The Tsing Ma Bridge located in Hong Kong is the eighth longest suspension bridge in the world, and spans across the Ma Wan Channel. The bridge gets its name from the two islands it connects- Ma Wan and Tsing Yi and literally means ‘Cyan Horse Great Bridge’. The bridge has two decks enabling it to carry both rail and road traffic, making it the biggest suspension bridge of this particular type. The upper deck has six lanes of roadway while the lower deck has two lanes of roadway in addition to two MTR rail tracks.The main part of the bridge spans a distance of nearly 1,400 metres at an elevation of two hundred metres. Construction on the Tsing Ma Bridge began in May 1992 and only finished in May 1997, at a cost of about HK$ 7.2 billion. The opening ceremony was inaugurated by Margaret Thatcher, the former British Prime Minister. The bridge was designed by Mott MacDonald and incorporates many safety features. It has become a popular scenic spot and a well-known landmark.
Those interested in learning more about the bridge can head over to the Lantau Link Visitor Centre and Viewing Platform that is situated on the north-western part of Tsing Yi Island. The visitor centre is open from 10 am to 5 pm on all weekdays (except Wednesday) and from 10 am to 6.30 pm on the weekends and most public holidays. From here one can catch glimpses of the Kap Shui Mun Bridge and the Ting Kau Bridge as well.
Although Hong Kong is technically a part of China it is somewhat more western in outlook, making it the ideal starting point for those who want to venture into the Orient. It is a global hub for commerce and is a popular vacation spot. While the city has excellent roadways they can get a bit congested especially during rush hour. Tourists can get around the traffic by utilising the city’s efficient public transport system, so it is always best to get a Hong Kong hotel close to an MRT station. Travellers looking for a luxury hotel in Kowloon Hong Kong can try the Peninsula Hong Kong.