Hong Kong Vacations

Hongkongers respect their customs and etiquette. When visiting Hong Kong, one thing you must remember is not to be rude, even if you are infuriated at the moment. The other significant part of their tradition is table manners. Yes, you heard it right. Locals in Hong Kong will often tap the table when tea or food is served in a restaurant. This shows their appreciation for the server. So, if you are at a restaurant, don't forget to tap the table to show your appreciation.

If you ask, "What is the common greeting in Hong Kong?" well, Hongkongers are heavily influenced by British culture, so they have adopted the Western handshake. The handshake must be accompanied by a nod and direct eye contact.

Now comes the language, which is the most important aspect of any international travel. In Hong Kong, Cantonese is the widely spoken language by the locals. However, because of its British influence, English is also widely used, especially in tourist places and businesses. Learn a few basic words like Nei hou (Hello) and Doh jeh (Thank You), which will help you to connect with the locals.

Besides all these, traditions and festivals are an important characteristic of any culture. Hongkongers celebrate diverse festivals, including the Chinese New Year, Lantern Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival. These events encompass parades, dragon dances, and fireworks. Plan your trip according to these festivals so that you can experience another wonderful side of Hong Kong culture.

A Hong Kong vacation is not subjected to a specific period. You can visit all year round. Here are some insights into the different seasons for travel:

Autumn (October to November): This period has pleasant weather with low humidity, great for outdoor activities. You can explore historical sites, skyscrapers, and other sightseeing places without heat and humidity.

Spring (March to April): Just like autumn, spring also has pleasant weather. This period is also great for outdoor activities like hiking and enjoying sightseeing places.

Winter (December to February): The winters in Hong Kong are mild but can get cooler sometimes, so pack your winter clothes accordingly. During this period, you can explore the city and enjoy diverse cultural events like Chinese New Year.

Summer (June to August): The summer in Hong Kong is humid and hot. Occasionally, there are chances of heavy rainfall due to typhoon season. While the temperature is hot and humid, you can still enjoy outdoor activities, especially beach activities, water sports, and exploring Hong Kong islands.

Ultimately, visiting Hong Kong depends on the season, your preferences, and the kind of activities you want to do.

When travelling to any country, there are several beneficial things to know for a smooth travel experience, and that applies to Hong Kong as well. Here are a few beneficial things to keep in mind for your Hong Kong vacation:

Apply for an Octopus Card. This is highly recommended. An Octopus card is a rechargeable smart card that enables travellers to access public transportation, stores, and restaurants.

Brush up on your Cantonese skills. Knowing a few basic words and phrases of the local language can go a long way. Language can bridge the gap between two individuals, so brush up on your Cantonese skills before your Hong Kong vacation.

Carry local currency. Honk Kong Dollar (HKD) is the local currency. Carry cash with you, as it can be helpful when you are at smaller establishments. That said, credit cards are widely used, especially in larger establishments.

Respect local traditions. Hong Kong has a diverse culture and practices liberal values. Hongkongers are sensitive to their culture. When you visit temples or monasteries, dress modestly.

Try your hand at bargaining. Bargaining is a common thing in Hong Kong, especially in smaller establishments. However, it is not allowed in malls and other larger establishments. While haggling, try to be respectful and friendly.

No trip is complete without tasting the local delicacies and drinks. The food of Hong Kong is diverse and is influenced by many cultures, including European, Chinese, and Japanese. However, it also has its own Cantonese cuisine. Dim Sum is one such popular Cantonese dish, which is a very common food found in Hong Kong. A Dim Sum includes various types of steamed buns that are filled with various ingredients like beef, chicken, pork, or prawns. Another traditional Cantonese dish is Roast Goose. The goose is cooked until the skin gets a good crackle. It is usually served with a plum sauce.

Hong Kong offers a variety of drinks, from tea to craft beers and cocktails. Hong Kong-Style Milk Tea is popular, which is a black tea made with condensed milk, served hot or iced. Another popular tea drink is Taiwanese Bubble Tea, which is available in different flavours and is often made from milk.

Hong Kong has a growing craft beer scene. The local breweries offer different varieties of craft beers. In addition to this, Hong Kong has a vibrant cocktail culture. There are many rooftop bars offering mouthwatering cocktails.

In short, Hong Kong is a melting pot of different delicacies and drinks. Immerse yourself in the local cuisine and get an unforgettable experience of their local dishes.