Time Zone

Hong Kong is UTC/GMT + 8 hours

Language

Chinese and English are the official languages. Cantonese is the most widely spoken Chinese dialect, though Mandarin, Shanghainese and other Chinese dialects are also spoken. Many people, especially in shops, hotels, and service industries, speak English.

Currency

The local currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) which is pegged to the US Dollar at HKD 7.8. The Hong Kong Dollar comes in the following denominations: 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000.

Electrical Standard

The local voltage is 220 volts AC. You will need an adaptor for your 100-volt appliances and electrical equipment. The majority of electrical outlets in Hong Kong take a three-pronged plug. Adaptors are readily available in your room.

Banking Hours

Major banks are open from 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 12.30pm on Saturday.

Visas

Nationals of most countries are not required to obtain visas for stays generally up to 180 days, so long as you hold a passport valid for 6 months after your planned departure.

If you are planning a trip to the China mainland you will require a visa. This usually takes 3 days and a passport photo; however please enquire with your travel agent or our concierge service if you require an emergency service.

Shopping

The shops of Central begin right outside our back entrance on Des Voeux Road. Other large shopping districts are Causeway Bay, about ten minute taxi ride away or Tsim Tsa Tsui on Kowloon side which is across the harbour, or ten minutes by MTR. See where to shop section for more details.

Hospital

There are three hospitals within 30 minutes taxi ride of Central. The Queen Mary is the closest, about 15 to 20 minutes and the Ruttonjee and Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital are 20 to 30 minutes away.

Tips on Tipping

Most restaurants add a 10% service charge and if you feel disposed it is appropriate to add a further 5% or 10%. In taxis it is assumed that the fare is rounded up to the nearest dollar, a dollar or two on top is appreciated.