Practical tips for Hong Kong
Are you planning a trip to Hong Kong soon, or is this vibrant city on your bucket list?
Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Hong Kong offers a unique blend of East meets West, traditional culture, and cutting-edge modernity. From riding the Star Ferry accross the harbour to savoring dim sum and exploring iconic skylines, these practical tips from three visits will help you travel smarter and make the most of your trip to Hong Kong.
When is the Best Time to Visit Hong Kong?
Hong Kong is a year-round destination, but the best times to visit are during the autumn and spring seasons when the weather is most pleasant.
- Autumn (September to November): The skies are clear, the humidity drops, and the temperatures are comfortable (20–28°C).
- Spring (March to May): Similar to autumn, spring offers mild temperatures and blooming flowers throughout the city.
- Summer (June to August): Be prepared for high humidity, hot temperatures, and occasional typhoons. However, summer is also the season for lively festivals like the Dragon Boat Festival.
- Winter (December to February): Winters are mild (15–20°C), making it a great time to explore without the summer heat, though it can get chilly in the evenings.
Together we have visited Hong Kong three times. Once in May, once in October and once in November and all three are great months to visit.
How to Get Around Hong Kong Efficiently?
Hong Kong’s public transportation system is one of the most efficient and affordable in the world:
- MTR (Mass Transit Railway): The quickest way to get around Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and even to the airport. Get an Octopus Card for seamless travel and use the MTR app for your convenience.
- Star Ferry: A must-do experience offering stunning views of Victoria Harbour. Get tickets here.
- Trams (Ding Dings): Ride the historic double-decker trams for a unique and affordable way to see the city.
- Buses and Minibuses: Perfect for reaching outlying areas like Stanley or Sai Kung.
- Taxis: Widely available and very flexible but a little more expensive than public transport.
For the airport to the city consider the Airport Express but check your accommodation location whether this fits. Otherwise a regular taxi or Uber is a great option and you will probably spend the same. For getting around use MTR or a taxi or Uber and use Star Ferry to cross the harbour from Hong Kong Island to Kowloon.
How to Pay in Hong Kong?
- Credit Cards: All major cards are widely accepted in most establishments, but cash is still useful for smaller shops and markets.
- ATMs: Easily accessible and reliable for foreign cards.
- Octopus Card: A prepaid card that works for transportation, convenience stores, and even some restaurants. Get your Octopus Card here.
What are popular destinations and attractions in Hong Kong?
- Victoria Peak: Take the Peak Tram for stunning panoramic views of the city skyline and Victoria Harbour. Get your tickets here.
- Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade: Perfect for evening strolls with iconic views of the skyline and the Symphony of Lights show.
- Lantau Island: Visit the Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, and explore the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car. Get your Lantau Island tickets here.
- Mong Kok: Dive into the vibrant street markets like Ladies Market and Temple Street Night Market.
- Hong Kong Disneyland: Fun for all ages with a unique mix of Disney magic and Chinese culture.
- Daytrip to Macau: Take the ferry (1 hour) to Macau to soak up the energy of this place or embrace the ancient history in Old Town. Get your ferry tickets here.
Except for Disneyland we have done all of the above so please read the specific blogs about these places.
What Are Useful Apps and Tools for Hong Kong?
- Google Maps: Essential for navigation and public transport routes.
- MTR Mobile: Real-time updates and route planning for the MTR system.
- OpenRice: The ultimate guide to finding the best local restaurants and street food.
- Octopus App: Manage your Octopus Card balance and transactions.
What to Eat in Hong Kong?
- Dim Sum: Don’t miss iconic dishes like siu mai and har gow at traditional teahouses.
- Roast Meats: Char siu (roast pork) and roast duck are must-tries for the non vegerarians
- Wonton Noodles: A simple but delicious comfort food.
- Egg Tarts: A sweet treat that’s perfect for dessert.
- Street Food: Sample curry fish balls, egg waffles, and pineapple buns.
As vegans we “skipped one day” when our friends Lui (yes from Hong Kong) and Frank took us to dinner in Lei Yue Mun. Here you will find a fantastic fish market and some of the best seafood restaurants. Pick your own fresh catch of the day and have it cooked to perfection.
Hong Kong
Vist the Big Buddha on Lantau Island
Budget Tips for Traveling in Hong Kong
- Affordable Accommodation: Look for budget hotels or hostels in areas like Mong Kok or Yau Ma Tei.
- Eat Local: Visit cha chaan teng (local diners) for authentic and inexpensive meals.
- Public Transport: Use the Octopus Card to save on transportation costs.
Cultural Tips for Hong Kong
- Etiquette: Greet with a nod or handshake. In crowded areas, avoid pushing or cutting in line.
- Chopsticks Rules: Don’t stick chopsticks upright in your rice; it’s considered bad luck.
- Language: Cantonese is the primary language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Where to Stay in Hong Kong?
- Hong Kong Island: Stay in Central or Causeway Bay for luxury and convenience.
- Kowloon: Tsim Sha Tsui is ideal for shopping and sightseeing.
- Outlying Islands: Lantau Island offers a more relaxed vibe, perfect for nature lovers.
During our last visit we stayed at the Ascott North Point, a very comfortable aparthotel, close to MTR stations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling in Hong Kong
- Do I need a visa to visit Hong Kong?
- Most visitors can enter visa-free for 7 to 180 days, depending on nationality. Check your requirements here.
- Is Hong Kong expensive?
- While Hong Kong can be pricey, affordable options for food, transport, and accommodation make it accessible for budget travelers as well.
- What’s the currency in Hong Kong?
- The Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash on hand is always a good idea.
Conclusion
Hong Kong is a destination that offers an exciting mix of urban energy, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Whether you’re scaling Victoria Peak, savoring dim sum, or wandering through vibrant street markets, a little preparation ensures a trip that is as smooth as it is unforgettable. Got questions or tips of your own? Share them with us, we love to hear from you!
The Booming Journey | 4 January 2025 | ©all rights reserved