Hong Kong is much more than a harbour and enigmatic city of skyscrapers. The traveller weary of its crowded streets may be tempted to describe it as “Hong Kongcrete”. The Downtown possesses many features where Chinese and Western cultures, modern and ancient customs are blended together.
– Getting to Hong Kong
During my trip, I fly with Singapore Airlines from Singapore to Hong Kong. Singapore Airlines fly 7 times daily and 2 of its routes using A380 plane.
The following airlines also fly to Hong Kong non-stop from Singapore:
– Transportation to City
Upon arrival at Hong Kong International Airport, The Airport Express takes passengers to Central in just 24 minutes. Quick and comfortable, trains depart at about 10-minute intervals. You may wish to alight at 4 different stations, Hong Kong Station (HK$100), Kowloon Station (HK$90), Tsing Yi Station (HK$60) or AsiaWorld-Expo (HK$60); followed by an add on complimentary Shuttle-bus exclusively for Airport Express passengers travelling between Hong Kong or Kowloon stations to major hotels and railway interchanges.
Traveling around the city is a breeze with its extensive rail system. Do remember to purchase the Octopus Card (Adult: Deposit $50 + Stored Value $100 = HK$150) at the airport counter or at any convenience stores.
App Download: MTR Mobile | MTR Tourist
Complimentary Airport Express Shuttle Bus Service at Kowloon Station. Do remember to produce the AEX ticket before boarding the bus. Please refer here for the list of drop off point to your nearest accommodation.
– Accommodation
Don’t expect big room for your stay in Hong Kong. I stayed at The CityView Hotel, conveniently located near Yau Ma Tei Station and 5 minutes walk to Ladies Market. Totally recommended for its accessibility. From the airport, take the AEX to Kowloon station and transfer to complimentary bus K5 to CityView Hotel.
The CityView Hong Kong
Address: 23 Waterloo Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong
Tel: (852)2783 3888
– Currency Notes
Please beware of counterfeit HSBC HK$1,000 banknote (2003 series). Most shops, restaurants and hotel do not accept 2003 series HK$1,000 banknote. Hong Kong Monetary Authority has introduced a new 2010 series banknotes to gradually replace the 2003 series banknotes in circulation. Please check with your money changer to ensure that the banknotes are 2010 series. You have the right to refuse 2003 series of HK$1,000 banknotes.
- Image of Counterfeit Note
- How to identify the 2003 series $1,000 counterfeit notes
- Hong Kong Monetary Authority
Hong Kong Travel Series | lonelytravelog.com
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