Trustroots Wiki - User contributions [en]

Hong Kong

2014-01-08T01:47:06Z

Gusgusgus: /* Latest Situation */

'''Hong Kong''' is part of [[China]], kind of.

[[File:Pauliyas_Hongkong.jpg|1060px|thumb|centre]]

== Hong Kong's Couch Situation ==

WARNING - We have reports coming in to our moderators about a Hong Kong CS member. The member is known to long-term HKCS members for his ill treatment of surfers and inappropriate behaviour toward young female surfers. There have been attempts to bring his misdeeds to light in the past but people still wanted to be hosted by him, despite some of his rather creepy negative references. His original profile has numerous detailed negative references which include stealing clothing, cheating surfers out of money, taking photos of female surfers while they are sleeping without their consent... the list goes on. This member has now resorted to making fake profiles. Although the fake ones that were brought to the Safety Team's attention have now been deleted, we suspect that he will simply create more, likely in multiple in order to post self-made references or include some of the fake profiles as 'friends' in order to make his profile look more legitimate.

We encourage you to avoid any members with multiple or disturbing negative references and click friend and reference links to try to establish whether they are real people. Please report any profiles that you suspect to be fake to the local moderator and the safety team. We feel this member is using HK's couch shortage to his advantage to prey on people and it's clear that his preferred targets are young women. Please plan ahead, arrive with enough money for a hostel and immediately get out of any situation which does not feel 'right' to you, even if you can't explain why. Should you need support going to law enforcement, we can provide this.

It may be hard for you to find a couch here. There are far more surfers than couches in our city.

Hong Kong is a densely populated city of small flats and high rents. It's also a business, tourism and travel hub. When searching for a couch in Hong Kong, please keep in mind that many of us can't host due to our living situation (small apartment shared with roommates/family, demanding work schedules) and that those of us who do host get many requests every day that we have to say "No" to or that we have trouble keeping on top of due to their sheer volume. 10-20 requests a day - that's per available couch - is not unusual here and some members have reported as many as 30 requests per day.

Members who have their couch settings set to "Coffee or a drink", "Travelling" or "No" also report getting Couch Requests. Please don't do this.

Members have also reported receiving messages with headings such as "URGENT! HELP NEEDED!" only to find that the requester has failed to a) research, b) plan for and c) budget for their Hong Kong accommodation. Please don't do this. Not only is it annoying and falsely indicative of a true emergency but this kind of behaviour also puts you in a vulnerable position safety-wise (see above). Be street smart and remember that your travel is your own responsibility.

Also remember that when you advertise your Couchsearch by posting on the Hong Kong city message board, your audience consists of an unknown percentage of potential couches (you know, the same people receiving all those Couch Requests they have to say no to), people who are local but don't host and a lot of fellow travellers looking for HK info and activities... who can't host you.

'''To minimize frustration, manage your expectations and keep our Hong Kong city message board FREE of Couch Requests, we encourage you to:'''

# Develop a firm plan B and be ready to use it.
# Start clicking that "CouchSearch" button early and be prepared to send out more requests than usual.
# Write personalized couch requests. Make sure your host is aware that you have read their profile and that you are interested not only in surfing their couch but meeting and connecting with them on a personal level.
# Arrange a guesthouse or hostel for your first few nights and then meet with people at our regular Thursday night gathering or by meeting with people for coffee or a drink. Travellers occasionally find a couch after networking once they arrive.

You can also try our
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=13624 Last Minute Couchsearch Group]

== Hong Kong Hostels and Guesthouses ==

The Hong Kong Youth Hostel Association has [http://www.yha.org.hk/eng/hostel.php?channel=hostels-overview seven youth hostels] with curfews located mostly [http://www.hihostels.com/dba/country-HK.en.htm?himap=Y#book outside the city]. Free shuttle bus service is provided by several hostels but the service stops at 10:30pm so you'll need to factor in $100 to $300 for late night and early morning arrivals.

For accomodation in the HK$150-$250 range within the city, the major backpacker's hostel area in Hong Kong include: Mongkok, Tsim Sha Shui and Causeway Bay. Most of Hong Kong's guesthouses and hostels are located in high-rise buildings called ... Mansion. Don't expect a European style hostel experience... or a real mansion. They usually offer very small motel style rooms for 1 or 2 people or a simple bedspace. The following places have been recommended by CSers.

* [http://www.yesinn.com/hk/ehostel.htm YesInn]
* [http://www.youthsquare.hk/en/#/YLoft YLoft Youth Square]
* [http://www.dragonhostel.com/ Dragon Hostel]
* [http://www.gardenhostel.com/ Garden Hostel]
* [http://www.hopinn.hk/en.html?article=&id=22 Hop Inn] (single rooms here are for a higher budget than the ones listed above)
* [http://sites.google.com/site/checkinnhk/home Check Inn HK] (also slightly higher budget than the ones listed above)

=== "Most hostels I found online are full, and I have no booking?" ===

Don't worry. There are more than 700 registered hostels in Hong Kong (according to a survey conducted in August 2011), it is almost impossible for all of them to be full at the same time.

Many of the hostels in Hong Kong (especially the ones in the locations listed out below) do not do online booking and they don't have their own website so you have a good chance of finding rooms there if you visit them in person once you arrive, especially during busy holiday seasons.

The following buildings have plenty of hostels (at least 20) in each of them. The streets listed below also have hostel clusters.

* Kowloon: Tsim Sha Tsui: Chungking Mansion – 36-44 Nathan Road (Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station, Exit E) (Yes, that's the Chungking in Chungking Express [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109424/]) - According to a survey in August 2011, there are more than 160 registered hostels in Chungking Mansion.

* Kowloon: Tsim Sha Tsui:: Mirador Mansion – 54-64B Nathan Road (Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station, Exit E)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Sincere House – 83 Argyle Street (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit D2)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Wing Wah Building – 40 Shantung Street (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit E)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Fa Yuen Street (between Argyle Street and Soy Street) (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit E)

The following websites can help you to look for reasonably priced guesthouses in Hong Kong.

* [http://www.hostelworld.com Hostelworld]
* [http://www.hostelbookers.com Hostelbookers]
* [http://www.booking.com Booking.com]

=== Mid-range and Higher end Accommodation ===
These are another option for budget travellers if your couchsearch doesn't work out and hostel reservations are hard to make. Team up with other CSers and you can share costs.
* [http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/china/hong-kong-r1973696/ Lonely Planet's list of mid-range hotel options]
* [http://www.caritas-chs.org.hk/eng/lodge_srv.asp Caritas Lodge] $420(single)-$720(triple)/night, $7,500-$11,700/month
* [http://hotel.ywca.org.hk/eng/AnneBlack/anne_room_rates.htm The Anne Black YWCA] $600-$1,100/night
* [http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2012/jul/04/top-10-budget-hotels-hong-kong Top 10 budget hotels in Hong Kong] Prices are listed in UK pounds.

