Joanna James
Hong Kong is an amazing city; one that can be quite overwhelming for first time visitors. To make your trip smoother we have compiled this list of useful guidelines for the best experience in the city
The Hong Kong Express train from Kowloon airport to the island is fast and easy. You can get on the train right after customs and immigration; best of all the train will whisk you away to Hong Kong in under 25 minutes. Tickets may be purchased right at the airport but if you dislike standing in long lines consider purchasing them online via 'tickets online at klook'. They are 30% cheaper too.
The Octopus Card is a prepaid credit card that's valid all over Hong Kong. Get yourself one and enjoy the benefits. No more fumbling for coins to pay the MTR simply scan the card at the ticket counter and the cost will be deducted from your pre-paid credit reserve. The Octopus card is valid at the following; MTR Stations, Star Ferry, Peak Tram, 7 Eleven, McDonalds and others. Tourist should get the 'On-loan' Octopus Card. You can purchase cards at the MTR stations or the express counter at the airport.
Location is very important for convenient sightseeing; especially if you are a first time visitor. Like *Hotel Pravo Hong Kong *just 3 minutes from the MTR station there are many resorts to choose from. Also decide which side to base yourself at. Many choose Kowloon for the excess of entertainment options and visit Hong Kong Island for sightseeing. Some of the best Hong Kong hotels Kowloon is home to will boast easy access to restaurants, shops and entertainment venues; an important factor for those who dislike navigating across the crowded streets.
This is the easiest mode of travel in Hong Kong. You can use the Octopus card to pay for the tickets while Google maps pinpoint routes and locations via the MTR once you choose the public transport option. The MTR is really quite easy to use and not confusing with Google maps letting you know when to get off at your destination.
Hong Kong is rather steep as a tourist destination; that being said don't disappoint the foodie in you for there are many cheap eateries waiting to be discovered. Decide on a foodie tour; these amazing little sojourns across the city enlighten you on what to eat and where to find the best. Some of the best dishes to lookout for and sample are dim sum – king of cuisine in Hong Kong, wonton noodle soup, egg tarts, BBQ and roast pork, Hong Kong style waffles and many more. There is of course a fine selection of international basics such as McDonalds although Dim Sum square in Hong Kong Island warrants some attention.
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