Hong Kong SAR China

Travel tips for Hong Kong SAR China: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards widely accepted. While credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, malls, and major restaurants, you will need cash for street taxis, local eateries, markets, and topping up a physical Octopus card for transit.

Try the food

Dim Sum (點心): Bite-sized portions of steamed or fried savory dumplings and buns served in traditional bamboo baskets.
Roast Goose (燒鵝): Succulent, marinated goose roasted to perfection with crispy skin and tender meat, often served with sweet plum sauce.
Pineapple Bun with Butter (菠蘿油): A sweet, crusty baked bun sliced open and served warm with a thick slab of cold butter melting inside.

Say it in Chinese

Hello: 你好 (nei5 hou2)
Thank you (for service/help): 唔該 (m4 goi1)
Thank you (for a gift): 多謝 (do1 ze6)
Excuse me (to pass by): 唔該借借 (m4 goi1 ze3 ze3)
How much is this?: 呢個幾多錢？ (ni1 go3 gei2 do1 cin2?)
The bill, please: 埋單 (maai4 daan1)
Yes / No: 係 / 唔係 (hai6 / m4 hai6)
Goodbye: 再見 (zoi3 gin3)

Essentials

Voltage: 220V, 50Hz
Driving: Left side
SIM tip: Purchase a local tourist SIM card at convenience stores like 7-Eleven or 1010 shops at the airport, or download an eSIM via apps like Airalo before arrival.

Etiquette

Tipping is not strictly required as a 10 percent service charge is usually added to restaurant bills, but leaving small change or rounding up the fare for taxi drivers is appreciated.