General info on Hong Kong hotels *[http://12hk.com/accomo/hotels.shtml Link 1] *[http://12hk.com/accomo/ChoosingAHotel.shtml Link 2]

=== Short/Long term stay ===

Some websites that our CS-ers recommend, if you're looking for flatshare/renting a flat in Hong Kong:

* [http://hongkong.gumtree.com.hk Gumtree]

* [http://hongkong.craigslist.hk/hhh/ Craigslist]

* [http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/property/ Asiaxpat]

* [http://cityloft.com.hk Cityloft]

Or try our [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=36058 "Apartment/Flat-Share Hunting"] subgroup under the CS Hong Kong group.

Click [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=9552395 here] for a CSers list of reasonably priced serviced apartment providers in HK.

== Getting Around ==
Public transportation is a Hong Kong specialty. It's something this city does very well. Quick and efficient, you can get almost anywhere in town by some kind of combination of the methods listed below. However, don't expect a taxi driver to have either an encyclopedic knowledge of the city's roads or a GPS device. And if you're going somewhere that isn't a landmark, try to copy down the Chinese name for it or the name of a nearby landmark. It's also helpful to have a map, even a hand-drawn one, with you.

=== From Airport to City ===

'''The MTR Airport Express Train'''
is the fastest way to get to the airport from Central. Express trains run every 12 minutes from around 6 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. Journeys from the airport to Hong Kong station take approximately 24 minutes and a round-trip ticket costs HK$180.00.
The MTR runs 24 hours on New Year's Eve.
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/airport_express/timetable_index.html Airport Express Timetable]
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/airport_express/tf_index.html Airport Express Fares]

'''Bus''' to/from the airport from/to various parts of the city
* [http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/routes/airport-bus/route/index.aspx?intLangID=1 Airport Bus Routes (Day + Night services)]

'''Transfer to MTR''' Buses S1 or S56 take you from the airport to the nearest MTR station (Tung Chung Station).

'''Taxi'''
* to Hong Kong Island - at least HKD300
* to Kowloon - at least HKD250
* to New Territories (except Lantau Island) - at least HKD180
* to Lantau Island - at least HKD50

=== MTR ===
[[File:MTR_train.JPG|350px|left|thumb|]]
The Mass Transit Railway is efficient and reliable and covers the major areas of the city. It can also be taken across the border to Shenzhen. Note that you'll need a visa to enter Shenzhen.
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/jplanner/flash_eng/index.php MTR Route and Fare map]

=== Octopus Card ===
[[File:OctopusCard.jpg|right|thumb|Octopus Card]]
If you're staying for more than a few days, consider buying an Octopus stored-value card. It can be used to pay for the MTR, buses, minibuses, trams and ferries and you can also buy things at 7-11 or Welcome grocery stores with them. The cards are available at service counters at any MTR station. The minimum price is HK$100 plus a HK$50 deposit (refundable when you leave Hong Kong, minus a HK$9 service charge). For travel, simply swipe the card on the unmissable yellow Octopus pad, and the fare is automatically deducted. Airport Express travel pass cards are HK$220 for a single Airport Express journey plus three days' unlimited travel on the MTR, or pay HK$300 for two Airport Express trips plus three days' MTR travel.

=== Buses ===
Buses in Hong Kong are plentiful. Most are double deckers and are excessively air-conditioned. The air-con feels nice on short trips during the summer but for longer trips or on colder days, you can start to lose the feeling in your extremities. Bring a jacket... or a thermal blanket. Fares are based on distance travelled. Exact change is required. Octopus cards are accepted.

The routes are split between several companies and they go to places all over the territory.
* [http://www.kmb.hk/en/services/search.html Kowloon Motor Bus]
* [http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/routes/routesearch.aspx?searchtype=3&intLangID=1 New World First Bus and Citybus]
* [http://www.newlantaobus.com/nlb_map.htm New Lantau Bus]

=== Minibuses ===
Minibuses are small passenger buses that carry about 16 people. Green minibuses operate on specific routes at fixed prices. Exact payment is required when getting on. Octopus cards are accepted. Red minibuses operate on routes that are not always fixed and passengers can get on and off anywhere along the route except where special prohibitions apply. Pay as you alight. The driver can provide change for small notes.

At a terminus, minibuses often don't depart until they're full. En route, they must be flagged down at a designated stop. They won't stop at your destination unless you tell them to with a "Yau lok mgoi," so you need to know where you're supposed to get off or be a gambling type. If you have something that clearly shows where you want to get off or a clearly written Chinese address, the driver may be helpful but if you're not sure where you're going or have no Chinese references to show the driver, they probably won't have the time or ability to help you.
Seatbelt law applies... if you can find them.

=== Taxi ===
Taxis are relatively cheap compared with other international cities. Starting at HK$20 for the first 2 km, the fare increases by HK$1.50 per 200 metres. If you cross the harbor tunnels, expect to pay the return tunnel toll charge. There are lots of taxis and flagging them down with a wave is easy, but they don't stop at double yellow lines. Receipts given on request. It's always a good idea to have a map clearly showing your destination or the address written in Chinese as most drivers don't speak much English and may not be familiar with certain streets or areas of town even if they do. Your drivers will appreciate any references to local landmarks or major hotels that you can give them. And there's a seatbelt law so buckle up.

'''One thing to watch out for'''

Red taxis legally must take you anywhere in Kowloon or on Hong Kong Island but sometimes they have a preferred destination at shift change times. They usually use a piece of cardboard to cover/uncover their flag light on the dashboard as a signal. Cardboard on means the driver is looking for Kowloon passengers. No cardboard means they're looking for Hong Kong passengers. This isn't much of an issue when you can find the taxis going your way around the corner. It however does become a problem when you have something heavy to carry or you can't find a taxi going your way. Beware that some drivers will refuse to take you or 'get lost' if you insist. If you're in a tight spot, we we suggest you explain to the driver and bug him 'til he sees the light and then keep an eye out to prevent 'getting lost'.

=== Tram ===
One of our earliest forms of public transit is still going strong. For HK$2.30 per adult, $1.20 for children under 12 and $1 for seniors 65+, you can ride along the north side of Hong Kong Island from Shau Kei Wan to Kennedy Town. Just get on at the back and pay at the front as you alight. Octopus cards are accepted.

=== Ferries ===

'''The Star Ferry''' - This operates between the Central/Wan Chai and TST/Hung Hom ferry piers on an ever shrinking channel of water. Once heavily travelled by commuters and tourists alike, it's becoming more of a tourist phenomenon due to the relocation of the pier on the island side some years ago. You can get some great skyline photos from the ferry on a clear day.
* [http://www.starferry.com.hk/services.html Star Ferry map, schedule and fare info]

'''Outlying Island ferries''' - There are several companies which operate ferries to Lantau Island (Discovery Bay and Mui Wo), Lamma Island (Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan), Cheung Chau, Peng Chau and other islands around Hong Kong. For schedules and fares, check the links.

