The Peak, Hong Kong

The Peak or the Victoria Peak is one of the major tourist attractions in Hong Kong. It is a mountain located in the western portion of Hong Kong island and is the highest mountain amongst the rest of those in the island. It offers panoramic views of the Victoria harbour, the surrounding islands and the rest of Hong Kong island.


How to Get There:

The Peak Tram

Ride from the tram is really an unforgettable experience. It rises to 396 metres above sea level. One of the world's oldest and famous inclined railway that moves up and down in a steep slope. So steep that you actually believe that the buildings you passes is built in leaning position.


The Peak Experience:

Nature Walks

Tourists are greeted with striking views of luscious forests and birdlife which surrounds the mountain. Below are the walking trails you can do around The Peak:

Mount Austin Road - Besides the Peak Tower is the Mount Austin Road which you can take up for a walk for 10 to 15 mins.

Victoria Peak Garden - A walk for 30 - 40 mins. from the Mount Austin Road you will reach the Victoria Peak Garden, a perfect place for a resting spot.

Hong Kong Trail - Circling of the Peak for 40 - 60 mins walk. A great view of the Hong Kong island, Victoria Harbour and the surrounding islands.

Pok Pu Lam County Park - Walk south for 35 - 45 mins whilst the Peak Lookout Restaurant on your right. You will see the Pok Pu Lam County Park when you head down once you have seen the wooden path near a barrier with a narrow road on the right side.


The Peak Tower

The ultaramodern tower homing different arrays of restaurants, shops and entertainment facilities. It is the most highest restaurant in the city with 396 meters high above sea level.


Peak Tower Sky Terrace

With its 360 degrees view, a stunning view of the city especially at night could be seen at the Sky Terrace.


Peak Galleria

Opposite of the Peak Tower is the Peak Galleria with different shops, supermaket, cafés and restaurants. The roof top has a viewing terrace although not as spectacular as the view from the Sky Terrace you can also see the city's greenery for free.

Macau

History

Macau is one of the two Special Administrative Regions of the People's Republic of China. Also known as Ou Mun in Cantonese meaning "trading gate" as it is located at the mouth of the Pearl River Delta bordering Guangdong province.

Portugese colonized Macau as they first settled in the 16th century and administered the region until the transfer of sovereignity to the People's Republic of China on December 20, 1999. Being a Special Administrative Region (SAR), Macau would enjoy the benefits of having a "one country, two systems" with full control of their government in domestic affairs, economic policy and internal security. It would remain unchanged until a minimum of 50 years from transfer.

It consists of Macau Peninsula, islands of Taipa and Coloane and the reclaimed area Cotai.

Casinos, apartment buildings, commercial and office establishments sprung like mushrooms in years after the transfer. Macau is also known as the "little Las Vegas" of Asia.


Spots to visit:

Ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral

The cathedral was built in 1602 but destroyed by fire in 1835. Today the only remaining was the southern side of the stone facade.


Guia Chapel

A chapel that is a part of the Guia Fortress. First built in the 19th century.


Senado Square

A paved place from the main road to the Church of St. Dominic with wave-patterned mosaic coloured stones extending to the Ruins of St. Paul's Cathedral.


Macau Tower Convention and Entertainment Centre

Macau tower is 338 meters high with a panoramic view from the observation deck and revolving restaurant. It is also a site for bungy jumping, Skywalking and other extreme sports the tower has to offer.


The Venetian Macau

Located at the Cotai Strip. This casino-resort-hotel is a replica of the Venetian in Las Vegas with magnificent architecture.


City of Dreams

Also located at the Cotai Strip. Hotel accomodations including Hard Rock Hotel, Crown Towers, Grand Hyatt Hotel. The Dragone Entertainment and the Bubble are the must see shows in the City of Dreams.