Hong Kong Dining Tips

Hong Kong dining tips

If you’re planning to dine out in Hong Kong, whether you’re in a fine-dining restaurant or at a local dai pai dong, there are some dining etiquette rules to keep in mind. You’ll want to be aware of the cultural norms in terms of service and etiquette to avoid any faux pas that may embarrass you or your tablemates.

In Hong Kong, it’s customary to tip servers and staff, particularly in hotels, restaurants, and cab drivers. A 10% service charge is added to your bill in most restaurants, so it’s important that you have cash on hand to leave a generous tip when you’re satisfied with the level of service you receive.

You’ll often see large groups of people dining together in restaurants, especially at dinner, which is considered the main meal of the day. This is because most Hong Kong apartments are too small to accommodate extended families and friends, so they meet at their favorite eateries for social gatherings. If you’re seated with another group, don’t be alarmed if you are asked to share the table; it’s perfectly acceptable.

The majority of the population in Hong Kong identifies as Cantonese, so it’s no surprise that most restaurants are Cantonese in nature. This means that you will see a lot of seafood, dim sum, and Cantonese-style dishes on menus. However, the city is also home to a large number of international restaurants that offer cuisines from all around the world, including Japanese, French, and American.

Many restaurants in Hong Kong serve buffet-style meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s a great way to try out different foods at one place and save money. While most of the buffets at hotels and independent restaurants are mediocre, the buffet spreads at some of Hong Kong’s best hotels (like the Island Shangri-La) are truly spectacular.

When eating at a restaurant or a cha chaan teng, be sure to bring some napkins to the table. While some places will provide napkins, most won’t, so you’ll need a little extra in case of spills or accidents. It’s also a good idea to carry some tissue paper, which can be purchased at any convenience store (think 7-Eleven or Circle K).

When you’re served tea during a business meeting or dining in a Chinese restaurant, it’s customary for the person with the lowest seniority to pour the first cup. After that, everyone should pour their own tea, even if the other cups are still full. If you need more tea, you can request for a refill by openly opening the lid of the pot. Alternatively, you can also tap the table with three fingers to indicate that you’d like more.

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The Best Time to Visit China

Visit China

China is the largest and most diverse country in Asia. With a long history and rich culture, it has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a place to take photos with cute giant pandas or explore the Great Wall, it has plenty to see and do.

The best time to visit China is in spring and autumn, when the weather is milder and not too hot or rainy. But the climate varies across the different regions of China. The southwest region, including Chengdu and Jiuzhaigou, is warm all year round and is a good choice for those who don’t want to deal with snow in winter. Northeastern China, including Harbin and Shenyang, is cold and dry in winter.

If you’re planning a trip to China, you should make sure your passport is valid for at least six months. You should also bring your visa, health insurance card, credit cards and any other documents that might be required for your trip. It is a good idea to keep a copy of your passport in case it gets lost or stolen. It is also a good idea to bring a medical kit with you. You should also bring a pair of comfortable shoes, a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun.

China’s capital city, Beijing, is full of sights to see. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest surviving palace complex in the world. The Forbidden City, which was once the Imperial Palace, is a must-see for any visitor. It is a complex of palaces, gardens and temples that was built for the Emperors and their families.

Tiananmen Square is another major landmark in Beijing. It is the site of several significant events in Chinese history, including the 1989 pro-democracy protests that led to the deaths of thousands of people. The outside world may associate it with a violent past, but Beijingers understand that it is the heart of their city. The complex contains the Monument to the People’s Heroes, which is a beautiful tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for democracy.

Visiting China can be a wonderful experience for anyone who loves history and art. The National Museum of China is an excellent option for those who want to know more about the country’s history and its rich cultural legacy. It displays over a million artworks that are considered to be rare. The museum exhibits everything from ancient bronze vessels to beautiful paintings and sculptures.

Acupuncture, moxibustion and cupping are all traditional Chinese medicine techniques that can be very effective at treating many health conditions, such as high blood pressure, back pain, neck pain, arthritis and insomnia. They can also help reduce the risk of stoke and improve your overall health.

Acupuncture is a painless process, and the results are quick. Most people who receive acupuncture treatment report an immediate decrease in pain and an increase in flexibility. Some patients have even reported an improvement in their general mood after receiving acupuncture treatments.

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How to Stay Within Your Budget on Hong Kong Travel

Hong Kong Travel

Hong Kong Travel

The ultra-modern city of Hong Kong is a cultural melting pot that’s influenced by the East and the West. This urban metropolis is packed with attractions that range from ancient temples and historical sites to modern skyscrapers, shopping malls and street markets.

