100 reasons why... (hktdc.com)


	The city's unrivalled skyline was cited as one of the many reasons why people love Hong Kong

	Hong Kong's famous egg tarts are a highlight for residents and visitors alike

More than 20,000 entries were received globally for Cathay Pacific Airways' online campaign "100 Reasons We Love Hong Kong." People from around the world depicted in words and pictures their reasons for having so much affection for Asia's world city.

Launched to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Hong Kong's Handover*, the contest drew the highest number of entries from North America, the Chinese mainland, Singapore and Australia, with more than half of the entries from Hong Kong residents. The oldest participant was 78 and the youngest, seven. The airline gave away a total of 1,000 air tickets to the winners. Hong Kong winners will have more than 40 destinations to choose from while overseas winners can fly in to experience the innumerable attractions of the city which they profess to love.

One of the panel judges, renowned columnist and radio programme host Robert Chow, said he was very impressed by the quality of the entries. "I am overwhelmed by the love people showed for Hong Kong."

Unrivalled skyline

Dawn McGrain in her "Why we love Hong Kong: A-Z" mentioned the Chep Lap Kok Airport, Big Buddha, Happy Valley Racecourse, Noon Day Gun and the unrivalled skyline as among some of the things she loves about the city.

Another entry with the display name SLME said Hong Kong is the best city for shopping. "I have been shopping in many cities and I find that Hong Kong is the best. Apart from the convenience, there are lots of varieties at very competitive prices. I find that the last day is the most boring because after check-in, I have to wait a few hours doing nothing. In Hong Kong, it is different as there is a large shopping mart and it is duty free. I have never seen such a huge shopping mart in other airports."

Steveche named "The Freedom to March" as an aspect which has impressed him. "Hongkongers love to march. Anything to be part of a crowd. No one wants to miss out. Hong Kong is a city where you can have a march of 500,000 people and not have a single arrest. Non violent protest is the way. Marches and protests here are colourful, fun and theatrical."

Whether it's shopping, the unrivalled skyline or the double-decker trams, there is something old, and something new in this city populated by people who resemble the local egg tarts: "hard outside, soft and warm inside!"

The final 100 reasons are now posted on www.welovehongkong.hk

* The Handover refers to Hong Kong's return from British to Chinese rule on July 1, 1997