Hong Kong has changed with the times but its Chinese influence is as strong as it ever was. But now the city gyrates to an exciting Samba beat, or will the second week of November, when the Lan Kwai Fong Street Carnival kicks up its heels. Move to a Latin American groove during the two-day from 6 to 8 November. Oh - of course you can shake in a bit of Asia's best bargain shopping too.

Renowned as one of Asia' culinary capitals, Hong Kong offers visitors an exotic variety of global and local culinary delights. Recently, Hong Kong became the second Asian city to be awarded its very own Michelin guide and has also decided to waive the existing duty on imported wine – further enhancing its culinary credentials. Two signature events - Lan Kwai Fong Street Carnival and SoHo Wine and Dine Carnival - are part of the greater Hong Kong Food and Wine Year 2009 that are meant to celebrate the city's gastronomic diversity.

The Lan Kwai Fong Street Carnival 2009 has quickly established itself in a few short years as Hong Kong's number one feel good event. And it is easy to understand why.

Visitors can feel the passion and the sun-drenched ambiance (cross your fingers for sunny weather!) as they move and groove to the Latin American Samba beat during the two-day carnival.

If you need a break from all the shaking and Samba, just a few streets over is the SoHo Wine and Dine Carnival - Village on the Hill.

For lovers of good food and wine, a visit to the SoHo Wine and Dine Carnival is a must. The fantastic selection of great food and wine is sure to tickle your taste buds. Enjoy the bustling village atmosphere with tables dedicated to arts and crafts, jewellery, pottery, homemade products, face painting and balloon crafts. There will also be roaming musicians, stilt walkers, magic and mime shows and more.

It is also best to take the MTR to Central Station and take the D2 exit, turn right then turn left on Theatre Lane and right on Queen's Road Central. Walk to Mid-Levels Escalator and get off at Staunton Street, or earlier if you smell something good to eat and are feeling peckish.

There were a host of interesting shops selling antiques of all kinds – furniture, carpets, books, carvings and of course great things to eat and drink.

Another good day out can be had at the Stanley Market. For those that want a peek at the Hong Kong of old make a point to visit this quaint seaside village. It does not take long before visitors are trawling the historic fishing lanes where vendors still tout their wares the way it was done a century ago.