hello. I guess it would be appropriate for me to throw in my 2 cents worth here. Presently I am in Phuket, Thailand getting some much needed dentures however, will soon be returning to Kowloon district of Hong Kong befor heading out to Xiamen, China. Kowloon was very affordable and I found a nice hotel there that only charged me 38.00 us dollars per night. Food close by was so innexpensive I could hardly believe it. Shopping was bargains galore and I really enjoyed my stay although I was only there for 7 days. The hotel had ac, tv with remote, private bathroom accomodations, security personnel on duty with monitor view screens, three locked doors after hours befor I even reached my private locked hotel room. By the way, maid service daily, no bed bugs and I did not see one single bug the entire time I was there. american airlines lost my luggage and consequently, I learned to travel LIGHT real fast. I had copys made of all sensitive documents/credentials made befor my trip and also, carried a card from the hotel for reference in the event I should lose my bearings (and often did). Cathay Pacific is working diligently to track my luggage at present. I was able to score a full meal (not western) for between 18-20 HKD daily. The hotel and dining accomodations afforded me extra savings to "shop till I drop." I was definately not in kansas anymore. Take the plunge and enjoy yourself. One more thing: I travel alone and often walk upon paths/narrow alleyways with numerous smaller/shops merchants and never once felt threatened or intimidated by anyone. Learning some simple phrases in Chinese was Priceless!!!! and also shows respect for the host nation's people. Have a good one.