HK Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Planning & Logistics
Q: Is Hong Kong tourist-friendly? A: Yes, generally very tourist-friendly. English is widely understood, especially in tourist areas.
Q: What’s the best time to visit Hong Kong? A: Generally, April-May (spring) or September-October (autumn) offer comfortable mild temperatures. Avoid summer (hot, humid, rainy) and national holidays if you prefer fewer crowds.
Q: Do I need a visa for Hong Kong? A: Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries have visa-free access for short stays. Always check official Hong Kong Immigration Department guidelines for your specific passport.
Q: What currency is used in Hong Kong? A: The Hong Kong Dollar (HKD).
Q: Should I carry cash in Hong Kong? A: Yes, definitely. While many places accept cards or Octopus, a lot of traditional local restaurants, street food stalls, and market vendors are cash-only.
Q: What payment methods are widely accepted? A: Octopus card, credit cards (Visa/MasterCard/Amex in major establishments), and cash. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are gaining traction but might be difficult for international travelers.
Q: What’s the best way to get around Hong Kong? A: Public transport is excellent. The MTR (subway) is fast, efficient, and covers most areas. Buses, trams (Ding Ding), and ferries are also great. Taxis and ride-sharing (Uber) are available.
Q: Is it easy to navigate Hong Kong using public transport? A: Extremely easy. The MTR is well-signposted in English, and Google Maps is very accurate for directions and timings for all public transport.
Q: What’s an Octopus card and do I need one? A: It’s a contactless stored-value smart card used for almost all public transportation (MTR, buses, trams, ferries) and accepted in many convenience stores, supermarkets, and fast-food chains. Highly recommended for convenience.
Q: Where can I buy an Octopus card? A: At the service counter in any MTR station, including the airport.
Q: Can I get my money back from the Octopus card? A: Yes, you can return it to the MTR customer service desk to get back the deposit and any remaining cash balance.
Q: Are luggages allowed on trains and buses? A: Yes, for the most part and within reason (max. 2 luggage per person). Try to avoid peak hours (7-9 am, 6-7 pm) if you have large luggage. Airport buses (A or E routes) are specifically designed for luggage.
Q: What are the peak hours for public transportation? A: Generally 7-10 am and 5-8 pm on weekdays.
Q: What kind of electrical outlets does Hong Kong use? A: 220V, 3-prong UK-style plugs (Type G). Bring adapters if necessary, or purchase them locally.
Q: Is Wi-Fi readily available? A: Yes, many shopping malls, restaurants, and chain stores (like Starbucks and McDonald’s) offer free Wi-Fi.
Q: Should I get a local SIM card or eSIM? A: Recommended for easy navigation and staying connected. Tourist SIMs or eSIMs are readily available at the airport or convenience stores like 7-Eleven.
Q: Is Hong Kong safe for solo female travelers? A: Hong Kong has very low visible crime rates and is generally considered extremely safe, even at night.
Q: What about emergency services in Hong Kong? A: Dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance.
Q: What should I keep on my person while sightseeing? A: Passport (required by law for identification), cash, Octopus card, and a portable charger for your phone.
Q: What’s the tipping culture like in Hong Kong? A: Tipping isn’t generally expected in casual eateries or for taxis. Higher-end restaurants may include a service charge (usually 10%), so check your bill. For good service, rounding up or leaving a small amount is appreciated.
Q: Is English widely spoken? A: Yes, most people in the service industry and tourist areas understand and speak English. Signage is generally bilingual.
Q: What if I speak a little Cantonese? A: While not necessary, speaking some Cantonese phrases will be appreciated by locals.
Q: Is Hong Kong expensive? A: Generally, yes, especially accommodation and some fine dining. However, street food and public transport are relatively affordable.
Q: What’s a comfortable daily budget? A: This varies greatly, but a comfortable budget (excluding high-end hotels/dining) could be around HKD 500-1000+ per person per day for food, transport, and some activities.
Q: What are common scams to be aware of? A: Hong Kong has very few tourist scams. Be wary of inflated prices in unmetered taxis (use metered taxis or ride-hailing apps), and always confirm prices before ordering at local markets if they don’t have clear menus.
