Information about Hong Kong
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Situated at the southeastern tip of China, Hong Kong is ideally positioned at the center of East Asia, and is one of the most dynamic cities with an industrious population of 6.8 million. Acting as the gateway to the world's fastest growing economy and most exciting new market - China, Hong Kong is a major conduit for indirect trades between the mainland and other countries. Starting as a fishing harbor some 100 years ago, Hong Kong has grown into a world-class international financial, trading, and business centre. |
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VISA
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CURRENCY
The Hong Kong dollar (HK$) is the official currency. It is pegged to the US dollar at close to HK$7.8 to US$1.00 and is freely convertible. Travellers checks are easily cashed and major credit cards are widely accepted. ATM (ETC) facilities are widespread. Major banks are open from 9:00am to 4:30pm Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 12:30pm on Saturday. Banks are closed on Sunday and public holidays. |
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LANGUAGE
Chinese and English are the two official languages in Hong Kong. Cantonese is the primary spoken dialect, with both English and Mandarin being widely used as well. |
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TIME ZONE
GMT + 8 hours |
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WEATHER
emperature and humidity drop in November. Clear sunny days. Short sleeves and light jackets are fine. Temperature ranges from 18°C-28°C (64°F - 82°F) and humidity near 72%. More details at www.info.gov.hk/hko. |
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ELECTRICITY SUPPLY
220 volt and 3-rectangular-pin sockets. Hotel will provide adaptors for electrical appliances. |
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TELECOMMUNICATIONS
Mobile phone network available for GSM 900 / PCS 1800 / CDMA. Local call from public coin phone cost HK$1.00 per five minutes. Hotel has International Direct Dialing (IDD) services with a service fee for each individual call. |
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SHOPPING
Shopping is one of Hong Kong's prime attractions. Shops generally open 7 days a week from 11am to 9:00pm. More information at www.discoverhongkong.com. |
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TAXES
N/A |
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TIPPING
A 10% service charge is added to hotels and restaurants bills. It is also customary to leave a small tip. |
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