A Hong Kong trip can easily burn through your vacation budget if you’re not careful. But with a bit of advance planning, you can stay within your budget and still have an amazing time in this world-class destination.

One of the best things you can do to save money in Hong Kong is purchase an Octopus digital or physical travel card before your trip. This smart payment tool works on all public transportation and can also be used for dining, entertainment and shopping. You can buy a Mobile Octopus in advance for HK$39 and have it loaded with HK$50, or get the Tourist Octopus that includes a refundable deposit of HK$39 when you arrive at the airport or the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry concourse.

Another way to save on your Hong Kong travel is to shop around and find the cheapest hotel prices. A stay at a luxury four-star hotel can set you back several thousand dollars per night, but there are plenty of affordable options as well. Some of the best places to look for deals on hotels in Hong Kong are in Wan Chai, Central, Soho and Sheung Wan.

If you want to save even more, you can avoid some of the most popular events and activities in Hong Kong. For instance, summer is a popular time for tourists to visit the city, but it can be hot and humid with high crowds. Similarly, major holidays like New Years can see spikes in hotel prices and crowds. Instead, you can enjoy more affordable room rates and fewer crowds by visiting in the shoulder season of October to early December.

When it comes to food, try to avoid the many chain restaurants and opt for local eateries. These smaller establishments tend to have cheaper menu items and are more authentic. Plus, they will likely speak English or Cantonese, so you don’t have to worry about language barriers.

You can save even more on meals by packing your own lunch. You can find a variety of grocery stores and mini-markets throughout the city, and many carry a wide selection of snacks and supplies for your backpacking adventure.

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Things to Do in Hong Kong

Visit Hong Kong

The city of Hong Kong has a lot to offer visitors, whether you’re a foodie, a shopaholic, or a thrill seeker. From the beautiful skyline, to those rooftop bars, to the endless choices of restaurants and activities; there is truly something for everyone in this cosmopolitan metropolis.

But it’s not just the things to do in Hong Kong that make it so special – it’s how you experience them. Getting around the city is easy and affordable with the city buses, subways, and taxis. You can also rent a private car to tour the city at your leisure. There are also plenty of sightseeing tours to choose from, and Hong Kong is home to some of the world’s best shopping.

While Hong Kong may be a bustling city, there are plenty of spots for peace and tranquility. One of the most popular is Victoria Peak, which offers stunning views of the city and is a favorite spot for hiking. Another is the Kowloon Waterfall Gardens, which is a hidden gem where you can escape from the noise of the city and walk through winding pathways with waterfalls and flowers.

If you’re looking to get a bird’s eye view of Hong Kong, head to the Sky100 observatory. It is located atop the International Commerce Centre and offers breathtaking panoramas of the cityscape. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mainland China.

A visit to Hong Kong is not complete without trying some of the city’s famous cuisine. The most iconic dish is dim sum, which is a savory and delicious combination of dumplings, steamed breads, and other treats. You can find the best dim sum in the city at the famous dim sum restaurant, Tim Ho Wan, or in many other stalls and restaurants around town.

Visiting Hong Kong is also the perfect time to experience some of the country’s rich culture. The biggest festival is Chinese New Year, which takes place in February and is celebrated by the people of Hong Kong with lion and dragon dances throughout the streets. Many shops and malls are decorated with red lanterns for the occasion, which is a symbol of luck in Chinese culture.

Other cultural experiences include the Temple Street Night Market, which is the largest evening market in Hong Kong. The market offers countless stalls selling cheap clothing, shoes, CDs and DVDs, and household items. You can also have your fortune told at one of the many late night fortune tellers near the Tin Hau Temple.

Those who want to take in the beauty of Hong Kong’s nature can do so at the Wetland Park, which is an oasis of greenery in the heart of the city. There are plenty of trails to explore, and you can learn about the area’s ecology at the various educational exhibits.

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Shopping Tips For Hong Kong

Hong Kong shopping tips

Hong Kong is a fashion lover’s paradise with everything from luxury boutiques to budget outfitters. It’s a good idea to be aware of the two sale seasons and savvy shoppers can find bargains throughout the year. The summer sale season is from July to September and winter sales are in December to February (with additional discounts for the Spring Festival).

