Hong Kong is one of those places that has to be on anyone's top ten list of cities to visit in a lifetime. Although mainland China is quickly developing as a travel destination in its own right, Hong Kong still holds the crown as the main gateway into China to many, and offers an introduction to the many more wonders that China has to offer.

Hong Kong Harbour

Hong Kong was built as a port city, and that is clear to see from many angles. The main action is taking place on Hong Kong island, which houses the highest skyscrapers, and many of the international level food and entertainment spots. Hong Kong island is also a great place to take a view of the harbour. A short ferry ride further though, puts your feet on the mainland of Kowloon, which equals Hong Kong island in action, but perhaps of a slightly different nature.

Kowloon

If Hong Kong island represents the glitz and the glamour, then Kowloon represents perhaps more of the 'real' Hong Kong, if there is such a thing. Kowloon definitely has more of a local flavour, and if you're looking for authentic experience, this is the more llikely place to find it. Both sides of the harbour will give you plenty to see and do though, so it is not a matter where to go, but more of when to be where. If you only have one chance to visit Hong Kong, you must see both sides.

Hotels

Hotels in Hong Kong range from the very top, to the very bottom. Five star hotels can be found on both sides of the harbour, although the very top end sits on Hong Kong island. Whereas the cheapest options in Hong Kong tend to be in Kowloon, but you can equally easy find a great four star there, for a good price. Communiting between the two part is easy, with ferry or undergroun train (MTR), so you van even opt to stay on one side, and make trips to the other. Use this information to your advance, and compare options to get your hotel at the best price.

Use the Hotelsio Rate Finder to find top accommodation and cheap hotels in Hong Kong.

(Photo:Fotolia/Jürgen Effner)