American visiting Hong Kong

Highlights are: Mercedes drive from the airport and view of Hong Kong island. Drinks at Shangri-la Hotel, absolute best place for dinner at Peninsula Hotel. Finding the best tailor. Avoiding rip-offs while shopping, and the thrill of being in a foreign land.

Quick Tips:

All signs are in English so don't worry about language. Carefully consider hotel costs - the best hotels tend to include more needed items (such as breakfast and bottled water) which others will charge. Do not be tempted to buy shirts from so-called tailors off the street; the better ones never leave their own store.

Best Way To Get Around:

Unlike USA, hotels here often include a limo (Mercedes) from the airport. If not, it only costs only more than taxi. Taxis are fine for quick trips (and take cards) - but few understand English. Always carry a card with hotel directions in both languages. The train and subway are TOP-notch. First class train rides are very little additional US, yet guarantee you comfort.

Fantastic Harbor View (request this) - better than Shangri-La or Peninsula. Typical International class hotel. Caution - this hotel has incredibly high fees for phone, access fees, etc. Also charges for basics, such as bottled water. For moderate priced and safe hotel, Sheraton is fine. Otherwise, I highly suggest Shangri-La or my favorite Conrad Hilton.

Wow. Top floor of hotel with view - amazing art deco interior with best bar in Hong Kong. Great food (Pacific rim) - enjoyed it so much - went twice during same week. Before leaving, be sure to see the restrooms. Even typical steak & potato person should enjoy this spot for atmosphere alone.

First, being 6'3 white guy strolling around town leads most locals to one conclusion - TOURIST. I was accosted by 20 tailor-shirt types every day. Fortunately, my co-worker used this tailor on his last trip, and I was impressed with the handiwork. Apparently, FedEx employees love this guy, and I see why.

The mall is dark and dim - like walking into a musty closet, but fortunately right accross from the Sheraton Kowloon hotel. The building contained at least 40 tailor shops, several trying to lure me into their stores. Be patient and find the right place.

I'm not joe-fashion, and entered without knowing the process. It's a dream factory. Take your favorite suit or pictures - they can work with anything. A friently olderly couple runs the place.

First, they get your initial sizing, let you choose fabric from a book, and get into specifics - 2 or 3 button - pleats, etc. I also ordered 1/2 dozen shirts. After two days, I return and get a final fitting. Day three, the suit and jacket are done. I'm certain they will attempt to work with each person's schedule - but allow two days min.

This was something I had not planned or expected to do. It turned out being the best decision of the entire trip.

Phone - 852-366-7924.