TOURISM
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contribution to the travel industry in the Colony. This is one example of the second reason for the success of Hong Kong's tourist industry, namely, co-operation between Government and private industry. The third main reason is the remarkably quick perception and initiative shown by private enterprise and indi- viduals to adapt and develop an industry which, although still in its early stages, offers great opportunities. The building, modifica- tion and extension of hotels in Hong Kong in the past six years is the best example of the initiative of private enterprise and the increase in hotel accommodation and the improvement in its quality has done much towards attracting visitors. In 1957 there were approximately 1,300 rooms suitable for international tourists. In 1962 this figure had risen to 3,250 rooms and by the end of 1963 there were about 6,000 rooms. The actual construction pro- gramme in 1963 showed an increase of 2,957 rooms, but the total net figure is slightly lower due to some smaller hotels deciding to convert their buildings to other uses. Another example of good co-operation is at the arrivals concourses at the airport where hotels and travel agents have combined to provide an excellent service for travellers who have arrived in the Colony without making prior hotel accommodation arrangements.
Transportation. There was an overall improvement during the year in all types of transportation, public and private. Innovations such as comfortable air-conditioned coaches and hire cars have proved popular and resulted in a noticeable increase in business. Never-ending road construction programmes and improvements have contributed to the expansion of tours and sightseeing facilities.
Entertainment. Hong Kong has much to offer visitors from over- seas in the way of entertainment. There is racing in the season (October- May), golf and tennis, safe beaches for swimming and arrangements can be made for skin diving and water skiing. Boats may be hired for beach picnics and cruises to beaches which are inaccessible by car and also to nearby islands. There has been an improvement in the quality of tours available to visitors. A drive around the New Territories provides a remarkable contrast to the busy congested life of Victoria and Kowloon and is a popular feature of most tour itineraries. The water tours around Hong Kong and through the typhoon shelters also give the visitor a close look at the fascinating life of the boat people. The more