Hong Kong is one of the most vibrant cities in the world. The awe-inspiring skyscrapers and miles of bright, colourful neon lights of endless shops and restaurants are overwhelming at first, but as you begin to notice the details, Hong Kong is completely enchanting. There is a lot to offer a visitor from haute cuisine to steaming sidewalk cafes, tai chi at dawn and deserted islands to downtown horseracing and ancient temples. There are many flights to Hong Kong from London and it is truly a holiday you will treasure for years.

Get an overview of the city and its harbours by taking the Peak Tram to The Peak. Victoria Peak is the highest mountain on the main island and gives spectacular views of Hong Kong’s central district, Victoria Harbour and Kowloon. At Mid-levels on the northern slope of The Peak are the Zoological and Botanical Gardens. Opened to the public in 1871, it is one of the oldest botanical and zoological gardens in the world.

It has over eight themed gardens including Orchids, Magnolia, Azalea, Camellia, Bamboo and herbs. It also has areas for primates, reptiles and birds. It’s a nice place to relax in the middle of the city while viewing some of the most beautiful blossoms in the world.

Victoria Harbour is between Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula. There are beautiful walkways especially the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade throughout the area that let visitors see the harbour up close. They are also popular places for locals to meet and have restaurants serving everything from your favourite burger to shredded jellyfish. Famous for its night skyline, you can ride through the harbour on the Star Ferry and see everything.

Hong Kong is a good place to visit for someone who wants the lap of luxury as well as for those who travel on a tight budget. There are many cheap flights, so getting there is easy, and there are endless inexpensive places to stay.

For an experience from another era, visit the Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple. People from all walks of life visit the temple to pray and possibly see a bit into their future. The fortune tellers shake bamboo sticks out of a box and read the pattern they make when they fall.

Just when you think you have seen it all, walk behind the main temple into another time. There are carp ponds, small bridges, brightly coloured pavilions with cared windows and doors and waterfalls for a real wonderland.

For a completely different experience visit the Outlying Islands. There are still traditional villages there and many ancient Buddhist temples. You can get local seafood that is fresh and deliciously cooked and enjoy the peaceful misty mountains.

Save space in your luggage for all your purchases. You will get the lowest possible prices for computer goods and high fashion in Kowloon’s markets. Hong Kong has it all from ultimate luxury to simple pleasures available in the crowded, vibrant and completely safe city.