Hong Kong Travel Tips
Hong Kong Time Zone:
GMT/UTC +8 (Hong Kong Standard Time)
Money
Currency
The Hong Kong Dollar ($) is divided into 100 cents Bills are issured in denomination of $10, $20, $50, $100, $500 and $1000. Copper coins are worth 50c, 20c, and 10c while $5, $2 and 1 $ coins are silver and the $10 coin is nickel and bronze.
ATMS
ATMs are almost everywhere in Hong Kong, including at the airport, malls, and hotels. Most are linked to international money system including Master, Visa, Dinner, American Express...
Changing Money
The Hong Kong Dollar is pegged to the US dollar. Now Hong Kong Dollar is a little bit smaller than RMB. The banks give the best exchange rates. But the three biggest banks will levy a 50$ commission for each transaction and they are HSBC, Standard Chartered and the Hang Seng Bank. Legal and licensed moneyexchangeers are abundant in the tourits districts and many malls and in some busy streets.
Electricity
The voltage in Hong Kong is 200/220 volts, 50 cycles. Most hotels provide adapters.
Emergency Call
In an emergency, call 999 for fire, police, or ambulance services.
Medical Services
Hong Kong boasts high standard medical care in general. But private hospital care are very expensive. For general inquiry for the medical care, please dial 23006555.
Please find below the hospitals offering 24-hour medical care:
Martilda International: tel 28490700
Queen Elizabeth: tel 29588888
Telephone Service
Local calls in Hong Kong are free on private phones. For pay calls (public ohone booth or calls from hotels), cost $1 for five minutes. Hong Kong's country code is 0852. If you dial between 9pm to 8am, you enjoy cheaper rates on weekdays and weekends. Using a phonecard, you can have a direct call to anywhere in the world. The phone cards are available in the two forms: Stored-value cards and Hello Smartcards. Stored-value cards allow you to call from any phones - public or private by punching a pin code while Smartcards work on pay phones. You can buy the cards at 7-eleven and ordinary staores.
Language
The majority of Hong Kong's people speak Cantonese but English is popular among the business circle, commerce and everyday life. It is unlikely that you will experience many language barriers until you get away from the main center of the city. The Chinese government are now promoting the use of Mandarin. Please note that the written Cantonese uses tradtitional Chinese characters, which are more complicated than the simplified Chinese used on the mainland China.
Hong Kong Climate
Hong Kong has a monsoon influenced humid subtropical climate with distinct four seasons. The annual average temperature is 22.8 °C, and the max temperature can reach 33 °C; the min temperature is 3 °C, and the mountain top is -3 °C. The annual rain fall of Hong Kong is 2224.7 mm.
Month |
Max Temp℉(℃) |
Min Temp℉(℃) |
Rain in (mm) |
Relative Humidity (%) |
Wind Speed 0.1m/s |
Jan |
65.48 (18.6) |
56.48 (13.6) |
0.08 (23.4) |
71 |
66 |
Feb |
65.48 (18.6) |
57.02 (13.9) |
0.16 (48.0) |
78 |
66 |
Mar |
70.34 (21.3) |
61.7 (16.5) |
0.22 (66.9) |
81 |
61 |
Apr |
76.82 (24.9) |
68.36 (20.2) |
0.53 (161.5) |
83 |
55 |
May |
83.66 (28.7) |
75.02 (23.9) |
1.04 (316.7) |
83 |
53 |
Jun |
86.54 (30.3) |
78.62 (25.9) |
1.23 (376.0) |
82 |
60 |
Jul |
88.7 (31.5) |
79.88 (26.6) |
1.06 (323.5) |
80 |
56 |
Aug |
88.34 (31.3) |
79.34 (26.3) |
1.28 (391.4) |
81 |
51 |
Sep |
86.54 (30.3) |
77.9 (25.5) |
0.98 (299.7) |
78 |
61 |
Oct |
82.22 (27.9) |
73.58 (23.1) |
0.48 (144.8) |
73 |
77 |
Nov |
75.56 (24.2) |
66.56 (19.2) |
0.12 (35.1) |
69 |
76 |
Dec |
78.26 (25.7) |
59.72 (15.4) |
0.09 (27.3) |
68 |
71 |
Time to visit Hong Kong
Many like to travel Hong Kong during mid-September and December when there are pleasant weather with plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures. January and February are all right though the temperature can drop to below 10°C (50°F). March and April are pleasant months to travel with warmer temperatures, but in May the air very often becomes uncomfortably sticky and humid. Typhoons comes to Hong Kong most of years between May and mid-September. Hong Kong city is well prepared for it, but it often disrupts your travel to Hong Kong.
