Pink Dolphin watch...

For a complete change of pace, it�s great fun to board a Dolphinwatch boat and head off to Hong Kong�s Western Harbour to see the bubble-gum pink dolphins cavorting in the water. These Chinese white dolphins (actually pale pink in color) are an endangered species and can only be found in Southeast Asia. Duration of the tour is four hours and the guide, Janet has many female-centered bits of info to send your way. Did you know that dolphins are born tail first and mama is a deeper shade of pink than dad dolphin? How do dolphins breast-feed their young? Surprisingly, there is never any direct contact between the two. Baby floats under the mother with its mouth open. Mama squirts her milk and baby learns to be quick. For further information contact: 2984 1414. E-mail: info@hkdolphinwatch.com Website: http://www.hkdolphinwatch.com/

Visit the Hong Kong Museum of Art...

Leave enough time for this museum because there�s much to learn here. In the Chinese Calligraphy and Figure Painting Gallery observe the fine lines and exquisite color schemes of the art work. From late Ming to the late nineteenth century, see how the depiction of the female figure is transformed. In the Modern Chinese Gallery, seek out the endearing style of artist Shifa Chen. Her 'Lady in the Lotus Pond' is lovely. And, try not to miss the 'Hong Kong Through the Ages' exhibit where art becomes a lesson in the region's culture and history. This museum is spacious but not large (three floors-- six galleries) with floor to ceiling windows affording excellent views of Victoria Harbour. (Free Wednesday)

Bonus Tip -- Shopping at HK�s International Airport

At Hong Kong�s airport in Chep Lap Kok it doesn�t matter if you arrive too early for your flight. In fact, shopaholics deliberately allot more time to their check-in experience to check-out the more than 140 retail outlets open for business. There�s a little bit of everything for everybody -- duty free perfumes, Chinese medicines, books at WH Smith, Chinese cookies at Wing Wah�s, all the designer labels, Chinese arts and crafts plus just about everything you can find in the city with prices to match. Don�t panic if you still haven�t found a gift for granny.

Journeywoman promises you�ll find something sweet at the airport and it won�t cost you a fortune.

With kiddies or on your own...

The Kadoorie Experimental Farm and Botanic Garden in the New Territories sits on Hong Kong�s highest peak. Think green and room to run! Think Butterfly Garden, glorious scenery, pathways, ornamental trees and several charming pavilions. A splendid change of pace and a great outdoor classroom for both you and your Journeykiddies. Closed on Sunday. Admission is free but call ahead to let them know you�re coming (852) 2488 1317. To join a tour call: Splendid Tours and Travel (852) 2316 2151

Ocean Park is a highlight...

Ocean Park is a whimsical entertainment treat for both young and old.Highlights include a dolphin show, an atoll reef where fish of every size, shape and color swim by large brightly lit windows -- it�s the next best thing to snorkeling. There�s a Japanese Garden complete with fab goldfish collection. There�s Ferris wheels, a very scary rollercoaster ride and a system of cable cars that allow visitors to look far out over the South China Sea. But the absolute stars of the show are Jia Jia (She) and An An (He) the Giant Panda Bears from China. She sits quietly munching on bamboo. He is forever pacing and climbing on to things. So what else is new, ladies? Plan on spending the better part of the day here. There�s much to see!

Hop a ferry to Cheung Chau Island...

This charming fishing community of Cheung Chau, where 10% of the people still live on sampans and junks, allows no motor vehicles on its narrow winding lanes. Be prepared for superb visual delights! From the tiny restaurants dotting the harbour to the old men playing mahjong to the central outdoor market and the Chinese herbalist shop, this spot is traveller�s heaven.

Walk across an island...

Finally, round out your stay with some great hiking and cultural diversion. Board a ferry to Lamma Island one of Hong Kong�s loveliest outlying areas. Head for Yung Shue Wan, the Cantonese side, where most of the expats live and where the western restaurants, cafes and pubs flourish. Once you�ve explored this area then take the eight km hiking path that winds across the island. No need to watch out for cars-- there aren�t any here. Sok Ku Wan is the Chinese side, well-known for its seafood and al fresco dining. Journeywoman recommends Rainbow Restaurant with its steamed fish of the day cooked in ginger and spring onions.
P.S. Don�t think you have to hike back to Yung Shue Wan. Ferries go to both sides of the island. You can arrive at one end and leave from the other. This trip�s a perfect ending to a perfect stay in Hong Kong!