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Hong Kong tourism · Guest Home Country: countryx

HONG KONG TRAVEL INFORMATION & TIPS

When one thinks of a dynamic city in Asia, Hong Kong certainly comes to mind. Its whirlwind pace is something visitors to Hong Kong may take a few days to get used to. The excitement and the glamour of the city is built on a heritage that is a blend of its British colonial past and its deep Chinese roots. There were speculations aplenty of how Hong Kong would change when the British handed the colony back to China in 1997. However, it has maintained its flavour and allure – whether as a tourist visiting the famous Victoria Peak or a business traveller staying at the city’s worldclass hotels, you’ll find Hong Kong is truly a city of wonders.

Airport Taxes
HK$50; children aged 12 and under are exempt.

Electrical Appliances
220 volts AC, 50Hz.

Airport Transfers
Hong Kong International Airport is served by a highly efficient and comprehensive transportation network. Connected to the passenger terminal, the four-level Ground Transportation Centre houses the station for the Airport Express trains and an extensive public transport interchange with facilities for taxis, franchised buses, tour coaches, hotel limousines and private cars. Baggage trolleys can be found at all passenger drop-off points and porter service is available at the passenger terminal departures kerbside.

Taxi stands are located on the north side of the Ground Transportation Centre (the left-hand ramp if you are leaving from the Arrivals Hall). Separate aisles are designated for different taxis:

Urban taxis (red) serve all destinations throughout Hong Kong including the airport except Tung Chung Road and roads in south Lantau.

New Territories taxis (green) serve only the New Territories and specified roads on Lantau and the airport for access to/from the Ground Transportation Centre.

Lantau taxis (blue) serve all destinations in Lantau and the airport.

For a complete list of transfers and fares,
please visit www.hkairport.com/eng/aguide/transport.html

Currency Matters
Hong Kong Dollar (HK$) = 100 cents. Notes are in denominations of HK$1000, 500, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of HK$10, 5, 2 and 1, and 50, 20 and 10 cents. Banking hours are from 0900-1630 Monday to Friday, 0900-1230 Saturday.

Special Prohibited Items
Passengers are reminded that enhanced security measures are in place at Hong Kong International Airport, and they should observe the following points to avoid unnecessary delays.

Do not carry in hand-held luggage any sharp objects with a point or blade such as knives, cutters, scissors, razor blades, or household cutlery. These items can be carried in check-in bags.

The following items are permitted in carry-on luggage:

Nail clippers without nail file
Nail clippers with nail file provided the clippers are less than 6 cm long
Round-ended nail files
Round-ended scissors with blade less than 5 cm long
Insecticides, dyes, and fire extinguishers are classified as dangerous goods and are not allowed on board, either as carry-on or check-in baggage
Please also note that some personal protection devices such as cans of mace, although legal in some countries, are regarded as offensive weapons in Hong Kong and are prohibited
Each passenger is allowed to carry only one lighter, regardless of whether it is fuelled or empty, on their person or in carry-on luggage only. Under no circumstances can lighters be placed in check-in bags

Special Health Regulations
There may be a slight risk of malaria in the rural areas although prophylaxis is not considered necessary.

Japanese encephalitis may occur in the New Territories between April and October. Immunisation against hepatitis A, B, diptheria and tuberculosis is sometimes recommended.

Drinking Water
All water direct from government mains in Hong Kong exceeds the United Nations WHO standards and is fit for drinking. However, all hotels also provide bottled water in guest rooms.

Dress Code
Casual and light suits are suitable. Suits with the tie and dresses are appropriate for more formal occasions. Jackets or coats are recommended in winter.

Travel Wisdom
The crime rate is relatively low. Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching occurs, especially at the airport, in the main tourist shopping areas, on public transportation, and in crowded streets. Bags left unattended are likely to be stolen. Exercise normal safety precautions and ensure valuables are secure.

Pickpocketing and other street crime can occur in some areas of Hong Kong. Travellers should take extra care of passports, credit cards and money in crowded areas. The incidence of violent crime is very low.

Weblinks To Visit

www.discoverhongkong.com
This is the website of the Hong Kong Tourism Board where you can go for the most comprehensive country information – from accommodation choices, to shopping haunts and eating paradises. There is also a listing for shows and events in and around the city.

www.hong-kong-hotels.ws
Although its domain name implies it is a hotel service site, this website actually gives comprehensive information about what to do in and around Hong Kong – where to eat, shop, etc. It also breaks down the information for various types of travellers, for example, honeymooners, business travellers. It also allows you to book hotels for Hong Kong and Macau. A quick way to get started on your trip preparations to Hong Kong.

source : Abacus Intl