Preparing for Hong Kong: Tips & Hints

1. The majority of the locals speak English very well, so travelers will find it easy to communicate with local people.

2. Leaving tips in cafes and restaurants is not common, but you can reward a waiter with an amount equal to 5 - 10% of the bill. In taxi it’s common to round the invoice amount to the nearest whole dollar.

3. The majority of popular shopping centers and shops are open seven days a week, but banks and other government agencies may be closed on Saturdays and Sundays.

4. When visiting some religious sites, taking photos and videos is prohibited. Also, travelers are not allowed to make pictures of strategically important sites - the station, the city’s airport, bridge and other special buildings.

5. Tourists are best to keep a valid identity document with them. This may be a passport; a driver's license may become an alternative. Inspections are often organized on the streets of the city, this is the way the city’s authorities struggle with illegal immigrants.

6. In this city you cannot smoke in places with large numbers of people, or places close to major public and cultural institutions. However, there are specially designated areas for smoking close to all major shopping malls, restaurants and bars.

7. In Hong Kong you will find an excellent system of public transport that can get you to all interesting sights by buses and subways. In order to make your travelling even easier, you can buy a city map showing bus routes.

8. Tea remains one of the most popular souvenirs that travelers bring from their trip to Hong Kong. Purchasing expensive sorts of tea in the local shops is recommended to only those, who have experience in distinguishing sorts of this drink.

Other articles about Hong Kong:
Traditions and lifestyle
Hong Kong sightseeing
Best restaurants and cuisine
Hong Kong attractions and leisure
Hong Kong cityguide
Photogallery of Hong Kong