* [http://www.nwff.com.hk/eng/fare_table/ New World First Ferry] HK Island/ Kowloon, outlying islands and Macau

* [http://www.hkkf.com.hk/index.php?op=timetable&style=en Hong Kong and Kowloon Ferry Holdings Ltd.] Hong Kong, Lamma and Peng Chau

* [http://www.hkri.com/icms2/template?series=101&article=3421 Discovery Bay Transportation Services] 24 hour service between Central and Discovery Bay

* [http://www.hongkongclimbing.com/guides/tunglung/index.html Tung Lung Island Ferry]

'''Hong Kong/Macau/China ferries'''
* [http://www.turbojet.com.hk/eng/schedule/prd.html Turbojet]
* [http://www.nwff.com.hk/eng/fare_table/local-macau/?section=Macau New World First Ferry]
* [http://cotaijet.com.mo/en/destinations/index.aspx Cotai Jet]
* [http://www.macaodragon.com/website/default.aspx Macau Dragon]
* [http://www.cksp.com.hk/eng/home.html Chu Kong]

=== Further info ===
* [http://www.td.gov.hk/en/transport_in_hong_kong/public_transport/index.html Transport Dept website overview]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==
[[File:Hong_Kong_at_night.jpg|1060px|thumb|centre]]

=== Main Nightlife Areas ===
'''Central''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2fyg65g Lan Kwai Fong and Soho] / '''Wan Chai''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2crjj86 Lockhart Road] /
'''Tsim Sha Tsui''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2dex4fd Knutsford Terrace]

=== Magazines and Event listings ===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows.

* [http://hk.asia-city.com/nightlife HK Magazine] Free print copies available around town.
* [http://www.timeout.com.hk/clubs/ Timeout HK] Print copies available at bookstores and some clubs.
* [http://hkticketing.com/eng/ Hong Kong Ticketing] Be sure to scroll down the yellow column on the right hand side to see all the listed shows.
* [http://www.hkclubbing.com/ HKClubbing.com]
* [http://www.hongkonghustle.com/ Hong Kong Hustle]
* [http://www.s-n-s.com/ s-n-s.com] Click on "SnS Lifestyle Event Calendar" for a listing of a range of events. The list is Hong Kong-centric but also includes some events for Beijing, Shanghai, Singapore, New York and London.
* [http://www.hongkongevents.com Hong Kong Events]
* [http://www.hkfringeclub.com Hong Kong Fringe Club] Hong Kong's leading alternative performing/visual arts venue.
* [http://www.hiphongkong.com Hip Hong Kong]

=== Bars ===
Some favourite local haunts include:
(Central, Soho and Wanchai.)
* [http://www.hiphongkong.com/drink/bars/nightclubs/lounges/le_jardin_bar_lan_kwai_fong_hong_kong Le Jardin] bar, weekly meetup venue
* [http://www.facebook.com/#!/Yumla Yumla] bar, dancing, house music
* [http://www.ilovesoho.hk/features/secret-spots/club-71 Club 71] bar, al fresco, chilled
* [http://www.hiphongkong.com/drink/bars/nightclubs/underground_bars/makumba_african_bar_soho_hong_kong Makumba] African bar, dancing, World music/French influence
* [http://www.mesamis.com.hk/mesamis/menus/venues/wan-chai Mes Amis] bar, dancing, pop music

=== The Underground ===
[[File:ElectricEelShock2006.JPG|320px|left|thumb|Electric Eel Shock in HK 2006]]

Events, venues and organizations
* [http://www.hkfringe.com.hk/ The Fringe Club]
* [http://www.frommers.com/destinations/hongkong/N28933.html The Wanch]
* [http://www.hongkonghustle.com/tag/the-warehouse-aberdeen/ The Warehouse, Aberdeen]
* [http://www.whitenoiserecords.org/ White Noise Records]

=== Comedy ===
* [http://www.takeoutcomedy.com/site/shows/ Takeout Comedy] - live standup and improv shows, local and international performers, most shows in English, Cantonese shows on Mondays and Thursday
* [http://comedy.hk/?ai1ec_event=hkbrewhouse-openmic&instance_id=8855 Free Open Mic Night] Every Wednesday in Central

=== Restaurants ===
* [http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/index.htm Openrice HK restaurant search engine]
* [http://www.frommers.com/destinations/hongkong/78_inddin.html Frommers HK restaurant listings]
* [http://www.eatdrinkhongkong.com/ EatDrink HK restaurant listings]

Vegetarian Restaurants:
* [http://www.happycow.net/asia/china/hong_kong/hong_kong_island/ Vegetarian restaurant listings]
* [http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/sr1.htm?dishes_id=1011&amenity_id=&theme_id=&price=&inputcategory=cname&inputstrrest=&ST=1 Another list of vegetarian restaurants]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8610921 A group discussion thread]
* [http://morethansalad.com/earth/asia/china/hong_kong/hong_kong/ Website of our CS friend Dan F - who did a vegetarian food tour in HK]
* [http://doufumafia.com/tag/hong-kong/ HK Vegetarian blog]

Vegan Restaurants:
* [http://vegan.hk/restaurant-HK.html Vegan restaurant listing]
* [http://www.holisticasia.com Holistic Asia] For listings of holistic/alternative/complementary health and healing events.

=== Karaoke ===
* [http://www.musicbox-hk.com/karaoke Music Box]
* [http://www.redbox.com.my/redbox/eng/default.asp Red Box/Green Box]
* [http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/sr1.htm?amenity_id=1012 Karaoke listings on Open Rice]

* [http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/hong-kong-karaoke-010208 CNNGo's take on the 5 best karaokes in HK (Mar 2010)]

== Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors ==
[[File:Clear_Water_Bay.jpg|250px|right|thumb|Clear Water Bay]]
[[File:Hong_Kong_waterfall.jpg|250px|right|thumb|A waterfall in one of Hong Kong's country parks]]
'''Hiking'''
* [http://www.hiking-in-hong-kong.com/hiking-trails/area/index.html Hiking in Hong Kong trail index]
Be sure to check these boards for regular hiking activities
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 Hong Kong CS Group]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=15546 Hiking in Hong Kong Subgroup]

'''Running and Hiking events'''
* [http://www.oxfamtrailwalker.org.hk/opencms.war/opencms/_info_/homepage.jsp?__locale=en Oxfam Trailwalker]
* [http://www.hkhillrunning.com/ English guide to hill races in HK]
* [http://www.standardchartered.com.hk/sustainability/local_community_initiatives/standard_chartered_hk_marathon/en/index.html Standard Chartered HK Marathon]

