Today, Hong Kong is one of the world’s largest centers of trade and most of the people who visit it come here for this purpose. However, despite its commercial importance for the region, there was also a place for cultural attractions and various entertainment programs (exhibitions, competitions, festivals, etc.). Traveling to Hong Kong will allow you to enjoy an unforgettable vacation on the beach, interesting excursions to ancient temples and the business center of the city.
Geography of Hong Kong
According to extrareference.com, Hong Kong is located on the southeastern coast of the South China Sea. Together with the nearby islands, the territory of this area is 1100 sq. km. km. Hong Kong is conditionally divided into three parts: the mainland, which includes the Kowloon Peninsula, Hong Kong Island and about 260 small islands. The administrative center is the city of Hong Kong.
Capital
Hong Kong
Area
The area of Hong Kong is 1,104 km. sq., occupies the 179th place in the world by area.
Population
7,061,200 people.
Currency
The national currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD).
Language
The official language is Chinese, English.
Visa to Hong Kong
For citizens of Russia, visiting Hong Kong is available without a visa, but in this case, the period of stay in the country is 14 days. If you plan to stay here for a longer period, then you need to obtain a visa at the consular section of the Chinese Embassy. The consular fee for a visa is $30, and for two visas (Chinese and Hong Kong) you will have to pay $50. As a rule, issuing a visa takes no more than 10 days.
Weather in Hong Kong
The climate in the country is maritime subtropical. The monsoons have a great influence on the weather, and in summer, under their influence, it becomes hot and humid. The average summer temperature is +30 C, and the humidity is 80% or more. Winter is quite cold, the temperature varies from +13 to +18 C, and humidity is 60%. The amount of annual precipitation is 2000 mm, most of them fall in May-July. The best time to travel is in autumn or early winter, at this time, the air temperature is not too high and not rainy, but at the same time not very cold.
Transport
Transport in Hong Kong is represented by the subway, high-speed train to the airport, ferries, funicular, buses, historic and high-speed trams. Each mode of transport belongs to different operators, so the price for travel in it is different. Buses have different fares for each route and even separate parts of the same route. Traveling through one part of the city by bus costs approximately 3-5 Hong Kong dollars, but an air-conditioned bus will cost 30% more. If you go to another part of the city, then the price can increase to 10-15 dollars, and on suburban routes up to 20. The fare on the subway also depends on the distance you will travel and ranges from 4 to 26 dollars. You can get to the airport by high-speed train, the fare will be 60-100 Hong Kong dollars.
Currency exchange in Hong Kong
As of August 2011, the national currency rate is 1 USD = 7.79 HKD. The national currency is the Hong Kong dollar. On Monday-Friday, banks are open from 09.00 to 17.00, and on Saturday until 13.00, the lunch break usually starts at 13.00 and ends at 14.00. There are no currency restrictions in Hong Kong, you can sell and buy any currency, however, when buying goods for the national currency, you will be able to receive additional discounts. The exchange can also be done at hotels, airports and large stores. Almost every establishment accepts credit cards.
Electricity
220V/50Hz (American and European sockets).
Religion
At the moment, two religious movements are most developed in Hong Kong: Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism is also quite widespread. There are representatives of almost all religions. People can freely practice their religion.
Security
At any time of the day, you can feel safe as Hong Kong is a very safe place. Most streets and areas are constantly patrolled by police. However, it is still desirable to follow the basic safety rules. The typhoon season runs from May to November in Hong Kong. If a typhoon is approaching, warnings are broadcast on local radio and television.
Health
It is recommended to have insurance. All medical services are quite expensive, especially dental services. The price of treatment depends on the type of medical institution.
