Hong Kong vacation packages

How to reach Hong Kong

• Flight time: Direct flights from major US cities to Hong Kong typically take around 15–17 hours. There are also other options that include flying through a hub in Europe or the Middle East. Flying to Shenzhen, just across the border in mainland China, is another alternative, often at a reduced cost. These routes generally add 2 or more hours to your travel time.

• Transfer time: The fastest way from Hong Kong International Airport to the city is via the Airport Express train, which takes about 24 minutes. Buses can take approximately 1 hour, and taxi times vary based on traffic.

• Price: The cost of the Airport Express to the city is around $15 USD. Bus fares range from $2.50–$6 USD, while taxis typically cost between $45–$64 USD.

Weather and best time to visit Hong Kong

Hong Kong's subtropical climate presents different conditions throughout the year, making the timing of your vacation crucial.

• December to February is Hong Kong’s coolest and driest season, with average temperatures of 61°F. This period is ideal for outdoor activities and city walks due to lower humidity and rain. Booking accommodation in advance is recommended during Chinese New Year (January or February) due to high demand.

• March to May offers milder spring weather, with temperatures reaching highs of 66°F in March up to 82°F in May, alongside increasing humidity and showers.

• June to September brings hot temperatures, generally around 86°F, marking the wet season with high humidity and frequent rainstorms. Typhoons are also common during this period, impacting travel plans.

• October to November sees a return to milder temperatures ranging from 73°F to 82°F, with lower humidity, making it an excellent time for hiking and exploring nature.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Cantonese is the primary language, though English is widely understood, particularly in tourist areas.

• Local habits and customs: Showing respect is important in China. Avoid pointing at people with your finger; instead, use your whole hand. When dining, always pass food to others before serving yourself. Prepare for queues and crowded spaces, especially at popular tourist spots.

• Health and safety: Hong Kong is generally safe, with low crime rates. It's advisable to leave valuables at your hotel and stay vigilant for pickpockets. Be cautious when walking at night. While tap water is safe to drink, many prefer bottled water. The healthcare system is excellent, but securing travel insurance before your trip is advisable to cover any medical expenses.

• Currency: The local currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). ATMs are widely available, and credit or debit cards are accepted in high-end hotels and shops. However, cash is preferred in smaller businesses.

• Getting around: Hong Kong boasts excellent public transportation, including trains, trams, buses, and ferries. MTR trains are very efficient, with single journey tickets costing about $0.64–$1.28 USD for short distances. The Octopus Card offers convenience for all public transport needs.

• Electricity and plug types: Hong Kong uses Type G plugs (UK-style) with a voltage of 220–240V. US travelers will need an adapter.

• Time zone: Hong Kong is 13 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST).

• Required travel documentation: US nationals can visit Hong Kong without a visa for stays of up to 90 days.

Best things to do in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an exciting destination that dazzles with its towering skyline, bustling city center, and a fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, contrasting with the surrounding mountain peaks and peaceful countryside. Here’s the best of what vacations to Hong Kong offer:

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Victoria Peak: The Peak offers the best views of Hong Kong’s skyline, the harbor, and beyond. To reach the top, the Peak Tram is an 8-minute scenic funicular ride, followed by a choice of walks up to the summit.

• Sky100: For panoramic views without the climb, head to Sky100 in the International Commerce Centre, Hong Kong’s tallest building. The observation deck offers a 360-degree view, including a glittering Kowloon and the harbor, which are especially good at sunset.

The best districts

• Central: Known for its skyscrapers, historic buildings, bustling vibes, and stunning views, Central is the commercial heart of Hong Kong. Highlights include the Mid-Levels Escalator and the trendy dining district of Lan Kwai Fong.

• Tsim Sha Tsui: Located north of Hong Kong Island on the Kowloon side, this area is famous for its luxury shops and malls, Nathan Road’s neon-lit stores, and landmarks like the Hong Kong Cultural Centre and Avenue of Stars along Victoria Harbor.

• Mong Kok: The epitome of busy Hong Kong, Mong Kok is a sensory overload with markets, local eateries, and electronics shops. Don’t miss the Ladies' Market and the Flower Market.

Parks and gardens

• Kowloon Park: This large urban park in Tsim Sha Tsui features Chinese gardens, birds, and playgrounds with martial arts and tai chi in Kung Fu Corner, making it a hit with locals and tourists alike.

• Hong Kong Park: Located in Central, this beautifully landscaped park on a hillside offers fountains, a conservatory, and a walk-through aviary, perfect for a relaxing day amid greenery.

• Nan Lian Garden: Nestled in Diamond Hill, this traditional Chinese garden transports visitors to a tranquil setting full of pavilions, rocks, ponds, and bonsai trees.

