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Enchantment is everywhere in Nepal; be it in the cool and invigorating shade of the high mountains, or on terraced farmlands carved like stairways out of hill ridges, or still across waterfalls, creeks, rushing mountain rivers amidst gorges, valleys and forests teeming with a cornucopia of flora and fauna. There are lakes amidst breathtaking settings, strong-current rivers for rafting, Wildlife Safaris, the tallest mountains to climb, trekking across vales and dales, and, above all, warm, friendly, welcoming people. In this respect, Nepal becomes a perfect holiday destination for tourists, trekkers, mountaineers, writers, honeymooners, lovers, retired people and people interested in research.
Nepal Geography
As Nepal is sandwiched between two economic and geographical Leviathans, it is rightfully regarded as “ A Yam between Two Boulders” as While Nepal abuts on Indian border in the east, the west and the South, Tibetan Autonomous Region of the People’s Republic of China shares the vast Himalayan frontier with Nepal. The length of the county is 885 kilometers from east to west, and its breath varies from 145 kilometers to 241 kilometers from north to south. The total area is 147,181 sq. kilometers.
Climate
Nepal isn’t only the home of mysterious Yeti and elusive Snow Leopard, but also a constant cause of wonder for meteorologists for her simply amazing variations in climatic conditions. Divided into three different geographical regions, Nepal houses the snow-capped Himalayas in the north, a vast stretch of plains in the south and two chains of hills, known as Mahabharata and Churiya range, acting as a geological bridge between the northern and southern region.
The most astonishing thing about the geography of Nepal is that the distance between the tropical lowlands and the snow-capped mountainous region is very less. While the distance between the tropical and alpine regions in most of the countries around the globe is more than 1000 km, it is just less than 100 km in some places in Nepal.. The temperature varies between zero in the mountains to over 30 degrees Celsius in the valleys, and to mercury plummeting up to 38 degrees during summer in the lowlands.
Population
‘Unity in diversity’ is really the mot just for a multi-ethnic, multicultural and multilingual country like Nepal. It had a population of 18,462,081 at the time of the 1991 census. The average population density at the time was 125 persons per sq km (329 per sq mi), although nearly half the people were concentrated in the narrow Terai region. In contrast, the 2003 population estimate was 26,469,569. The population has grown rapidly since 1950 when there were only 9 million people. In 2003 the population was increasing at an annual rate of 2.3 percent. Only 12 percent of the population lived in urban areas. The rate of population in the urban areas, however, has grown significantly thanks to a number of social, political and economic reasons.
Get in
You may need a tourist Visa to enter the country. A propspective visitor can apply for the visa from several embassies and consulates in most countries in the world. Nepal has diplomatic missions in
Australia, Bangladesh, Belgium, Burma, Canada, China, Denmark, Finaland, France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Myanmar, The Netherlands, Norway, Pakistan, Phillipines, Spain , Sweeden, Switzerland, Thailand, Tibet, the United Kingdom and the United States of America that issue visas to the propective visitors.
Entrance/Egress
The following entery/exit points have been set by the government of Nepal for the foreign visitors:
1. Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu
2. Kodari, Sindhupalchowk (North)
3. Karkarvitta, Jhapa (East)
4. Belahia,Bhairhawa (West)
5. Birgunj, Parsa (Central Nepal)
6. Jamunaha, Nepalgunj (Mid-East)
7. Mohana, Dhangadi (Far-West)
8. Gadda Chauki, Mahendranagar (Far-West)
Via Air
Since there is only one international airport, Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu, in Nepal, it is the Hobson’s choice for vistors to start their Himalayan voyage from the capital city itself. The following airlines company operate their services from/to Kathmandu:
1. Nepal Airlines (Run by the Nepalese government, it operates its service to/from Bangkok, Banglore, Calcutta, Delhi, Dubai, Frankfurt, Hong Kong, Mumbai, Osaka, Paris, London, Shanghai, Singapore)
2. Korean Air (Seoul)
3. Biman Bangladesh Airlines (Dhaka)
4. Air China (Lhasa)
5. Condor (Munich)
6. Druk Air (Paro)
7. Gulf Air (Abu Dhabi)
8. Indian Airlines (Delhi, Calcutta, Varanasi)
9. Qatar Airways ( Doha)
10. Thai International (Bangkok)
11. Martin Air (Amsterdam via Sharjah)
Via Land
Although Indo/Nepal border is a porous one, you must enter the country by road from India through one of the border crossing points ( as described under the heading Entrance/Egress). If you are coming from Tibet, the route is Kodari, Sindhupalchowk. There is no national passenger rail service in Nepal, but there is a rail service operating from Calcutta, India. A train by the name Mithila Express plies regularly between Howrah Station, Calcutta, to Birgunj, one of the chief entry points to Nepal.
