Get Away to Hong Kong's Summer Spectacular

LOS ANGELES - (BUSINESS WIRE) - Do you miss retail therapy? When was the last time you went out to dinner? If the economic downturn has had you cutting back, cut loose! Consider a summer vacation in Hong Kong, Asia's shopping, dining and events capital, where not only is the U.S. dollar still riding high, the summer sale season is under way. Starting June 29 and running through August 31, the Hong Kong Summer Spectacular rules. That means, in addition to amazing bargains on just about anything your heart desires, you'll enjoy spectacular wine and dine deals and offers and loads of events and activities.

This year is also Hong Kong's Food and Wine Year, celebrating the vibrant gastronomic scene in the city that lives to eat. Hong Kong is Asia's Kitchen Central for every tradition of Asian and Western cookery, and what's more, its wine culture is burgeoning since the government lifted import duties on wine this year. Events, tastings and restaurant promotions are planned throughout the summer; see the Web site for more details.

Hong Kong is always a shopper's dream come true, especially during the summer sales. Major department stores and shopping districts will offer the latest and hottest products in fashion and beauty, jewelry, watches, electronics and other consumer products, as well as beautiful and authentic Chinese goods - and you won't believe the bargains!

To help plan your daily shopping and dining agenda, you can pick up a free copy of the "Hip Hot Guide," a magazine featuring hip, trendy and unique shops, restaurants and hotels around town - essential information, and no savvy traveler would be without it.

You won't even lose in hotel accommodations what you save on shopping. Renowned the world over for high standards and service, even in budget categories, Hong Kong's hotels are also on sale this summer. The Hong Kong Summer Spectacular Web site lists fabulous hotel offers, all over Hong Kong and from A to Z. Room rates for three-day/two-night packages run from US$65 to US$430, and many include some very tempting extra amenities and services.

Should shopping finally pall, Hong Kong has plenty of diversions and a stunning calendar of events. Among the newest attractions is the "Amazing Asian Animals" exhibit at Ocean Park, an interactive journey of discovery at the "Giant Panda Adventure." Here, you can get up close to precious native animals like giant pandas, red pandas, Chinese giant salamanders and Chinese alligators. There's also a spectacular goldfish display, colorful birds and playful Asian small-clawed otters.

The popular Ngong Ping 360 cable car now includes a new glass-bottomed "Crystal Cabin" affording an exhilarating view of the blue sea and lush green mountainside beneath your feet. Noah's Ark on Ma Wan Island, the world's first full-size replica of the famous Biblical vessel, offers a restaurant and hotel, exhibition hall and children's museum. The Ark is surrounded by animal topiaries, a huge swing, amphitheater, cycle paths and a Nature Garden.

Visa is running a 'Go Discover Hong Kong'' Lucky Draw, a chance to win terrific prizes, that is applicable to all transactions in Hong Kong during the event period. Cardholders are entitled to one entry for every HK$300 spent (under US$39). See www.visa.com.hk for registration and details.

Summer Events in Hong Kong:

Jun. 11-Aug. 31				Hong Kong Disneyland Summer 2009: Stich's Summer Beach Party
Jul. 18-19				Global Huqin Relay; 'round-the-clock huqin playing
Jul. 22-28				Hong Kong Book Fair
Jul 31-Aug. 4				11th Ani-Com & Games Hong Kong
Aug. 13-17				Food Expo 2009

Hong Kong Tourism Board
Lillibeth Bishop, 310-824-7265
lillibeth.bishop@hktb.com
Diana Budiman, 212-421-3382 ext. 231
diana.budiman@hktb.com
Danielle Rivera, 310-824-7272
danielle.rivera@hktb.com