HONG KONG TRAVEL GUIDE
Hong Kong, officially the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, is a metropolitan area and special administrative region of the People's Republic of China on the eastern Pearl River Delta of the South China Sea.
Hong Kong is much more than a harbour city. The traveller weary of its crowded streets may be tempted to describe it as Hong Kongcrete. Yet, this territory with its cloudy mountains and rocky islands is mostly a rural landscape. Much of the countryside is classified as Country Park and, although 7 million people are never far away, it is possible to find pockets of wilderness that will reward the more intrepid tourist.
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HONG KONG QUICK FACTS
- Capital: Victoria (Central)
- Currency: Hong Kong dollar ($, HKD)
- Area: 1,092 km²
- Population: 7,451 million (2018)
- Language: Cantonese, English
- Religion:mix of local religions (Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism) ~84%, minority atheists and Christian
- Electricity: 220V, 50Hz (UK plug)
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HONG KONG
HONG KONG PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
- 1 January, New Year’s Day
- 1 May, Labor Day
- 1 July, SAR Establishment Day
- 1 October, National Day
- 25 December, Christmas
- 26 December, Boxing Day
Also, Chinese New Year (3 days), Tomb Sweeping Day (Qing Ming), Dragon Boat Festival, the day after Mid-Autumn Moon Festival, Chung Yeung Festival, the day after Chung Yeung Festival, and Buddha’s Birthday according to the Chinese lunar calendar. Also, Good Friday through Easter Monday.
FESTIVALS IN HONG KONG
BEST TIME TO VISIT HONG KONG
Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The seasons are:
- Spring (March to May) - The weather is usually mild and it's a good time to enjoy the city's lush greenery and blooming flowers.
- Summer (June to September) - Summer is hot and humid with occasional typhoons and heavy rain. It is not the best time to visit Hong Kong.
- Autumn (October to December) - The weather is mild and comfortable, making it a popular time to visit. The autumn months are also a great time to see the city's festivals and events.
- Winter (January to February) - Winter is cool and dry, making it the best time to visit for those who want to escape the cold weather.
The best time to visit Hong Kong is typically between October and December, when the weather is mild and comfortable, and the crowds are relatively light. Avoid visiting in the summer, as the weather is hot and humid, and there are many typhoons.
HONG KONG WEATHER SYNOPSIS
Subtropical Monsoon; Cool And Humid In Winter, Hot And Rainy From Spring Through Summer, Warm And Sunny In Fall
HONG KONG TOURIST SEASONS
Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists.
Peak Season
Shoulder Season
Off Peak Season
JANUARY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
FEBRUARY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
MARCH
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
APRIL
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
MAY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
JUNE
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
JULY
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
AUGUST
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
SEPTEMBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
OCTOBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
NOVEMBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
DECEMBER
HOT
COLD
MODERATE
DRY
WET
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SPORT & ACTIVITIES
SNOW SPORT IN HONG KONG
HIKING & CYCLING IN HONG KONG
The best time for outdoor activities in Hong Kong is from October to April, with October to December being the most pleasant temperature wise and December to February being the coldest but clearest months.
BEACH OPTIONS IN HONG KONG
Hong Kong has some lovely beaches but be warned, they can get very crowded! The weather can be good from May to August, with June, July and August being the hottest months.
SURFING IN HONG KONG
You can find good surf in Hong Kong, but the conditions can also be dangerous, so take this into consideration. Sai Wan is the most accessible beach and probably also the most beginner friendly. Tai Wan has the most consistent surf break but is very isolated and can have strong rip tides. At Ham Tin the waves break closer to the shore.
KITESURF IN HONG KONG
Hong Kong has some great conditions for both kitesurfing and windsurfing from September to May when the east and northeast winds prevail. Shui Hau Bay is the hot spot for kitesurfing.
For more details on kite surfing in Hong Kong expand this section!
HEALTH RISKS IN HONG KONG
Be aware of possible health risks in
Hong Kong
Yellow fever - The yellow fever virus is found in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa and South America. The virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no medicine to treat or cure an infection. To prevent getting sick from yellow fever, use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and get vaccinated.
Zika Virus - Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects. There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika.
Malaria - Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that commonly infects a certain type of mosquito which feeds on humans. People who get malaria are typically very sick with high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness. Although malaria can be a deadly disease, illness and death from malaria can usually be prevented.
Dengue - Dengue is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. About one in four people infected with dengue will get sick. For people who get sick with dengue, symptoms can be mild or severe.
HONG KONG TRAVEL COSTS
The cost of traveling to Hong Kong can vary greatly depending on the time of year you visit, your travel style, and the type of accommodation you choose. Some general estimates for various expenses include:
- Airfare: Round-trip flights from major cities such as New York, Los Angeles, or London can cost around $800 to $1,500 depending on the season and time of booking.
