Exotic Asian destination. Review on Hong Kong, General

Hong Kong - that exotic Asian destination.

I went there with great hopes in dec 2006. Alas, it just proved to be a business destination, not a tourist place. Of course, I had been there for business, so nothing to complain about that way.:)

One of the very convenient things about Hong Kong is the Octopus card. You can use this card in practically all places, including big super stores, all public transportation etc. It is a card that you charge with money and each time you swipe, the money gets reduced automatically. So no hassles of using currency notes and coins. Just keep you card charged and you are all set! They give you discounts when you charge for higher amounts. something like if you charge for 500 HKD, they actually charge it for 550HKD. things like that! I think this feature is so nice that they should make it mandatory in all countries!

I think You can even take unused money back from the octopus card when you leave HK - but not all outlets refund the money. So keep that in mind.

The place is very neat and organised. The public transporation is just superb - there are ample buses, taxis, KCR and MTR(train services). Connectivity from airport is superb.

There are nice places to visit - like the peak train, Ocean Park and the eternal symbol of HK - the HSBC bank(now called Bank of China) building lit up beautifully at night. A ride in the cable cars is also a must. There are abundant avenues for shopping too, but stick to the big brand names in stores - otherwise you can end up with duplicate products. Thats a real big threat here - authentic stuff does not necessary come cheap.

I have to admit I have been there only for two weeks. The local folks dont know much of English - dont expect much help from them. Sometimes they just run away when you ask them for directions! Very rude. They have to learn a few things from the Japanese.

*TIPS:

1. Try shopping in Mong Kok for electronics goods. You practically find all brands of digital cameras and every other conceivable electronic gadgets there.

2.** Buy only from big branded stores. Otherwise you might end up being conned with fake products.

3. Buy Axe brand oil, a type of eucalyptus oil, that cures all types of aches in the body.  You get authentic stuff at Watsons or other big super stores. There is also a White Flower oil, very good for sprains et al. These things are some of the true exotic hong kong products - and are available in plenty.

4. Always bargain. They say one rate - you tell a rate which is about 70% of that one. Typically since many shopkeepers dont talk english, they take a calculator and type the price on it. Then you take the calculator and type the price you are wiling to pay. Remember, you get good discounts when you buy more stuff.