Contact
Although the comminication infrastructure of Nepal is not to the world’s standard, still the pincipal cities across the countries entertain almost all forms of sophisticated communication systems. These include:
1. Telephone: The international country code for Nepal is 977. There are two to three digit area code and six-digit local phone numbers. The communication system, operated by Nepal Telecom, a quasi-governmental organization, caters its service in almost all the seventy-five district of the country. But some off-the-map villages don’t have telephone facilities. However, the East-West optical fibre project, which is on the verge of its completion, is expected to cover all the villages and hamlets of the country within two to three years time. Besides Nepal Telecom, United Tele Communication Limited (UTL), a privately owned company, is providing its services in Kathmandu Valley.
2. Cell Phones
Mobiles are widely used, but due to the geoprphical constraints , some rural areas have only analog service, or no service at all. Nepal Telecom and UTL operate operate CDMA networks; Mero Mobile, a private mobile company, operates the only GPRS network. Travellers planning to bring their GPRS phones with them might do well to check that their handset supports the appropriate frequencies.
3. Internet
There are cyber cafes in almost most of the tourist areas all over the country. A trekker can surf the net in Solokhumbu, the entry point of Mount Everest Region. Nomal rate is Rs 20 to 30 per hours in the main cities like Kathmandu and Pokhara. New Pokhara Lodge Lakeside Pokhara offer free internet to hotel’s customers.
4. Mail
The snail mail system is there but, as a rule, it is not always speedy. Also, international parcel postal services can be costly. Furthermore, internationally acclaimed courier service providers like DHL and Fedex also have their branches in most parts of the country.
http://www.visit-nepal.com
Can India’s tigers survive against the huge odds stacked against them? Do they really stand a chance against rampant poaching, habitat destruction, loss of prey and killings by villagers? Nearly a century ago there were over forty thousand tigers in India. True many were hunted by Westerners and Indian lords decades ago but India still had thousands left at the time of its independence in 1947. Still they continued to be shot down by anybody who owned a rifle and could buy a bait to attract the tiger. Villagers grazing their herds through forests ensured that the natural prey of tiger starved to death and thus so did tigers. As a result, by early 1970’s less than two thousand tigers remained in the jungles of India.
Fortunately for the striped sufferer, the Indian prime minister at that time, Indira Gandhi, took action and founded Project Tiger, to save her country’s most valued asset from total extinction. For the next two decades there was a lull and tigers flourished under renewed protection in designated reserves. As a result their numbers reportedly increased to four thousand. But that was all to change in the nineties. Tiger poaching picked up. Organized gangs took advantage of the inherent laziness and corruption that ran through the ranks of park rangers and officials. As a result, tigers started disappearing. Some of the most well known, photographed and magnificent animals faded away. Some reserves like the famous ‘Sariska’ reserve, just a couple of hours drive from the Indian capital New Delhi, protected by three hundred rangers, was wiped clean of its dozens of tigers. Similarly tigers began vanishing from internationally renowned parks like Ranthambore and Kanha, visited by thousands of tourists yearly from around the world!
While all this was going on and calls were being made by respected scientists and conservationists like Valmik Thapar and Belinda Wright to urgently protect the tiger, the administration of Project Tiger, relying on obsolete methods of tiger counting like pug mark identification, continued to deny that any tigers were missing. hereafter newer initiatives have been taken by the Indian government and newer guidelines created, further weakening the power of tiger preservation organizations of India. Politicians are now trying to facilitate people back into tiger reserves, bringing further catastrophe to the delicate ecosystems of India’s shrinking tiger reserves.