'''Swimming and Beaches'''
* [http://www.hkoutdoors.com/hong-kong/hong-kong-beaches.html HK Outdoors Beaches guide]

'''Camping'''
* [http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/camp/en/p_campsite.php List of Hong Kong campgrounds]

'''Wakeboarding and Waterskiing'''
* [http://www.thelist.com.hk/listings/sports-water/wakeboarding-waterskiing-0 The List]

'''Windsurfing and Kayaking'''
* [http://www.ccwindc.com.hk/Cheung_Chau_Windsurfing_Centre/Gear_Rental_Price_List.html Cheung Chau windsurfing and kayaking]

* [http://kayaks.com.hk/en/index.htm Sai Kung Windsurfing Centre]

''' Diving'''
* [http://www.asiadivesite.com/hong-kong-dive-sites/ HK diving info]
* [http://www.scdc.org.hk/diving.html South China Diving Club]

'''Rock Climbing'''
* [http://www.hongkongclimbing.com/ English guide to outdoor climbing in HK]

'''Para-gliding'''
* [http://www.hkpa.net/ Hong Kong Paragliding Association]

'''Snowboarding'''
* [http://www.slopeinfinity.com/index.html Slope Infinity] Indoor snowless snowboarding

== Language Exchange ==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Hong Kong from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Mandarin/Cantonese for English seems to be the most popular combination wanted here but there are also many other languages on offer from Japanese to Russian. Here are some of your options:

For one on one exchange:
* [http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/personals/language-exchange/ Asiaxpat Language Exchange notices]
* [http://mylanguageexchange.com/Search.asp?selCountry=41&selTxtChat=true mylanguageexchange.com]

Groups that meet regularly:
* [http://www.meetup.com/Mandarin-English-Language-Exchange/ Meetup.com Mandarin English Language Exchange]
* [https://www.facebook.com/hklcec?sk=wall Hong Kong Language and Cultural Exchange Club (this group has social outings just for fun or for language/cultural exchange)]

Language exchange social networks:
* [http://www.livemocha.com/ Livemocha.com is an online social network for language exchangers]

Hong Kong CS language groups
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=41357 HKCS Language Exchange sub-group]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=10077149 Mandarin English Exchange Group Ruggers Bar]

'''Paid language courses'''

HKU Space has a [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/programme/category/languages-humanities#&sort=start_date+asc variety of language courses available] including French, German, Italian, Spanish and Russian.
* [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/intensive-intro-putonghua Intensive Introductory Putonghua for non-Chinese speakers]
* [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/int-mandarin Intermediate Putonghua for non-Chinese speakers]
* [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/cantonese-i Cantonese level 1]

[http://www.ymcahkcollege.edu.hk/en/skillsupgrading.htm The Hong Kong YMCA] also has courses in Mandarin and Cantonese for non-Chinese speakers.

== Sightseeing ==
Hong Kong is extremely easy to get around by subway, taxi, bus, minibus, walking etc. You can easily design your own itinerary picking the places that you want to visit from below. Most people do not need a tour guide for Hong Kong. For an overview, here are two fun timelapse videos of Hong Kong featuring many of the city's famous landmarks:
# [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlDD-7oT8z0 Hong Kong: Funky Time Lapse] on youtube.
# [http://vimeo.com/25607851 timelapse Hong Kong] on Vimeo.

'''Cultural Heritage and Building architecture'''
# [http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Monument/en/trails_cw.php Sample itinerary and walk tour - Central area] with a very useful map
# [http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Monument/en/trails.php Temples and historic villages]

'''Markets'''
# '''Stanley Market''' Stanley is famous for its relaxed ambience, sea environs and bargain buys in the main street market. Stanley Market is open daily, 10:30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m..
# '''Temple Street Night Market''' Temple Street night market opens at 4 pm, but really comes alive after sunset. It offers an amazing range of inexpensive items, especially for men. There are also fortune-tellers and impromptu Chinese opera performances.
# '''Jade Market and Jade Street''' The Jade Market, located in Yau Ma Tei at the junction of Kansu and Battery Street, features 400 stalls selling jade of all types, shades, sizes and prices. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Nearby is Jade Street, located on Canton Road between Kansu Street and Jordan Road, with shops open 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Jade and gemstone testing is available at Jade Plaza.
# '''Ladies Market''' The Ladies Market in Tung Choi Street is the place for bags, accessories and inexpensive women's clothing. Men's and children's clothing and toys are also on sale. Open daily from noon to 11:30 p.m.
# '''Bird garden/ flower market/ goldfish market''' The charming Chinese-style garden on Yuen Po Street includes some 70 songbird stalls as well as courtyards and moon gates. Look and listen but it’s wise to avoid contact with the birds. The Bird Garden is open from 7am to 8pm, daily. The colourful Flower Market sells everything from Dutch tulips to exotic orchids, open daily from 7am to 7pm. The Goldfish market on nearby Tung Choi Street sells aquariums, corals and exotic fish, open daily from 10:30am to 10pm.
# '''Western Market''' This Edwardian-style building features arts and crafts, fabric shops, alfresco dining, and ballroom dancing.
# '''[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=9262012 Local neighbourhood street markets discussion]'''

'''Temples, Monasteries, Nunneries'''
# '''Man Mo Temple''' One of Hong Kong's oldest temples, dedicated to two deities, the ‘civil’ (Man) and the ‘military’ (Mo).
# '''Chi Lin Nunnery''' The serene 1930s Chi Lin Nunnery (rebuilt in 1998) is spread across 3.2 hectares and is China’s largest group of hand-crafted timber buildings incorporating traditional Tang dynasty (618-907AD) construction techniques.
# '''Po Lin Monastery, Giant Buddha and Wisdom Path''' Located on Lantau, this is one of Hong Kong's largest temples and monasteries, housing the world's tallest outdoor bronze seated Buddha, at 34 m (111ft.) high.

'''Parks'''
# '''Hong Kong Park''' Overlooked by the towers of Pacific Place and Admiralty on one side and Central on the other, the park features a hot house, a Tai Chi garden, a waterfall and the Museum of Tea Ware.
# '''Kowloon Park''' An oasis in the heart of Kowloon next to the Kowloon Mosque. Enjoy a walk among the trees, a bird sanctuary, fountains and a swimming pool.
# '''Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens''' Looking down on the old Government House, the Gardens date back to 1864. Look out for the gibbons and orangutans.

