Hong Kong is a captivating blend of East and West, where towering skyscrapers meet ancient temples, and bustling markets coexist with serene parks. Known for its stunning skyline, rich cultural heritage, and culinary delights, Hong Kong offers an unforgettable experience for every traveller. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, there are a few key things to remember to make the most of your trip. From understanding visa requirements and navigating the efficient public transportation system to respecting local customs and knowing the best times to visit, here are seven essential things you should know before embarking on your Hong Kong adventure.
Hong Kong offers a variety of transportation options, including taxis, ferries, trains, buses, and trams. The city's public transport system is highly efficient and provides convenient payment methods such as cash, Octopus Card, and e-Wallet. Additionally, travellers can use the HKeMobility app developed by Hong Kong's Transport Department to plan their journeys. This app offers information on transport routes, fares, journey times, arrival times, and real-time traffic conditions for MTR, buses, mini-buses, trams, ferries, and water taxis, making it easy to navigate the city using public transport.
In Hong Kong, a global financial hub, rush hours can be bustling and crowded. The morning rush begins at 7:30 a.m. and lasts until 9:30 a.m., while the evening rush extends from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., occurring every weekday. The streets are filled with people heading to and from work during these times, creating a vibrant but bustling atmosphere. Moreover, workers observe lunch hours between 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. to take a break and rejuvenate before resuming work. To navigate the city efficiently, plan your travel outside these peak hours to avoid bustling crowds.
Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated cities in the world. The Hong Kong Tourism Board lays down several rules to follow. For instance, loud conversations, music, or videos in public areas are considered inconsiderate to others. When taking public transport, it is customary to let passengers off before you enter. To keep up with the fast pace, locals always prepare their ticket or Octopus card before they get to the barrier. Hong Kong is known for orderliness, embodied in locals’ respect for the queue. Not just for public transport, Hong Kong people queue up for ticketing counters, bathrooms, restaurants, the latest products, store openings, giveaways, and more. If others are on the same mission as you – join the queue. For your safety, please follow the traffic lights when crossing the road. Violating the traffic rules will result in a hefty fine.
Hong Kong is a fantastic destination to explore year-round, but remember that summer (June to August) can get quite hot and humid. While you may be inclined to pack mainly swimwear and sarongs, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board, it's essential to be prepared for the chilly air-conditioning in Hong Kong's shopping malls, cinemas, and public transport. Remember to include some warm clothing in your suitcase. Stay updated on the weather as typhoon season lasts from May to November. Warnings for approaching typhoons are communicated through television and radio. On average, Hong Kong experiences about six mild typhoons a year, and if you visit during spring or summer, you might encounter one of them or even a thunderstorm.
Make sure to bring the necessary electrical adapters and be aware of the voltage differences. In Hong Kong, you'll need the UK-style three-pronged plug, and the standard voltage is 220 volts AC at a frequency of 50Hz. While free public WiFi is available for tourists, it comes with security risks. To stay safe and connected, we recommend purchasing an eSIM before your trip or downloading the Travel Hong Kong WiFi app to enjoy secure, reliable, and stable online access at various locations, including coffee shops, restaurants, payphone kiosks, convenience stores, malls, MTR stations, Airport Express stations, and trains.
In Hong Kong, most businesses accept credit cards, including American Express, Visa, and Mastercard. You can also use mobile payment platforms like Apple Pay, Google Pay, Alipay, and WeChat Pay. However, it's a good idea to carry some cash since certain markets and street food vendors may only accept cash or Octopus cards. It's best to exchange currency in advance or get an Octopus card for public transportation and purchases at stores and eateries.
If you are here to shop, you should check out the abundance of deals throughout Hong Kong. They cater to all preferences—from luxurious hotel offers to budget-friendly stays, as well as discounts for top attractions and delightful dining experiences.
Indian nationals can enjoy a visa-free 14-day visit to Hong Kong upon successful completion of the Pre-arrival Registration (PAR) online. You can conveniently fill out the online application form at gov.hk/en/apps/immdindianparreg.html. Upon registration, get a printout of the Notification Slip for Pre-Arrival Registration, which must be presented alongside your passport when travelling to Hong Kong or during immigration clearance upon arrival. Typically, the Pre-Arrival Registration is valid for a period of six months or until the linked Indian passport expires, depending on which comes earlier.