The problems that tigers face are many. First is the issue of poaching that continues unchecked owing to the negligence of underpaid, ill-equipped, outnumbered and unfit forest guards. Laws protecting the wildlife are weak. Furthermore there is a huge demand for tiger skins and parts in China, Far eastern Asia including Hong Kong, Thailand and Burma, and Tibet. Each individual tiger can bring hundreds of dollars to the poor villagers and people of India, many of which live at under a dollar a day.
Then there is the issue of human encroachment into tiger territory. Indian economy is expanding and population is increasing. It already has around one billion people and is set to become the most populous country in the world in coming years. Farmers and villagers are living at the borders of, and often right inside, parks. They graze their herds through jungles resulting in the depletion of natural food for the ungulates of forests that are chief components of a tiger’s diet. As a result the starving tigers take to attacking cattle and at times humans. This brings them into conflict with locals who take no time in poisoning partially eaten tiger kills. When the big cat returns to feed upon the carcass, it dies.
Thirdly and perhaps most importantly is the attitude of Indian administration. Not sufficient concrete and long term measures are being taken by the government while tigers continue to be slaughtered in most of the so-called ‘protected areas’ of Indian tiger reserves. In the end, this may prove to be the final nail in the coffin of the Bengal Tiger.
All of this brings one to a single rational derivation – do tigers really stand a realistic chance in India? The latest census reports a total figure of around fourteen hundred animals. Nearly two hundred and fifty animals are being killed yearly. So in all probability, at the current rate of extinction, the Royal Bengal Tiger will be lost forever from Indian wilderness in the next decade. Unless of course there is a miraculous turn around in the way that conservation efforts are being run.
Obviously it will continue to be featured in zoos around the world. Acting as a spectacle for the human race. Rewilding projects will be talked about, planned and even possibly undertaken but will certainly be near impossible to conduct on a large scale. If the people of India don’t wake up now to save their most sublime asset, they must realize that they will lose it forever in the blink of an eye.
Vancouver International Airport in Canada, also known as YVR, is the second largest airport in the North America’s west coast. Situated about 15 kilometers from Vancouver, on Sea Island, in Richmond, in British Columbia, Vancouver International Airport is the shortest as well as fastest route to many of the major cities in Asia.
For instance, Vancouver is just about 1250 kilometers away from such Asian destinations as Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Singapore. As a result, the YVR serves as a foremost getaway between North America and Asia. The airport also operates non stop flights to several destinations in Europe as well as Mexico, apart from a large number of destinations in the US, Caribbean, and Canada. The airport consists of three terminals, such as, Domestic Terminal, the International Terminal, and the South Terminal.
The Domestic and International terminals are connected each other via an enclosed corridor. However, the South Terminal is a separate facility, and is primarily used to serve as a regional hub for helicopters, corporate charters, float planes, and small aircrafts.
In other words, the South Terminal mainly operates flights to places within British Columbia. Air Canada, Air Canada Jazz, Air Canada Tango, Canadian Western Airlines, Northwest International Airways, Western Express Airlines, and Zoom Airlines are some of the airlines operated by the Domestic Terminal. Among the airlines served by the International Terminal are Alaska Airlines, British Airways, Oasis Hong Kong International, Northwest Airlines, Aloha Airlines, Japan Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Thomas Cook Airlines, and United Airlines. The airlines served by the South Terminal include Canadian Western Airlines, Hawk Air, KD Air, Seaair Airplanes, and West Coast Air.
Managed as well as operated by the Airport Authority (AA) – a not for profit, community based organization, since 1992, the Vancouver International Airport is among the top ten international airports in the world, and in 2007, it won the won the Skytrax ‘Best North American Airport’ award. It is estimated that the airport serves about 18 million passengers per year. The airport is also a major getaway to international trade and commerce.
Beyond arrival, departure, and three terminals serving an array of airlines from across the world, the Vancouver International Airport in Canada provides a diverse range of most sophisticated facilities as well as attractions for passengers. For instance, if you are at the airport and want to communicate with your friends, relatives, or business colleagues, then take advantage of leading edge communication facilities available at the airport.
