Hong Kong Port of Call Booklet

Before visiting a foreign port, the public information office on board the aircraft carrier Intrepid distributed port of call booklets to the crew. Each booklet provided basic information about a port, including top attractions, recommended restaurants, useful phrases and places to avoid. Many sailors saved the booklets as souvenirs.

This booklet dates from the ship’s Vietnam War service. It describes Hong Kong as “the port to end all ports!” The booklet encourages sailors to visit the floating restaurants of Aberdeen, Tiger Balm Gardens and Victoria Peak. As for warnings, the booklet provides this advice about tattoos: “Don’t!!!”

The back cover of the booklet shows a smiling sailor surrounded by various Hong Kong attractions, including tailors, floating restaurants and Victoria Harbour. It also includes a currency conversion chart.