 Hong Kong has the big city specials like smog, odour, 14 million elbows and an insane love of clatter. But it's also efficient, hushed and peaceful: the transport network is excellent, the shopping centres are sublime, and the temples and quiet corners of parks are contemplative oases.
The best thing about being in Hong Kong is getting flummoxed and fired by the confluences and contradictions of a Chinese city with multi-Asian and Western elements. It's about savouring new tastes, weaving through a human gridlock and humming some dumb Cantopop tune while slurping your noodles.
Hong Kong - Fast Facts
Climate
Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with distinct seasonal changes. It is often hot and rainy from spring(March-May) through summer(May-September). It is wise to carry an umbrella as the weather may be erratic during these seasons. Winters are cool and humid.
Geography
Hong Kong is located in Eastern Asia, off the China mainland, bordering the South China Sea. There are 235 outlying islands, Lantau Island being the largest.
Population
6.8 million
Languages
Chinese (Cantonese dialect) and English are the official languages. Mandarin Chinese, the official language in mainland China has become increasingly important and popular since the handover in 1997.
Time Zone
GMT/UTC +8 (Hong Kong Standard Time)
When To Go
Weatherwise, October, November and most of December are the best months to visit Hong Kong; the skies are clear and the sun shines. The June to August heat/rain combo might push your endurance but there's a lot of sunshine and, after all, it's summer. Hotels tend to offer substantial discounts outside the high seasons of March-April and October-November. Travel can be difficult during Chinese New Year in late January/early February.
Clothing
Standard dress code for business meetings are coat and tie for men, suits or dresses for women. Pack street clothes depending on the season you're visiting Hong Kong. Bring cotton clothing during the summer and spring months. Sweaters and light jackets are sufficient for autumn (September-December) as well as handy for chilly air-conditioned offices and malls. Bring suits and overcoats for winter months (December-February).
Airport
Chek Lap Kok is 35 kilometers (21 miles) from the city center. It takes less than a half hour to get to the Central Station riding the Airport Express rail service -- by far the easiest way to get into the city.
 Currency
The unit of currency is the Hong Kong dollar(HK$). HK$1 is equal to 100 cents. It is pegged to the U.S. dollar and fluctuates very little.
Hong Kong - Island
Hong Kong Island, the busy financial and commercial centre with its high skyscrapers, has a lot to offer: shops, bars, headquarters from companies and, for those who feel like it, a handful of culture namely a few museums and some sights. Make sure you go to Victoria Peak where you can have astonishing views of the surroundings. One of the nicest beaches, despite its shark warnings, is definitely Repulse Bay. A tram ride is a must. For those who want to see a bit more of the Hong Kong Island, it might be a good idea to visit Aberdeen. |
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