Country Facts - Hong Kong
Time Zone:
GMT + 8
Climate & Weather Watch:
Hong Kong experiences four distinct seasons, with the climate in winter influenced by the north / north eastern monsoon and in summer by the south / southwest monsoon. Summers are very hot, with the rainy season running from June to August. Spring and autumn are warm with occasional rain and cooler evenings. Winter can be cold, but most days are mild. There is a risk of typhoons from July to September.
Clothing:
Lightweight cottons and linens during the summer months, with warmer clothes for spring and autumn evenings. During the hottest weather a jacket or pullover is recommended because of fierce air-conditioning indoors!! Warm medium weights are recommended during the winter months.
Currency & Money Matters:
Hong Kong's currency comprises of Hong Kong dollars and cents. We recommend that any money taken should be mainly in traveller's cheques for security. A small amount of Hong Kong dollars would be useful for drinks etc. before you are able to exchange money locally. Currency can be converted at banks, hotels, and foreign exchanges. All major international credit cards are acceptable.
Passports & Visas:
Full ten year passports are required for all visitors to Hong Kong and must be valid for six months after your return to the UK . Visas are not required for British Citizens.
Immunisation :
Not compulsory although we would recommend that you contact your usual medical consultant.
Customs:
Visitors over 18 are allowed duty free: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g of tobacco. 1 litre bottle of wine or spirits. 60ml of perfume. For further information and advice please visit www.info.gov.hk/customs
Airport Taxes:
Have been included in the cost of your holiday.
Medical Facilities:
There is a Reciprocal Health Agreement with the UK , but it is of a limited nature. Hotels have a list of government accredited doctors. First-class Western medicine is practised . Excellent dental care is available.
Medication:
Should be carried in hand luggage. Passengers taking needles/syringes should carry a letter from their General Practitioner. All medication should be carried in original packaging with the dispensing label securely attached. Airline check-in staff should be advised the type of medication being carried and they will give further instructions regarding proceeding through security screening.
Tipping:
A 10% service charge is included in hotel and restaurant bills. Journeys of Distinction are frequently asked for guidelines on gratuities for your Driver/Guides. Therefore, as a simple guide, it is normal practice to tip approximately £1-1.50 per person for your local Guide; and 50 pence per day for your driver providing you have found they have met your expectations.
These recommendations are for guidance only. As tips are a personal matter and purely down to your discretion , we suggest they are given on an individual basis rather than as a group collection. All hotel porterage is taken care of by Journeys of Distinction.
Driving:
A wide selection of self-drive and chauffeur-driven cars are available, although car hire is not popular in Hong Kong .
Taxis:
Taxis are freely available in Hong Kong and Kowloon . It should be noted that there is an extra (return) charge for the cross -harbour tunnel.
Electricity:
200 volts AC, 50Hz.
Please note that the above information may be subject to change. Current information correct as at 01/05/2008
