Climate
Hong Kong has a sub-tropical climate with seasonal changes. In Jan, the temperature ranges from 14°C - 20°C. It is advisable to wear in layers with a light jacket or sweater when indoors. Go to www.hko.gov.hk for weather forecast before deciding what to pack.
Passport and Visa
Visitors must hold a valid passport, endorsed where necessary for Hong Kong. Hong Kong has a liberal visa policy, allowing visa-free entry to nationals of more than 170 countries and territories.
- For country-specific visa information, please visit http://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/services/visas/visit-transit/visit-visa-entry-permit.html.
- For delegates from countries for which visas are required for entry to Hong Kong, please check with the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in your country.
- For delegates traveling to other cities in China, an entry visa to China is required. Please obtain your visa from the Chinese Embassy or Consulate within your current place of residence. The travel documents must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of traveling.
Currency and Credit Card
Most foreign currencies and traveler’s cheques can be exchanged at banks, hotels and moneychangers. There are no restrictions on the type or amount of money that can be brought into or taken out of Hong Kong.
All major credit cards are widely accepted in Hong Kong and can be used to obtain cash advances at banks and automatic teller machines (ATMs).
Electricity
The standard voltage in Hong Kong is 220 volts AC/50 cycles. The plug/ socket system in Hong Kong is a 3-rectangular-pin type.
Language
Both Chinese and English are official languages. Cantonese is the most widely spoken Chinese dialect in Hong Kong. Most signs are in both English and Chinese.
Public Transportation
Hong Kong is so compact that getting around is quick and easy. An efficient public transport system - networks of urban underground trains (MTR), numerous routes of trams, buses and ferries - enable visitors to explore Hong Kong conveniently and safely on their own. An octopus card can be purchased which will allow travel on all forms of public transport (including the Star Ferry and trams).
Time Zone
Local Hong Kong time in May is eight (8) hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT +08).
Telecommunication
International direct dialing, internet and e-mail facilities are easily accessible in Hong Kong. Most of the mobile telephone systems used around the globe operates in Hong Kong. Local SIM Cards can be purchased at convenience stores.
Internet Access
Most hotels have internet access. You can also access the internet for free at many coffee shops, large shopping malls, major MTR stations and public libraries in town. For people bringing their laptops to Hong Kong, wireless broadband service is common at major shopping malls and coffee shops.
Tipping
Most restaurants will levy a 10% service charge but waiters will expect to be given some loose change. Restaurants that don't add a service charge will expect a 10% tip. However, tipping is left to your discretion. Bellboys, porters, restroom attendants and taxi drivers will happily accept loose change.