Hong Kong Visa
The visitors to Hong Kong from the EU countries, Australia, New Zealand, the USA and Canada can enter Hong Kong and stay for 90 days without visa. People with British passports are allowed to stay in Hong Kong for 180 days while South Africans are permitted to stay 30 days. If you want to apply for a visa, please go to your nearest Chinese emabassy or consulate before arriving at Hong Kong. If you are going to visit Hong Kong from the mainland China and return there again, you have to acquire a multi-entry Chinese visa.
Hong Kong Safety
Hong Kong is very safe for international travellers, both male and female. As you step further north in Kowloon and into the New Territories, the crime rate goes up, but criminals would still rather focus on locals instead of visitors. However, it's not clever to show valuables and you should remain alert at all times.
Hong Kong Layout
Hong Kong is sectioned into four main parts - Kowloon, Hong Kong Island, the New Territories and the Outlying Islands. Kowloon and the New Territories are located on a peninsula of the Chinese mainland, on the northern tip of Victoria Harbour; Hong Kong Island is on the southern tip of the harbour confronting Kowloon; the Outlying Islands are composed of the 234 islands. The New Territories has a 20km land border with China mainland.
The city of Hong Kong is centred around Victoria Harbour. The main business district is "Central", on the Hong Kong Island. To the East of Central is the Admiralty commercial district; Wan Chai, famous for restaurants and clubs; then Causeway Bay, a busy shopping area. High above it all is the Peak, Hong Kong's most important scenic outlook and residential district. In Kowloon, Tsim Sha Tsui (on the southern tip), Jordan and Yau Ma Tei are busy hotel and shopping centers. Mong Kok is a busy residential and shopping area.
Hong Kong City Transport
Hong Kong's city has a very convenient public transport. The tram is a nice way to explore Hong Kong Island. Each trip costs HKD3. Tram lines run from Happy Valley to Kennedy Town. The MTR (subway) is also very efficient. There are four
lines operating on Kowloon and Hong Kong Island and single journey's cost from between HKD3-12. Finally, the Star Ferry is a scenic, efficient and cheap way to travel between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. More Information on Hong Kong Subway http://www.mtr.com.hk/.Subway
Getting around Hong Kong is easy with its efficient public transport system such as MTR, buses and trams. Just print a MTR System Map and you are all set to go!
Download : Hong Kong MTR Map (具体按 http://tommyooi.com/hongkong/ )
Taxi
Red taxis are used on Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. The flag fall is $15 for the first 2km and then $1.4 for every additional 200m. For the New Territories, green taxis are used, flag fall is $12.50 and $1.2 for every additional 200m. On Lantau Island, blue taxis are in operation with the charge $12 and $1.20. If you book a taxi by phone, you will pay extra $5.
Bus
Hong Kong has an extensive and perfect bus system taking you almost everwhere. Fares range from $1.20 to $45, depending on the destination you are going to. The fares for night buses are a little bit higher ranging 12.80 to 23. You'd better to have your exchange ready.
Among the numerous stops and destintions, there are some important stops you should stick with. In Kowloon, the bus terminal at the Star Ferry Pier has the buses to Hung Hom station and the stops in eastern and western Kowloon. On Hong Kong Island, the terminal at Central and above Admiralty will take you Aberdeen, Repulse Bay and Stanley on the southern side of the island.
Upon arrival, get yourself a Octopus Card ( a prepaid payment card ) at Airport or any MTR Station. Basic Octopus cards cost $150, with $100 face value plus $50 refundable deposit. Octopus card is virtually accepted by more than 1,000 merchants which includes Public Transports ( MTR, Bus, Tram, Ferry ), 7 Eleven, Starbucks, McDonald’s, Sa Sa Cosmetic and many more. It is very convenient, fast and you can even enjoy discounts for certain merchants. For More Info : http://www.octopus.com.hk
BoatIn Hong Kong, commuting by ferry is enjoyable and relaxing way of getting around Victoria Harbour between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. There are three ferry lines crossing the harbour: Central - Hung Hom, Central - Tsim Sha Tsui and Wan Chai - Hung Hom.
Central - Hung Hom: every 15-20 minutes from 7.20am to 7.20pm, costing adult/child $5.30/2.70
Central - Tsim Sha Tsui: every 12 minutes from 6.30am to 11.30pm, costing $1.70/2.20 lower/upper deck
Wan Chai - Hung Hom: every 15-20 minutes from 7.08am to 7.7pm, costing adult/child $5.30/2.70
Ferry Macau and Hong Kong
Hong Kong is only a 1 hour hydrofoil ride away from Macau. The ferries are comfortable and are a handy way of travelling in the region.
