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Two Skylines to see in one's lifetime: Chicago and Hong Kong

Image Two Skylines to see in one's lifetime: Chicago and Hong Kong

Chicago, the city where skyscrapers were born

The capital of Illinois will captivate you with its towering constructions pointing to the sky like cathedral arrows. Great figures such as Wright or Mies van der Rohe have led extravagant projects here! To grasp the city of Chicago, there are three options: the skydeck of a building, a canal tour, or simply by foot.  

An incredible urban silhouette

You have realized that you can rise to the top of the Willis Towers? This is a must for any visitor! The tallest tower offers a panoramic view from its 103rd floor. The elevator ride itself gives an idea of the spectacle you are about to witness. Once on the skydeck, you can see up to 50 miles around on a clear day. Beneath your feet, a glass floor might very well make you dizzy with its 400m drop. In peak season, if you want to avoid the crowds, consider a less popular observatory: the 360 Chicago Observation Deck. Perched within the John Hancock Center, it offers a 360° view. You will find your bearings with the help of screens and touch terminals. The icing on the cake, a Tilt attraction will give you a thrilling experience. Pressed against a pane of glass that tilts 30° downward, you become acutely aware of the floors separating you from the ground!

Architecture along the water

For the mini-cruise, I recommend Shoreline Sightseeing whose dock is located not far from Michigan Avenue. For 1 hour and 30 minutes, you will see iconic buildings such as Marina City, recognizable by its honeycomb-like cells that resemble a beehive. In 1964, the twin towers were the tallest to be made of reinforced concrete. They were designed by Bertrand Goldberg, who had imagined flying cars in the future...  Halfway between Spanish Neo-classical and Renaissance, here comes the Wrigley Building made of terracotta and topped with a bell tower. When it was built in 1921, the building held a record: it housed the most offices in the city. A short distance away, you will see  the Chicago Sun Times building with its futuristic outline and curved silhouette. Both the skies and the Chicago River are reflected in its towering glass walls. This is 333 W Wacker Drive and you might recognize it from the movie Batwoman.  Now before you are the Willis Towers, which stand before your eyes. You know them from having seen them on postcards; they are the symbol of the city. You finally pass under the iconic bascule bridge of Michigan Avenue.

At eye level

Finally, as you wander, you will discover old theaters, pubs, and walks along the Chicago River... Do not miss the Millennium Park under any circumstances, the largest project since the 1893 World's Fair. Created in the Loop's community sector (Downtown), it covers about 10 hectares. You will be captivated by Anish Kapoor's sculpture, the Cloud Gate, which marks the entrance to the park. This stainless steel structure reflects the surrounding skyscrapers. Leave behind the Pritzker Pavilion, a renowned concert hall, and make a stop at Lurie Garden, a botanical garden. More than the Art Institute, it is the building of the Symphony Center with its Georgian architecture that will catch your eye. Then head to Grant Park for its Buckingham Fountain, an allegory of Lake Michigan. Finally, treat yourself to a run through the subway. The Chicago "L", predominantly an elevated subway, is a wonderful way to discover the city. You will not resist taking a few pictures as the views are impressive.   

Hong Kong: From Vernacular Houses to Skyscrapers

The former British colony handed back to China in 1997, is a stronghold of trade and finance. The densely populated peninsula has an impressive skyline.

A scenic walk

The former British colony straddling the continent and Kowloon island is sure to amaze you. Hong Kong is best appreciated from Victoria Peak. By taking the Victoria Tram, a 6th generation funicular originally designed to transport the governor and subjects of His Majesty, you will have access to unmatched photo spots. Make your way up to Sky Terrace 428 at the Peak Tower. You can't miss it; it is shaped like a wok. From the observation platform of Peak Gallery, use the telescopes to scrutinize the bay. How about a scenic walk? The Peak Circle Walk will delight you. During a 90-minute stroll, you experience spectacular views of the bay and also of the southern coastline. Start with Harlech Road at the foot of the Peak Tower, continue with Lugard. After 20 minutes of walking on hillside paths, you will reach Lugard Road Lookout. It's a panoramic view that unfolds before you. Then retrace your steps and stop at Lions Point View Pavilion which offers a postcard view. 

Downtown with Your Nose in the Air

What strikes the visitor is the mix of architectural styles. Thus, skyscrapers stand alongside Victorian houses or Art Deco buildings. This delicious blend gives the city an unexpected skyline. Start your tour at the foot of Central Pier and head towards the Hong Kong Cultural Centre. If you are keen on architecture, the Central Library will delight you with its Art Deco style. Continue to the Central Plaza and admire along the way the Jardine House by the Chinese architect Pei, to whom we owe the Louvre Pyramids. It is easily identified by its tall stature and round portholes. Finally, look up towards the building that houses the iconic Bank of China in Hong Kong. This tower with triangular frames is an iconic building of Hong Kong.  

Kowloon aboard the Starship

Docking at Victoria Harbour is a good idea as the city was once located there. From this spot, you marvel at the incomparable skyline. Following the promenade in Tsim sha tsui, you get an excellent perspective on Hong Kong on the opposite shore. Besides Hollywood Boulevard, you notice the Clock Tower. This symbolizes the passage of migrants fleeing China and entering British territory before they expatriate. In this sense, it is akin to the Statue of Liberty. Don’t miss the major attraction: every evening at 8 pm, Hong Kong lights up for the traditional Symphony of Lights. NB: The best spot to watch this show remains the Bauhinia Square with its orchid-shaped sculpture. 

 

Author: Gretel Tamalet

Photo Credits: Daniam Chou - Unsplash / Sawyer Bengtson - Unsplash