Q: How much time should I allocate for a Hong Kong trip? A: A typical first-time visit is often 4-7 days to cover main attractions and possibly a day trip.
Getting to and from the Airport (HKIA)
Q: What’s the best way to get from Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) to the city? A: The Airport Express train is the fastest (around 24 minutes to Central) and most convenient. Buses (A-routes like A21 to Kowloon) are cheaper and offer scenic views but take longer. Taxis and Uber are also options.
Q: Can I check in for my flight at Hong Kong Station (in-town check-in)? A: Yes, for some airlines, you can check in your luggage at Hong Kong or Kowloon Airport Express stations. Check with your airline for eligibility and timings. Note that these check-in desks usually close earlier (e.g., 7 pm).
Q: Is it better to take the Airport Express or a bus to Kowloon? A: Airport Express is faster and more comfortable, especially with luggage. Buses like the A21 are cheaper and can drop you closer to some hotels, but are slower. Consider time of day (avoid rush hour on buses with luggage).
Weather & What to Pack
Q: What’s the weather like in summer (June-August)? A: Hot and very humid, with frequent sudden, short showers. Typhoons can occur.
Q: What should I pack for summer? A: Light, breathable clothing, an umbrella (for rain and sun), insect repellent (mosquitoes are active from April-October), and a light jacket or windbreaker for heavily air-conditioned indoor spaces. Bring extra shirts.
Q: What’s the weather like in winter (December-March)? A: Dry, breezy, and moderate temperatures (around 15-17°C).
Q: What should I pack for winter? A: Medium to light jackets or hoodies.
Q: Do I need special shoes for Hong Kong? A: Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking. If you plan to hike, bring appropriate outdoor shoes.
Health & Safety
Q: Are there water refilling stations in Hong Kong? A: Yes, MTR stations often have free water refilling stations. Bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce plastic waste.
Q: Is tap water safe to drink? A: Yes, tap water in Hong Kong is generally safe to drink, though many locals prefer boiled or filtered water.
Q: Should I bring prescription medication? A: Yes, bring enough supply for your entire trip. Prescription medication is not widely available over-the-counter and requires a clinic visit and doctor’s prescription.
Q: Are over-the-counter (OTC) medicines available? A: Yes, readily available at Watsons and Mannings stores.
Q: Are there bed bug issues in Hong Kong hotels? A: While not a widespread issue, it’s always wise to check hotel reviews and take standard precautions like inspecting your room upon arrival.
Q: Is it safe to hike at night? A: Generally yes, especially on popular, well-marked trails like The Peak. Hong Kong has very low crime rates.
Food & Drink
Q: What are some must-try local foods? A: Dim sum, wonton noodles, egg tarts, pineapple buns, milk tea, street food (fish balls, curry fish balls, cheong fun), roasted meats (char siu).
Q: Where can I find authentic local food? A: Many traditional family-owned restaurants, cooked food centers, and street markets. Look for places popular with locals.
Q: What’s Australian Dairy Company known for? A: A quintessential Hong Kong breakfast diner experience, famous for its scrambled eggs, toast, and macaroni soup. Expect fast service and shared tables.
Q: What is Mak Man Kee famous for? A: Wonton noodle soup.
Q: Are there good vegetarian/vegan options? A: Hong Kong has a growing number of vegetarian and vegan restaurants. Buddhist temples often have vegetarian eateries nearby.
Q: Can I drink alcohol freely? A: Yes, alcohol is widely available. Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo are popular nightlife districts.
Q: Are there “Dai Pai Dong” (open-air food stalls) still around? A: Yes, but they are becoming less common. Seek them out for a traditional experience while they’re still available.
Q: Is it safe to eat street food? A: Generally yes, but use common sense and choose busy stalls with high turnover.
Shopping & Markets
Q: What are the best places for shopping? A: Causeway Bay (high-end to mid-range malls), Mong Kok (street markets like Ladies’ Market, sneaker street), Tsim Sha Tsui (luxury brands, Canton Road), Central (designer boutiques), Sham Shui Po (electronics, fabrics, obscure goods).
Q: Are night markets worth visiting? A: Yes, Temple Street Night Market and Ladies’ Market are popular for souvenirs, clothing, and street food, but be prepared to bargain.