'''Theme Parks'''
# '''Ocean Park''' [http://www.oceanpark.com.hk/html/en/home/]
# '''Hong Kong Disneyland''' [http://park.hongkongdisneyland.com/hkdl/en_US/home/home?name=HomePage]

'''Other references'''
# For more ideas check the [http://couchwiki.org/en/Hong_Kong_Sightseeing Hong Kong Sightseeing Wiki]
# For a very long alphabetical listing of HK areas and sights to see check here [http://www.homeandabroad.com/c/64/64_Hong_Kong_visit_guide.html]
# For Lonely Planet's list of things to do in Hong Kong (based on a recent survey of Lonely Planet readers), see [http://www.lonelyplanet.com/china/hong-kong/things-to-do]
# For a blogger's list of ten things to do in HK check here [http://velvetescape.com/blog/2011/05/ten-things-to-do-in-hong-kong/]
# You can check out some panoramic photos of popular spots at [http://www.360cities.net/map#lat=22.30195&lng=114.17417&zoom=13 360cities.net]
# For more tips about what to see/do in Hong Kong, see [http://guidepal.com/hong-kong]
# For more tourist info about Hong Kong, see [http://ilovehongkong.org/ I Love Hong Kong]
# For a blogger's tips and other HK info, see [http://annatam.com/category/hong-kong/hong-kong-travel-tips/ Journey to Hong Kong]
# Welcome to Hong Kong - a guide for visitors and expats [http://www.hiphongkong.com/visitors_tourist_guide_hong_kong]

== Shopping ==

* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=10146718 Info about English bookstores in Hong Kong]

* [http://couchwiki.org/en/Hong_Kong_Shopping Hong Kong Shopping Wiki]

== Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year ==

=== Christmas ===
Christmas Day (Dec. 25th) and Boxing Day (first weekday after Xmas) are holidays in Hong Kong and from late November onwards you'll see the decorations and commercial displays in stores as you do in many other places. You'll also see some elaborate lighting displays go up on tall buildings on both sides of the harbour. It's a local tradition to walk around TST near the waterfront and look at the lights and take photos in front of them on Christmas Day. Some roads are blocked off and traffic diverted to facilitate this. It gets crowded in the evenings so if you're keen to test the limits of your personal space, it's an excellent place and time to go for a stroll.

Hong Kong doesn't come to a standstill for these holidays even though business and government offices are closed. While museums and other venues may close early - usually 5 pm - and other places may be on modified hours, most shops and restaurants are still open as they are normally.

There are various events and displays at local theme parks, shopping malls and special concerts and events such as carolling around town. There are also traditional midnight masses at places like St. John's Cathedral but, here's that phrase again, they can be crowded. They often set up speakers outside the church and people take part in the mass there.

* [http://www.discoverhongkong.com/festivehk2010/eng/winter/overview.jsp Winterfest Christmas and New Year events 2010]

=== New Year ===
December 31st is a night to party and January 1st is a public holiday. But if you want to go to one of the big events like the countdown in Times Square or want to stake out a good spot to see the fireworks, head out early and keep your group together. Roads get blocked off, traffic is diverted, there are loooots of people and security measures are in place which can mean that if you and your buddies get separated, you might remain that way and ring in the new year alone.

The MTR runs all night on New Year's Eve and there are extra bus and minibus services but keep in mind that some roads are blocked off and there are traffic measures in place. Ferries to Discovery Bay also run all night but on a modified schedule.

The crowd control measures, barricades, lines and security presence might be a pain and seem excessive but it's for a reason. In 1993, 20 people died when there was a stampede during the new year celebrations in Lan Kwai Fong. Please listen to the police, respect the barricades and do your best to seek out less crowded spots to celebrate.

* [http://www.fodors.com/community/asia/help-planning-hong-kong-itinerary-please.cfm Sample itineraries and info]
* [http://gohongkong.about.com/od/eventsinhongkong/tp/newyearinhongkong.htm New Year's Eve events in HK]

=== Chinese New Year ===
[[File: Chinese_New_Year.jpg|400px|right|thumb|Lion Dancers]]
This is the biggie.
The dates for the lunar new year change every year according to the lunar calendar and swing between late January and mid-February. In 2012, the dates are Jan 23,24 and 25 and 2012 will be the year of the dragon.
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_new_year#Dates Chinese New Year Dates up to 2031]

This is about the only time of year that Hong Kong quietens down a bit. Lots of people go on holiday. Those that stay spend time at home with their family and, for about the only time all year, most shops will be closed during this period until Feb 6. The crowds you're used to the rest of the year, disappear. Well, sort of.

There's still lots to do and crowds to be found. Parades, fireworks, flower markets, Chinese New Year fair in Victoria Park, horse racing...

* [http://www.discoverhongkong.com/festivehk2010/eng/cny/overview.jsp Overview of CNY events in HK]
* [http://www.12hk.com/festivals/CNY/ChineseNewYearFlowerMarket.shtml CNY Eve Flower market in Victoria Park]
* [http://www.hongkonghustle.com/tag/chinese-new-year-market/ See, crowds]

Other major holidays - note that Hong Kong does not have the Golden Weeks that mainland China does.
* [http://www.gov.hk/en/about/abouthk/holiday/ List of HK holidays for 2013]
* [http://timeanddate.com/calendar/?year=2012&country=42 HK calendar for 2012]

== Crossing the border ==
* Planes: multiple daily flights leave from Hong Kong International Airport (Chek Lap Kok) to airports in mainland China.
* Trains: The subway of Hong Kong and Shenzhen connect to each other (you'll need to get off the train for transit and custom office crossing)
# The MTR East rail line goes Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau where you disembark to cross the border into Shenzhen.
# Intercity trains to Dongguan, Foshan, Guangzhou East rail station and Zhaoqing leave from Hung Hom station daily.
* [http://www.it3.mtr.com.hk/B2C/frmScheduleGuangdong.asp?strLang=Eng Fares, schedules and online ticketing] Note that once you are in China, rail tickets for any destination cannot be purchased online. They must be purchased at the rail station itself.
* Ferries: Ferry services run from Hong Kong to the province of Guangdong in mainland China, departing from both the city centre and the Airport. See the Ferry section above for more information.[http://couchwiki.org/en/Hong_Kong#Ferries]
* Buses: These private companies operate bus services to many locations in Guangdong, Guangxi and Fujian Province:
# http://www.trans-island.com.hk/
# http://www.eebus.com/
# http://www.gdhkmtc.com/schedule.html
* Hong Kong airport to Shenzhen airport - see discussion [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=13289591 here]

== Visas ==
'''Warning''': This section is intended to help you understand the basics of Hong Kong and China Visas and give you a foundation from which to move forward and make decisions. However, China has a complicated visa policy that is constantly changing for various reasons. Prices, availability, conditions etc. are all subject to change without notice. Although we try to provide helpful, updated information here to help you navigate the process, you must do your own additional research. If you have updated info for us, please let us know and we'll try to incorporate it as soon as possible.

=== Visa for Hong Kong ===

Holders of many passports can travel to Hong Kong visa free.

