Destination Guides
Hong Kong
Hong Kong Skyline
Hong Kong packs an extraordinary skyline, a genuine East-meets-West culture, and some of the world's best dim sum into a compact territory that's easy to explore in a few days. The cooler, drier months (October-December) bring the most comfortable weather for exploring on foot. A 3-4 day stay covers the harbor, Victoria Peak, and the city's markets and neighborhoods, and it works well as a stopover en route to other parts of Asia. Because Hong Kong's efficient transit and compact size make it easy to over-schedule, an advisor's guidance on pacing (and which neighborhoods reward slower exploration) helps make the most of a short visit.
Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips
Hong Kong culture blends Cantonese tradition with a fast-paced, internationally influenced business environment.
Friendly greetings: A handshake is standard, business cards are exchanged with both hands as a sign of respect.
Dress respectfully: Smart casual works for most of the city, dress up for finer dining and business settings.
Dining times: Dim sum is traditionally a late morning to early afternoon meal, dinner from 7:00pm onward.
Local customs: Tipping is modest and appreciated but not deeply ingrained the way it is in the US.
Transportation and timing: The MTR (subway) is fast, clean, and easy to navigate, the Star Ferry across the harbor is both practical and scenic.
Practical tip: Escalators and walkways move quickly, especially during rush hour, keep pace or stand to one side.
Souvenirs
For the Foodies: Chinese tea or a tin of Hong Kong-style egg waffle mix.
For the Fashionistas: Silk clothing or accessories from a local market.
For the Home: A piece of jade jewelry or a small carved jade figurine from the Jade Market.
Suggested Gratuities
Private Tour Guides: $20-25 per person for a half-day tour
Shared Group Tour Guides: $10 per person
Taxis: Round up the fare
Restaurants: A 10% service charge is often included, check the bill before adding more
Private Drivers: $15-20 per trip
Housekeeping: $2-3 per night
Porters: $2 per bag
Spa Staff: 10% of the service cost
Practical Travel Notes
Currency: Hong Kong Dollar
Language: Cantonese and English are both official languages
Transportation: MTR (subway), Star Ferry, and taxis cover the territory well
Weather: Hot humid summers, mild and dry October-December
Walking: Very walkable, though hilly in places, comfortable shoes recommended
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