Day trips in the area

• Lantau: A quick ferry or MTR trip from Central takes you to Lantau Island, where you can find lovely beaches, the cable car or a hike up the lofty peaks, the Po Lin Monastery with its giant Tian Tan Buddha, and the atmospheric village of Tai O, known for its stilt houses.

• Macau: Just 1 hour away by ferry, Macau offers a fascinating blend of Portuguese colonial history, casinos, and local food specialties like egg tarts.

Activities for families in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has plenty of family-friendly activities catering to all ages.

• Theme parks: While Hong Kong's Disneyland is the chain’s smallest, it’s still a magical escape for kids and adults alike. The region's largest theme park is Ocean Park, offering thrilling rides, an oceanarium, and animal exhibits, including giant pandas.

• Star Ferry: Crossing Victoria Harbor to Central from Tsim Sha Tsui by ferry is the best way to take in Hong Kong’s famous view of skyscrapers and the hills behind. As regular transport for local people, it’s cheap and can get packed.

• Interactive museums: The Hong Kong Science Museum has interactive exhibits on engineering, technology, and science to excite curious minds. The history and heritage museums also have ambitious and comprehensive exhibits that delve more deeply into Hong Kong’s history and Chinese culture.

Free things to do in Hong Kong

There are many free ways to enjoy Hong Kong vacations, from cultural events to scenic walks and views.

• Events: Throughout the year, the parks and cultural hubs across Hong Kong host free events like open-air concerts and festivals, plus celebrations during Chinese New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, which include traditional dragon dances, lanterns, and fireworks.

• Museums: Many of Hong Kong’s best museums, including the History Museum and Heritage Museum, offer free entry to their permanent displays, charging only for special temporary exhibitions.

Wellness in Hong Kong

• Spas and thermal baths: Many of the city’s luxury hotels offer excellent spa experiences, with highlights like The Peninsula Spa and its traditional Asian-inspired treatments.

• Traditional body care: For a local wellness experience, try a Chinese foot massage or reflexology session in Kowloon – perfect for soothing tired feet after exploring the city.

• Tai Chi: Many tai chi classes take place in the mornings at Victoria, Kowloon, and Hong Kong Park. Hong Kong’s helpful tourist information service can provide information on classes, some of which are free.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Hiking: The Dragon’s Back trail on Hong Kong Island is among the most popular hikes, providing breathtaking island and sea views. Another favorite is the trail up to Lantau Peak to catch the sunrise.

• Beaches: The south of Hong Kong boasts several great beaches. Repulse Bay is perfect for a family day out, while Shek O and Big Wave Bay are popular with surfers.

Local dishes in Hong Kong

Hong Kong is one of the best places in the world to enjoy Cantonese cuisine, offering a range of typical Chinese dishes along with some local specialties. From bustling street food stalls to high-end dim sum parlors, there’s something for every taste.

Some typical dishes

• Dim Sum: A must-try in Hong Kong, this assortment of bite-sized dishes, such as har gow (shrimp dumplings) and char siu bao (barbecue pork buns), is usually enjoyed at traditional tea houses and for breakfast.

• Congee: A comforting rice porridge often served with toppings like shredded pork, egg, seafood, or vegetables.

• Wonton Noodles: A classic dish featuring plump pork and shrimp wontons served in a rich broth with springy noodles.

Meat and fish dishes

• Char Siu: Hong Kong’s famous barbecued pork, marinated in a sweet sauce and roasted to perfection.

• Roast Goose: A Cantonese specialty, typically served with crispy skin and tender meat, often accompanied by plum sauce.

• Steamed Fish: Fresh fish steamed with ginger, spring onions, and soy sauce, allowing the natural flavors to shine.

Street food

• Fish Balls: A popular snack, fish balls are fried or boiled, then served on skewers and coated in a spicy curry sauce.

• Egg Waffles: Hong Kong-style waffles with a soft, chewy texture are typically eaten as a sweet snack and are available at many street corners.

• Salt and Pepper Squid: Lightly battered and tossed with chili, garlic, and spring onions, this dish is a street-food favorite with a touch of spice.

Sweets and desserts

Hong Kong’s dessert scene is a blend of East and West. You’ll find plenty made from ingredients such as sticky rice, coconut milk, mango, sago, red beans, jelly, fruit and ice cream, or egg tarts – small custard-filled pastries with flaky crusts, a local favorite inspired by the Portuguese pastel de nata.

Local drinks

• Tea: Famously consumed throughout China, tea accompanies meals in restaurants or is served on its own in teahouses. The most common varieties are red and green or flavors such as jasmine, and it’s always drunk without sugar and milk.

• Yuenyeung: A unique blend of coffee and tea, served over ice-a quirky taste of Hong Kong’s café culture.