Asian Paradises

– 21 – www.paradises.com emerged as one of the world's great financial centres. China resumed sovereignty of Hong Kong in 1997, declaring it a Special Administrative Region, with the right to retain its own currency, travel documents and legal system. Nature A fact that astounds most first-time visitors is that 40 percent of the entire territory is permanently protected as nature park, and an additional 30 percent of the territory is officially classified as rural—leaving just 30 percent for the urban area. Hong Kong has a biodiversity greater than territories of far larger size, including many rare and unique species of f lora and fauna. The Mai Po Wetlands are internationally renowned as the habitat of hundreds of species of rare migratory birds during the northern winter months, as well as offering glimpses of otters, rare butterf lies and leopard cats. Meanwhile, most of Hong Kong's 260 outlying islands are uninhabited. Island-hopping cruises, calling in at glorious, deserted beaches and inlets, are a popular pastime. In the waters off Lantau Island, visitors also have a chance to spot the very rare Chinese Baiji dolphin, Hong Kong's unofficial mascot. A number of local ecologists and authors offer English-speaking guided hikes through some of Hong Kong's more spectacular scenery. The sights The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) offers an exciting range of tours showcasing the city's best, both day and night. Hong Kong Island's main drawcards include Victoria Peak with the new Peak Tower offering a number of shops and attractions as well as spectacular views. Happy Valley, home of Hong Kong's richest racecourse, is located between Wan Chi and Causeway Bay, one of the busiest areas of Hong Kong by day or night. Aberdeen is now a thriving town best known for its magnificent f loating restaurants, excellent seafood and water-based population. Ocean Park is one of Southeast Asia's largest leisure complexes. The beaches of Repulse Bay are very popular in summer. Catch the Star Ferry across from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon where you will find Hong Kong Cultural Centre, the largest venue for the performing arts. A weekly museum pass allows visitors multiple visits to the Hong Kong Museum of Arts, Hong Kong Museum of History, Hong Kong Science Museum, and Hong Kong Space Museum. Kowloon's other attractions include Nathan Road, known as the 'Golden Mile', Kowloon Park, numerous markets and shopping malls. For those interested in history, Kowloon Walled City Park preserves architectural remains

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