Best Hong Kong Books

Hong Kong Tour Guides

Lonely Planet Hong Kong and Frommer's Hong Kong suggest itineraries will save you much time and money in arranging your Hong Kong trip.

The information is handy and useful, and I highly recommend.

Hong Kong Book(s): Revealing Hong Kong Culture

For a different category, a book named "Gweilo" [translated in Chinese as "Foreign Devil]is recommended. It illustrates how Mr. Booth, a foreigner was raised in Hong Kong in the 1950s.

A different and yet insightful angle of approach.

I have not bought the book, but skimmed it through on my way to Shanghai at the International Airport.

Hong Kong Maps: Finding Your Way In Hong Kong

A caveat:For those who are considering investing in maps/ tourist guides, Hong Kong is such a dynamic city which changes so fast that information found on maps or guides, more than one or two years old, may longer apply.

So don't take chances, or otherwise, you may end up getting lost in Hong Kong.

The Dark Side of Cantonese, Hong Kong Slang

Language reveals a person, as well as a culture and so is Cantonese, the Chinese dialect of Guangdong province. However, the usage of it in Hong Kong is a bit different than other areas in Guangdong province. The difference is subtle; only the locals can tell. Well, it's like Canadians can tell someone's from Newfoundland by his/her accent ;)

Besides, Cantonese slang in Hong Kong is quite different. If you do understand Cantonese a bit, you will find it actually quite "meaningful" in certain way, though I am not going to dissect it here ;)

I have been living with the language, 30+ years. No matter where you go, you will bound to hear it ;)

I will update this page when I may find more exciting and insightful Hong Kong publications to share with you.