Visa requirements for holders of different passports, please see [http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_4.htm#part2 this] list maintained by the Hong Kong Government:

If you intend to move to Hong Kong or to stay in Hong Kong for a long time, there are various Hong Kong visa options:
[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_1.htm Hong Kong's Immigration Department website]

[http://www.hongkongvisahandbook.com/hong_kong_visa_handbook_2011_a_guide_to_immigration_employment_investment_work_permit_and_residency_applications.html A list of Hong Kong visa options] Note that this links to a business website not a government website and is for reference only.

[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_10.htm Hong Kong's Working Holiday Scheme]

[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_10a.htm List of eligible countries and basic regulations for the Working Holiday Scheme]

=== Visa for mainland China (ex HK/Macau/Taiwan) ===

Most visitors of mainland China require a visa to visit mainland China, except holders of Singaporean and Japanese passports and holders of Hong Kong Permanent Identity card with Chinese ancestry.

There are 8 types of Chinese visa. The popular types are: L Visa (for tourist), F Visa (for business), Z Visa (for work), X Visa (for study) and G Visa (for transit in Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing airports).

China has a complicated visa policy that is constantly changing for various reasons. The visa requirements for holders of different passports are different. It is highly advisable that you check with the Chinese Embassy in your home country shortly before you visit China.

Hong Kong is a popular place for foreigners to apply for Chinese visas, because the time required for the granting of visa is relatively short compared to most foreign Chinese embassies.

'''L Visa: different sub-categories'''[[File:L-visa.jpg|300px|right|thumb|L Visa - All visas require one full passport page]]
(Note: If you plan to visit the Tibet region of China, you will need to obtain a separate permit in addition to the L Visa.
# Single/double entry in 3 months
#* available to all nationalities
#* '''this is the most common visa that most travelers are granted'''
#* application methods:
#*# via Chinese embassy in your home country (3-10 days)
#*# via CTS in Hong Kong (4 working days, expect to queue up for 1-2 hours)
#*# via visa agents in Hong Kong (0.5-1 working day, most agents charge ~HK$80 as handling fee)
# Single/double entry in 6 months
#* available to all nationalities
#* not a common visa, however, for overseas Chinese visiting relatives in China, it is sometimes granted
#* application methods: same as in item (1) above.
# Multiple entries in 6 months/1 year
#* only for holders of Hong Kong identity card (permanent or non-permanent), whatever passport the applicant is holding
#* application methods
#*# via Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong (about a week)
#*# via CTS (4 working days)
# Visa on arrival: 5-day visa for visit to Shenzhen only
#* for certain nationalities only (as of June 2010 - holders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, Ecudor, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Panama, most EU countries passports) - RMB160 for most nationalities (Note: many exceptions, eg. RMB460 for British)
#* the visa only allow the holder to stay in Shenzhen only. Holder of the visa must exit Shenzhen to Hong Kong (by land) or to Macau (by ferry), you may not travel to any other part of China with this visa.
#* application methods
#*# via Luo Hu Border Custom Building (go up 2/F after crossing the HK-Shenzhen bridge at the Lo Wu border point) (30 minutes)
#*# via Shekou Ferry Terminal (go straight after landing in the Shekou pier) (15 minutes)
#*# Note (1): Not available in Huanggong, Futian (aka Lok Ma Chau), Man Kam To and Sha Tau Kok custom points
#*# Note (2): The policy for the 5-day Shenzhen visa changes from time to time and from our past experience there is no announcement of change. If you intend to apply for this visa at the border, it is advisable that you call the Lo Wu border office (see contact number below) before your trip to check whether your passport is qualified under the latest version of the policy.
#*# Note (3): Further discussion - http://www.evisaasia.com/visa-guide/shenzhen-five-days-visa/
# Visa on arrival: 5-day visa for visit to Zhuhai only
#* for certain nationalities only (as of June 2010 - holders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, Ecudor, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Panama, most EU countries passports) - RMB160 for most nationalities (Note: many exceptions, eg. RMB460 for British)
#* the visa only allow the holder to stay in Zhuhai only. Holder of the visa must exit Zhuhai to Macau (by land) or to Hong Kong (by ferry), you may not travel to any other part of China with this visa.
#* application methods
#*# via Zhuhai Jiuzhou Ferry Terminal (turn right and walk down the narrow corridor after arriving in the ferry terminal) (15 minutes)
#*# Note (1): Not available in Gongbei custom points
#*# Note (2): See Note (2) and (3) for 5-day Shenzhen visa on arrival above.

=== Contacts details ===
===1. Ministry of Foreign Affairs===
[http://www.fmcoprc.gov.hk/eng/zgqz/bgfwxx/default.htm English visa info]
:Address: China Resources building, 26Harbor Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong
:Office Hour: Monday to Friday (except public holidays in Hong Kong)
:Morning: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 a. m.
:Afternoon:2:00p.m.-5:00p.m
:Tel: 852-34132300(according to the website, it's a 24 hour Recorded Visa Information Service but experiences may vary), 852-34132424 (Live Answering Telephone available in office hours )

=== 2. CTS ===
(China Travel Service) - the official visa agent of the Chinese government
:Details: http://www.ctshk.com/english/useful/chinesevisa.htm
:Offices in HK: http://www.ctshk.com/english/aboutus/branch_hkgmac.htm

=== 3. Visa agents ===
: These are some visa agents that our CS-ers have had good experience using:

:* [http://www.fbt-chinavisa.com.hk/ Forever Bright Trading Limited]

:* [http://www.jta.biz/chinavisa/china_visa.htm Japan Travel Service Ltd] (with a list of visa fees for different passports)

:* [http://www.cosmicguesthouse.com/services/china-visa.htm Cosmic Guest House]

:* GuangZhou Guest House, Flat B1/10F Mirador Mansion, 54-64 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui (phone 2311 3085): cheap and fast, for example: 1 day processing time and HKD430 for 3 months single entry, HKD550 for 2 entries (German passport)

=== 4. Lo Wu Custom ===
: Tel: 86-755-82327700 (speaks only mandarin)
: Service hour: 10am - 10pm.