There are about 500 voice payphones, spread across different sections of the International and Domestic terminals. The airport also provides a number of eMillennium payphones coupled with high speed internet access. Apart from these, wireless internet access is also available at the airport. Likewise, if you are a busy traveler or a passenger whose flight time is delay, then the airport offers superb options to relax and rest. The hotel at the airport is attached with accommodation choices replete with high end comforts. Further, a host of facilities are available at the hotel, such as, business center, executive meeting room, luxury day spa, and fully equipped health club.
Further, excellent facilities are available for passengers touring with children. A plenty of play areas can be found throughout the airport, which in turn allows kids to enjoy and unwind. Since these play areas are close to security checkpoints, you needn’t have to worry regarding the safety and security of your children.
For travelers, who are required to stay at the airport for long hours, one of the best ways to avoid boredom is to take a walk around the airport and enjoy its incredible interior designs. There is an art foundation within the airport, which is a dramatic as well as colorful depiction of the natural scenery and native wildlife of the country. Fine examples of Northwest Coast Aboriginal Art can also be found here in the form of totem poles and wooden sculptures.
Superb dining and shopping facilities are also there within the airport, with an array of outlets to cater every taste and budget. Above all, excellent transportation options are available to and from the Vancouver International Airport, boasting of more than 400 taxi providers. For travelers seeking luxury and comfort, better options are available in the form of limousine services are available. A large number of car rental outlets are also within the airport.
The Tai Tam road, Jardine, the Stanley Gap Road and the Wong Nai Chung Gap mark the boundaries of a wonderful park of 1,315 hectares with remarkable views of the natural habitat and geography of Hong Kong. Featuring relaxing views and coastal scenery, the park is also locates a historic World War II site where a visitor can take a glimpse of military buildings, bunkers and pillboxes.
Tai Tam Park which is the fifth national park of Hong Kong was established in 1977. The four main water reservoirs of Hong Kong which are Tai Tam Upper Reservoir, Tai Tam Intermediate Reservoir, Tai Tam Byewash Reservoir and Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir are all situated inside the park. The park is worth a visit because of its exciting hiking trails it posses and the animals, insects and birds inhabiting the lush flora and fauna of the park. Mount Butler, Mount Parker and Violet Hill surround the park and create a spectacular view, especially in the morning. There are only a few other places with such rich diversity as the Tai Tam Park. The arcadia of woods, lakes, hills and streams enhance the beauty of the park and a visitor can orbit around the park cherishing the breathtaking views.
It’s amazing the amount of wildlife that exists inside the park which is in close proximity to the busiest roads of Hong Kong. The park also bears a historical value as there are remnants of war, such as forts and wartime communal stoves still surviving within the boundaries of the park.
Choosing a cheap hotel Hong Kong with quick access to the city’s many attractions is a wise thing to do for a traveler wishing to make the maximum out of a trip to Hong Kong. Cosmo Hotel
Is situated in Causeway Bay’s shopping and entertainment district and maintains its own shuttle bus service to carry back and forth the guests of the hotel to the shopping malls and the airport. Cosmo Hotel can be easily located as it is only 45 minutes from the Hong Kong International Airport.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
Holidays are meant for enjoyment, to fly off the roost and reach a place, which creates an adobe to have a gala time. World is full of premier tourist destinations, which can sway you off your feet. Hop, skip and jump to reach an amazing destination of your dreams and if you are still confused and can’t decide on where to go, then here are some holiday tours, that will surely help you out. Holidays in Singapore, will fascinate you, the moment you will uncover the hidden riches of Singapore. Dotted with spectacular beaches; Singapore beauty enhances with the shades of aquamarine, jade and azure colors of sea water. Extremely popular with the local and the travelers, throngs of crowd come on the beaches to enjoy the beauty of sun, sand and sea and enjoy water sports. Holidays in Singapore is a joyride that is loaded