i heard that if you cannot speak cantonese, you cannot tour in Hong Kong. <BR>How true is that? <BR>thanx

Gage, I'm curious as to what gave you that impression. <BR> <BR>Tourism is still a big industry in Hong Kong, and you shouldn't have any problems. <BR>

Gage - <BR> <BR>That's ridiculous! I didn't speak one word of it when I went last year. My husband and I got around fine. <BR> <BR>Could walk into any place and start asking questions? No. But could we get around to where we wanted and do what we wanted? Yes!! <BR> <BR>It always helps to know a few words. Before we went I tried to find some tapes or books but they were all in Mandarin. Since then, I've asked a customer of mine (he was born in Hong Kong) to write down some words and phrases for me and record the pronunciation. Next time I go, I'll know a few things. <BR> <BR>Don't worry. Go and have fun! <BR> <BR

Gage, <BR>From your Email address, are u from Singapore ? Just curious.I Hong Kong we speak English, Chinese (Mandarin and cantonese).On the street almost every one speaks Cantonese but not Mandarin. I don't think you'll have any trouble touring Hong Kong because hotel staff all speaks English and the'll be able to help you. Majority of transportation have English and chinese. I'll concentrate on reseraching where to eat, shop, and sightseeing . It is a beautiflu city and I am sure you'll enjoy it.

I dont speak a word of Cantonese and I love going to HK. The only drawback is in some boutiques you cannot haggle as low as you want bec they know that you are a tourist. But in markets and in the sidewalk the prices are pretty much competitive. Always bring a calculator so when the sidewalk vendor does not speak english you can still bargain with him. <BR>

Remember, until two years ago Hong Kong was a British territory. The British tend to speak English. Also, it is a major international business center. Just as in Shanghai, but much more so, you will find a higher number of English speakers than in most of China. When I was in Hong Kong in 1994, I found that most people I encountered spoke very good English. Most of China, however, is quite different.