Holiday bargain guide for Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the world's best-loved and most glamorous getaways. From its spectacular harbour and city skyline to the world-class restaurants, bars and shops, this Asian gem oozes style, sophistication and class.

But if you're thinking a holiday in Hong Kong sounds expensive, think again - the savvy visitor can find plenty of spots to pick up a bargain, while many of the most interesting things to do and see cost nothing at all.

Here's our guide to experiencing Hong Kong for a song…

When to go to Hong Kong

Go in summer to take advantage of low-season hotel rates and traditional summer sales in the shops.

At this time of year, all over Hong Kong you can find substantial discounts in outlets of every size, shape and style.

From high-end designer gear and budget clothing to accessories, electronic goods, cosmetics, jewellery and traditional Chinese goods - there are savings to be made everywhere.

This year some of the main shopping malls, department stores, attractions and restaurants are also taking part in the Hong Kong Tourism Board's Summer Temptations promotion, combining the traditional seasonal discounts with an array of special privileges, 2-for-1 offers and gifts.

High standards of quality are guaranteed by the tourism board's Quality Tourism Services (QTS) sign, so look out for that.

There's also an extra-special buzz this summer, as Hong Kong plays host to the Olympic Equestrian events (August 9th to 21st) - just one more reason not to delay your trip.

Where to stay in Hong Kong

While hotels are good value during the summer, if you're determined to keep costs as low as possible, try a hostel or guesthouse. Rates start from as little as £7 for a private room in a Kowloon hostel - visit Hostel Bookers for more details.

Alternatively, try a tourism board-approved guesthouse, where rates start from about £26 per night for a single room with en-suite facilities.

Check out the tourism board's QTS Visitor Accommodation Scheme for options.

Getting around Hong Kong

Public transport is THE way to get around Hong Kong, especially if you avoid the rush hours (around 08:00-09:00 and 18:00-19:00 local time). It is great value, with the famous Star Ferry providing unforgettable views of the harbour priced from just HK$2.20 (about 15p).

A journey on one of the city's distinctive double-decker trams is just HK$2, regardless of the distance travelled. And the MTR underground system is much more efficient and affordable than its London counterpart.

What to do and see for free in Hong Kong

Immersing yourself in Hong Kong needn't cost a penny. Start your day with a tai chi class on the Kowloon side of the harbour, or learn the basics of fung shui, the rituals of Chinese tea making or even kung fu.

All these options are part of the tourism board's Cultural Kaleidoscope programme and are free of charge.

Get out and explore Hong Kong on foot - www.DiscoverHongKong.com, the tourism board website, offers a choice of six themed, urban self-guided walks you can download and follow to experience Hong Kong's sights, sounds, history and culture.

Or ride the world's longest covered escalator system, climbing 135 metres, in Central district.

The bustle of Kowloon's Temple Street Night Market and Ladies' Market are evocative Hong Kong experiences where you don't have to spend to enjoy the buzz.

Then make your way promptly at 20:00 to the harbourside at Tsim Sha Tsui for 'A Symphony of Lights' - a spectacular fusion of beams, lasers and music illuminating 44 buildings on both sides of the harbour.

Finally, there's the classic view of the city skyline from Victoria Peak. OK, it'll cost you HK$48 (about £3.10) for a return ticket on the 120 year-old Peak Tram and a visit to the Peak Tower Sky Terrace, but once you're there the awe-inspiring view is something money just can't buy.

Eating and drinking in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is rightly renowned for its cuisine, and even if you're travelling on a budget you can enjoy some great food.

Head to the Mong Kok district in Kowloon or Wing Wah Lane on Hong Kong Island for excellent value authentic local restaurants.

If you're looking for a quick drink or two, happy hours are the norm in Hong Kong's bars, and can start as early as mid-day and finish as late as 21:00 - Wan Chai, Lan Kwai Fong and Knutsford Terrace are the happening areas.

For up-to-the-minute news on Hong Kong nightlife, check out www.bcmagazine.net.

Shopping in Hong Kong

There are bargains to be found all over Hong Kong, and the first place to head for is one of the famous markets.

As well as Ladies' Market (great for cheap accessories) and Temple Street Night Market, a favourite is Stanley Market on the southern tip of Hong Kong Island, where smart buys include Chinese arts, crafts and silks.

For cheap clothes, there's excellent value on offer in chains like Giordano and Bossini, which compete to be Hong Kong's answer to Gap, and six floors of tiny stores selling heavily-discounted clearance designer wear at the Pedder Building in Central.

On your way back to the airport be sure to visit Citygate Outlets on Lantau Island, Hong Kong's only outlet mall, with year-round discounts between 30 and 70 per cent on well-known brands like Adidas, Calvin Klein, Laura Ashley, Nike and Timberland.

For more information on holidays in Hong Kong visit the Discover Hong Kong website.