with sacrosanct temples, popular attractions, beautiful parks, parks and wildlife sanctuary. Holidays to Singapore is your ticket to shop, dance, soak in the sun and party hard. Amazing shopping complexes houses big international brands and offers chic clothes to high-tech electronics. With its world-class flourishing hospitality industry, tourists don’t need to worry about the accommodation. Rocking night life of Singapore’s nightclub, sumptuous taste of continental and local cuisines in restaurants, bars and cafeteria adds a lot of dynamism to Singapore. Some of the must-do things in Singapore are Singapore’s Night Safari, which gives a chance to explore the wildlife and view nocturnal animals, a trip to the Chinese and Japanese Gardens and world famous Sentosa Island. Aloha! Soak up the sun on the Hawaiian islands. Holidays in Hawaii takes you on a trip to the mesmerizing vistas, where the sight meets the spectacle. ‘Oahu’, in the heart of the city, is the most popular beach, rich in culture and history. Oahu is further beautified with temples, museums, cultural centres and colouful festivals. Here travelers can partake in the variety of water sports like snorkeling, wind surfing, boogie boarding, snorkeling and fishing. ‘Maui’ is an unforgettable honeymoon destination and its choral concerts, classical performances, jazz pianists, comedy shows and polynesian drumming, add a lot of revelry to the Holidays in Hawaii. Its other attractions include ‘Big Island’, which is simply spectacular. Whale watching, swimming with dolphins, ocean kayaking, surfing, windsurfing and catamaran excursions are other immensely popular activities in Hawaii. Hong Kong is full of fabulous attractions and draws hundreds and thousands of crowd every year. If one has to describe Holidays in Hong Kong in one word then its colorful. Hong Kong island, is the place where real enjoyment starts. ‘Victoria Peak’ is the best place to admire the lights of this Oriental Pearl. ‘Aberdeen’ provides a glimpse of the essence of Hong Kong. Go on a shopping spree in the ‘Stanley Market’, which is encircled with restaurants and outdoor cafes. ‘Happy Valley’, located between the Wanchai and Causeway Bay, is a place to experience gambling and horse racing in the race course
Holidays are meant for enjoyment, to fly off the roost and reach a place, which creates an adobe to have a gala time. World is full of premier tourist destinations, which can sway you off your feet. Hop, skip and jump to reach an amazing destination of your dreams and if you are still confused and can’t decide on where to go, then here are some holiday tours, that will surely help you out.
Holidays in Singapore, will fascinate you, the moment you will uncover the hidden riches of Singapore. Dotted with spectacular beaches; Singapore beauty enhances with the shades of aquamarine, jade and azure colors of sea water. Extremely popular with the local and the travelers, throngs of crowd come on the beaches to enjoy the beauty of sun, sand and sea and enjoy water sports. Holidays in Singapore is a joyride that is loaded with sacrosanct temples, popular attractions, beautiful parks, parks and wildlife sanctuary. Holidays to Singapore is your ticket to shop, dance, soak in the sun and party hard. Amazing shopping complexes houses big international brands and offers chic clothes to high-tech electronics, monthly horoscopes. With its world-class flourishing hospitality industry, tourists don’t need to worry about the accommodation. Rocking night life of Singapore’s nightclub, sumptuous taste of continental and local cuisines in restaurants, bars and cafeteria adds a lot of dynamism to Singapore. Some of the must-do things in Singapore are Singapore’s Night Safari, which gives a chance to explore the wildlife and view nocturnal animals, a trip to the Chinese and Japanese Gardens and world famous Sentosa Island.
Aloha! Soak up the sun on the Hawaiian islands. bank holidays in Hawaii takes you on a trip to the mesmerizing vistas, where the sight meets the spectacle. ‘Oahu’, in the heart of the city, is the most popular beach, rich in culture and history. Oahu is further beautified with temples, museums, cultural centres and colouful festivals. Here travelers can partake in the variety of water sports like snorkeling, wind surfing, boogie boarding, snorkeling and fishing. ‘Maui’ is an unforgettable honeymoon destination and its choral concerts, classical performances, jazz pianists, comedy shows and polynesian drumming, add a lot of revelry to the Holidays in Hawaii. Its other attractions include ‘Big Island’, new year, which is simply spectacular. Whale watching, swimming with dolphins, ocean kayaking, surfing, windsurfing and catamaran excursions are other immensely popular activities in Hawaii.