Taipa Temporary Ferry Terminal — Hong Kong Macau Ferry Terminal
| Price ( HKD ) | Weekdays | Weekends | Night Sailing |
| Economy Class | $142 | $154 | $176 |
Train
The main train station in Hong Kong is called Hung Hom Station, formerly known as Kowloon Station. It is a station on the East Rail Line and West Rail Line in Hong Kong.
Hung Hom - Shenzhen: Getting to Shenzhen from Hong Kong is quite easy. The train ride takes you only 35 minutes and cross Chinese border at Lo Wu. From Shenzhen, you can take the local train or bus to Guangzhou and or other destintions. From Shenzhen, after Immigration Checkpoint, just take East Rail Line MTR to Hong Kong City from Lo Wu or Lok Ma Chau. It would take 35 mins ( Lo Wu ) & 41 mins ( Lok Ma Chau ) to reach Kowloon Tong & cost only HKD33 per way.
Hung Hom - Guangzhou:If you want to go to Gangzhou, you may take the Kowloon-Guangzhou express trains at Hung Hom covering 182km and taking you less than 2 hours. The traind running between Hung Hom and Guangzhou from 7.30am to 7.15pm and 12 times a day.
Hung Hom - Beijing:
There is a direct train linking Hong Kong and Beijing at Hung Hom. The train leaves from Hong Kong on alternate days at 3pm via Guangzhou, Changsha, Wu Han, arriving at Beijing at 3.18pm the next day, costing hard/soft ($574/934)
Hung Hom - Shanghai :
There is also a direct train linking Hong Kong and Shanghai at Hung Hom. The train leaves from Hong Kong on alternate days at 3pm via Guangzhou, Hangzhou Est, arriving at Shanghai at 4.38pm the next day, costing hard/soft ($574/934)
Flight
Hong Kong International Airport is the main airport in Hong Kong. It is locally known as Chek Lap Kok Airport since it is located on the island of Chek Lap Kok around the Lantau Island. There are over 60 airlines run between Hong Kong and about 140 destinations worldwide. Most the flights between Hong Kong and mainland China have fixed airfares. In high seasons, tickets are hard to get. And you should make the flight booking well in advance. If you first go to either Shenzhen or Guangzhou, then from there you get good discounts flying to other parts of China. For a better deal of flights, check out www.elong.net.
Airport Express:
Airport Express is the easiest and the most convenient way to reach Hong Kong City from Hong Kong airport. Price :
Adults – HK$100 one way HK$180 return
Children – HK$50 one way HK$100 return
Shopping in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is a city where there is something for everyone, whatever your budget! For those with a budget but still want to find some quality clothing, the best shops can be found around Causeway Bay. Some of the best department stores in Hong Kong are also here including the New World Center, Times Square and Sogo Department Store. Clothes are also sold at many of the lively markets. Great markets are dotted all over the city. The best ones to browse include: Li Yuen Street, Ladies Street, Temple Street and Shanghai Street. There is also an interesting market at Stanley, a great site for the sights and sounds even if you are not interested in shopping.
For electrical goods, the best district is Central. Tsim Sha Tsui also has a huge choice of shops selling everything, although bargains are not normally found here! What is arguably Hong Kong's best department store, Harbour City however, is located directly opposite the Star Ferry terminal. Mong Kok is another nice area to walk and to pick up some typical Chinese goods.
Top Attractions in Hong Kong
Victoria Peak
he Peak is Hong kong's most important tourist destination. The views of the harbour and the Kowloon Peninsula from this 373 metres vantage point are simply breath-taking and should not be missed.
Man Mo Temple
The largest Man Mo Temple in Hong Kong is located at Nos. 124-126 Hollywood Road, in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong. It is a temple for the worship of the civil god Man Tai and Man Cheong and the martial god Mo Tai and Kwan Tai. The two gods were popularly worshiped by scholars and students seeking progress in their study or having a high ranking in the civil examinations in the Ming and Qing dynasties.
Aberdeen: Aberdeen Harbour is home to hundreds of people living on fishing boats. A good opportunity to enjoy the life style of Hong Kong fishing folks at first hand. Then you will have the chanceto visit a jewelry factory giving you an insight into the fine art of handmade jewelry. Repulse Bay
The Repulse Bay is one the best beaches in Hong Kong. It is located the southern part of Hong Kong Island, in the Southern District, Hong Kong. In 1841, the bay served as a base by pirates. The pirates were subsequently repulsed by the British Fleet, hence the name.
