planning a trip to
Hong Kong
Here is what you need to know: Hong kong travel Guide
Hong Kong is a highly developed region and city, extending from mainland China to its surrounding islands. Known as one of the world’s leading financial centers, it is home to some of the richest people in Asia, but also grapples with significant income inequality.
During our time in China, I (Alex) often traveled to Hong Kong to extend my visa, as visiting Hong Kong is considered leaving China.
This vibrant and sprawling city retains a strong British cultural influence, evident in its double-decker trams and buses, left-side driving, and a metro system that feels distinct from the mainland’s.
Hong Kong offers a wide range of activities for visitors: shopping, cultural visits, museums, hiking trails, beaches, Disneyland, and zoos, making it a destination with something for everyone.
About
Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). It was a British colony from 1842, when the Qing Empire ceded Hong Kong following the First Opium War.
The colony expanded after the Second Opium War, and in 1898, Britain secured a 99-year lease of the New Territories, further enlarging its control.
In 1997, Hong Kong was transferred back to China, under the principle of “one country, two systems”, allowing it to maintain a degree of autonomy in areas like its legal and economic systems.
The red color of its flag represents the festive spirit of the Chinese people and is identical to that of China’s flag, symbolizing a connection between post-colonial Hong Kong and Mainland China.
The arrangement of red and white signifies the “one country, two systems” principle that governs Hong Kong’s political framework.
At the center is the Bauhinia blakeana, a flower native to Hong Kong, chosen as a symbol of harmony. Its petals feature five stars, mirroring the stars on China’s flag, further emphasizing the connection between the region and the mainland.
A popular specialty in Hong Kong is the egg waffle, a unique spherical, egg-based waffle that has become a beloved street food.
Typically served hot, they are often enjoyed plain but can also be paired with fruit or flavored with options like strawberry, coconut, or chocolate. For a modern twist, they are sometimes rolled and filled with ice cream and topped with a variety of delicious toppings, making them a must-try treat!
One of the most iconic experiences in Hong Kong is taking a ride on a sampan, a traditional flat-bottomed Chinese wooden boat.
Some sampans feature a small shelter on board and, in some cases, serve as permanent homes on inland waters. However, they are primarily used for transportation in coastal areas or rivers and often function as traditional fishing boats, offering a unique glimpse into Hong Kong’s maritime heritage.
Hong Kong translates to “fragrant harbour” in Chinese, reflecting its historical significance as a bustling port.
The name Kowloon, a district in Hong Kong, means “nine dragons”. According to folklore, a young emperor observed the region’s eight hills and named it “eight dragons”. However, a servant reminded him that the emperor himself was also considered a dragon, bringing the total to nine.
The word Kow resembles “gau” (nine) in Cantonese, while Loon is similar to “lung” (dragon), creating the name Kowloon.
Language: The official languages are English and Chinese (Mandarin), but the majority of the population speaks Cantonese, as many residents are descendants of migrants from China’s Canton Province.
Food: Known as the World’s Food Fair, Hong Kong offers everything from street food to international cuisine. Famous local dishes include sweet and sour pork, wonton soup, steamed dumplings, milk tea, and pineapple bread.
Transportation: The metro is the most convenient way to travel in Hong Kong. The city is also famous for its double-decker trams, along with regular buses and taxis.
Money: The currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). Exchange rates vary, but during our visit, 1€ was worth 8.72 HKD. Credit cards are widely accepted, and ATMs are easy to find.
Plugs: Hong Kong uses type G and D plugs (UK-style), with a standard voltage of 220V and a frequency of 50Hz.
Safety: Hong Kong is very safe for travelers, both during the day and at night. As in any major city, pickpocketing can occur, so staying cautious is recommended.
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