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To experience some diverse east-meets-west culture, why not head to the thriving metropolis of Hong Kong for your next holiday? Situated on the south coast of China, the region has a rich history and boasts a combination of eastern and western influences as a result of its Chinese heritage and former colonial rule by the UK. Hong Kong experienced a boom between the 1960s and 1990s during which time it became a major financial player and skyscrapers began sprouting up close to the natural harbour. Now known as one of the four Asian Tigers in the financial world, the destination has become a wealthy hub with densely populated urban areas and few remnants of the past as areas have built up over time. As you fly over the city on your Hong Kong flights, you're sure to notice the many high rise buildings, the deep blue harbour and the steep hills of Hong Kong Island before you touchdown. This is an exciting nation where you can really experience a different culture. Once you've settled into your accommodation, you might want to begin exploring the metropolis. With a great number of shops and attractions to choose from, you might struggle to decide on what exactly you'd like to see during your stay. A great way to mingle with the natives, browse local goods and even sample the Oriental cuisine is by visiting some of the bustling markets to be found here. There are many markets in Hong Kong, but one of the most famous is thought to be Mongkok Ladies Market. The bazaar is a veritable paradise for fashion followers and you can expect to find every type of garment here, alongside other 'soft' wares such as towels and rugs. The market is renowned for its textiles but also deals in women's accessories and cosmetics, hence the name. Be sure to haggle for the best prices on items and you could find yourself in receipt of some fantastic bargains. And if all that bartering has made you hungry, why not visit some of the food stalls to see what's on offer? You can sample noodles, seafood and a type of rice porridge called congee if you're looking to broaden your gastronomic knowledge. Meanwhile, you can learn more about the traditional dress of the nation if you call in at the Costume Market, which can be found in the central district. You'll also find modern costumes and outfits, along with jewellery and accessories at the market, which becomes particularly busy just before big events such as Halloween. Journey over to Sham Shui Po next to find another popular bazaar called the Golden Arcade. Computer fans will be in their element here as there are hundreds of stalls and stores selling components for computers, laptops, video games and consoles and professional products. The market is ideal for those who enjoy building PCs and there are plenty of bargains to be found as long as you don't let stallholders intimidate you with a hard sell. Another great area to visit is Kowloon - an urban area north of Hong Kong Island that was a military outpost from 960. In 1847 a defensive wall was added around the city and the remains can still be seen today in the form of the south gate and the former home of a local bureaucrat known as a yamen building. There are also a number of temples to be seen here, the oldest of which dates back around 100 years. Tin Hau Temple was built to honour the goddess of the sea and is the main place of worship in the neighbourhood, which was once a fishing district. Inside you'll find deities representing each year of the lunar calendar. Kowloon has several markets, with one of the most popular being the Jade Market, where you'll find all manner of items crafted from the precious stone. However, you'll need to have your wits about you to differentiate between the genuine article and a fake, but if you can you'll be sure of some wonderful gifts to take for loved ones back home. If you decide to spend some time in Kowloon, be sure to visit the Night Market, which starts up after dusk has fallen. Have your fortune read here or employ the services of a palmist or physiognomist, as there are plenty available. And if you're feeling peckish, visit one of the many open-air seafood restaurants in the vicinity, where you can enjoy some tasty fresh fish, prawns and lobster. There are many more markets to visit too, before you embark on your flights home - how many will you squeeze into your Hong Kong visit? Netflights specialises in low-priced flights to destinations all over the world, including Hong Kong. For the lowest-priced Hong Kong flights check out Netflights' range of flights.
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