History of Andalusia stretches all the way back to second millennium BC. Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Vandals, Visigoths, Byzantines, Arabs, Jews, and Moors, have all left their mark on the culture of the region. Cordoba, Granada, and present capital Seville, bear testimony to this varied and rich heritage. Especially notable are the architectural masterpieces of Alhambra in Granada, the Mezquita in Cordoba, Reales Alcazares in Seville, Medina Azahara, Torre Del Oro, and Giralda, among many others.

The large number of museums, churches, and palaces, situated in the region are full of priceless sculptures, jewelry, and paintings, from ancient times to modern. It is probably this heritage that first inspired Andalusian natives like Velazquez, Murillo, and Picasso, to enrich it further.

After the Spanish re-conquest of the region in 1492, Andalusia played a major part in European and American history. It is from one of its ports that Columbus set out to discover the New World. Modern Spanish dialects in America are derived from Andalusian dialect.

Andalusians hold many colorful festivals throughout the year; spring festivals, harvest festivals, and feast days. Pilgrimages, processions, bullfights, songs, and dances, which accompany many of these festivals, provide insight into region’s religious and cultural roots.

Andalusian cuisine complemented by highly regarded wines from the region, is unique and can include variety of dishes; seafood, soups made of legume and other vegetables, stewed game meat, seasoned and aged pork, will be prominent among them.

Andalusian landscapes range from volcanic, forested, or snowy, hills, valleys, and mountains, to deserts, to tropical beaches. Correspondingly ecological diversity is also wide-ranging.

Because of Andalusia’s geographical diversity visitors can access recreational options ranging from sailing, surfing, diving, water skiing, to mountaineering, hand gliding, parasailing, and ballooning. Equestrian sports are also popular.

While proud of its historical glory and natural beauty Andalusia is a modern society equipped will latest technology and world class infrastructure. Modern cosmopolitan and wired traveler will feel right at home.

Hong Kong is a city of contrasts. Its blend of tradition and modernity is perhaps unrivaled anywhere else in the world. Famous modern skyline of Hong Kong gives shelter to old temples beneath. Cosmopolitan lifestyles and age old practices intermingle there. In other words, you are in for a memorable experience.

Places

In essence an island, Hong Kong is defined geographically and historically by its harbor. As such any visit there must take in the harbor. Views presented while taking the ferry ride will leave you breathless.

A contrasting view of Hong Kong is offered by The Peak. This mountain top reachable by several modes of transportation features The Peak Tower entertainment and shopping complex.

There are several theme parks on offer. Most popular being The Hong Kong Disneyland, and The Ocean Park, featuring dolphin and sea lion shows, an aquarium, and variety of rides.

You should definitely visit one or several of the temples in Hong Kong.

Festivals

However Hong Kong is more than places to visit, it is about experiences. That is why you should target a festival when visiting.

Biggest is the Chinese New Year which usually falls somewhere in February. In Hong Kong festivities go on for about a fortnight. Highlights you should not miss include The Night Parade and The Lantern Festival. Get to know the locals and take part to fully enjoy.

If you cannot be there in February, try June for Dragon Boat Festival. It is held to venerate a legendary hero; Qu Yuan. You will be enthralled by the sight of large “dragon boats” racing each other, powered by over a score or more of oarsmen pulling to the rhythm given out by large drums.

Of course you should not forget cuisine. There is no place like Hong Kong to enjoy full benefit of the accumulated millennia long traditions of Chinese cooking. Some of the dishes can be truly bizarre, but be adventurous. You won’t regret it.

Whether singly or as a family, enjoy Hong Kong to the full!