HK: Dining and shopping paradise for travellers

Kevin NG, asst. general manager Sir Hudson, Italian restaurant, said, "We have seen great potential at present and also in the future for Italian food in Hong Kong. There are many factors, like people in Hong Kong, they are very willing to try new style, new design, also the spending power is extremely high."

　　Equally amazing are the city's shopping options. From department stores and shopping malls to small boutiques and bargain stalls, there's something for everyone.

　　Hong Kong's position of an international free trade hub enables the city to provide global shoppers the most diversified, quality merchandise at competitive prices. And it's not just the ladies who go on spending sprees.

　　Australian shopper, said, "I have been here for two weeks and I have been shopping everyday and I can spend a year shopping, I think. (Q: How much have you spent?) Probably, some 6,000 US dollars. (Q:What did you buy?) Clothes, shoes, gifts for wife and everything."

　　A pleasant shopping experience helps bring customers back again and again. According to the Hong Kong SAR government, the total revenue in the retail sector reached nearly 21 billion Hong Kong dollars in 2006, just over a fifth of the total of the entire tourism industry.

　　Hong Kong remains one of the top destinations for dining and shopping in the world, but one thing has changed--the main driving force behind the growth. Last year, the Chinese mainland accounted for more than half of the visitors to Hong Kong. And they have tremendous purchasing power. This shows a close economic connection with the mainland is vital for Hong Kong's business prosperity.