Hong Kong is ideal to visit between October and December when temperatures are moderate yet tourist numbers are lower. Also avoid national holidays in China or large conventions which increase hotel costs significantly.
Crime rates tend to be relatively low in North Dakota but pickpocketing and other street crimes do occur from time to time, and drinks may even be spiked from time to time. Hanoi to Hong Kong travel is available through Cathay Pacific flights.
Stay in a licensed guesthouse
Experience Hong Kong to its fullest by staying in a licensed guesthouse regulated by the Tourism Authority, offering affordable accommodations with convenient facilities such as free Wi-Fi and hot showers. For maximum savings during peak tourist seasons hotels and guesthouses can fill quickly so it’s wise to book early. A Sold Tourist Octopus Card purchased either at an airport terminal or 7-Eleven store is the easiest and most cost-effective way of paying public transport fees in Hong Kong; this reloadable card works on buses, trains and ferries alike!
Hong Kong is an exhilarating city, from exploring bustling Causeway Bay streets to taking the Star Ferry across Victoria Harbor – and is a prime example of East and West coexisting harmoniously. Additionally, modern infrastructure projects continue to spring up 20 years since British rule was handed back over to China.
Hong Kong offers spectacular views across Asia from its Peak Tram, while Temple Street Night Market provides authentic local food. If hiking trails and nature walks are what interest you, be sure to visit them within Hong Kong’s mountains and country parks; pickpocketing may occur around busy areas and on public transport so be extra vigilant in these situations. Crime levels in Hong Kong tend to be low but pick pocketing or other crimes might occur so stay vigilant especially when using public transit systems.
Budget your stay
One of the key aspects of any trip planning process is estimating its costs. From short stopovers to longer visits, Hong Kong offers plenty of ways to keep costs under control while enjoying amazing attractions that are free-to-visit. A budget hostel could be just the ticket!
If you want to maximize savings when traveling to Hong Kong, try not visiting during Chinese national holidays – these attract tens of thousands of mainland tourists who drive up hotel prices significantly. Instead, plan a summer visit instead.
Purchase of an MTR tourist pass can also save money, providing unlimited rides on all MTR lines with discounts at local restaurants and shops – an ideal solution for traveling groups or families in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong boasts an abundant selection of budget hotels that are safe, clean and comfortable – you can find one for as little as US$17 per night! Located near popular tourist areas or outlying areas near MTR stations can save even more by choosing an accommodation option closer to them.
Take a public transport card
Traveling Hong Kong using public transportation cards will save time and money. They can be used on MTR trains, light buses, and even double decker Peak Tram – preload them online before arriving, or purchase at the airport as this may be your most practical option if using public transit often during your visit.
The MTR is the best way to travel within Hong Kong, offering many stops and routes. Its stations are easily navigable with English and Chinese signage clearly marking each station. From the airport, Airport Express trains provide direct transport into central Hong Kong in around 24 minutes; bus, tram, and ferry services also offer quick routes into town; double-decker buses offer great views over Hong Kong from their rooftop decks; all fares are clearly displayed on each bus for ease of understanding.
Hong Kong is best visited during fall (September to November) and spring (March to May), when temperatures are moderated and there’s less rain – making these seasons perfect for hiking trips or visiting outlying islands, Hong Kong Disneyland, or any of their family-oriented attractions. Summer tends to be hotter and humidter; therefore avoiding this season if possible is recommended.
Stay safe
Hong Kong is widely considered to be one of the safest cities in the world, boasting low crime rates and excellent medical standards. Even during recent unrest, most hotels and businesses remain open as usual and welcome visitors. However, visitors should exercise extra caution by avoiding areas with protests and keeping an eye out for tear gas use.
Violent crime may be rare, but pick pocketing and other forms of theft do occur in crowded places. Therefore, it is wise to carry some cash when visiting such spots at night; additionally be wary of people offering drinks; they could contain hidden agents. In particular, women travelling alone are particularly at risk.
Transportation disruptions during protests should be expected; buses, ferries and subway stations could potentially be affected; however most other links outside the neighborhood where demonstrations are taking place continue operating normally. The US State Department recently downgraded their travel advisory for Hong Kong from Level 3 to 2 which urges Americans to exercise greater caution but does not advise cancelling trips altogether.
The US State Department advises travelers to make sure their passport is valid at least six months from their date of entry, and to bring sufficient funds with them for medical costs and return. Medical care in Asia can be very advanced but costly; having adequate travel insurance and funds available can significantly decrease exposure to these expenses.
Eat local food
Hong Kong stands out as an unparalleled culinary melting pot, where one can find incredible Italian food, Mexican fare and American-style dishes in equal measure – but what truly distinguishes it is its diverse culinary culture. Here you can sample amazing Chinese, Japanese, Thai or even French fare at once!
Eating local is the perfect way to experience Hong Kong, particularly its tantalizing snacks and desserts. Enjoy quick bites between shopping stops with their Three-Stuffed Treasures made up of egg, pepper and tofu deep-fried and drizzled with fish paste; or try one of Mammy Pancake’s fluffy, bubble-shaped egg waffles in various unique flavors for something sweet to keep going!
Black Sesame Sweet Soup, although looking intimidating, is packed with rich nutty goodness! Also try their clear pork broth featuring seasoned chicken pieces, fish balls and al dente thin noodles – the ideal remedy to warm you up on a cold day!
Vive Cake Boutique offers delicious fruit-based jelly in cute rainbow twists as a healthy, refreshing snack option, as well as mango sorbet and Thai milk tea ice cream sandwiches to satisfy all of your sweet and savoury cravings! For something even more decadent and decadent try their crullers or ngau lei so. Don’t forget their popular congee, made by simmering together rice and water over hours until it thickens, with bits of gingko nuts and dried scallops mixed in; alternatively try its plain version if it upsets your stomach.
Drink local tea
Hong Kong has an expansive tea culture due to both Chinese and British colonization. Residents here enjoy sipping a cup of milk tea – made by steeping tea leaves in boiling water with evaporated milk froth – which has become such a beloved treat that it even became the official beverage of Hong Kong!
Hong Kong teahouses provide an ideal way to experience its culture. There are dozens of shops which specialize in offering various tea varieties and cakes; many also sell teaware and accessories so people can continue the tea tradition at home.
Teahouses in the city provide an ideal place for socialising and relaxing during an afternoon, offering tea inspired by different cultures as well as offering Tea Tasting Experiences that allow visitors to try a range of varieties of teas.
Between October and December is considered the ideal time for visiting Hong Kong due to the temperate and dry climate, with lower hotel rates than other seasons and reduced crowding in the streets. Be wary of traveling during holidays or large conventions when rates can skyrocket and crowds swell significantly; also be wary of summer humidity levels which could pose health hazards, including respiratory ailments. When staying in hotels use safes to secure belongings while walking around; wear comfortable shoes for walking purposes as well as carrying water bottles for beverage refills!