#47 Hong Kong

Everything you've heard about Hong Kong is true. It really is that busy and congested. The shopping really is that good. What you might not know, is that it's amazingly green and beuatiful. Sure, Central is jumble of streets, but head out to the outer islands or Lantau and it's all green and lovely. There's even some really nice beaches.

Not much changed after the handover to China by all accounts. The city is losing its edge slightly to that other great Chinese city, Shanghai, but there's still a vibe about the place. Just be careful of the pollution.