Hong Kong is a never-ending place to explore. Not only for its diverse and exceptional cuisine but also its rich cultural heritage, iconic architecture, and modern entertainment. Planning your next trip to Hong Kong would be a great idea, but you might want to consider these tips below to make the most of your vacation moment:
1. Currency Exchange
Getting your cash in Hong Kong dollars is easy because currency exchange booths are everywhere. You can also withdraw directly from ATMs. Many businesses also accept debit and credit cards for transactions. However, they might charge you ridiculous rates and fees.
2. Tourist Octopus Card
If you want to be more cost-efficient, buying a tourist Octopus card is the best way for it. Besides getting discounts on public transportation, the card also provides benefits on various services, restaurants, attractions, and stores. Even better, the card allows a contactless process, reducing the hassles of queueing and paying in cash.
3. Walk Fast in A Crowded Pedestrian
Locals like walking, and they do walk very fast. If you are on a crowded pedestrian, make sure you walk as fast as the people in front of you. Otherwise, people walking behind you will feel annoyed. It seems like you are slowing them down.
4. Learn to Use Chopsticks and Chinese Dining Etiquette
You will look pretty much like a tourist if you eat your noodles with a fork because locals always use chopsticks, even to eat rice. Spoon is only for soup. Besides mastering your chopstick skills, it is also necessary to learn the essential Chinese dining etiquette to avoid mistakenly offending anyone. Here are some points to get by:
- Never stick chopsticks upright on anyone’s rice bowls because it means bad luck.
- The seating arrangement in a supper is based on age, relationship status with the host, and social rank.
- Don’t pick too many dishes at a time to fill your plate. Instead, take little by little as you dine.
- Avoid sensitive topics for conversation at the dinner table.
- Don’t finish the food all out because it implies that the host didn’t provide enough food for you. Leave out a little piece of leftover instead, as if you are too full to eat it all out.
5. Eat Where the Locals Do
From street vendors to upscale restaurants, you must choose a place where many locals eat to get the most authentic flavours. Don’t get too focused on the aesthetic of the establishment because many humble restaurants offer the most unwavering cuisine experience. Also, avoid eateries that provide menus and promotional signs in multilanguage as it means a tourist attraction.
6. There Are Dozens of Ways to Enjoy Skyline Views
The place and time you pick affects the cost and your overall skyline experience. But in general, the best seasons are autumn and winter, where there are fewer chances of rainfall and typhoons. For a historic and elegant vibe, enjoy your skyline on Star Ferry around sunset time. If you are a fan of adventure, hiking up to Kowloon Peak or Victoria Peak can be your best option. And if you want a luxurious vibe, then you can visit the Sky 100 Hong Kong Observation Deck on the ICC building.
7. Shopping is Next Level in Hong Kong
Dubbed as one of the best shopping tourism destinations, Hong Kong has all the places for every specific goods. Know what you want to buy, and you can head to the right place to get the best deals. Here are some of the most popular shopping centers:
- Tsim Sha Tsui is for jewellery in all shapes and materials
- Causeway Bay is for fashions, both local and international brands.
- Mong Kok is where all the electronics and tech items
- Hollywood Road is where to get antiques, arts, and historical goods.
Bonus Guide: Get Your Hong Kong Number from MySecondLine
For seamless and affordable communication in Hong Kong, you should download MySecondLine. The virtual phone system can give you a Hong Kong national number for calling and a Hong Kong mobile number for texting. Compared to conventional phone numbers, MySecondLine is much cheaper yet still as secure and reliable. Activating your number may require an ID, but the process would be very easy and quick.