A shopping paradise for fashionistas and electronic junkies, Hong Kong has something for everyone. The huge malls are filled with designer and brand names that make it easy to update wardrobes and buy a new gadget. The street markets are a bargain hunter’s dream with inexpensive clothing, jewelry and housewares. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs and gifts for friends and family back home. Short-term visitors can save even more money in the large stores and malls by showing their passports to receive tax rebates.

The massive IFC mall is a luxury shopping destination in Hong Kong with designer brands, young brands, cosmetic brands, gourmet food shops, a city super grocery store, multiple restaurants and desserts, and a Lane Crawford department store. You can easily spend a whole day shopping and eating at this massive mall. Many of the Admiralty hotels are connected to this mall which makes it extremely convenient for hotel guests to shop without having to venture outside and can even grab their dinner, snacks, and a taxi from inside the hotel!

While you are shopping for clothes in Hong Kong, be sure to haggle – the marked prices are often suggested and not set in stone. Many of the street markets are full of tourists and locals who want to get a better deal for their hard-earned cash. Some people may be approached by touts or sellers who try to lure you into their backroom to sell fake handbags, bootlegged movies, and other shady goods – don’t fall for these traps and always shop at trusted stores.

If you are looking for a great bargain, visit the Ladies’ Market in Tung Choi Street in Mong Kok and the Temple Street Night Market in Kowloon for an array of bargain-priced garments and trinkets. You can also purchase silk products, Chinese artwork, and luggage.

Another great option is Stanley Market, where you can find the same types of items that you would find at IFC Mall except at a quieter and cleaner location. My favorite finds here include limited edition watercolors of Hong Kong that hang in my home and name chops, which are personalized Chinese characters with your name written in calligraphy.

Beauty lovers will love Hong Kong, as it has a wide range of cosmetics and skincare products from Western to Asian brands. You can also score some of the best deals in the world on beauty products thanks to the lack of sales tax. Many major departmental and chain stores carry makeup from Western and Asian brands. For shoe lovers, the Fa Yuen Street sneaker market is worth a trip to see the mind-blowing selection of sneakers spread out over 50 stores.

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Travelling to China During the COVID-19 Pandemic

China Travel

With the COVID-19 pandemic slowly abating, demand for travel to China has begun to recover and premium cabins on international flights into the country are starting to fill up again. However, it will be months before large-scale international travel begins again and ticket prices are likely to remain elevated as airlines work to bring capacity back online.

China continues to impose strict restrictions on travel by foreign nationals, including the requirement for all visitors to have an approved visa. The Chinese government has recently eased some of these restrictions, but travellers should be aware that it is still a high-risk destination and that restrictions can change quickly.

The majority of Chinese internet users access the internet via mobile devices and use mobile payments for online transactions. Increasingly, these transactions are made through mobile payment apps like Alipay and WeChat Pay. These apps have expanded the reach of online shopping across the country and are also driving the growth of mobile-based e-commerce in China.

While the number of Chinese international travelers has climbed as the COVID-19 pandemic has diminished, bookings for group tours to China have not returned to pre-pandemic levels. This is due to the high cost of airfares, which have increased by as much as 50 percent during the pandemic. In the short term, many travelers will be able to only afford business class flights to China and that will limit their opportunities for leisure travel.

There are significant restrictions on political activities in China, and you can be detained if you participate in protests or send private electronic messages critical of the government. Travel near military installations is restricted and photographs of these facilities are not allowed. Commercial surrogacy arrangements are illegal and you may be arrested if you engage in this activity.

Chinese authorities can place exit bans on specific individuals to prevent them from leaving the country. These can be related to investigations, civil or criminal matters and are sometimes related to employment-related issues. If you have concerns that you might be subject to an exit ban, consult a lawyer or contact the nearest office of the Government of Canada.

If you have dual citizenship, carry evidence that you have formally renounced your Chinese citizenship. If you enter China using a Chinese passport or identity card, you will be treated as a Chinese citizen by the Chinese authorities and the Embassy of Canada cannot provide consular assistance.

It is not advisable to visit Tibet, the Tibetan Autonomous Region or other parts of China that are closed to tourists. This could result in a lengthy detention or worse. See Local laws and customs and Safety and security for more information. If you have any questions or concerns about your citizenship or identity in China, contact the nearest office of the Government of Canada.

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Hong Kong Travel Idea

Hong Kong is at once exactly what you expect it to be and completely unexpected. It’s a compact city bursting with energy and glamour, jutting up against green open space dotted with hiking trails, swimming beaches, and subtropical flora. It’s a place where East and West collide and clash in an exhilarating, chaotic harmony that draws visitors from all corners of the globe.