- Accommodation: Prices for budget-friendly hotels or hostels in Hong Kong can start at around $20 to $30 per night. For a mid-range accommodation you can expect to pay around $70 to $100 per night. And for a luxury hotel, the prices could go up to $200 or more per night.
- Food: A meal at a local restaurant can cost around $10 to $15, whereas a meal at a mid-range restaurant will be around $20 to $30. If you want to try fine dining, expect to pay around $50 to $100 or more per person.
- Transportation: A single journey on the subway or bus will cost around $1.5 to $5, and an Octopus card (a rechargeable contactless smart card) can be used on all public transport and can save you money in the long run.
- Sightseeing: Entrance to many of Hong Kong's top attractions such as Victoria Peak, Big Buddha, and the Hong Kong Museum of History are free. Entrance to some popular attractions like Disneyland or Ocean Park can cost around $60 to $80. Additional activities such as taking a boat trip around Victoria Harbour, visiting the Hong Kong Museum of History, or taking the famous tram to Victoria Peak, can cost around $20 to $30.
Overall, you should expect to spend around $1,500 to $2,500 per person for a week-long trip to Hong Kong, including airfare, accommodation, meals, transportation, and some activities. However, it can be much cheaper if you are on a budget or much more expensive if you are looking for luxury.
HONG KONG TRAVEL TIPS
Here are some travel tips for visiting Hong Kong:
- Bring comfortable walking shoes: Hong Kong is a very walkable city, and you will do a lot of walking to explore its streets and neighborhoods.
- Pack light: Hong Kong's subway system is efficient, but it can get crowded during rush hour, so it's best to travel light.
- Bring an umbrella: Hong Kong can be rainy, especially during the summer months, so it's best to bring an umbrella with you.
- Get an Octopus Card: This is a rechargeable contactless smart card that can be used on all public transport in Hong Kong, including buses, trains, and ferries. It will save you time and money.
- Plan ahead: Hong Kong is a popular tourist destination, so it's best to plan ahead and book popular attractions and activities in advance to avoid long lines and disappointment.
- Learn some basic Cantonese: While English is widely spoken in Hong Kong, it can be helpful to know some basic Cantonese phrases.
- Be aware of customs and etiquette: Hong Kong is a blend of Eastern and Western cultures, and it's important to be aware of local customs and etiquette when visiting temples, shrines, and other places of worship.
- Be aware of the heat and humidity: Hong Kong can be very hot and humid in the summer, so it's best to stay hydrated and wear light, breathable clothing.
- Be respectful of the local culture: Hong Kong is a melting pot of different cultures and religions, and it's important to be respectful of the local culture and customs when visiting.
- Take advantage of the nightlife: Hong Kong is known for its vibrant nightlife and has a lot to offer, from rooftop bars to street markets, and it's worth staying up late to explore them.
SIGHTS & HIGHLIGHTS OF HONG KONG
Hong Kong is made up of several distinct regions, each with its own unique character and attractions. Here are some of the main regions of Hong Kong and the highlights of each:
- Hong Kong Island: This is the city's main financial and business district, and it's home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Hong Kong, such as the Central-Mid-Levels Escalators, Victoria Peak, and the Hong Kong Museum of History.
- Kowloon: This is the city's main shopping and entertainment district, and it's home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in Hong Kong, such as the Temple Street Night Market, the Ladies' Market, and the Hong Kong Museum of History.
- New Territories: This is the rural area of Hong Kong and it's home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Hong Kong, such as the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark, the Hong Kong Wetland Park, and the Hong Kong Science Park.
- Lantau Island: This is the largest island in Hong Kong and it's home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in Hong Kong, such as the Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, and the Hong Kong Disneyland.
- Outlying Islands: This is a group of islands located off the coast of Hong Kong, such as Cheung Chau, Lamma and Lantau Island. These islands are perfect to escape the city, enjoy beautiful beaches and hike on the trails.
- Stanley: This is a charming coastal town located on the south side of Hong Kong Island, it's known for its markets, seafood restaurants, and the famous Stanley Market.
- Sai Kung: This is a charming fishing village located in the New Territories, it's known for its seafood restaurants, hiking trails, and beautiful beaches.
- Causeway Bay: This is one of the most vibrant and bustling areas of Hong Kong Island, it's known for its shopping, street food and nightlife.
These are just a few examples of the many regions in Hong Kong, each with its own unique character and attractions. It's worth exploring as many as possible to get a sense of the diversity of this city.
There are countless things to see and do when visiting Hong Kong, but some of the must-see attractions include:
- Victoria Peak: This is the most popular tourist attraction in Hong Kong, and it offers incredible views of the city. Take the Peak Tram to the top and enjoy the panoramic view of the city's skyline.
