Hong Kong travel tips

For the first-time visitor to Hong Kong, this compact, densely populated vertical metropolis may seem intimidating. However, boasting one of the world's best urban transport systems, a wide range of accommodation options, an international and regional array of culinary delights to fit every budget and countless activities and sights designed with the tourist/traveller in mind, Hong Kong is perfect for both the novice traveller as well as the seasoned globetrotter. As such, here are some useful tips for first travellers to Hong Kong.

1. Take the Airport Express. The airport is located on Chep Lap Kok island which is located about 30 minutes drive from Hong Kong island and such it is cheaper and faster to take the airport express which is located in the airport itself. It also stops at Tsing Yi and Kowloon.




2. Get an Octopus card. This card will make travelling throughout Hong Kong extremely convenient and even cheaper. Travellers can deposit cash onto their card and use it to board buses, mini buses, ferries, trams, mtr(trains) and also use it at some supermarkets and convenience stores. These can be purchased at the airport, convenience stores and many other locations.


3. Many businesses open late. Don't expect many businesses to be open early in the morning as many shops will open around 10-11am. However, many also stay open until late into the night/early morning.

4. Check-in before the airport. At Central and Kowloon stations, you can check in for your flight, get your boarding pass and check your luggage through, all before heading out from down town. You don't see you luggage again until your destination and there's no jockeying for suitcase space on the train. It's seamless and it works!

5. Explore the areas around Hong Kong. Although the city really has everything that you might ever want, a well-rounded trip to Hong Kong means you've got to leave. Head to the Big Buddha or even on the south end of the island to nab some quiet time and listen to lapping waves. Hong Kong has more to offer than a concrete jungle and escaping the city can do your trip some good.