Getting Around

The best way to get around is by public transportation which is fast, clean, and cheap. The MTR is the most popular form of transport, and you can pick up a tourist Octopus Card at most metro stations or ferry ticket offices in Central. The cards have HK$50 pre-loaded and can be refilled at the same location for even more value (they’re also fully refundable if you don’t use them). If you plan on using the MTR often, this is definitely the way to go!

If you prefer to get around by bus, minibus, or tram try to book your tickets ahead of time as queues can be long. Taxis are available if you’re in a hurry, but they can be expensive and often overcrowded during rush hour. Having navigation like Google Maps installed on your phone will help you find your way.

Where to Stay

The best place to stay in Hong Kong depends on your budget, but either the Hong Kong Island or Kowloon side are both great options. On the Hong Kong Island, the Central and Wan Chai area are great walkable spots that are easily accessible to the MTR. On the Kowloon side, staying closer to the Tsim Sha Tsui promenade will put you in a good position for all the restaurants and nightlife.

When to Visit

The weather in Hong Kong can be quite unpredictable so make sure you have a flexible itinerary! The summers are hot and humid, and the winters are chilly. The best times to visit are from March to early June, and September to November.

What to Do

There’s so much to do in Hong Kong, from wandering through Song dynasty villages and cheering at the city-center horse races to kayaking among volcanic sea arches and exploring a reconstructed pirate village. But don’t be overwhelmed by choice – it’s easy to narrow down your options by picking a few must-see attractions and then letting the rest of your trip be spontaneous.

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Hong Kong Dining Idea

Hong Kong dining idea

The food of Hong Kong is not only delicious and diverse, but it’s also a window into the city’s history and culture. From traditional teahouses with plastic stools to fine-dining establishments in glass skyscrapers, the city’s dining scene is as impressive as its modern architecture.

Despite the fact that Hong Kong imports 97 percent of its food, the city’s chefs have an incredible ability to turn these ingredients into world-class dishes. The city’s unique fusion of Chinese, Thai, Malaysian, and Japanese cuisines makes for an exciting culinary experience. In addition, Hong Kong’s openness to foreign influences has resulted in a booming restaurant scene that is constantly evolving and innovating.

This year, Hong Kong has a record 95 Michelin-starred restaurants—more than double the number in 2017. It’s no surprise that so many of these restaurants are located in this city on the water, with spectacular views over one of the world’s most striking urban landscapes.

There are several dining spots to explore in Hong Kong, but for an unforgettable experience, head to the newly opened Aqua. Designed by London-based studio David Collins, this two-story restaurant is ribbed with iron girders and has floor-to-ceiling glass walls that overlook Victoria Harbor. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or an unforgettable meal with friends.

The restaurant’s menu is as eclectic as its design, featuring dishes from across the globe. From Peruvian ceviche and Ecuadorian guacamole to Argentine arepas and Venezuelan lobster stew, it’s impossible not to find something you’ll love at this hip joint. And don’t forget to finish your meal with the show-stopping dulce de leche churros.

While many Hong Kong locals enjoy dining a la carte, most prefer to dine in groups of at least four people. This is because most dishes are served family-style and are meant to be shared. When ordering, be sure to keep in mind that taking food directly from the center of the table is considered impolite. You should scoop it into your bowl or plate before you eat it.

Another must-try dish is the Three-Stuffed Treasures. This street food classic is made with eggplant, peppers, and tofu and drizzled with soy sauce and fish paste for a sour and fishy flavor that’s uniquely Hong Kong.

In addition to its stunning vistas, the restaurant has an excellent selection of cocktails and wine. They also have an extensive vegetarian and vegan menu that will please even the most discriminating palates.

Located in the heart of the city’s Wan Chai district, Rosita is the latest venture by celebrated friends and celebrated chefs Agustin Balbi and Ricardo Chaneton. This one-of-a-kind restaurant combines new Latin American cooking with refined Hong Kong fine dining. Their menu features a plethora of innovative flavors, including aji amarillo butter on arepas and chicken liver mousse on their twist on a ceviche.

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Hong Kong Culture

Hong Kong has a diverse culture with influences from both Chinese and Western societies. Hong Kong people take pride in their culture, history and achievements and want to preserve it for future generations. They value hard work, the importance of family, and a respectful and polite business environment. They also respect their ancestors and celebrate religious holidays such as Lunar New Year and Mid-Autumn Festival.

Many Hong Kongers speak both English and Cantonese. They are bilingual and use both of these languages in daily life and for work.