=== Latest Situation ===

These are the latest visa conditions we heard from our CS-ers. (last updated: 27 June 2013):
:* China has imposed extra visa requirements for holders of Norwegian, French passports.
:* The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reduced the application fee for holders of Polish passports (RMB160).
:* [March 2011] There seems to be a quota on the number of Visa On Arrival granted each day - reason: The International University Sports Games is carrying on in Shenzhen
:* [15 July 2011] A headsup for everybody who intends to apply for a Chinese visa. The "International University Games" is going to take place in Shenzhen in the next couple of months and we are seeing that most CSers' Chinese visa applications for more than 30 days (Type L - travel) are being refused (ie. most people are granted only a 30-day visa - one entry)
:* [15 May 2012] Increased scrutiny of visa applications due to a 100 day action against illegal foreigners in China. See [http://shanghaiist.com/2012/05/15/beijing_begins_100-day_crackdown_on.php link] for more info.
:* [27 June 2013] 1) Time required for visa application processing increased from 1 day to 4 days. 2) Multiple entry F visa (6 months - 1 year) no longer granted. 3) Z visa no longer granted in HK. See [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=59854&post=14632805 link] for more info.
:* [8 January 2014] Single entry Tourist Visa fee increased to $680 for most EU nationalities (except the UK). It definitely takes 4 days instead of 6 hours at the 3 agents above. Travellers holding French passport can no longer apply for tourist visa in HK (except those who live in HK and holds a HKID Card).

'''''Recently it's been noticed that most people can only get 30 day visas. If you intend to travel in China for more than 30 days, do arrange your visa in the Chinese embassy in your home country prior to coming to HK.'''''

== Baggage Storage ==

If you're just passing through HK for a short time and want to leave your luggage at the airport, there's a baggage storage service. There are also lockers at the Macau and China Ferry Terminals, Sha Tin MTR station, Hong Kong station and the Hung Hom Inter-city train station.
* [http://www.hongkongairport.com/eng/passenger/departure/all/baggage/left-baggage.html Hong Kong Airport Baggage Storage information]
* [http://gohongkong.about.com/od/travelplanner/a/leftluggage.htm Overview of locker services at Hong Kong Station, the airport, the HK/Macau Ferry Terminal and the China Ferry Terminal]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=13624&post=10110709 Bag storage in Tung Chung, closest town to the airport]

For mid/long term luggage storage:
* [http://www.scstorage.com/index.php?lang=us SC Storage]
* [http://www.hongkongselfstorage.com/locker.html Hong Kong Self Storage]
* [http://www.thestorehouse.com.hk/sizeguide.html The Store House]
* [http://hongkongstorage.com/HKS/household.html Self Storage]
* [http://www.yes-storage.com/en/what-is-yes-storage/mini-storage-with-point-to-point-delivery.html Storage Boxes]

== Wi-Fi/ Internet Access / Mobile Internet ==

=== Free + Unlimited Wi-Fi ===
* HK Airport
* Most government premises ([http://www.gov.hk/en/theme/wifi/location/ link])

=== Free but limited Wi-Fi ===
* first 20 mins free in all McDonalds
* first 20 mins free in all Starbucks
* first 30 mins free in all Dragon Centre, Sham Shui Po (near MTR Exit C)

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7790735 more options listed on this HK Group thread]

=== Paid internet ===
* [http://www.i-one.com.hk/branch.php i-One] - HK's largest chain internet services shop

=== Computer booth (with free internet access) ===
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/facilities/icentre.html iCentre] - in 14 MTR stations
* All Pacific Coffee

=== Prepaid Mobile Internet ===

* Check [http://www2.pccwmobile.com/portal/gen/WEB/home/Services_And_Pricing/3G_Rechargeable_SIM_Card.jsp?lang=en&treeMenu=treeMenu_mainMenuID0&subMenu=subMenu_level_1ID0_3&parent=parent_level_1ID0_3 here] for details.

=== Prepaid BlackBerry Plans ===
* There are no prepaid BlackBerry plans in Hong Kong but inexpensive monthly plans are available. Check [http://www.peoples.com.hk/p_tariff_plan_blackberry_lite_en.jsp here] for details.

=== Prepaid Sim Card for iPad ===
* Check [http://www.three.com.hk/website/appmanager/three/home?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=P200470391219567710594&lang=eng&pageid=61I001 here] for details.

=== More info ===
The review on this blog is from 2009 but may still be a helpful reference. [http://browngeek.blogspot.com/2009/09/which-is-best-unlimited-data-plan-to.html Review of mobile data plans in Hong Kong]

== Money ==
The currency used in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD $). It's currently pegged to the US dollar. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport, at currency exchange outlets in major tourist areas or at local banks. Beware if your currency is heavily coin based - I'm looking at you Canadians - as coins cannot be exchanged. Your bank cards will also work in local ATMs. You can use Hong Kong dollars in Macau but not vice versa.
For an idea of exchange rates, you can try this website. [http://www.xe.com/ucc/ XE.com]

The currency used in mainland China is the renminbi (RMB, CNY, ¥), also known as the yuan.

== Cost of living ==
We've had some questions about the cost of living here. Hong Kong can be an expensive city but it can also suit tighter budgets if you play your cards right. Rent/housing will always be your biggest expense here. Here's a link to a thread on the topic to give you some idea.[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7577536#gpid7577536]

== Air quality ==
Hong Kong suffers from poor air quality. If you have respiratory conditions such as asthma, you'll likely need your inhaler. We have no such thing as Euro or California regulations on emissions and a fleet of diesel buses. One small step in the right direction has been converting taxis to LPG but we have a long way to go.

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_Pollution_Index#Hong_Kong HK's Air Pollution Index explained]

[http://www.epd-asg.gov.hk/eindex.html HK's Air Pollution Index at the EPD]

[http://hedleyindex.sph.hku.hk/home.php The Headley Environmental Index]

== The Amazing Race ==
Here are links to the most recent Hong Kong leg of The Amazing Race (US). You get to see and get a sense of several areas of the city.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ou7Cx7LLUJY&feature=related Part 1]

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-lg7ORbzqg&feature=related Part 2]

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYMjKaMgF8c&feature=related Part 3]

== FAQs ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7117576 1. Where can I take Cantonese classes?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7475127 2. Where can I get prepaid SIM cards?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5871216 3. How to renew Chinese visa within China?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7577536#gpid7577536 4. Moving to HK, Cost of living] [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7402561#gpid7402561 answer 2]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7848982 5. Going from Shenzhen Airport to HK City at night]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7520022 6. Salsa dancing places in Hong Kong]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8263436 7. Outdoor Cafes in Hong Kong]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8393230 8. Hostels/hotels near the airport]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8530996 9. Useful budget flight/hotel websites in Asia]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8632531 10. Going to Shenzhen by bus via Huang Gang]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8659656 11. Home internet service providers - ISPs]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8862633 12. Alternatives to hotels, hostels and couches for 24-48 hour stopovers]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8840560 13. Ideas for 3-5 hour stopovers]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=12445697 14. Sharings of HK CS hosts]

== HK Travel and Tourism related articles ==

[http://goop.com/newsletter/115/ Gwyneth Paltrow's take on HK]

[http://laineygossip.com/Gwyneth_Paltrow_GOOP_Hong_Kong_03feb11.aspx?CatID=0&CelID=0 Rebuttal to Goop's take on HK from CBC blogger Elaine Liu]

