Hong Kong is one of the biggest cities and brings a lot of tourists from around the world to see its cultural grounds. According to the Hong Kong Government, the number of tourists that took a vacation in Hong Kong in 2005 reached over 10.5 million. Countries such as Australia, Canada, French, China, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Korean, Thailand, United Kingdom and United States, all contribute for the tourist growth for Hong Kong every year. Here are some great tips for you if you decide to visit the great city Hong Kong.

1. Identity and Safety

Tourists must carry valid passport during their stay in Hong Kong. Hong Kong had a very low crime rate, but due to the large population it is suggested not to take a large sum of cash around with you, most shops accepts credit cards. Expensive belongs should be put away in safes at your accommodation. There are plenty of policemen on the streets incase you encountered any problems.

2. Telephone Service

All local telephone calls are free except from the public telephones which charges HK$1 per 5 minutes. Hong Kong’s emergency number is 999 and it is free to call even in public telephone.

3. Drinking Water

The drinking water in Hong Kong reaches World Health Organization standard. However, it may not be to what you are used to and could pick up an illness from it, we would recommend that you buy drinking water from the local supermarket.

4. Taxi

All taxis only take cash but they can print an invoice out if you require one. It is easier to catch the taxi in the taxi stop or outside the hotel. Many of the taxi drivers can understand basic English. The charging table is clearly shown on the inner side of the doors so you can check it before you pay.

5. Tram

The tram service started in 1904 and is the oldest transportation system in Hong Kong. It is the only service that runs from Kennedy Town to Shau Kei Wan plus another route to Happy Valley on Hong Kong Island. The tram runs from 6:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. and is the cheapest transportation in Hong Kong.

6. Star Ferry

The scenic harbor of Hong Kong is world famous, especially at night. There is a spectacular light show every night that you have to see, it starts at 8:00 p.m. and is by the commercial buildings. The Star Ferry has been serving people in Hong Kong harbor for more than 100 years, and at a cost of around HK$3 per ride you can see why, you can take the ferry from central to Tsim Sha Tsui at 8:00 p.m. and enjoy the light show from there.

7. Hong Kong Airport

The most convenient route to the Hong Kong International Airport is by using the Mass Transit Railway (MTR) which takes about 23 minutes from Central. It passes through the stations of Kowloon, Olympic, Tsing Yi, and is every ten minutes. Other than the MTR, you can take the Airport Bus which starts from 6:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m. it covers most parts of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon from major hotels.