Shop 'til You Drop

　　Those familiar with the mainland's markets will probably find Hong Kong's Stanley Market to be overpriced and overcrowded. True, most of the Chinese-style collectibles can be found across the border for a much more reasonable price, but that doesn't mean Stanley should be skipped over. The market can yield a few gems for die-hard searchers, and the adjacent Stanley Main Street teems with cute cafes where you can sit in the sun and take in a little people-watching. The best thing about Stanley, however, just might be the trip there: Take the double-decker 6X line from the bus station in the city center, and keep your eyes open for the half-hour ride that takes you high above the glittering bays and lush greenery on the quiet backside of Hong Kong Island.

　　Get a Bird's-Eye View

　　There are many places to take in the breathtaking skyline - we've mentioned a few already. But the granddaddy of spots remains Victoria Peak - one of the highest points overlooking the island. Though the peak has a Disneyland-like feel - the galleria houses shops, stalls and the Ripley's Believe-it-or-Not Odditorium - it's easy to venture away from the crowds to get a good view without all the bells, whistles and kids wailing for ice cream. Don't cheat by grabbing a taxi to get up to the top: Taking the specially designed Peak Tram up the steep mountain is a thrill ride in itself.

　　Slip Into a Temple

　　You'll find small Buddhist altars tucked along the city's winding streets, but it's the large temples that shouldn't be missed. The temples are generally open to both worshippers and curious bystanders, as long as you're respectful of those who come to pray. Inside, expect to find coils of potent incense snaking from the temple's roof, filling the air with fragrant smoke. The ritual of those who come to pray usually involves ringing the temple gong to wake up the gods and bowing with offers of burning incense - be sure to stay long enough to watch the full procedure.