Kowloon is a mere 3.25 square miles (5.24 square kilometers), but it is this small area that most people remember after a visit to Hong Kong. Kowloon is the shopper's paradise.

Getting There by Plane

The Hong Kong International Airport (IATA code: HKG) is one of the few airports still located virtually within a city, about three miles (5 kilometers) and about 10 minutes from Kowloon's Tsimshatsui hotel district. When arriving by plane, be prepared for a hectic pace, because flights land and lift off on an average of one every 2 and 1/2 minutes during peak hours. You can push your cart past customs, or hire a porter (they're free, but a tip of HK$3 to 4 per piece of baggage is normal). A Hong Kong Hotel Association's reservation desk is available to assist travelers, as are foreign exchange facilities.

Getting from the Airport to Kowloon

There is a special airport bus service, both to and from the airport, from Tsimshatsui. Route A1 to Tsimshatsui costs HK$6 and Routes A2 and A3 to Hong Kong cost HK$8. Have your exact fare ready. The three routes stop at all major hotels in Tsimshatsui. Route A1 starts service at 7 am, with the last bus from the airport departing at 11 pm. Metered taxis are available and are somewhat cheaper on long runs. There is a HK$20 surcharge on any trip through the Cross Harbour Tunnel, and HK$3 for the Aberdeen and Lion Rock Tunnels.

Getting There by Sea

For those with plenty of time and very ample means, a half dozen cruise lines include Hong Kong on their tours. Among the current fleets that tie up at Hong Kong's Ocean Terminal are Norwegian America Line, Royal Viking Line, Holland-America Line and Cunard.