Dominated by a skyline that boasts the most skyscrapers in the world and a natural harbor that dazzles with scenic walkways and a glittering light show, Hong Kong works its charms from the outside in.
Beneath its towering veneer is a cultural fabric that weaves through Hong Kong’s cluttered alleyways, bustling main drags and into its network of outer islands. Highlights range from one of the world’s best collections of Chinese art at the Hong Kong Museum of Art to a prolific film industry that spawned legends like Bruce Lee and native son Jackie Chan.
“Meetings and incentive delegates can immerse themselves in the culture and lifestyle of Hong Kong through simple and fun group activities like a tai chi class in the morning before the day’s events, or a Chinese tea ceremony instead of a coffee break during a meeting,” says James LaValle, manager, corporate events for Meetings & Exhibitions Hong Kong.
“Pharmaceutical groups especially love visiting a Chinese apothecary to learn about traditional Chinese medicine and health practices,” LaValle says. “You also can’t go wrong with a Chinese cooking class to help delegates hone their culinary talents and bring home a new favorite recipe for the family.”
Hong Kong also stands at the center of economic activity in the region and is the geographic, political and economic gateway to China, inspiring the Hong Kong Tourism Board to pen a new tagline, “Hong Kong. The World’s Meeting Place.”
The city offers more than 70,000 hotel rooms, including new developments by Intercontinental Hotel Group with its Indigo Hotel Hong Kong Island and local hotelier Miramar Group’s new Mira Moon, both within walking distance of the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. And the first deluxe international resort hotel, the Auberge Discovery Bay, now offers a unique beachfront environment on Lantau Island.
Another recent debut is the first berth of the new Kai Tak Cruise Terminal, which features the largest rooftop garden in Hong Kong and is available for cocktail functions, boasting views of the harbor and skyline.
The West Kowloon Cultural District will be completed in phases starting in 2015, and will incorporate 15 performing arts venues and over seven acres of open piazzas, as well as a cultural institution with museum functions. It will also feature an exhibition center with a focus on arts and culture.
