To avoid finding your phone charger doesn’t plug in or missing the bank we have detailed the practical necessities to assist you when you visit Hong Kong.
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, although 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 notes and 10, 20 and 50 cent coins.
Electrical Standard
Electrical Standard
The local voltage is 220 volts AC. You will need an adaptor for your 100-volt appliances and electrical equipment. Electrical outlets in Hong Kong take a British standard, square pin, three-pronged plug. Adaptors are readily available in local shops.
Shopping Hours
Normal shopping hours are as follows.
Monday to Friday: 10am to 8pm
Saturday: 10am to 8pm
Sunday: 10am to 8pm
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.
Local Facilities
The hotel is situated literally at the centre of town, banks and shops are a step away however below we have detailed other key areas you may require.
Shopping
All the shops of Causeway Bay are right outside the hotel.
Sogo Department Store is a 2 minutes walk from the hotel
Hospital
The nearest emergency facilities (Hospital, 24hrs Clinic) Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital (24 clinic)
Taxi : 10 minutes
Approximate 2km
Banking
HSBC and Bank of China ATM Machines are in the World Trade Centre across from the hotel. They are available 24 hours. HSBC
Monday to Friday: 9am to 4:30 pm
Saturday: 9am to 12:30pm
Sundays and Public Holidays: Closed
Five minutes walk from the hotel
Citibank
Monday to Friday: 9am to 4:30 pm
Saturday: 9am to 12:30pm
Sundays and Public Holidays: Closed
Five minutes walk from the hotel
Tips on Tipping
Most restaurants add a 10% service charge and if you feel disposed it is appropriate to add a further 5% to 10%. In taxis, it is assumed that the fare is rounded up to the nearest dollar, a dollar or two on top is appreciated.
Frequent Visitor Card
Passengers who have visited Hong Kong via Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) three times or more in the past 12 months are eligible for the application of a "Frequent Visitor Card" to enjoy speedy immigration clearance. For details, please click here.
