Aberdeen

(Local Name: Chek Pai Wan / Heung Kong Tsai) Aberdeen, named after Lord Aberdeen (1784-1860), Secretary of State for the Colonies in the mid 19th century, is situated at the southwestern corner of Hong Kong Island. It is probably the oldest settlement on the island. Once said to have been a hide-out for pirates who drew heung kong (fragrant water) here, it is now one of the most popular and most expensive residential areas in Hong Kong. The Cantonese name Heung Kong Tsai, which is preferred by the local people, means "little Hong Kong".

For many years Aberdeen lived rather in the shade of the two main centers, Hong Kong and Kowloon, but the construction of a tunnel has made it an up-and-coming town in its own right. On weekends, thousands of visitors throng its popular bathing beaches (such as Repulse Bay) and Ocean Park.

The best time to visit Aberdeen is in the early morning, when the fish-market bustles with activity. Stanley Market, not far from Aberdeen, is worth a visit at any time of day for its great range of textiles, sports wear and souvenirs.