#1. Hong Kong
Hong Kong is an autonomous territory, and former British colony, in southeastern China. Its vibrant, densely populated urban centre is a major port and global financial hub with a skyscraper-studded skyline. Central (the business district) features architectural landmarks like I.M. Pei’s Bank of China Tower. Hong Kong is also a major shopping destination, famed for bespoke tailors and Temple Street Night Market.
In the Western District is Hollywood Road, lined with antiques shops, and Man Mo Temple, honoring the gods of literature and war. Tram rides up Victoria Peak afford sweeping views, while Star Ferry boats cross Victoria Harbour to the Kowloon Peninsula. There, Tsim Sha Tsui offers a waterfront promenade and Nathan Road, nicknamed the "Golden Mile of Shopping.” Outlying islands include Lantau, famed for its massive bronze Tian Tan Buddha, and Lamma, known for its bohemian beaches. Hong Kong is also known for its lively food scene, ranging from Cantonese dim sum to lavish afternoon tea.
From off-the-rack Chinese gowns to bespoke speciality knives (and vice versa), the sheer variety of products in Hong Kong’s shops is dizzying. Every budget, need and whim is catered for in 'can do' spirit by a similarly impressive assortment of venues – glitzy malls where the moneyed shop, chic side-street boutiques and vintage dens where fashionistas find their gems, nerdy gadget bazaars, and a mix of markets where you can haggle to your heart’s content. The city has no sales tax so prices are generally attractive to visitors.