Hong Kong

Many nationals including US, Canadian, EU, Australian citizens can visit Hong Kong visa-free for 90 days. UK citizens get 180 days. This is separate from mainland China visas. Check immd.gov.hk for requirements.

By Air: Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is one of the world's busiest, located on Lantau Island, 34km from Central.

By Train: High-speed trains connect to mainland China cities including Guangzhou (50 min) and Shenzhen (20 min).

By Ferry: Services to Macau (60 min) and mainland China ports.

Cantonese and English are official languages. English is widely spoken in business districts, hotels, and tourist areas. Signage is bilingual. Mandarin is increasingly common but Cantonese remains dominant among locals.

Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). Exchange rate roughly 7.8 HKD per USD (pegged). Cards accepted widely, but some small shops, markets, and local restaurants prefer cash. Octopus Card works for transit and many retailers. ATMs everywhere.

MTR: World-class metro system covering Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and New Territories. Clean, efficient, air-conditioned. Get an Octopus Card (refundable, works on buses, ferries, convenience stores).

Trams: Historic double-decker trams on Hong Kong Island (flat 3 HKD fare).

Star Ferry: Iconic crossing between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui (3-4 HKD).

Buses: Extensive network, slightly more complex than MTR.

Walking: Central, Soho, Causeway Bay are very walkable. Extensive covered walkways and escalators.

Airport Express: Fast train to Hong Kong Station (24 min, 115 HKD) or Kowloon Station (22 min, 105 HKD). Includes free shuttle bus to hotels.

Bus: Multiple routes to different areas (45-60 min, 20-50 HKD).

Taxi: Around 250-350 HKD to Central (35-45 min depending on traffic). Three colors serve different areas - red for Hong Kong Island and Kowloon.