13 Tips on How to Survive Hong Kong

When someone mentions Hong Kong, what comes to mind? It’s the modern jungle come to life. All you need to do is look across the Tsim Sha Tsui Pier and lay witness to the man made wonder that is the Hong Kong cityscape. How does one survive in this urban jungle with skyscrapers for trees?

(1) Look down before crossing the street. Many of us will instinctively look left when we set foot on pavement. Take a moment. Stop. Look both sides. Or simply look down. People drive on the left side in Hong Kong.

(2) The above photo is NOT how to eat in Hong Kong. Spoons are generally for soup, while chopsticks are for everything else. Avoid looking silly and learn how to use chopsticks.

(3) Speaking of food. Hong Kong is known to have some of the best cuisine in the world. Visit with an open mind and an even more open mouth. You may not be familiar with many of the food. So here’s a tip. Look around. What are the locals eating? What are they lining up for? Do as the locals. Follow.

(4) Shop for electronics. Wan Chai Computer Center, 298 Computer Zone is one of the major computer malls in Hong Kong island. Inside you will find two floors filled with electronics, gadgets, etc. But be careful. Prices may vary wildly from store to store. Best to compare prices before purchasing an item.

(5) Hong Kong has one of the best public transportation systems in the world. Their subway system in particular is very friendly to non-Chinese speaking visitors. Most of the maps and signs have English translations. Learn how to get around Hong Kong.

(6) Don’t forget to check the weather! Winter months in Hong Kong can be chilly. While summer months can be warm and humid, but most locals will still be carrying a jacket. This is due to plenty of establishments have the AC dial permanently set on “VERY VERY COLD.” Don’t be surprised if you’ll be needing the jacket indoors more than out.

(7) These days travel isn’t the same without our gadgets. Remember that the outlets in Hong Kong are the three-pronged UK-style plug. Bring an adapter if you have to.

(8) Any traveler worth their salt will want to look around and explore. As a result, you will be doing a lot of walking. Bring comfortable walking shoes. Leave those stilettos at home.

(9) When travelling in groups, don’t over do the cameras. One or two cameras are enough. Unless you want everyone in the group shot to look at different cameras.

(10) Do something different. Let go of the shopping and immerse yourself in a little art. The Museum of Art is located at the Southern tip of Tsim Sha Tsui. It’s not too far from the shopping district so just spend an hour or two there. You’ll enjoy it.

(11) A true Hong Kong experience won’t be complete without trying their street food. Here’s a tip. Look for the stall with a line. That’s where you can find the good stuff.

(12) If you’ve never braved shopping outside a mall, here’s your chance. The Hong Kong street markets provide a unique shopping experience. You can find affordable items that range from shirts, bags, shoes, paintings, souvenir items, chess boards… pretty much anything. Some of the items are ripoffs, but that’s what you get when looking for deals. Don’t forget to haggle, but do so with respect and a smile.

(13) Visit with a plan. You don’t want to spend most of your time looking at a map. Enjoy your Hong Kong experience!