The Repulse Bay area is one of the most expensive housing areas in Hong Kong
Ocean Park
A good place for the kids, or to unleash the kid in you. Hong Kong Ocean Park is a must for the first time visitors to Hong Kong. Hong Kong Ocean Park can deliver something for everyone. Hong Kong Ocean Park is located on the south end of Hong Kong Island. It is one of the most spectacular oceanariums in the world with the largest marine theatre. It is also an amusement park perched around two mountain peaks, with an area of 870,000 square meters.
Stanley Market
Stanley Market has become a Shoppers Paradise for both locals and overseas visitors. Abundant shops and stores sell a wide range of souvenirs, clothing as well as bargain price designer labels.
Nathan Road
Nathan Road is the main avenue in Kowloon, Hong Kong that goes in a south-north direction from Tsim Sha Tsui in the south to Mong Kok in the north. It is teemed with shops, restaurants and tourists.
Tsim Sha Tsui
Tsim Sha Tsui is located at the southern tip of Kowloon and the most touristy part of the City. Very often it is the starting place to visit Kowloon. Tsim Sha Tsui has many shops and restaurants that cater to tourists. Many of the museums in the territory are located in the area.
The area has the highest concentration of hotels in Hong Kong.
Wong Tai Sin Temple
This Taoist temple was built in 1921 and named after Wong Chuping, a shepherd who began following Taoism at the age of 15. It is believed that Wong Tai Sin rescues the dying, heals the wounded, and punishes all evil.
Kowloon Walled City Park
The area is now situated on Tung Tsing Road of Kowloon City District. Kowloon Walled City Park was built on the site of a former military base of the Qing dynasty. It was officially opened to the public in 1995. In the park, there are beautiful small bridges and running water, Chinese gardens and historic relics of Kowloon Walled City.
Luen Wo Market
Near Fanling in the northern New Territories, this typical Chinese market has a wide choice of fresh produce and daily necessities, which are sold from stalls laid out in a square.
Lok Ma Chau
Mainland China can be seen from this hilltop lookout, which also overlooks the Shenzhen River, rice fields and duck farms and Shenzhen Special Economic Zone in China
Tian Tan Buddha Statue
The world laregest outdoor seated bronze buddha, which can be reached through 260 steps. It is located at Ngong Ping, Lantau Island, in Hong Kong. The statue belongs to Po Lin Monastery and symbolises the harmonious relationship between man and nature, people and religion.
Hong Kong Disneyland
Hong Kong Disneyland was opened in 2005, it's the first one in China. It is owned and operated by the Hong Kong International Theme Parks. Hong Kong Disneyland is located Lantau Island. The park is composed of four themed parts similar to other Disneyland parks: Main Street, U.S.A., Fantasyland, Adventureland and Tomorrowland.
Dining in Hong KongHong Kong wins the great reputation of "The Culinary Capital of Asia" at all the time. Cuisine of Hong Kong is the combination of Western style and Chinese style. It is one of the great centers for international cooking. Here is a place gathering cate of everywhere. It is a bridge between East and West. Exotic food and local traditional cuisine both struts their stuff. Food styles from Thai Land, Viet Nam, Indian and Singapore to France and Italian; and from Cantonese food, Si Chuan Cuisine to Peking food and Chiu Cow dishes, etc.
Sai Kung
Sai Kung is is a peninsula on the New Terrtories. It is a great place for outdoor activities - hiking, sailing, and especially eating seafood. Sai Kung is a town that evolved from a fishing village in Hong Kong’s New Territories. Fishermen still unload their catch at the harbour where there's a market centre with countless tanks of fresh seafood.
Lei Yue Mun
Lei Yue Mun is a short passage in between Junk Bay and Victoria Harbour, separating Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. The area around the passage are called Lei Yue Mun. It is noted for its seafood market and restaurants in the fishing villages on the Kowloon part. On the Hong Kong Island part, it has former military defence facilities.
Nightlife in Hong Kong
Hong Kong as an internationalized metropolis, its nightlife is multicolored and pavonine. Hong Kong nightlife is distinctive and well known. Many tourists in Hong Kong can not only enjoy the wonderful night face of Hong Kong, but can also experience the nightlife styles. In Hong Kong nightlife, there are performances, bars, discos, KTV parties, clubs, teahouses and so on. Life of Hong Kong actually belongs to night. During the daytime, this city is too busy to pay any attentions to its really life, nevertheless, at night Hong Kong comes around and turns up the charming face to welcome those lifeful persons. Lan Kwai Fong
Lan Kwai Fong is one of the best known bar streets. It is located in Central, Hong Kong. It is now a popular expatriate haunt in Hong Kong for drinking, clubbing and dining. The street Lan Kwai Fong is an L-shape with two ends joining with D'Aguilar Street in Central, Hong Kong.
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