Elbows-out vantage points for the National Day fireworks

Fireworks in Hong Kong are known for a couple of things:

1. They are spectacular.
2. The crowds watching them are spectacular too.

However, Item 2 can seriously dampen the enjoyment of Item 1. Unfortunately, it pretty much can't be avoided.

So, let's say you've just landed in Hong Kong, are inexperienced in watching Hong Kong fireworks, or completely left your plans for watching The National Day airborne extravaganza to the last minute.

First, unless it's pouring rain with low clouds -- don't stay at home and watch the TV coverage.

Watching from indoors, anywhere, is a bit lame. It's about the sounds as well as the sights. These are fireworks, Hong Kong style!

If none of your friends have sorted out a reservation for you at places with outdoor space and a harbor view like Sevva, then you are probably too late, as these will have filled up ages ago. Same applies for any junks or boats. Hotels, as well, like the Salisbury YMCA.

That leaves you with only one option: Joining the mass of humanity clambering for any space around the harbor between, say, Central and Causeway Bay on the island and the TST harborfront.

Real early. At least an hour to 90 minutes early, or you'll be stuck in a Hong Kong shuffle/chain dance of enormous, headache-inducing proportions.

The fireworks start at 8pm and run for 23 minutes. During that time, some 31,000 shells will be discharged, synchronized to a broadcast on RTHK Radio 4 (FM 97.6 - 98.9).

And several hundred thousand Hong Kongers will be watching on.

The government says the vantage points include TST, Midlevels, Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and Hung Hom Bypass.

But along the harbor is where you want to be.

TST: If you're coming from the island to TST, forget about getting back from TST anytime soon after the show. Best to stay over there for a while afterwards. The TST waterfront will fill up quickest, as it is the best spot period. Pack dinner, a bottle and be prepared to get squashed. Jostle with elbows firmly pointing out. If it's getting past 7 and you aren't there yet, forget it. BTW, the Star Ferry normally shuts down for 20-30 minutes before and after the event. Getting on and off the ferry at either time will also be a test of patience.

Central: A few options here made a bit harder since the development of the Tamar site began. Grassy areas between the Central ferry piers and IFC are a good option. The public pier next to the Star Ferry pier is ideal but, like TST, will fill up fast. Grab a bottle, some cheese and crackers from City Super and set up camp early.

Wilson Carpark: OK, this one isn't public space. It's right near the Town Hall, but has a top floor. You can walk there, but may need to pretend you're going to fetch your car. A great and somewhat secret spot, but not really above board. Get there by taking the City Hall exit from the MTR. It's along Connaught Rd and Edinburgh place

Admiralty: The footbridge out from Pacific Place that heads to the harbor is also great, but will be busy. Has been prone to cordoning in previous fireworks if it gets too crowded. Expect a crush.

Convention and Exhibition Centre: The area with the most space on the island. Also very packed, but probably your best bet if you have left things really late. You'll suffer a long, crowded jostle to get anywhere close to the Golden Bauhina at the north tip of the public area. That is the best vantage point on the island.

Causeway Bay: The path (it's thin, so not many can fit safely) that runs from the yacht club to the noonday gun and along the typhoon shelter is your pick here.

Good luck. It's worth it.

Just don't expect an quick and easy route home afterwards.