Travelers' pro tips for experiencing Hong Kong

Grab a taxi! Hong Kong can be oppressively hot sometimes and taking a taxi is very affordable, quick and most importantly, air-conditioned. When on an escalator, walk on the left and stand on the right — or risk the displeasure of everyone behind you! When negotiating, remember to be polite and respectful, and you can usually expect to get the same in return. Treat it as a game and you'll have much more fun! Purchase a rechargeable Octopus Card to use on buses and trains from a convenience store. It will save you a lot of time from lining up or fishing for change. Check out some more tips for experiencing Hong Kong here.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

backpacker31

For the first-time visitor to Hong Kong, this compact, densely populated vertical metropolis may seem intimidating. However, boasting one of the world's best urban transport systems, a wide range of accommodation options, an international and regional array of culinary delights to fit every budget and countless activities and sights. Hong Kong is perfect for both the novice traveler as well as the seasoned globetrotter.

TassieTravellers99

Hong Kong is a multicultural metropolis. Being a popular stopover destination for many airlines that use Asia as a connection point makes this city an excellent one night stop over or for a longer five to seven day stay. There is a wide range of activities for all the family, interesting history, food, and shopping and plenty of green space and quiet natural areas to get away from the crowds.

Lincoln C

Although it is best known for its towering skyscrapers and booming city life, Hong Kong also has beautiful beaches and tropical paradises, just waiting to be explored!

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

Major airlines fly into Chek Lap Kok Airport and the quickest way to get to downtown Hong Kong is the Hong Kong International Airport Express, taking approximately 24 minutes. Taxis also offer a door to door service to and from Hong Kong International Airport. Hong Kong taxis are color-coded according to their operating areas.

Learn more about arriving in Hong Kong here.

Do I need a visa?

If you’re visiting Hong Kong from overseas, visit the Hong Kong Immigration Department website to see if you need a visa.

When is the best time to visit?

Dry season (November to April): Generally speaking, Hong Kong's weather is mainly hot and humid. For this reason, many feel the best time to visit is from November to April during the cool and dry season. Average temperatures range from 20-23°C (68-73°F), usually with lots of sunshine. There is less rain and the humidity levels are lower, making it a more pleasant time of the year to visit. Learn more about Hong Kong’s weather and what to expect here.

Bus, train, and ferry

Public transport in Hong Kong is excellent. There are bus routes covering most of the island, frequent ferries between the islands making up the region (The Star Ferry connecting Kowloon to Hong Kong island is a 'must see'), trains into mainland China and the superb MTR underground railway.

If you are staying in Hong Kong for a few days, and you intend to use the MTR or other public transport as your primary mode of transportation, consider getting an "Octopus" card.

Learn more about getting around Hong Kong here.

For more information about tipping and etiquette in Hong Kong, see here.

For more information about the culture in Hong Kong generally, see here.