When it comes to achievements, Hong Kong has an impressive variety: it is the world's 8th largest trading entity, the 6th largest holder of foreign currency reserves and it has one of the world's freest economies. It is one of Asia's most popular tourist destinations and probably has the highest number of restaurants per head of population in the world. Its hotels are regularly included in the "Top Ten" lists and it has the world's busiest container port, the longest suspension bridge, the largest per head fleet of Rolls Royce and one of the world's lowest taxation rates.

Hong Kong is a city where a stockbroker might light incense at a shrine while preparing for the world's market to open; where elderly citizens practice the graceful art of tai chi in city parks, oblivious to the rush of the passing traffic. Hong Kong is a world-famous shoppers' paradise where goods are often found at prices lower than in the product's country of origin. The territory's compactness and integrated above- and below ground transport systems mean territory-wide mobility, while leading hotels set new standards of service, comfort and luxury.

Were Hong Kong merely an economic miracle full of hard-working and harder-playing people, it would be a fascinating enough destination. But this is a culturally rich city as well. A place where people from all over China mingle with Europeans, Americans, Asians, Africans and Australians.

It is a place where more than 6,000 years of Chinese culture have been woven into 150 years of colonial rule, producing a fascinating city of contrasts. Where centuries-old temples proudly stand next to futuristic neon-topped skyscrapers. Where only a short ferry, bus or train ride from the excitement of the city will carry you to tranquil peaks and South China Sea islands.

Marvellously compact, backed by a cutting-edge infrastructure and a worldly outlook, Hong Kong has never looked so good, performed so well, or been a more exciting place to visit.

- Hong Kong Tourist Association