TRAVEL TIPS

Chinese New Year at Hong Kong Disneyland

Hong Kong attracts tourists from all over the world, from mainland China to Australia and beyond, visitors are seduced by both the modernity and bright lights of this major city. If you're from the Western world, Hong Kong is a great introduction to Asia and the Far East. Visiting over Chinese New Year is a popular time to go, although many shops and business are closed for the festivities, the celebrations themselves are well-worth seeing.

You might also consider a side trip to Hong Kong Disneyland for added Fairy Tale charm. Not only is Hong Kong Disneyland open during Chinese New Year, but this year Disneyland Hong Kong hosted special Chinese New Year events in honor of 2008: The Year of the Mouse.

Hong Kong Disneyland offers the usual Disney magical attractions in four lands: Main Street U.S.A., Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, and Adventureland. Disney dining, shopping, and two hotels are similar in Hong Kong to what you might find at other Disney parks. In fact, Hong Kong Disneyland hotel is similar in architectural design as the Grand Floridian at Walt Disney World in Florida. Fairy Tale wedding packages are also available at Hong Kong Disneyland.

The capacity of the park is 34,000 visitors per day, and is the smallest Disneyland Park. While Hong Kong Disneyland is actually located on Lantau Island, the park can be reached by using several forms of public transportation.

The resort currently has 310 acres with the actual park taking approximately 100 acres, with further plans for expansion. The most recent addition is the classic Disney attraction, "it's a small world", which opened on 28 April 2008. Furthermore, according to Bill Ernest, the executive vice president and managing director of *Hong Kong Disneyland*, the park is planning to add two unique theme lands in its future expansion.

For more information and assistance in planning your trip, check out Hong Kong Disneyland for a fun and topical trip over Chinese New Year or at any time. You can find a broad selection of flights and cheap hotels in Hong Kong on Lastminute.com. Remember travel insurance when travelling to the Far East. AA Travel offers a good single trip travel insurance to cover any loss of belongings, injuries or general mishap along the way.