Q: Are there sales during Chinese New Year? A: Yes, many stores like Citygate and Sogo often have massive sales around Chinese New Year.
Q: Where can I buy electronics? A: Mong Kok Computer Centre, Golden Computer Arcade (Sham Shui Po), or major electronics retailers in shopping malls.
Attractions & Sightseeing
Q: What are the must-visit attractions for first-timers? A: Victoria Peak, Star Ferry, Symphony of Lights, Avenue of Stars, Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, Temple Street Night Market, Mong Kok, Man Mo Temple, and a ride on the Ding Ding Tram.
Q: What are some good places for panoramic views? A: Victoria Peak, Aqua (restaurant/bar), Sky100, Ozone bar (Ritz-Carlton).
Q: What’s the best time to visit Victoria Peak? A: Late afternoon to experience both daylight and the city lights at night. Avoid peak times for the Peak Tram if possible.
Q: Should I take the Peak Tram or a bus/taxi to Victoria Peak? A: The Peak Tram is an iconic experience but can have long queues. Bus or taxi is an alternative if you prioritize speed.
Q: What’s the Symphony of Lights? A: A daily light and music show over Victoria Harbour, best viewed from the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade or a harbour cruise.
Q: What’s the Ding Ding Tram? A: A historic double-decker tram system that runs along Hong Kong Island, offering a charming and affordable way to see the city.
Q: Are there good hiking trails in Hong Kong? A: Absolutely! Hong Kong is known for its excellent hiking trails, including Dragon’s Back (popular for views), Lion Rock, and trails around The Peak.
Q: Are there any unique experiences beyond the main attractions? A: Explore cooked food centers, take a ferry to an outlying island (Lamma, Cheung Chau, Peng Chau), visit Tai O Fishing Village, or wander through lesser-known neighborhoods like Sham Shui Po.
Q: What are some toddler-friendly attractions? A: Disneyland, Ocean Park, Hong Kong Park (with aviary and playground), and the Zoo & Botanical Gardens.
Q: Is Disneyland Hong Kong worth it? When is the best time to buy tickets? A: Generally, yes, especially with kids. Buy tickets in advance online (e.g., Klook) to save time and sometimes money. Weekdays (Mon-Fri mornings) are usually less crowded than weekends.
Q: What about Ocean Park? A: Another major theme park with marine life, thrill rides, and animal exhibits.
Q: Where can I see Giant Pandas? A: Ocean Park has Giant Pandas.
Q: Are there any hidden gems to explore? A: Many! Examples include the dried seafood shops in Sheung Wan, chaotic local eateries like Lin Heung Lau (for dim sum), or specific cooked food centers for a local dining experience.
Q: What’s the Mid-Levels Escalator? A: The world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system, connecting Central and Mid-Levels. It’s a unique way to explore the area and see local life.
Q: What’s there to do at night besides markets? A: Visit bars in Lan Kwai Fong/SoHo, enjoy a harbour cruise (like Aqua Luna), experience the Symphony of Lights, or take in the city views from The Peak.
Q: Is it worth visiting the Big Buddha? A: Yes, the Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha) and Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island offer a cultural and scenic day trip. Combine it with a visit to Tai O Fishing Village.
Q: How do I get to the Big Buddha? A: Take the MTR to Tung Chung and then either the Ngong Ping 360 cable car (scenic, but often long queues) or a public bus.
Q: Any suggestions for a relaxed day? A: A trip to an outlying island like Lamma or Cheung Chau, or a leisurely stroll along the Tsuen Wan Promenade.
Day Trips
Q: Can I do a day trip to Macau from Hong Kong? A: Yes, very easily. High-speed ferries connect Hong Kong to Macau.
Q: How strict is immigration from Macau to Hong Kong (and vice versa)? A: Generally not strict, similar to Hong Kong immigration. Have your passport and necessary documents ready.
Q: Do I need a visa for Macau? A: Visa requirements for Macau are separate from Hong Kong. Check the Macau SAR government immigration website for your nationality.
Q: What currency is used in Macau? A: The Macanese Pataca (MOP), but Hong Kong Dollars (HKD) are widely accepted at a 1:1 ratio. You might receive MOP as change.
