Host City – Hong Kong
Weather
September is one of the best months to visit Hong Kong. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C, with humidity substantially lower than in the summer months. Rain is also easing during September.
Getting around / transportation
Hong Kong is geographically compact and boasts one of the world's most efficient, safe, affordable and frequent public transport systems. Whether by taxi, ferry, rail, bus or tram, you can get around easily and catch wonderful glimpses of the city along the way.
For convenience, you can use the Octopus Card, an electronic stored-value card that is accepted on most public transport.
For more information and transport timetables please visit the Transport Department.
Business hours
Normal office hours in Hong Kong are 9am - 5pm on weekdays, and 9am - 1pm on Saturdays. Major banks are open 9am - 4:30pm on weekdays, and 9am - 12:30pm on Saturdays.
Currency
Hong Kong’s currency comprises of Hong Kong dollars (HK$) and cents and is based on the decimal system, with 100 cents in the Hong Kong dollar. Foreign currency can easily be exchanged at the airport, most banks, some hotels and bureau de change kiosks in Hong Kong. Click this link for a foreign currency conversion calculator.
Communications
The Hong Kong International access code is +852. Most mobile phone service providers operate in Hong Kong however if travelling from overseas, please ensure global roaming capabilities are installed prior to departure.
Electricity
Electricity in Hong Kong is supplied at 220 volts, 50 hertz. Most power outlets accept the British three pin rectangular blade plug which has 2 flat pins, side by side, with a vertical flat pin at the top. This has mostly replaced the South African plug which has three round pins arranged in a triangle, however this plug can still be found.
Language
English and Chinese are Hong Kong's two official languages. The Cantonese dialect is the most commonly spoken language in the territory, though English is the language of the business and service industries. Street signs, menus and tourist information are usually bilingual.
Time zone (GMT+8 hours)
Hong Kong is 2 hours behind Sydney and Brisbane and an hour and a half behind Adelaide. There is no time difference between Hong Kong and Perth as they are located in the same time zone.
Dining and siteseeing
Renowned as the culinary capital of Asia, Hong Kong boasts more than 11,000 restaurants; many of them clustered in defined food districts. Apart from enjoying the best Cantonese and regional Chinese food, visitors can sample a full choice of authentic Asian cuisines and Western fare. Local must-try dishes are dim sum and fresh seafood.
Hong Kong also offers a host of memorable tourist attractions within its compact area. The Peak, Victoria Harbour and the Giant Buddha are among the most awe-inspiring.
You'll be amazed by the diverse contrasts and close proximity of stunning cityscapes and soaring mountains, heritage sites and extensive green countryside.
For more information on dining, attractions and to plan pre or post event tours please visit the Hong Kong Tourism Board.
Tipping
A service charge of 10% is added to restaurant and hotel bills. Additional tipping is optional.
Medical assistance
As an international city, Hong Kong has world-class hospitals and Doctors providing outstanding care.
Please ask your hotel concierge for the closest Hospital or Doctor.
Currently there is no vaccination requirement for travellers visiting Hong Kong. However, travellers should adopt anti-mosquito measures to prevent infectious diseases.
Tap water conforms to the guidelines for drinking-water quality recommended by the World Health Organisation. However, most people prefer to drink bottled water. Mineral water including major imported brands is readily available from supermarkets and convenience stores, as well as your hotel.
Please note that Island Shangri-La has a medical room located in the hotel.
For more information on health and medical services, please visit the websites of the Department of Health , Centre for Health Protection and Hospital Authority.
Emergencies
In an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire or ambulance services.