There are few places in the world where so much happens in such a small space. While room to move may be limited, short breaks to Hong Kong are always jam-packed with things to see and do.
Stepping from glitzy shopping malls to atmospheric smoky temples with barely a chance to draw breath, the pace and compressed intimacy blur historic and cultural boundaries: neon flashes, candles flicker, monks chant, waves lash, planes zoom overhead, horns beep and food sizzles. Rest assured that city breaks to Hong Kong are like no other you'll ever take.
The top attraction for travellers taking short breaks to Hong Kong is Victoria Peak, with a spectacularly high vantage point overlooking the city. Reached by tram, dramatic views are to be had in all directions by day or night, though the panorama of Victoria Harbour is particularly memorable.
Far below, the Central Market will titillate other senses - the city may have some of the best Chinese and Asian restaurants, but nothing beats a plate of fried greens and fresh ginger prawns in the market while being serenaded by wailing Chinese pop divas from the bootleg DVD stalls.
Nearby you'll find the island hot spot - the district of Wan Chai - a heaving haven for night owls. The Man Mo Temple is another central attraction worth seeking out.
Miraculously, short breaks to Hong Kong can have their restful moments. The beach towns of Stanley and Shek O, on the island's south side, have a relaxed west coast atmosphere and some excellent seafood restaurants that look out toward the fishing junks trawling the South China Sea.
Close by, Lamma island is a pretty fishing port with a Greek island feel. After a day on the beach and an evening in the boutiques and harbourside restaurants and bars, the real highlight of the trip is the return journey. The night-time approach to Hong Kong bay, towards tiers of iridescent skyscrapers, is one of the world's most staggering modern sights.
City breaks to Hong Kong can feel almost like visiting a theme park, and if its multiple attractions start to feel a little unreal, a trip to the harbour of Aberdeen provides a jolt of reality. A permanent home to thousands of people living on roughly customised sampans and junks, it's a floating mass of wood, rope and tarpaulin.
Print >