Hong Kong is a city of contrasts. Sky high prices and sky high buildings litter the central district, by Asian standards Hong Kong is certainly not somewhere the budget traveller should consider “affordable”. On the other hand there are ways around the budget problem that sometimes come as a surprise, and parts of Hong Kong that will leave you wondering if you are in a city at all. This is our totally random but certainly useful short list of Hong Kong info.
- Most museums and art galleries are free entry on Wednesdays
- Octopus cards (which are similar to the London Oyster card) can be used for the MTR (Metro), busses, trams, ferries and some mini busses. They can also be used for car parking, purchases in 7eleven and some service stations and other outlets. Having the card avoids you needing exact change for public transport.
- If you take a bus you pay one fare no matter how short or far your trip – so if you are only going a stop or two you might want to consider walking!
- There are free Tai Chi and Tea appreciation classes available (more info at the HKG tourist office)
- Horse racing is the only legal form of gambling
- Hong Kong is known for its skyscrapers but did you know it’s also has some beautiful beaches and is well known for great hiking! Some parts of Hong Kong you wouldn’t even realise were in a city! (The New Territories, pictured below)
- Tipping is not expected but some restaurants have a compulsory service fee (look out for this on the menu….it’s usually in tinsy tiny print)
- Drinking on the street is legal. If you want a cheap night out you won’t be the only one drinking cheap beer outside a 7-eleven – they’ll even open your beer bottles for you!
- Red mini buses are also known as “red coffins”. This is because they are known to drive like maniacs and are involved in many accidents…Be warned!
- Eat Egg Tarts – Egg Tarts are the shit!!! (This means they are awesome)
Where to Stay in Hong Kong:
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