Hong Kong City Guide Whether Hong Kong is officially a city in China or a country in its own right is up for discussion. Hong Kong has its own currency, passport and legal system in place, as does every other country on this planet. While i...
Show more ...Whether Hong Kong is officially a city in China or a country in its own right is up for discussion. Hong Kong has its own currency, passport and legal system in place, as does every other country on this planet. While it’s sectioned off from China with border checks and everything, it’s still considered a part of China. Confused? You’re not the only one.
Hong Kong is made up of 160 islands and is home to an impressive 7 million islanders speaking Cantonese and surprisingly, English. Well, it’s not that hard to believe, it being a former British colony and all. This waterside metropolis may be renowned for its stunning skyline, skyscrapers and streets lit with neon signs but pressed against a mountainous backdrop it’s bound to take your breath away.
Things To Do
Hong Kong Island is where all the tourists hang out. Easily reached within 24 minutes using the Airport Express, the financial center is modern and less dirty than its surrounding districts. It’s not hard to see from the architecture that the British had colonized Hong Kong for some 150 years.
Soak in the natural beauty of Hong Kong’s harbour by taking the Peak Tram all the way up to Victoria Peak. Best time to take the 120-year old railway is just before sunset, when you can watch the entire ‘çity’ come to life from a vantage point. The ferry offers equally jaw-dropping views of the city, but at a snippet of the price.
But one doesn’t come to Hong Kong just for the skyline. Head over to central Kowloon for a walk down the Temple Street Night Market. Here you’ll find everything from knock-off clothes and jewellery to fortune-tellers and buskers. Kowloon is a chaotic mix of malls, markets and is the most densely populated district of Hong Kong.
This, of course, makes it the perfect place to acquaint yourself with local street food. Eating out is a huge part of the Hongkonger’s lifestyle, so be sure to indulge yourself in a plate of freshly steamed dim sum and wonton noodles. It’s said that the best dim sum can be found at Lin Heung’s Tea House. Try it and see for yourself!
Getting Around
The city is well connected with trams, a metro system and a ferry. While the MTR is the fastest way to getting around, the tram, bus and ferry for this matter would be the scenic way to go. Just don’t go expecting trams and buses to be air conditioned and bump-free.
When it comes to transport, the Octopus Card will become your new best friend. In fact, you’ll need it for a lot more than paying a few public transport rides. It’s essentially a prepaid debit card, which when used grants you discounts on your travel and in convenience stores, supermarkets and restaurant chains. Keep in mind one Octopus Card cannot be shared on public transport.
It’s a good idea to plan your trip well and get yourself a multiple entry visa for Hong Kong just in case you pop into mainland China. Remember, Hong Kong isn’t technically a part of China, and a single-entry visa will not allow you back in once you’ve left.
Health and Safety
As with any other city in this world, Hong Kong is not exempt from petty crime. Pickpockets are quite active in public areas, especially in busy markets and on public transport like the MTR. But for the rest Hong Kong is relatively safe.
Whether you’re arriving overland, by boat or flying in, be prepared for a temperature check. It’s just a quick thermal scan on arrival, so nothing untoward. Except if you’re actually found to be traveling with a fever, in which case you can expect to be kept in quarantine until your temperature drops.
Sleep
From the bustling streets of Kowloon to Hong Kong Island, we’ve got a great selection of places for you to call home while away from home. Browse our wide selection of vacation accommodation places and let your holiday begin.