INTRODUCTION TO HONG KONG

• An introduction to Hong Kong's political, financial, and legal systems
• Learn about Hong Kong history from the perspective of a local Hong Konger
• Understand the realities of HK's property market at a highly expensive district
• Food recommendations along the escalator - Wontons, Dim Sum, Egg Tarts...
• Learn about Hong Kong's religions and practice how to visit a local temple

Meet your guide and begin the tour in Hong Kong's financial district, Central. At the Court of Final Appeal, you will understand how Hong Kong is run under the "One Country, Two Systems" principle for 50 years until 2047. You will also learn about our Hong Kong currency, which is printed by commercial banks in Hong Kong, not a central bank.

At the HSBC headquarters, your guide will explain the history behind the HSBC guardian lions. Here, your guide will also explain how Hong Kong has constantly reshaped its landscape, using land reclamation to push back the coastline and fuel its growth over the decades.

In the peaceful gardens of St. John's Cathedral, take a moment to learn about Hong Kong’s British colonial history and its eventual transition back to China. Afterward, your tour guide will share their story of how they are connected to Hong Kong on a more personal level (e.g., family history).

Leaving the cathedral, you will walk past busy Queen's Road to explore the realities of the local real estate market. You will learn how some of the highest property prices in the world impact the daily lives of residents, including the rise of subdivided apartments.

From there, we will ride the Mid-Levels Escalator — the longest outdoor covered escalator system in the world. As you travel upward, your guide will introduce you to everyday food culture, pointing out local staples like wonton noodles, dim sum, BBQ meats, traditional bakeries, and cha chaan tengs (local cafe). Finally, wrap up your journey at the historic Man Mo Temple to learn about traditional rituals and local customs.