Hong Kong is full of fabulous attractions and draws hundreds and thousands of crowd every year. If one has to describe Holidays in Hong Kong in one word then its colorful. Hong Kong island, is the place where real enjoyment starts. ‘Victoria Peak’ is the best place to admire the lights of this Oriental Pearl. ‘Aberdeen’ provides a glimpse of the essence of Hong Kong. Go on a shopping spree in the ‘Stanley Market’, which is encircled with restaurants and outdoor cafes. ‘Happy Valley’, located between the Wanchai and Causeway Bay, is a place to experience gambling and horse racing in the race course
Mukesh writes many holiday tour articles for 123newyears.com. It gives complete information about bank holidays in canada, holidays in London, 2010 calendars, holidays in New York, 2010 horoscopes and more. For more information please visit www.123newyears.com/.
The Tai Tam Country Park nestled in the eastern region of Hong Kong is a nature lovers’ paradise with its lush greenery and untainted natural setting. Covering a large area of 1315 hectares, the park is filled with many reservoirs, historic war remnants, different insect and bird species, and excellent hiking trails. This amazing park is definitely worth a visit and will leave you impressed and appreciative of the beauty of mother nature.
Amid the many attractions of the Tai Tam Country Park, the highlight of these is the Tai Tam Valley. Clustered with lush flora and fauna, this picturesque valley is surrounded by sheer mountains like that of Mount Butler, Mount Parker and Violet Hill, making it an awesome sight to behold. Hillside streams flow along the mountain sides that surround the valley making it an incredible sanctuary of peace and tranquil beauty. Historic ruins of a bungalow can also be visited here.
The area around the Tai Tam reservoir is a great place just waiting to be explored. Filled with many rare insects, harmless native wildlife, exotic birds and rare plants, the reservoir is surrounded by woods, lakes and streams. From here, you will be able to observe the Tai Tam Valley in all its natural splendour.
Jardine’s Lookout is also a summit point that should not be missed whilst exploring the Park. The Wilson Trail and the Hong Kong Trail converge here as it offers an amazing view of the Victoria harbour. The breathtaking view from this summit will astound you as it reveals the stark contrast of Hong Kong’s city skyline in the North and the lush nature of Tai Tam Park in the South.
Other reservoirs to be visited in the Park include the Tai Tam Tuk Reservoir and the Tai Tam Byewash Reservoir. The Tai Tam Country Park, once a battle field during World War II, still contains historical remnants that include forts and other war artifacts that can be seen as you stroll around. Barbeque and picnic areas are also available at certain places within the park to relax and be enjoyed in this hidden world of beauty.
Travellers looking for comfortable and elegant hotels in Hong Kong from which to explore this amazing city can stay at the Langham Hotel Hong Kong. This luxury hotel in Hong Kong is guaranteed to make your stay in the city a memorable one with its excellent standards and contemporary style.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
One of Asia’s most premier destinations, Hong Kong is a sprawling metropolis and is a global financial and business hub. The territory which belongs to the People’s Republic of China is probably the best example of the east meeting west. From towering skyscrapers where million dollar business deals take place, to the serene gardens and temples and the gourmet cuisine Hong Kong has something special on offer for everyone. Among the many interesting sights and sounds that Hong Kong presents, the Shek O Country Park too is quite a crowd puller.
Located in the Shek O, Southern District in the southeastern corner of Hong Kong Island, the Shek O Country Park is a rustic marine park covering a land area of 701 acres. The park which was opened in 1979 is easily accessible through all the local transportation methods including bus and taxi. The park’s main attractions include Dragon’s Back, D’Aguilar Peak, Hong Kong Trail, To Tei, Wan Village and the Shek O Beach.
The Dragon’s Back is a rising hilly trail located between Wan Cham Shan and Shek O Peak and the beautiful scenery witnessed here is unrivalled. The park is a popular location for evening walks, hikes and family picnics. A natural haven for wildlife the Shek O Country Park is also a good place to have a closer glimpse of a variety of animal species.
