Hong Kong

#hellochristmas Hong Kong — dense, fast‑paced global city where skyscrapers, harbour views and Cantonese food meet vibrant neighbourhoods, islands and hiking trails. Highlights - Victoria Harbour & Peak: skyline views from Victoria Peak (Peak Tram) and harbourfront promenades; nightly Symphony of Lights. - Star Ferry & waterfronts: iconic short ferry between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui; Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and Avenue of Stars. - Markets & shopping: Ladies’ Market (Mong Kok), Temple Street Night Market, Graham Street Market, luxury malls in Central and Causeway Bay. - Food: Cantonese classics (dim sum, roast goose), dai pai dong/cha chaan teng culture, seafood in Sai Kung and Lamma Island. - Cultural sites: Man Mo Temple, Wong Tai Sin Temple, Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery, PMQ and Tai O fishing village. - Nature & day trips: Dragon’s Back and Lantau trails, Ngong Ping (Big Buddha, cable car), outlying islands (Lamma, Cheung Chau) and country parks. - Museums & nightlife: M+ museum, Hong Kong Museum of History; Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo for bars and nightlife. Practical tips - Getting there & around: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG); efficient MTR subway, buses, trams (Hong Kong Island “ding ding”), ferries and taxis. Get an Octopus card for transit and small purchases. - Best time: Oct–Dec for pleasant weather and low humidity; spring pleasant; summer hot, humid and typhoon season (Jul–Sep). - Language & money: Cantonese and English widely used; Hong Kong dollar (HKD). Cards accepted widely; cash useful for markets and small eateries. - Costs: more expensive than many Asian cities — eating local and markets can be budget‑friendly; luxury shopping and hotels can be pricey. - Safety & etiquette: very safe; standard precautions in crowded areas. Respect queueing culture and public transport etiquette. Tipping common in restaurants (around 10% if service charge not included). - Connectivity: excellent mobile/internet; buy local SIM/eSIM or use airport Wi‑Fi. - Travel documents: check visa/entry requirements (separate from mainland China rules). Accessibility & family tips - Many attractions accessible (Peak, MTR with lifts/ramps); strollers common. Ferries and older streets may have steps. Family‑friendly activities include Ocean Park and Hong Kong Disneyland. Essentials - Time zone: HKT (UTC+8). - Electricity: 220V, Type G (three‑pin) — bring an adapter. - Emergency: 999 (general). - Health: good medical facilities; travel insurance recommended. Packing checklist - Lightweight layers plus a light rain jacket (summer showers/typhoons), comfortable walking shoes, power adapter (Type G), reusable water bottle, portable charger, small umbrella and some cash for markets. Quick sample day (1–2 days) - Morning: Peak + Peak Tram; Midday: Central to Sheung Wan walks and dim sum; Afternoon: Star Ferry to TST, museums or shopping; Evening: Temple Street market or rooftop bar for skyline views. #hongkong #victoriaharbour #peak #dimsum #starferry #lantau #dragon’sBack