Visa & Passport Requirements
Visas are not required for travellers who are visiting Hong Kong only (i.e. not going to mainland China) and who are staying for less than 3 months. International departure tax is currently HKD$70 and is payable for all travellers who stay in Hong Kong for more than 24 hours.
Money
Although part of China, Hong Kong has retained its own currency, the Hong Kong dollar. At the time of writing, $1AUD is equivalent to HKD$4.5. Money changing facilities are extensive and major credit cards are accepted in most restaurants and shops. Bear in mind that Hong Kong is an expensive place where you will pay more on average for food and drink than in Australia or other parts of mainland China.
Climate
With the hotter months between June and September, daily temperatures at this time can average over 30 degrees celcius. More stifling than the heat in Hong Kong is the humidity. Make sure you take plenty of cool, summer clothes if you travel there during this time and be sure to make a day trip to Repulse Bay where you can catch a cool sea breeze and give yourself a break from the humidity of the city. During the winter months, temperatures can fall below 10 degrees celcius in the evenings.
Health
Vaccinations are not required for visitors to Hong Kong.
Food/Water
Famous for it's seafood, Hong Kong is sure to delight even the fussiest eater with it's extensive range of cuisines. From Pizza Hut through to true Cantonese cooking - the choice is yours! Hong Kong is also home to a number of vegetarian restaurants.
Do not drink the local tap water in Hong Kong. Bottled water is inexpensive and widely available, althugh you will find it at its cheapest in supermarkets.
Post & Communications
The international postage service in Hong Kong is efficient. If possible, write the country of destination in Chinese.
