Aberdeen – from a pirates abode to tourists paradise.

Having lived in the shadows of the main nerve centers; Kowloon and Hong Kong for some time; Aberdeen has now been transformed into one of Hong Kong Island’s premier residential areas and also a popular tourist destination. Aberdeen is an area on the south shore of Hong Kong Island that was once known as a hide out for pirates, it was named after the Fourth Earl of Aberdeen who was the British War and Colonies Secretary.

Aberdeen which was once a peaceful fishing village has been transformed in to an up and coming commercial centre following a construction of a tunnel that links the area with Happy Valley located on the north of Hong Kong Island. Aberdeen sees thousands of visitors arriving each week mostly for short stays. Being the largest satellite town of Hong Kong, people come here to experience life on a vibrant and eclectic waterfront.

Aberdeen is known for its floating seafood restaurants on the harbor, despite its economic affluence in recent times the harbor has maintained its old charm and still remains predominantly a fishing port. Tourists are also intrigued by the “boat people” that live in the harbor, though many of them are allied to the fishing industry a dozen or so foreigners have also chosen to make their home on board a floating ship moored in Aberdeen.

A popular attraction in Aberdeen is the Jumbo Kingdom, which is literally a theme park floating on the sea complete with a restaurant, bar, shopping malls and a plaza. The Jumbo Kingdom is particularly known for its bright lights and the breathtaking image that it creates when viewed from across the bay.

Another highly visited attraction is the Ocean Park amusement park, which is one of the most sought after attractions in Hong Kong. This amusement park which features a variety of different water slides and exciting roller coaster rides draws in almost 4.5 million tourists annually and is ranked seventh in the world.

The stunning transformation of Aberdeen into an entertainment centre today just two centuries after it was the haunt of pirates has made it a popular tourist destination. The recently constructed tunnel which reduces commuting travel from the north of Hong Kong Island makes this area accessible to many a hotel in Hong Kong such as Hotel Jen.