Travel tips for your trip to Hong Kong
Before you book a trip to Hong Kong, here are some things to consider. My guides will help you to learn everything you need to know about getting in, out, and navigating your way around this beautiful region. With my tips and tricks, you’re sure to have an amazing adventure!
When to visit
The best time to visit is definitely during autumn and early winter, from late September to late December. The weather during October to November is perfect, with temperatures ranging from 19 to 28 degree Celsius (66 – 82 degrees Fahrenheit), plenty of sunshine and low humidity. The winter months are also great, with different festivals and events to celebrate the holidays. Make sure you don’t miss out on the biggest holiday in the region – the Chinese New Year celebrations with it’s amazing parades and fireworks!
Though spring is considered low season for tourists, if you want to avoid crowds, springtime in Hong Kong is still quite warm. Summer on the other hand can be hot and humid with frequent thunderstorms, so make sure to check for typhoon season from July to September.
Stay Connected
MOBILE: First, check with your local cellphone provider to see if they offer an international plan.
SIM CARD: You can easily stay connected during your trip to Hong Kong using a prepaid Discover Hong Kong Tourist SIM Card. There are no subscription charges and no hassle. Customers have to complete real-name registration to activate the services. Click here for more details. You can get the Discover Hong Kong Tourist SIM Card at any 1O1O Center in town, over 1,000 7-Eleven, Circle K, or VanGO convenience stores, or csl or HKT shops, and at the Hong Kong Tourism Board’s Kowloon Visitor Centre at the Star Ferry Concourse in Tsim Sha Tsui. Note that your cellphone MUST be unlocked for the new SIM chip to work. In other words, your phone must have the ability to accept any SIM chip, regardless of the company. Many phones are pre-unlocked at the factory, but if yours is not, you will not be able to use another chip from a company other than your own.
eSIM: Another option for WiFi is purchasing an eSIM if your mobile phone supports it. After verifying, look for your destination and purchase a plan through an international provider.
POWER CONVERSION: The standard electrical voltage in Hong Kong is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Most hotel bathrooms also have outlets for 100 volts, but if not, you will need a transformer for any appliance or electrical equipment. The majority of electrical outlets in Hong Kong take a three-pronged UK-style plug.
Passport/Visa
When planning a trip to Hong Kong, I advise that you kindly consult your nearest Hong Kong Embassy or Consulate for information regarding entry visa requirements and customs procedures specific to your country of origin. It is important to note that entry and exit conditions can be subject to change with little notice, and we encourage you to stay up-to-date on the latest regulations to make your travel experience as hassle-free as possible.
Vaccination Requirements
The government has lifted the vaccination requirement for all inbound persons coming to Hong Kong. All pre-departure, and post-arrival COVID-19 testing requirements have been lifted.
Local Customs
As a cosmopolitan city, Hong Kong has its own unique cultural customs and habits. To feel at home during your stay and experience the region like a local, please familiarize yourself with their customs listed below.
Hong Kong is densely populated. Locals adopt unspoken rules to make life more friendly and convenient for all. Here are some:
– Please be considerate in public areas and keep conversations at an appropriate volume.
– Wait for passengers to exit public transport before you enter.
– When on escalators, locals stand on the right and let people in a rush pass on the left.
– When carrying bulky luggage, please take the elevator instead of escalators to avoid causing inconvenience to others.
– For your safety, please follow the traffic lights when crossing the road. Violating the traffic rules will result in a hefty fine.
– Respect for the queue is embedded in Hong Kong’s culture. People queue up for various reasons including ticketing counters, bathrooms, restaurants, store openings, giveaways, and more. If you are in the same mission as others, join the queue.
– Please refrain from eating and drinking in certain indoor areas, including public transport, museums, and heritage sites, as it is considered a sign of disrespect.
People in Hong Kong are generally cautious, so don’t expect a random friendly chat. If you need help with directions, they’ll gladly help-but expect a very short reply.
TIPPING: Tipping is not a requirement in Hong Kong, but it is appreciated in hotels and other areas. Service staff are paid a good salary, so tipping is not an expectation.
Now that you are ready to go, I’ll let you know what to do once you find yourself stepping off that plane in Hong Kong! Click below for more info on what to do when you land in Hong kong!…
