Fast-paced and metropolitan to its skyscraper teeming core, Hong Kong is an Asian powerhouse to be reckoned with. Fun-loving and futuristic, this oriental playground is a city that calls out to the urbanite in all of us with its’ unabashed progress and Time Square resembling landscapes. A Mecca of world commerce and enterprise Hong Kong is also where Asia and the world’s elite come to let their hair down within the sleek enclave of its chic surroundings.

But many forget that Hong is also a combination of small isles and peninsulas that add to its cultural and ecological diversity and nowhere is it more apparent than in the picturesque Kowloon peninsula. Located on the southern quarter of Hong Kong, Kowloon encompasses five of the eighteen constituencies of the island nation and was renowned as a holiday hotspot for centuries that date back to the early Chinese dynasties. A fact that is not surprising when considering its vibrant attractions and activities. No trip to this idyllic peninsula would be complete without witnessing the Symphony of Lights 14 minute spectacle that takes place nightly.

Involving 44 buildings and structures that dominate Hong Kong’s skyline this Guinness World Record holder for the world’s biggest permanent light and sound show is a synchronized delight of light beams, searchlights, lasers and music. Other must-see locales include the Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb Museum, Sik Sik Yuen Wong Tai Sin Temple and the country’s most ancient and prominent religious structure, Man Mo Temple. The Kowloon Park is another preferred spot among seasoned travellers for its’ lush landscapes and activities which include swimming, open-air sculpturing and games. With captivating Chinese gardens, brooks, streams and a lake it is the ideal locale for a family picnic. The Hong Kong Space Museum and Hong Kong Museum of History are also popular with both young and adult travellers for their interactive exhibits and presentations while the Kowloon Walled City Park complete with walkways, statues and gardens is also worth the visit.

Kowloon is also a veritable shopper’s paradise with its host of malls, vibrant local markets and trendy boutiques. Mall enthusiasts should head down to the Festival Walk, Elements or Harbour City while all kinds of gadgetry are found in Sham Shui Po. These department stores stock high end goods and luxury brands by the truckload in elegant settings that befits a picky shopaholic. Bargain hunters should try the Park Lane Shopper's Boulevard and Nathan Road or head on to Cheung Sha Wan Road Fashion Street where wholesale rates apply to some of the funkiest threads you’ll ever come across.

Local markets are also treasure troves of Kowloon where one can find anything from clothing, fresh produce, flowers and souvenirs to gold fish. The Temple Street Market offers everything from bargain clothes, CD’s DVD’s, shoes, home ware and scrumptious snacks while a host of herbal remedies and even soothsayers. Other colourful markets include the Jade Market with its ‘500 plus stalls, the Fa Yuen Street Market and Ladies Market in addition to Goldfish Market in Tung Choi Street and the Flower Market Mongkok.

Kowloon also has a lot to offer when the sun goes down as its bowling alleys, cinemas and cosy bars come to life. Popular bowling venues include the SCAA Bowling Centre, Hong Kong Bowling City and Olympian City Super Fun Bowl while Cinematheque Broadway, the Newport Theatre, The Grand Cinema and AMC Theatres are also on-site for movie buffs. Preferred hangouts for locals and foreigners alike include Felix, the Fringe Club Roof Garden, Delaney's Pub and Red as well as Bocas Tapas and Wine Bar where jazz lovers unite.

Eaton Hotel Hong Kong is one of the finest and most luxurious hotels in Kowloon with its superior service and fine amenities. Contemporary in essence and comfortable in style this charming rest is also one of the best tourist hotels in Hong Kong.