Time
Hong Kong time is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

Climate
In May, it is the beginning of Summer, hot and humid. Temperatures ranges from 26 ^oC - 27 ^oC (64 ^oF - 80 ^oF). Humidity averages 82 percent.

Currency
The currency unit is Hong Kong dollars (HK$). It is pegged with US Dollars at a rate of HK$7.8 to US$1. Most foreign currencies and traveller's cheques are easily exchanged in the banks, hotels or money exchanges. Credit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants throughout Hong Kong.

Banks

Usual Business Hours Monday to Friday 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Sunday and public holidays Closed

Electricity
Electricity is supplied as alternating current; the voltage is 220 Volts and frequency 50 cycles (Hz). Three-rectangular pin plugs are the norm.

Entry Visa
Hong Kong has a liberal visa policy that allows visa free entries to nationals of more than 170 countries. Those who do require visas should apply at the nearest Chinese Embassy Consulate or Visa Office. When applying for a visa, it is advisable to be at least six weeks in advance.

Identification
Visitors are advised to carry some photo identification, such as a passport or driving licence.

Language
Chinese and English are the official languages in Hong Kong. All road signs, menus and tourist publications are mostly bilingual. Cantonese is the predominant Chinese dialect widely spoken here while Putonghua has become more popular here nowadays.

Population
The estimated population of Hong Kong is 6.8 million. Almost 98% is Chinese.

Postal Services
Hotels often provide simple postage service. Post offices open every day except Saturday afternoons, Sundays and public holidays.

Public Transport
Metered taxis, buses, trams, ferries, trains and light rail services provide effective transportation in Kowloon, New Territories and on the Island.

Restaurants
Hong Kong has more than 6,000 restaurants specializing in cuisine form many parts of the world. Most of them are opened until late night.

Safety & Security
Hong Kong is considered a very safe city both at night and during the day. As everywhere, however, protect yourself from pickpockets and carry as little cash and valuables as possible. Use a hotel safe-deposit box to store valuables. The Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) has stations and reporting centers throughout the territory.

Shopping
Most shops and department stores open seven days a week until 9:00 pm. Most street markets are in business every day until late at night. Hong Kong is renowned for bargains, speedily made tailored clothing, antiques, jewellery, and electronic equipment.

Tipping
Most restaurants add a 10% service charge to the bill. Where tipping is voluntary, 10% is fine. Taxi driver, bellboys, restroom attendants and doorman are also often tipped for their good service.