Hong Kong City Guide

Food options are diverse and excellent. Try dim sum, roast goose, and local street food. Plenty of vegetarian and vegan spots. Late-night food is common.

Nightlife ranges from lively bars in Lan Kwai Fong to rooftop lounges and live music venues.

Strong specialty coffee scene alongside traditional Hong Kong milk tea. Many third-wave shops and local roasters.

Tipping is not required as many places add a service charge. Rounding up taxi fares is common but optional. Small tips appreciated when no service charge applies.

Buy SIM cards at the airport or convenience stores. Major providers include CSL, SmarTone, 3 Hong Kong, and China Mobile Hong Kong. Passport registration is required.

Streets are mostly clean and well maintained. Waste collection is efficient, though recycling could improve.

Many pharmacies, convenience stores, and some clinics operate 24/7. Food options also available late or around the clock.

Supermarkets stock many international products. Wet markets sell fresh produce and are good for bargaining. Shops are open daily, including Sundays.

Most places accept credit cards and mobile payments like Apple Pay and Alipay. The Octopus card works for public transport and many stores. Smaller shops still use cash sometimes.

ATMs are easy to find at banks, MTR stations, and convenience stores. Major banks like HSBC and Bank of China have many ATMs. Local fees are low, but international fees depend on your bank.

Hong Kong has many international schools using English, and local schools use Cantonese or Mandarin. Admissions can be competitive with long waitlists.

A small but growing digital nomad community with meetups and co-working spaces that act as hubs. Networking events happen occasionally.

There are many parks and country trails with shaded areas and running paths.

There are great running routes like Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade and Victoria Park. The scene is safe and supported by active clubs.

Plenty of gyms to choose from to fit different budgets and training styles.

Many public and private courts are available. Booking can be competitive. Equipment rentals and coaching offered.

Padel is less common but growing in popularity.

Many yoga studios offer a wide variety of styles, with English-speaking instructors and both drop-in and memberships.

Many gyms offer training in modern and traditional martial arts like Wing Chun, BJJ, Muay Thai, and boxing. English-speaking instructors are common.

No skiing or snow in Hong Kong.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular, especially in Sai Kung and Stanley. Equipment rentals and guided tours available.

Surfing spots exist but are limited. Big Wave Bay suits beginners, while Tai Long Wan is more advanced. Best surfing in autumn and winter.

Diving available around islands with decent visibility in summer and autumn. Various skill levels catered to.

Public hospitals offer good care but may have long wait times. Private hospitals are faster but cost more. English-speaking staff are common in private hospitals.

Tap water meets WHO standards and is safe to drink.

There are many playgrounds and family-friendly cafes. Attractions include Disneyland, Ocean Park, and museums.

Generally tolerant with growing safe spaces and events like Pride. Legal protections are limited.

Pet rules vary and many places restrict pets. Good vet services and some dog parks exist. Pet-friendly places are limited.