Location

Hong Kong is situated at the southeastern tip of the mainland of China.

History

Hong Kong, a small trading port in 19th century, is now Asia's financial hub. Hong Kong returned to Chinese sovereignty on 1 July 1997 as a Special Administrative Region after more than a century and a half of British rule.

Population

Over 7.3 million in 2015

Languages

Chinese and English are the official languages. Cantonese, a minority dialect of Mainland China, is spoken by 88 per cent of people in Hong Kong.

Time Zone

GMT + 8

Electricity

220V 50Hz British 3-pin rectangular blade plug

Emergency numbers

Police, ambulance service, fire department and other emergency services by calling 999.

International Calling Code

+852 (There are no regional codes.)

Climate

Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Typhoon season begins in May and ends in November. The Average Temperature in summer (June to August) is 26°C – 31°C.

For detailed weather information, please visit the Hong Kong Observatory website.

Currency

The local currency unit is the Hong Kong dollar (HK$) which is currently pegged to the U.S. dollar at HK$7.8 to US$1. Notes are issued in denominations of HK$1,000, HK$500, HK$100, HK$50, HK$20 and HK$10. Currency can be changed at banks, hotels or money-changers. There are no restrictions on currencies brought into or taken out of Hong Kong.

Religion

Hong Kong residents enjoy religious freedom under the Basic Law and relevant legislation. Religions practiced in Hong Kong include Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism and Judaism. Some religious bodies also run schools, and health and welfare facilities.

Culture

Hong Kong has an eclectic culture rich in Chinese customs and generously sprinkled with influences from southeast Asia and the West. Traditional Chinese festivals are celebrated each year, as are western festivals such as Christmas.

Tipping

Most hotels and restaurants add a 10% service charge. Additional tipping is voluntary.