONG hongkong intercontinental com/en/about- intercontinental-grand-stanford-hong- kong.BEST IN TRAVEL > INTERCONTINENTAL HONG KONG Recognised as one of the world's worming com intercontinental /hotels/us/ outstandinghotels, thisHongKonghotelis _en/hong-kong/hkghc/hoteldetail renowned for its dramatic location on the Kowloon waterfront, with spectacular vie of the sland. ideally located near Kowloon business, entertainment and shopping districts the hotel boasts Asia's spectacular Presidential Suite and over $00 luxuriously appointed rooms, each with spacious bathrooms. Internationally acclaimed, award-winning restaurants pay testament tothis Hong Kong hotel's impeccable credentialsSituated in the bustling Admiralty district, the exceptional location andimpeccable connectivity easily make this hotel aperfect home base for your journey to Hong Kong. From your arrival at the airy lobby filled with amplenatural lights, to residingat one of the 602 elegantly appointed and refurbished non-smoking rooms and suites, the hotel continues to exceed expectations with warm andinvitingsettings, and attentive and intuitive services well-equipped Executive Lounge anda newly elevated |W Marriott Ballroomare HONG KONG © me available to further elevate your stay and event experience, while a myriad of exceptional and diverse ining venues provide plentiful options for gourmand to explore. A stone's throw away fromallthe ‘major tourist and business destinations the hotel atop Pacific Place Mallis seamlessly connected through the city’s Mass Transit Railway system for youto discover what HongKonghas to offer. marriott co.uk /hotels/travel/hkgdt-ju- rmarriott-hotel-hong-kongBEST IN TRAVEL Le Méridien Cyberportis hotel on Hong Kongisland with170 effortlessly stylish and impeccably-designedrooms, offered alongside cutting edge technology and upscale amenities. Located on Hong Kong, Island's south side, this luxury hotels, nestled in greenery while overlooking the South China Sea, ideal for those looking to stay ina quieter partof theistand, yet oniy 20-minutes away from the hustle and bustle of Central The collective LM00 artist-designed key cards open more than just doors: they unlocka local contemporary cultural Sees institution and open minds. Five restaurants and bars are set to cater for the citys creative minds alongwith I7high-ceilinged function rooms with abundant natural day light tobe the prime business hotel for conferences and events in Hong Kong, As the unique Information Technology and startup hub in Asia, Cyberport ishome to many of the worlds most successful companies, making Le Meridien Cyberport hotel the ideal location for those travelling onbusiness. lemeridiencyberport.comHONG KONG > BPN els be ee el Cea @e) Ce) For breathtaking style, legendary service andan unbeatable reputation itjust has to bbe Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong One ofthe world's mast famous hotels, Mandarin Oriental, HongKongisa five-star urbanretreatin the heart ofthe city. By combining traditional Asian service witha sleek contemporary design, excellent dining and cutting-edge facilites, Mandarin Orientathas createda luxury hotel for the 2ist century. mandarinoriental.com/hong- kong/victoria-harbour/luxury-hotelBEST IN TRAVEL Overlooking the spectacular Victoria Harbour, Marco Polo HongKong Hotel is, located along Canton Roadin Tsim Sha Tsu at the heart ofthe city’s busiest commercial shopping and business hub. TheStar Ferry and Hong Kong's cruise terminal are the doorstep, while shopping is right next door ith the hotel forming part of Harbour City ~ Hong Kong's largest shopping complex After an exciting day of sightseeing or business meetings, settle into one of the property's 665 guest-rooms and suites while staying connected via complimentary WiFi Internet. Enjoy Hong Kong to the fullest with your personal handy, a complimentary smartphone with the power to keep guests totally connected while exploring the city Built-inbenefitsinclude unlimited 3G mobile internet, unlimited local and intemational alls, Wi-Fihotspot and tethering.a dining and city guide and exclusive ticketing offers. Catchup with the latest blockbusters from the wide selection cof movies while enjoying the hotels in-room Dining service marcopotohotels.com/en/hotels/hongkon ‘g/kowloon/marco polo hongkongHONG KONG © SHERATON HONG KONG HOTEL & TOWERS Locatedalong VictoriaHarbour, Sheraton _-Thahotet’s782