Located in southern China, Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China. Although it is allowed to operate as an independent country, it is still part of China. A former British Colony, this vibrant city offers an exciting nightlife, an incredible gastronomic experience, a shoppers’ paradise and beautiful nature to explore.
Why Visit Hong Kong
MULTICULTURAL
A former British colony, Hong Kong is a city where East meets West, and its multicultural atmosphere is one of its greatest appeals. The city has a rich history and a diverse population, with influences from China, Europe, and beyond. It houses a harmonious multicultural community, where a variety of cultures and religions exist side-by-side in harmony.
CUISINE
Hong Kong is also famous for its cuisine, which draws influences from Cantonese, Japanese, and Western styles of cooking. Visitors can find a wide range of delicious dishes, from dim sum to street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.
SHOPPING
Known as a shopper’s paradise, with options ranging from high-end luxury boutiques to bustling street markets. Visitors can find everything from designer clothing and electronics to traditional Chinese handicrafts and antiques.
LANDSCAPES
Despite being a bustling metropolis, Hong Kong also has plenty of natural beauty to offer. The city is surrounded by lush green hills, and there are several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
Located in southern China, Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China. Although it is allowed to operate as an independent country, it is still part of China. A former British Colony, this vibrant city offers an exciting nightlife, an incredible gastronomic experience, a shoppers’ paradise and beautiful nature to explore.
Why Visit Hong Kong
MULTICULTURAL
A former British colony, Hong Kong is a city where East meets West, and its multicultural atmosphere is one of its greatest appeals. The city has a rich history and a diverse population, with influences from China, Europe, and beyond. It houses a harmonious multicultural community, where a variety of cultures and religions exist side-by-side in harmony.
CUISINE
Hong Kong is also famous for its cuisine, which draws influences from Cantonese, Japanese, and Western styles of cooking. Visitors can find a wide range of delicious dishes, from dim sum to street food to Michelin-starred restaurants.
SHOPPING
Known as a shopper’s paradise, with options ranging from high-end luxury boutiques to bustling street markets. Visitors can find everything from designer clothing and electronics to traditional Chinese handicrafts and antiques.
LANDSCAPES
Despite being a bustling metropolis, Hong Kong also has plenty of natural beauty to offer. The city is surrounded by lush green hills, and there are several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the city and the surrounding landscape.
- Name: Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
- Independence from: United Kingdom
- Official Languages: Chinese, English
- Currency: Hong Kong dollar (HK$)
- Time Zone: UTC + 8
- Name: Hong Kong Special Administrative Region
- Independence from: United Kingdom
- Official Languages: Chinese, English
- Currency: Hong Kong dollar (HK$)
- Time Zone: UTC + 8
Bucket list
Enjoy the Skyline
Ride on a Traditional Chinese Junk Boat
Enjoy the View from Victoria Peak
Visit the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery
Party In Lan Kwai Fong
Try the Snake Soup
Visit the street markets
Ride the Longest Escalator in the World
What to expect
LANGUAGE
English and Chinese are the official languages of Hong Kong, being Cantonese the most widely spoken. Due to the mix of cultures, around the 46% of its population speaks English.
ELECTRICITY
The standard voltage is 220 V and the frequency is 50 Hz. That’s the standard voltage in the UK, Europe, Australia and most of Asia and Africa; If you are traveling from the US you will need an adaptor
CURRENCY
The Hong Kong Dollar is the official currency in Hong Kong. Chinese currency is accepted in some shops. You can exchange your currency at any authorized money exchanger. International credit cards such as American Express, VISA, Diners Club and MasterCard are also welcome at many hotels, retail shops and restaurants. 1 USD equals 7.85 HKD (as of 2023).
SAFETY
Hong Kong is one of the safest places in the world, with a really low crime rate. However, no place is 100% safe and occasional robberies, petty crime and scams can occur, so be cautious.
CLIMATE
Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with four seasons. It is also influenced by monsoons. There are mild, relatively dry winters and hot, humid, wet summers. March – April and October – November would be the best times to visit as the temperatures are not as extreme.
How to get around
- MTR (Mass Transit Railway): The MTR is the most convenient and efficient way to get around Hong Kong. It is fast, clean, and affordable, with extensive coverage throughout the city and nearby areas.
- Buses: Hong Kong’s bus system is also extensive and covers many areas not serviced by the MTR. Buses are affordable and offer a unique way to see the city and its surroundings.
- Trams: Hong Kong’s iconic trams run along the northern side of Hong Kong Island, providing a leisurely and scenic way to explore the city.
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Hong Kong, with red taxis serving most areas, and green taxis servicing the New Territories. They are more expensive than public transport but offer the convenience of door-to-door service.
- Ferries: Hong Kong’s ferry system offers scenic views of the city’s skyline and connects the islands and peninsulas of Hong Kong. The Star Ferry is the most famous, crossing Victoria Harbour between Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.
- Minibuses: Minibuses are a popular mode of transport in Hong Kong, offering a more personalized experience with fewer passengers. However, they can be more expensive than buses and may not be as convenient.
- Walk: Walking is a great way to explore Hong Kong’s neighborhoods, especially in areas like Central, Sheung Wan, and Causeway Bay, where many attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Visa Policy
Hong Kong has a relatively liberal visa policy, allowing visitors from over 170 countries to enter visa-free for periods ranging from seven days to six months, depending on their nationality. Citizens from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and most European countries can visit Hong Kong for up to 90 days without a visa. However, visitors from some countries, such as Afghanistan, Cuba, North Korea, and Yemen, among others, require a visa to enter Hong Kong. Travelers who wish to stay longer than their visa-free period or engage in employment, business, or study activities in Hong Kong must apply for a visa in advance. Visitors can apply for visas at the Chinese embassy or consulate in their home country or region, or through the Hong Kong Immigration Department’s website or its overseas branches.
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