- Big Buddha: This is one of the most iconic and largest outdoor statues of Buddha in the world and it is located on Lantau Island. Take the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car to reach the site.
- Hong Kong Disneyland: This is a popular attraction for families and children, and it offers a variety of Disney-themed rides and shows.
- The Hong Kong Museum of History: This is a great place to learn about the history of Hong Kong and its culture.
- The Hong Kong Museum of Art: This is a great place to see the art and culture of Hong Kong.
- Victoria Harbour: This is a great place to take a boat trip and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.
- The Temple Street Night Market: This is a popular night market in Kowloon and it offers a wide variety of goods and street food.
- The Ladies' Market: This is a popular market in Kowloon and it offers a wide variety of goods and souvenirs.
- The Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark: This is a great place to see the natural beauty of Hong Kong and it offers hiking trails and beautiful beaches.
- The Hong Kong Wetland Park: This is a great place to see the wildlife of Hong Kong and it offers hiking trails and beautiful beaches.
- Stanley Market: This is a popular market located in Stanley on the south side of Hong Kong Island and it offers a wide variety of goods and souvenirs.
- Take a trip to the outlying islands: these are a group of islands located off the coast of Hong Kong such as Cheung Chau, Lamma and Lantau Island. These islands are perfect to escape the city, enjoy beautiful beaches and hike on the trails.
These are just a few examples of the many things to see and do in Hong Kong. It is a city with a lot of variety and options, you can find something that fits your interest and budget.
WHAT TO EAT IN HONG KONG
Hong Kong is known for its delicious food, and there are many different types of cuisine to try when visiting. Here are some popular dishes to try when visiting Hong Kong:
- Dim Sum: This is a traditional Chinese dish that consists of small steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. It's usually served in small steamer baskets and typically eaten for breakfast or brunch.
- Roast meat: Roast pork, roast goose, and roast duck are popular dishes in Hong Kong. They are typically served with rice and vegetables.
- Seafood: Hong Kong is known for its delicious seafood, and it's definitely worth trying some of the local seafood dishes such as steamed fish, stir-fried crab, and seafood hotpot.
- Wonton Noodles: This is a popular dish consisting of thin egg noodles served in a savory broth with shrimp dumplings.
- Congee: This is a type of rice porridge that is popular in Hong Kong, it can be served plain or with various toppings such as meat, seafood or vegetables.
- Egg tarts: This is a popular Cantonese-style dessert that consists of a flaky pastry shell filled with a custard filling.
- Milk Tea: This is a popular drink in Hong Kong, it's a black tea mixed with evaporated or condensed milk.
- Street food: Hong Kong has a wide variety of street food options, from egg waffles to fish balls, to skewers and more.
- Desserts: Hong Kong has a wide variety of delicious desserts such as egg tarts, mango pudding, and red bean soup.
- Sushi and Ramen: Hong Kong has a growing number of Japanese restaurants, and it's worth trying some of the traditional sushi and ramen dishes.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods to try in Hong Kong. The city has a diverse culinary scene, and you'll find many other options to suit different tastes and dietary restrictions.
LGBTQ IN HONG KONG
WHERE TO STAY IN HONG KONG
When visiting Hong Kong for the first time, it's best to stay in an area that is central and convenient for exploring the city. Here are some popular areas to consider for accommodations:
- Central: This is the main financial and business district of Hong Kong and it's home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks and attractions such as Victoria Peak and the Hong Kong Museum of History. It's also home to many restaurants, bars, and shops.
- Tsim Sha Tsui: This is a popular neighborhood located in Kowloon, it's known for its shopping, street food and nightlife. It's also home to many of the city's popular tourist attractions such as the Hong Kong Museum of History and the Hong Kong Museum of Art.
- Causeway Bay: This is a popular neighborhood located on Hong Kong Island, it's known for its shopping, street food and nightlife.
- Mong Kok: This is a bustling neighborhood located in Kowloon, it's known for its street food, markets and nightlife.
- Stanley: This is a charming coastal town located on the south side of Hong Kong Island, it's known for its markets, seafood restaurants, and the famous Stanley Market.
- Sai Kung: This is a charming fishing village located in the New Territories, it's known for its seafood restaurants, hiking trails, and beautiful beaches.
All of these areas offer a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hotels and hostels to luxury resorts and serviced apartments. It's best to consider your budget and priorities to find the best accommodation for you.
Central and Tsim Sha Tsui are great options for those who want to be in the heart of the action and have easy access to the city's main attractions. Causeway Bay, Mong Kok and Stanley are also great options for those who want to explore the local culture, street food and shopping. If you are looking for a more quiet and relaxing area, Sai Kung is a great option.
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