Family Business
Perpetual Motion
Hong Kong is perfect for families who like to keep on the move.
Built around one of the most dramatic harbors in the world, Hong Kong is an exciting metropolis. There’s so much going here, day and night, that a family trip is almost like a holiday in a fun park.Hong Kong is truly one of the world’s most exciting cities. It’s always on the go — taxis, trams and private cars cram the narrow, busy streets, while stately old ferries transport workers and tourists back and forth between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon on the mainland. Visitors have long enjoyed the colorful shopping and dining experiences here. More recently, modern entertainment and amusement spectacles have taken center stage. Families in particular will be spoiled for choice. You’ll be amazed to see how quickly the enormous range of sightseeing and activities will consume the hours in a busy day.
The 150-acre Hong Kong Wetland Park (www.wetlandpark.com/en) features themed exhibition galleries, a theater, a souvenir shop, an indoor play area (Swamp Adventure) and a resource center. The huge galleries showcase the importance of wetlands to biodiversity, civilization and conservation.
Sail Hong Kong’s scenic harbor onboard an authentic Chinese junk and enjoy superb views of the city’s impressive skyline. Originally owned and manned by Chinese fishermen, the Duk Ling (www.dukling.com.hk) is typical of the junks that once crisscrossed Hong Kong’s waterways. The painstakingly restored Duk Ling offers scheduled harbor tours and is available for private charters.
Children will love Ocean Park (www.oceanpark.com.hk), a mecca of family fun comprising Southeast Asia’s largest aquariums and theme parks. Ride the world’s second longest escalator uphill to Pacific Pier and Ocean Theatre to watch the antics of seals, sea lions and dolphins.
High above Hong Kong Island on the “back of the Dragon,” Victoria Peak (www.thepeak.com.hk) is Hong Kong’s premier visitor attraction, providing magnificent harbor and city views. Arrive late afternoon to experience the dazzling panorama of Hong Kong Island, the harbor, Kowloon and the hills beyond. As afternoon turns into evening, Hong Kong’s signature neon light show illuminates the night sky.
The best way to get to the top is via the Peak Tram, a funicular railway that travels a steep 1,223 feet up the lush mountainside. The tram first operated in 1888, and once competed with sedan chairs as the most popular way to the summit. Try to get seats at the front of the tram on the right-hand side for the best views on the journey skyward.
LODGING
LANGHAM HOTEL HONG KONG
A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, the Langham offers an outstanding luxury hotel experience in a city where perfection is the hospitality standard. It has 469 guest-rooms and 26 suites. Children will be occupied with broadband Internet and satellite TV. A special chocolate selection of candy and cake is available on request. Right in the heart of shopping and entertainment, the Langham is perfectly placed for business and pleasure. $$$$
LANGHAM HOTEL HONG KONG
8 Peking Road
Tsimshatsui, Kowloon
tel 852 2375 1133, fax 852 2375 6611
www.langhamhotels.com
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL HONG KONG
The Four Seasons challenges even the luxury standards of Hong Kong. It’s all you expect from a Four Seasons property wrapped up in masterful and visually exciting architecture. Dining is exceptional and there is a spa complex to rival any metropolitan facility. Children under 18 share their parents’ room at no extra charge. Children are made welcome with a special amenity kit and even child-size bathrobes. Kids’ menus are available in the hotel restaurants. $$$$
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL HONG KONG
8 Finance St.
Central
tel 852 3196 8888, fax 852 3196 8899
www.fourseasons.com/hongkong
