Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hong Kong famous for?
The name Hong Kong translates to ‘Fragrant Harbour’, a fact historians attribute to the city’s incense production and the sweet aromas the factories gave off. Today, Hong Kong is a jungle of glass and steel, known for its skyline and the speed at which it embraced modernity and innovation – constantly pushing the boundaries of technological advancement, all the while preserving its unique and fascinating cultural foundations through its ancient temples and shrines, and fragrant, flavourful cuisine.
Can I use Chinese currency in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong has a separate currency to mainland China. China’s official currency is the renminbi, often referred to as the ‘yuan’, while Hong Kong’s official currency is the Hong Kong dollar. While many businesses have begun accepting renminbi, (due to the influx of western tourists visiting from mainland China), we advise you to take Hong Kong dollars with you, for the sake of convenience and avoiding considerable conversion rates.
Is Hong Kong part of China?
Hong Kong may be situated in south-eastern China, but it has maintained autonomy under China’s ‘one country, two systems’ governing system. The country has retained its own currency, legal system, passport, and identity/representation, for example it has its own Olympic team. There is an international border between Hong Kong and China – should you intend to visit China from Hong Kong, you will need a visa.
What is Hong Kong famous for?
The name Hong Kong translates to ‘Fragrant Harbour’, a fact historians attribute to the city’s incense production and the sweet aromas the factories gave off. Today, Hong Kong is a jungle of glass and steel, known for its skyline and the speed at which it embraced modernity and innovation – constantly pushing the boundaries of technological advancement, all the while preserving its unique and fascinating cultural foundations through its ancient temples and shrines, and fragrant, flavourful cuisine.
Can I use Chinese currency in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong has a separate currency to mainland China. China’s official currency is the renminbi, often referred to as the ‘yuan’, while Hong Kong’s official currency is the Hong Kong dollar. While many businesses have begun accepting renminbi, (due to the influx of western tourists visiting from mainland China), we advise you to take Hong Kong dollars with you, for the sake of convenience and avoiding considerable conversion rates.
Is Hong Kong part of China?
Hong Kong may be situated in south-eastern China, but it has maintained autonomy under China’s ‘one country, two systems’ governing system. The country has retained its own currency, legal system, passport, and identity/representation, for example it has its own Olympic team. There is an international border between Hong Kong and China – should you intend to visit China from Hong Kong, you will need a visa.
Hong Kong gives visitors the best of both worlds – urban explorers will marvel at the enormous glass skyscrapers, hypnotic lights and fast pace of the city, while culture vultures can venture out and experience traditional Chinese villages, markets and shrines, set among spectacular mountain ranges.
Why you’ll love Hong Kong…
• Hiking up to the Tian Tan Buddha
• Exploring the fascinating halls of the Universe, Benevolent Merit and Remembrance
• Riding the historic Peak Tram up to Victoria Peak
• Watching the dazzling Symphony of Lights
• Browsing traditional Chinese arts, crafts, clothing and souvenirs at Stanley Market
• Trekking up Jardine’s Lookout for breath-taking views of Hong Kong from afar
• Trying delicious Hong Kong street food, such as egg tarts, curry fish balls and siu mai (steamed dumplings)
• Boarding the Star Ferry to Victoria Harbour for unhindered views of the Hong Kong skyline
• Hopping on the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car for a sky-high perspective of the city
• Family fun at Hong Kong Disneyland
• Relaxing with a view in one of the city’s many rooftop bars and restaurants
• Strolling through the old stilt villages in Lantua
Did you know…
• Hong Kong’s MTR subway systems has a 99.9 percent on-time record.
• You can get married in any of Hong Kong’s McDonald’s restaurants, and many couples already have.
• You can be served by robot waiters in Hong Kong’s Robot Kitchen.
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