HONG KONG
Hong Kong is a fascinating melting pot of eastern and western cultures, and although small in size, it bustles with an irresistible energy.
Hong Kong has combined the jet-setting technology, industry and commerce of the west with the Chinese heritage, religion and culture of the east. From the soaring sky-scrapers of the capital, Hong Kong City, to the pastoral farmlands in new Territories and on Lantau Island, Hong Kong is a land of contrasts.
Hong Kong was transformed from a British Pacific colony to a special administrative region of the Peoples' Republic of China on 1 July 1997. Despite doomsday scenarios of Chinese troops cracking down on civil liberties throughout the region, the transition occurred peacefully and with dignity.
Hong Kong is a combination of 236 islands and a portion of territory on mainland China. Located in the monsoon belt, Hong Kong experiences mild winters and hot, humid summers. Although it attracts many bargain shoppers and people pursuing business deals, Hong Kong also offers plenty of sports and leisure activities. Hiking, camping and cycling through the many country parks are popular ways to take in the sites while all forms of water sports are available on the many beaches throughout the islands, making for the perfect escape from the hot concrete in summer.
A proficiency in English is all you need to get around Hong Kong. An ex-British colony, English was a national language for most of the region's history and is spoken in business circles and encouraged in schools. The area is also extremely well geared for tourism and most signposts are written in English as well as Cantonese.
Relaxing and peaceful Hong Kong is not. Bustling, energising, lightning-paced and sleepless are adjectives which better describe a stay in this commercial wonderland. In a short period of time you can try a wide range of eastern cuisine, check out old temples and shrines, partake in festivals, hike through the countryside and admire the synthesis of Chinese and western culture and society. You'll be exhausted, but Hong Kong is worth every minute!
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Over the last five years, Cathay Pacific's fleet has been strengthened by the addition of a number of new aircraft types namely Boeing 777-200s and 777-300s and Airbus A330s and A340s. Cathay Pacific was the launch customer for the new B777-300, the longest commercial aircraft in the world.
The airline has always followed the Asian custom of offering good service - service which is caring and thoughtful. However, we set trends too. The essence of the Cathay Pacific brand is 'the best of modern Asia',
Airshow, the standard software used by all airlines and updated periodically, displays the aircraft's position, flight path and heading. It also shows the aircraft's altitude, speed, wind direction and remaining time to destination.
Flights ex London Heathrow
With the new Super Hub you will experience a distinct travel advantage. It's global network of over 45 destinations, including 28 of Asia's most important cities, puts the world within easy reach.
Arriving on a Cathay flight at Hong Kong International Airport, Chek Lap Kok(CLK), you will arrive through preferred passenger gates right next to immigration counters and Arrivals Hall so you won't need to have far to walk.
Getting from the airport to town Hong Kong's airport, Chek lap Kok on Lantau Island, is 28 miles (45kms) from central Hong Kong. There are road and rail links via a causeway to the mainland.
Transport from the airport is co-ordinated by the airport transportation centre which you can find in many locations in the main terminal. Many of the hotels are very willing to arrange transportation for you if requested.