Shawn Henderson

Renton, WA

Hong Kong Travel Agent Specialist

Traveling to Hong Kong offers a unique blend of East meets West, where modern skyscrapers tower over ancient temples, and bustling markets coexist with luxury malls. As a vibrant and dynamic city, Hong Kong is a destination that captivat...
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Getting There: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is one of the world’s busiest airports, with direct flights from major cities worldwide. The airport is well-connected to the city by the Airport Express train, buses, and taxis, making it easy to reach your destination.

When to Visit The best time to visit Hong Kong is during the fall (October to December) when the weather is pleasant and humidity levels are lower. Spring (March to May) is also a good time, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers. Summers can be hot and humid, while winters are cooler but rarely cold.

Things to Do Victoria Peak: No trip to Hong Kong is complete without a visit to Victoria Peak. Take the Peak Tram to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline, Victoria Harbour, and the outlying islands. The Peak Tower and Peak Galleria offer shopping, dining, and observation decks.Star Ferry: The iconic Star Ferry has been carrying passengers across Victoria Harbour since 1888. A ride on the ferry is a must-do experience, offering spectacular views of the skyline, especially at sunset.

Temple Street Night Market: Experience the local culture at Temple Street Night Market in Kowloon. This bustling market is filled with vendors selling everything from clothing and accessories to electronics and street food. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and try local delicacies.Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade: Stroll along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade for some of the best views of Hong Kong Island’s skyline. Don’t miss the nightly Symphony of Lights show, a dazzling multimedia display of light and sound that illuminates the harbor.Ngong Ping 360 & Tian Tan Buddha: Take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car to Lantau Island, where you can visit the impressive Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) and the Po Lin Monastery. The cable car ride offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea.Lan Kwai Fong:

For nightlife, head to Lan Kwai Fong, a lively district filled with bars, restaurants, and clubs. It’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists to unwind and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Hong Kong Disneyland: Perfect for families, Hong Kong Disneyland offers a magical experience with themed lands, rides, and shows. It’s smaller than other Disney parks but retains all the charm and magic.Culinary Delights Hong Kong is a food lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of dining options from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.Dim Sum: A quintessential Hong Kong experience, dim sum is a style of Cantonese cuisine served in bite-sized portions. Try it at traditional tea houses like Maxim’s Palace or more modern spots like Tim Ho Wan.Street Food: Don’t miss trying local street food such as egg tarts, fish balls, and pineapple buns. Mong Kok is a great area to explore for street eats.

Seafood: Head to Sai Kung or Lei Yue Mun for fresh seafood. Choose your catch from tanks and have it cooked to your liking at nearby restaurants.Accommodations Hong Kong offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels with harbor views to budget-friendly hostels. Areas like Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, and Causeway Bay are popular for their convenience and proximity to attractions.Getting Around Hong Kong’s public transportation system is efficient and easy to navigate. The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) is the backbone of the city’s transport, connecting major districts. Buses, trams, and ferries are also widely used.

Consider getting an Octopus Card for seamless travel across different modes of transport.Tips for Visiting Language: While Cantonese is the primary language, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas.Currency: The local currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.Weather: Hong Kong’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack accordingly and carry an umbrella, especially during the rainy season.

Conclusion Hong Kong is a city that never sleeps, offering something for everyone, whether you’re interested in culture, shopping, dining, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Its unique blend of tradition and modernity makes it a destination worth exploring time and again.

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China Travel Agent Expert

China Experiences and Adventures

I went to China to teach at an international school in Ningbo, China. Ningbo is located a few hundred miles south of Shanghai. During my stay in China, I got to visit many sights, see many museums, zoo's and cities. The ones that come to mind are the Great Wall of China, Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai. One of the coolest experiences was going to Thailand and Indonesia. China is a very diverse and unique country. The beauty of the land and the generosity of the people are forever in my heart.

Here is more information about China:

China, the world's most populous country and one of its oldest continuous civilizations, offers a vast array of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Spanning 9.6 million square kilometers, China is a nation of incredible diversity, where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge innovation.History and Culture China's history stretches back over 5,000 years, marked by dynastic rule, philosophical evolution, and significant contributions to human civilization. Key historical periods include the Shang, Zhou, Qin, Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, and Qing dynasties. Each era left a lasting impact on Chinese culture, from Confucianism and Taoism to advancements in science, art, and technology.The Chinese Revolution of 1949, led by Mao Zedong, established the People's Republic of China, setting the stage for the rapid modernization and economic growth that followed in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.China's culture is a rich tapestry woven from its history, traditions, and diversity. It encompasses a wide range of elements, including language, cuisine, art, philosophy, and festivals. Mandarin Chinese is the official language, but numerous regional dialects and minority languages are also spoken.Geography and Climate China's geography is incredibly diverse, featuring vast plains, towering mountains, deserts, and fertile river valleys. Key geographical regions include:The North China Plain: A major agricultural region and cultural heartland.The Yangtze River Basin: Home to some of China's most important cities and agricultural lands.The Tibetan Plateau: Known as "the Roof of the World," this region contains some of the highest mountains on Earth.The Gobi Desert: A vast, arid region in northern China.China experiences a range of climates, from the arid deserts of the northwest to the tropical climate of the south. The eastern coastal regions have a temperate climate, while the interior and western regions experience more extreme conditions.Attractions and Activities: China offers a wealth of attractions that reflect its historical depth and natural beauty:The Great Wall of China: Spanning over 13,000 miles, this ancient fortification is one of the most iconic symbols of China.The Forbidden City: Located in Beijing, this sprawling palace complex served as the imperial residence for Ming and Qing emperors.Terracotta Army: Discovered in Xi'an, these life-sized statues guard the tomb of the first Emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang.The Yangtze River: The longest river in Asia, it offers scenic cruises and views of the Three Gorges.Shanghai: A global financial hub known for its futuristic skyline, historic Bund, and vibrant cultural scene. Known for its giant panda breeding centers and spicy Sichuan cuisine.Cuisine Chinese cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its variety and flavor. Each region has its own distinctive culinary traditions. Key regional cuisines include:Cantonese: Known for its dim sum, roasted meats, and fresh seafood.Sichuan: Famous for its bold, spicy flavors and use of Sichuan peppercorns.Shandong: Known for its hearty, savory dishes and seafood. Jiangsu: Renowned for its refined cooking techniques and balanced flavors.Staple dishes include Peking duck, dumplings, hot pot, sweet and sour pork, and an array of noodles and rice dishes.Conclusion China is a land of contrasts, where ancient heritage meets modern innovation. Its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes make it a fascinating destination for travelers and a significant player on the global stage. Whether exploring the bustling cities, historic landmarks, or natural wonders, visitors to China are sure to be captivated by its many facets.

My Reviews

Amazing Trip!

It was a great experience working with Shawn. She was very informative about our trip. We appreciated it.

By Yolanda from Bellingham, Washington
Traveled to Granada ~ Spain ~ Europe

I would recommend this agent to my family and friends