Traditional Chinese values and beliefs are deeply rooted in Hong Kong culture. Confucianism, for example, is a principled system of thought and behavior that has had a significant influence on the way Hong Kongers behave. Confucianism teaches that healthy relationships require inherent structures, hierarchies and even inequalities that must be respected. This translates to daily interactions between parents and children, husbands and wives, teachers and students.

The Hong Kong government and its predecessors have introduced foreign cultural influences to Hong Kong, including Western political systems and philosophies. For instance, a common practice is to greet friends and colleagues with a handshake and to show respect for elders by bowing. In addition, Hong Kongers have a universal appreciation for Western-style architecture and enjoy shopping in international malls.

Because of the fusion of cultures, Hong Kongers have a variety of religions and philosophical beliefs. Approximately 22% of Hong Kongers identify as Buddhist, and many adhere to Taoism and other folk religions. Some residents follow Christianity, while others are agnostics and do not subscribe to any religion at all.

The city is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with local and international festivals and venues such as the Hong Kong Arts Centre and Oi!. In addition, Hong Kong has more Michelin-rated restaurants than any other Asian city.

Hong Kong television is a popular pastime, with several free-to-air stations and paid cable and satellite options. Hong Kong is also famous for its soap dramas and comedy shows. The Hong Kong orchid is an important symbol of the city, and a giant golden version of it stands at the center of Golden Bauhinia Square. Lion Rock is another iconic Hong Kong landmark.

Learning a few basic conversational Cantonese phrases is a good idea when visiting Hong Kong. It will help you communicate with the locals and show that you have a genuine interest in their culture. Additionally, it’s polite to ask for recommendations when dining out. If you don’t get the pronunciation right the first time, don’t worry; the locals will appreciate your effort! When interacting with locals, it’s also a good idea to avoid using sarcasm or joking insults. You should also be prepared for different levels of personal space when dining out. In general, Hong Kongers are quite friendly towards foreigners and will be happy to meet you! This is especially true in the business world, where Hong Kongers are highly international-minded.

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The Best Hong Kong Hotel Deals

Hong Kong Hotel

Hong Kong is a bustling metropolis that offers a constellation of opportunities for travelers. Luxury shopping, incredible restaurants, breathtaking city views and more are all accessible in this modern wonderland. However, this densely populated city can also be a little overwhelming for first-time visitors. Luckily, there are hotels throughout the city that offer guests a combination of bespoke residential-style comforts and dedicated passion to deliver impeccable service.

The Upper House is a great example of this. Located over the top floors of Pacific Place this boutique hotel offers just 117 rooms and suites, but it feels more spacious than most. Designed to feel like a mansion, the entrance doesn’t have a very obvious door and this creates a sense of privacy. Once inside you are greeted with a red hued escalator, inspired by a Japanese red torii gate, and this sets the tone for a journey upwards through the hustle of the city into a serene house of intriguing spaces.

Once you have made it to the second floor of the hotel you are welcomed by a beautiful vista of the city. Each room has large windows and a swish chair positioned perfectly to take in the view. The bathrooms are spacious with a dressing area and limestone-clad bathtub. The toiletries are by the glorious British spa brand Bamford and include a wash bag to take away with you. The hotel also offers a turn down service and a mini bar with free snacks and drinks.

All the staff are extremely helpful and friendly. The concierge is particularly impressive and goes above and beyond to help with anything you may need during your stay. The hotel is located very close to the metro and ocean terminal shopping mall. I would definitely recommend this hotel to anyone wanting a great stay in Hong Kong.

The newest addition to the W family, this hotel is designed with a nod to traditional Chinese hospitality and has been named as a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Hotel. The property features a rooftop lounge, Michelin-starred restaurant and more, but it is the service that really shines. Guests are greeted by name and welcomed with a personalized itinerary. They are offered a Tesla airport pick up and the staff go out of their way to ensure every detail is perfect.

A truly luxurious and unforgettable experience. This hotel is located in the heart of Hong Kong Island and is ideal for business travellers, who will find themselves only minutes from corporate offices and government buildings. The modern skyscrapers in the surrounding Central District are juxtaposed with historic colonial buildings and temples, creating a unique skyline. The property itself is an architectural masterpiece, with a series of interconnecting spaces ranging from the lobby to the rooftop, and each space has been thoughtfully curated with local art and cultural elements. The staff at the hotel are very helpful and always eager to provide recommendations for dining, shopping and entertainment.

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