Relentless, exciting, bewildering and glamorous, Hong Kong has lost none of its high octane appeal since reverting back to Chinese rule in 1997. This cosmopolitan gateway to Southeast Asia is still a top shopping and dining city break destination, and an intoxicating hybrid of international and Chinese flair.

Here old and new combine in a complex patchwork; the iconic skyline of buzzing Hong Kong Island contrasts with the pastoral calm of water buffalo in the rural mainland New Territories, while for every thronging street of impatient shoppers there is a park full of groups of Tai Chi artists oblivious to the frenzy.

Hong Kong runs on its urban pulse, but away from the skyscrapers you can visit atmospheric temples, pretty beaches and quiet outlying islands. A visit will yield a thousand surprises; go to be exhausted or amazed by Hong Kong. Either way, one visit won't be enough...