Hong Kong

The New Year's celebration is Hong Kong's biggest event of the year. The three-day extravaganza includes a colorful parade on the first day, a brilliant display of fireworks over Victoria Harbour on the second day and horse races on the third. To best take advantage of all Hong Kong has to offer during this celebration, travelers should stay near the action. Fortunately, Hong Kong has long been a popular destination for both business and pleasure travelers and fantastic hotels are abundant in the area. The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong is a five star hotel located close to the New Year's parade route. Rooms feature spectacular views of Victoria Peak, the city or, for a higher price, the harbor. The décor is elegant and traditional. However, the Ritz-Carlton's greatest strength is its amazing level of service. The numerous helpful staff members work hard to make guests feel pampered and appreciated. Tasty complimentary cookies are always available in the reception area, a favorite perk for guests. Another five star hotel situated near the parade route is the Island Shangri-La Hotel, located at the Pacific Place development in the Central District of Hong Kong. The location is one of the best in Hong Kong with plenty to see and do nearby. Shoppers will appreciate the large shopping mall also housed in Pacific Place. The hotel boasts many leisure facilities, including a health club and swimming pool, and there are a variety of bars and restaurants featuring different types of cuisine. The rooms are lavishly appointed and command views of the peak or the harbor, perfect for watching the fireworks display. Also located at Pacific Place is the classy Conrad Hong Kong, another five star hotel. Rooms are decorated with an elegant, modern flair, but touches like the teddy bear by the bed and rubber duckie in the bath are fun and homey. Each year the Conrad's distinctive lobby is beautifully decorated for the New Year's celebration. The hotel also boasts several excellent eateries as well leisure facilities. The Conrad Hong Kong is conveniently located near the subway system, which provides easy access to all of Hong Kong. While the luxury hotels in Hong Kong are extraordinary, there are also many wonderful, less expensive hotels in the area. Across the harbor in Kowloon's Tsim Sha Tsui area are many hotels, several with beautiful views of Hong Kong Island as well as the harbor. There are plenty of shops, restaurants and nightlife in Tsim Sha Tsui and the Island can be easily accessed by subway or by taking a picturesque ferry ride across the harbor. Two moderately priced hotels to try in this area are the Hyatt Regency and the Holiday Inn. The Hyatt Regency Hong Kong is in a great location in Tsim Sha Tsui, close to shopping and a subway station. Many travelers find good sale prices for the Hyatt's rooms. The Holiday Inn Golden Mile is a typical Holiday Inn, with a fitness center and a nice pool. This hotel is also near the subway and it's an easy walk to the ferry. Planning a trip to Hong Kong can feel a bit overwhelming -- there is so much to see and do, and it's virtually impossible to include every activity. From the worlds largest night parade and top Hong Kong attractions to great dining and exciting nightlife, you're sure to enjoy the Pearl of the Orient! Choosing the right Hong Kong hotel will make your journey more enjoyable for all the must-see and must-do experiences, during Hong Kong's biggest event of the year.