Hong Kong is one of the
world's most open and dynamic economies. Hong Kong per capita GDP is
comparable to other developed countries. Real GDP expanded by 6.8%
in 2006 year-on-year, driven by thriving exports, vibrant inbound
tourism and strong consumer spending. Severe acute respiratory
syndrome (SARS) caused the Hong Kong economy to shrink during the
first half of 2003, and property prices had fallen 66% from their
late 1997 peak, but have since rebounded by about 59% from that
lower base. The unemployment rate declined to 4.3% in December
2006-February 2007, the lowest level since mid-1998. The surplus for
fiscal year 2006-07 was $7.1 billion or 3.7% of GDP, attributed to
the robust economy, increased corporate profits and salaries, the
buoyant stock market, and a stable property market.
The best thing about being in Hong Kong
is getting flummoxed and fired by the confluences and contradictions
of a Chinese city with multi-Asian and Western elements. It's about
savouring new tastes, weaving through a human gridlock and humming
some dumb Cantopop tune while slurping your noodles.
Weatherwise, October, November and
most of December are the best months to visit Hong Kong; the skies
are clear and the sun shines. The June to August heat/rain combo
might push your endurance but there's a lot of sunshine and, after
all, it's summer. Hotels tend to offer substantial discounts outside
the high seasons of March-April and October-November. Travel can be
difficult during Chinese New Year in late January/early February.
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