One of the premier luxury hotels in Hong Kong, The Langham Hong Kong offers a truly refined western type of luxurious living in the centre of the busy shopping and tourism district of Tsimshatsui. The property is in fact the only Hong Kong hotel which has the rights to claim the heritage of the legendary grand hotel. Stunningly decorated guestrooms and suites, elegant furnishing, lavish facilities and exceptional levels of service make The Langham Hong Kong a number one favourite among travellers.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
Vibrant as it is diverse, Hong Kong is fast becoming one of Asiaâs premier holiday destinations for the masses. With its sky-piercing landscapes, chockfull of department stores, mega malls, theme parks and funky neighbourhoods, Hong Kong also offers a variety of activities especially enticing for families.
When you think of family fun, one cannot forget Hong Kong Disneyland. With a host of all those spectacular attractions that Disneyland is globally renowned for, Fantasyland, Adventureland, Tomorrowland and Main Street USA await both the young and the young at heart with open arms. Complete with fireworks, the Lion King Broadway show, Sleeping Beauty Castle, The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Mickey’s PhilharMagic, the Cinderella Carrousel and Dumbo the Flying Elephant are some of the parkâs best loved attractions. Along with traditional Disney parades and mind-blowing rides such as Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, Hong Kong Disneyland is a treat for all who dare to imagine and immerse themselves in the rich tradition of this entertainment powerhouse.
Among the many family oriented activities available on the island a trip to the Peak is an absolute must. Offering families a lot more than the breathtaking 360 degree scenes available at Lions View Point Pavilion and Lugard Road Lookout in the shape of fine dining and shopping opportunities, a trip on the century old Peak Tram is a not be missed event when viewing the Peak in all its glory. Climbing 1200 feet above the ground kids and adults alike will get the unique opportunity to view the city from a 45 degree angle while the Peak Tram Historical Gallery also offers guests a glimpse into the evolution of this special form of transportation. Madame Tussaudâs Hong Kong is another hotspot with its life-like celebrity figures where children can take snaps with their favourite stars and superheroes.
Ocean Park is another favourite spot for families on vacation as it offers an educational and fun filled encounter with wildlife and Hong Kongâs giant pandas. Spread out over 25,000 square metres the Amazing Asian Animals section is a treasure trove of Asiaâs beloved creatures while other must-see highlights include Goldfish Treasures and Panda Village which houses 60 species of birds, turtles, Chinese alligators and quirky otters. The Panda Kingdom Shop and Panda Cafe are also great for souvenirs and trinkets of the parkâs famed residents Ying Ying and Le Le who call the Giant Panda Adventure Facility home. The Sky Fair, Dolphin Encounter Programme, Ocean Theatre, and the Behind-The-Scenes tour also offer interactive experiences for the whole family. Hong Kong Wetlands Park is also a hotspot for kids in addition to the Ngong Ping 360 cable ride experience.
Noahâs Ark on Ma Wan Island is another unique attraction with its whopping 270,000 square feet reconstruction of the Bibleâs Noahâs Ark complete with a 4D theatre where kids can learn about the Great Flood. A museum, educational tours, programmes and facilities are also located within the ark to offer an informative experience that is both engaging and memorable.
With over 500 exhibits the Hong Kong Science Museum is also a great place for families with over 70% of the exhibits being hands-on, interactive items. Children will get to learn science the fun way while blowing foamy bubbles of soap, playing with home ware and circuits while the museum also houses a 72 feet high energy machine that is one of the biggest of its kind. The Hong Kong Space Museum with its state-of-the-art SXRD projectors, digital planetarium, Hall of Astronomy and Hall of Space Science will inspire the wannabe astronaut in all children. Other illustrious museums that are suited for families include the Hong Kong Heritage Museum, Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence and the Hong Kong History Museum where the islandâs vibrant legacy is traced through the centuries. The Golden Bauhinia Square is another point of interest as families can watch the majestic flag raising ceremony in the mornings which takes place amidst pomp and grandeur next to the Forever Blooming Bauhinia sculpture. The Police Silver Band and Police Pipe Band also perform during this daily ritual which adds to the ceremonious air of the affair.
The Langham Hong Kong is well suited for families in search of a child-friendly luxury hotel in Hong Kong. Charmingly designed and decorated in keeping with modern sensitivities, this idyllic accommodation is a premier luxury Hong Kong hotel.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
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