Hotel & Travel

  2. HOTEL-AND-TRAVEL

 

Hotel and Lodging

 

 

 

Travel Tips - Hong Kong

 

Packing Essentials

Expect warm, humid weather with hot summers and mild winters. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for outdoor comfort, but always bring a light jacket or cardigan for heavily air-conditioned malls and transport. Humidity is high for much of the year, so expect to sweat in non–air-conditioned areas; consider packing personal care items like wet wipes, deodorant, and a small towel.

 

Purchasable Essentials

Weather can shift quickly, especially during the rainy season (May–September), so a compact travel umbrella is highly recommended. Sunscreen is advisable for outdoor activities, and bottled water is widely available and affordable.

 

Spending Tips: Digital and Cash

Credit cards, debit cards, and mobile wallets are widely accepted in malls, hotels, and chain restaurants. However, many smaller eateries, street food stalls, and traditional markets still prefer cash (Hong Kong Dollars – HKD). It’s best to carry a mix of both.

 

Tipping Practices

Not mandatory: Tipping is not customary in Hong Kong.

Restaurants & hotels: Most restaurants and hotels automatically include a 10% service charge on bills. Additional tipping is not required unless you wish to round up.

Street food & local stalls: Tipping is not practiced.

Taxis & services: Small change rounding (e.g., letting drivers keep the coins) is common courtesy but not expected.

 

Taxes & Refunds

Hong Kong has no sales tax or GST. This makes shopping straightforward, as displayed prices are final. There is also no tourist refund scheme.

 

Transport & Ride-hailing Apps

The Octopus Card is the most convenient way to pay for public transport, convenience stores, and even some restaurants.

Ride-hailing: Uber operates in Hong Kong and is popular among tourists, though taxis are abundant, safe, and metered. Most taxi drivers accept cash only, but some now support Octopus or digital wallets.

E-wallets & Payment Options

  • Octopus Card (must-have for tourists) – physical card or mobile app.
  • AlipayHK & WeChat Pay HK – widely accepted, especially at local shops and convenience stores.
  • Apple Pay / Google Pay – usable at most larger retailers and restaurants.

 

Language: English Proficiency

Cantonese is the primary local language. English is also an official language and is widely used in business, government, and tourist areas. You will find bilingual signage throughout the city. Staff in hotels, major restaurants, and shops usually speak English, though smaller local eateries may have limited English ability.

 

Visa Requirements

Most nationalities (including US, EU, UK, Australia, and many others) can enter Hong Kong visa-free for 7–180 days, depending on passport type. Always check the Hong Kong Immigration Department website for the latest requirements before travel.

 

Local Insights

Street Food & Markets: Try egg waffles, fish balls, siu mai, and curry fish cakes from dai pai dong (street stalls) or night markets.

Tea Culture: Milk tea and dim sum are quintessential Hong Kong experiences.

Shopping: From luxury malls in Central to bargain finds in Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po, shopping is a core part of the Hong Kong experience.

Etiquette: Stand on the right when riding escalators, and be mindful of local queueing culture—Hongkongers take it seriously.

 

The information above is subjected to change without being reflected on this page. Due dilligence for your own travel requirements is advised.