Hong Kong What Is Known For

Fly Cathay Pacific for direct flights from major U.S. cities such as New York (JFK) to Hong Kong (HKG).

Stay in some of Hong Kong's famous hotels, now offering great deals. Even if you don't stay, they're well worth an afternoon visit. High tea at the Peninsula dates back to the heyday of British rule in the 1920s, and the 28th-floor bar, restaurant and, yes, the bathrooms all have stellar views. The once-staid Mandarin Oriental just reopened after a $140 million renovation; rooms feature design so cutting edge it can take half an hour to figure out the light switches. And the sumptuous Island Shangri-La is perhaps Hong Kong's most distinctively luxurious hotel, with generously sized rooms, an over-the-top spa and a truly spectacular outdoor swimming pool, encircled by skyscrapers.

Eat dim sum, the dumpling heart of Hong Kong cuisine, which is usually served from early morning till about 5 p.m. The Island Shangri-La's Summer Palace offers perhaps the most exquisite dim sum in the city. For more economical bites garnished with local color, try the Tao Heung dining halls. With multiple locations around Hong Kong, the restaurants specialize in healthy, creative foods.

Hike with Hong Kong's two best freelance hiking companies: Hansen's Hikes, run by Michael Hansen, and Walk Hong Kong, run by Swiss Marco Foehn and New Zealander Jackie Peers. Both companies offer a wide range of hiking, cycling, bird-watching and photography tours relying on public transport. Hansen's Hikes is more economical. Remote Lands arranges tours for travelers to meet artists and gallery owners of Hong Kong, as well as visits to the China Club.