Q: Can I visit Shenzhen from Hong Kong? A: Yes, Shenzhen is easily accessible by MTR or high-speed train from West Kowloon Station. You will need a separate Chinese visa.
Q: What’s there to do in Shenzhen as a day trip? A: Shopping (Luohu Commercial City), theme parks (Window of the World, Splendid China Folk Village), and modern city experiences.
Q: Are there other day trips besides Macau and Shenzhen? A: Yes, many outlying islands (Lamma, Cheung Chau, Peng Chau) offer a different pace of life, hiking, and seafood.
Etiquette & Local Culture
Q: Do Hong Kongers walk fast? A: Yes, be prepared for a fast pace, especially in crowded MTR stations and central areas. Try to keep to the right on escalators and move out of the way if you’re stopping.
Q: Should I jaywalk? A: No, obey pedestrian lights and crossings. Jaywalking can result in fines.
Q: Is it rude to take photos of locals? A: Always be respectful. Avoid close-up photos of individuals without permission. Street photography is generally fine, but be mindful.
Q: What are common gestures or customs to be aware of? A: Pointing with an open hand is considered more polite than using a single finger. When exchanging business cards, present and receive with both hands.
Q: How do I hail a taxi? A: Look for taxis with a “For Hire” sign. Avoid hailing taxis in restricted zones. Uber Taxi is also an option.
Q: Are taxi drivers generally friendly? A: Experiences vary. Uber is often cited as having friendlier drivers. Some taxi drivers might be hesitant to cross the harbor without extra payment (though this is less common now with tunnel fees).
Miscellaneous Tips
Q: What’s the best way to deal with the humidity in summer? A: Stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces, and bring quick-drying clothing.
Q: Are there free public toilets available? A: Yes, in MTR stations, shopping malls, and public facilities. Some traditional street food places might have basic facilities.
Q: Should I book hotels in Central/Tsim Sha Tsui/Causeway Bay or a different area? A: Central, TST, and Causeway Bay are very convenient for tourists due to their central location and MTR access. Other areas like Wan Chai or Jordan are also well-connected and may offer better value.
Q: Are tours necessary in Hong Kong? A: Generally not, as public transport is excellent, and most tourist destinations are easily accessible independently with bilingual signage. However, guided tours can offer deeper insights or specific experiences.
Q: How can I save money on attractions? A: Look for combo tickets or discounts on platforms like Klook. Many attractions offer online booking discounts.
Q: Are there any places to avoid? A: Hong Kong is generally safe. Some areas can be very crowded, especially during peak hours. Be mindful of your belongings in crowded markets.
Q: What’s the local perception of foreign tourists? A: Hong Kongers are generally accustomed to tourists and are polite and helpful.
Q: How do I ask for directions if I’m lost? A: Most people, especially younger generations and those in tourist areas, will understand English. You can also use Google Maps.
Q: Are there luggage storage facilities? A: Yes, at the airport and some major MTR stations or shopping malls.
Q: What’s Hong Kong’s stance on smoking? A: Smoking is prohibited in most indoor public places and some outdoor areas. Designated smoking areas exist.
Q: Is there a specific app I should download for travel? A: Google Maps is highly recommended for navigation. The MTR Mobile app is also useful.
Q: Are there any specific local holidays I should be aware of? A: Chinese New Year, Easter, Labour Day, Buddha’s Birthday, Dragon Boat Festival, National Day, Christmas. These can mean closures, crowded transport, and higher prices.
Q: What’s the best way to experience local life? A: Visit wet markets, take public buses (especially double-deckers for upper deck views), explore residential neighborhoods, and eat at local “cha chaan tengs” (tea restaurants).
Q: What about safety from political events? A: While there have been political protests in the past, they are not a common occurrence for tourists and generally do not target tourists. Stay informed about local news if any specific events are planned.
Q: Can I use my credit card for everything? A: While major establishments accept them, smaller local shops, street food vendors, and some traditional restaurants may not. Always have some cash and an Octopus card.
Q: Are there any animal attractions to avoid? A: Travelers often advise against supporting exploitative animal attractions like riding elephants/camels or shows with performing animals.
Q: What’s the general pace of life in Hong Kong? A: Fast-paced and energetic, especially in city centers. Be prepared to keep up with the crowd!