[http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/04/hong-kong-gadget-flea-market-a-blast-from-the-past/ Engadget feature on Sham Shui Po]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/88-things-do-summer-654587?page=0,0 CNNGo's 88 Things to do in the summer in Hong Kong]

[http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/beachside-camping-getaway-on-lantau-island-just-a-one-hour-ferry-ride-from-hong-kong/2011/05/10/AFfDcuiG_story.html# The Washington Post goes camping near Pui O]

[http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/08/25/finding-fireflies-during-the-hong-kong-summer/ The New York Times Travel blog finds fireflies in HK]

[http://travel.nytimes.com/2011/05/22/travel/inside-hong-kongs-private-kitchens.html The New York Times checks out some of the newest private kitchens]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/50-secret-tips-hong-kong-sightseeing-371481 CNN Go's 45 sightseeing tips for HK]

[http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/08/06/destination.adventure.hong.kong/index.html CNN's travel tips for newbies and a slideshow of some of our major attractions]

[http://www.worldcrunch.com/chungking-mansions-globalization-packed-inside-one-hong-kong-high-rise/3691 La Stampa via Worldcrunch - Chungking Mansions]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/visit/complete-guide-hong-kong-mid-autumn-festival-057124 CNNGo's guide to the Mid-Autumn Festival 2011]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/indie-music-venues-903611 CNNGo's guide to the best live music venues in HK]

[http://travel.yahoo.com/p-interests-40686621 Yahoo's World's Most Beautiful Ferry Rides]

== Further info ==

To find further or more detailed information, please try Hong Kong's wikivoyage.org entry.

[http://en.wikivoyage.org/wiki/Hong_Kong ''' Hong Kong's entry at Wikivoyage.org''']
== CS Hong Kong moments ==
9 June 2012 International CS Day celebration in Hong Kong
(Article published in the June 2012 issue of the CS Magazine: http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/article/215)

== Hong Kong group on BeWelcome ==
Alternative to CS: non-profit, volunteer-driven, uncensored.
* [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/249 '''BW Hong Kong group''']

== Hong Kong group on CS ==
If you still can't find the answer you wanted, subscribe to the
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 '''CS Hong Kong group''']
and ask the friendly folks there!

[[Category:China]]
[[hitch:Hong Kong]]

Hong Kong

2013-06-27T09:07:20Z

Gusgusgus: /* Latest Situation */

'''Hong Kong''' is part of [[China]], kind of.

[[File:Pauliyas_Hongkong.jpg|1060px|thumb|centre]]

== Hong Kong's Couch Situation ==

WARNING - We have reports coming in to our moderators about a Hong Kong CS member. The member is known to long-term HKCS members for his ill treatment of surfers and inappropriate behaviour toward young female surfers. There have been attempts to bring his misdeeds to light in the past but people still wanted to be hosted by him, despite some of his rather creepy negative references. His original profile has numerous detailed negative references which include stealing clothing, cheating surfers out of money, taking photos of female surfers while they are sleeping without their consent... the list goes on. This member has now resorted to making fake profiles. Although the fake ones that were brought to the Safety Team's attention have now been deleted, we suspect that he will simply create more, likely in multiple in order to post self-made references or include some of the fake profiles as 'friends' in order to make his profile look more legitimate.

We encourage you to avoid any members with multiple or disturbing negative references and click friend and reference links to try to establish whether they are real people. Please report any profiles that you suspect to be fake to the local moderator and the safety team. We feel this member is using HK's couch shortage to his advantage to prey on people and it's clear that his preferred targets are young women. Please plan ahead, arrive with enough money for a hostel and immediately get out of any situation which does not feel 'right' to you, even if you can't explain why. Should you need support going to law enforcement, we can provide this.

It may be hard for you to find a couch here. There are far more surfers than couches in our city.

Hong Kong is a densely populated city of small flats and high rents. It's also a business, tourism and travel hub. When searching for a couch in Hong Kong, please keep in mind that many of us can't host due to our living situation (small apartment shared with roommates/family, demanding work schedules) and that those of us who do host get many requests every day that we have to say "No" to or that we have trouble keeping on top of due to their sheer volume. 10-20 requests a day - that's per available couch - is not unusual here and some members have reported as many as 30 requests per day.

Members who have their couch settings set to "Coffee or a drink", "Travelling" or "No" also report getting Couch Requests. Please don't do this.

Members have also reported receiving messages with headings such as "URGENT! HELP NEEDED!" only to find that the requester has failed to a) research, b) plan for and c) budget for their Hong Kong accommodation. Please don't do this. Not only is it annoying and falsely indicative of a true emergency but this kind of behaviour also puts you in a vulnerable position safety-wise (see above). Be street smart and remember that your travel is your own responsibility.

Also remember that when you advertise your Couchsearch by posting on the Hong Kong city message board, your audience consists of an unknown percentage of potential couches (you know, the same people receiving all those Couch Requests they have to say no to), people who are local but don't host and a lot of fellow travellers looking for HK info and activities... who can't host you.

'''To minimize frustration, manage your expectations and keep our Hong Kong city message board FREE of Couch Requests, we encourage you to:'''

# Develop a firm plan B and be ready to use it.
# Start clicking that "CouchSearch" button early and be prepared to send out more requests than usual.
# Write personalized couch requests. Make sure your host is aware that you have read their profile and that you are interested not only in surfing their couch but meeting and connecting with them on a personal level.
# Arrange a guesthouse or hostel for your first few nights and then meet with people at our regular Thursday night gathering or by meeting with people for coffee or a drink. Travellers occasionally find a couch after networking once they arrive.

You can also try our
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=13624 Last Minute Couchsearch Group]

== Hong Kong Hostels and Guesthouses ==

The Hong Kong Youth Hostel Association has [http://www.yha.org.hk/eng/hostel.php?channel=hostels-overview seven youth hostels] with curfews located mostly [http://www.hihostels.com/dba/country-HK.en.htm?himap=Y#book outside the city]. Free shuttle bus service is provided by several hostels but the service stops at 10:30pm so you'll need to factor in $100 to $300 for late night and early morning arrivals.

For accomodation in the HK$150-$250 range within the city, the major backpacker's hostel area in Hong Kong include: Mongkok, Tsim Sha Shui and Causeway Bay. Most of Hong Kong's guesthouses and hostels are located in high-rise buildings called ... Mansion. Don't expect a European style hostel experience... or a real mansion. They usually offer very small motel style rooms for 1 or 2 people or a simple bedspace. The following places have been recommended by CSers.

* [http://www.yesinn.com/hk/ehostel.htm YesInn]
* [http://www.youthsquare.hk/en/#/YLoft YLoft Youth Square]
* [http://www.dragonhostel.com/ Dragon Hostel]
* [http://www.gardenhostel.com/ Garden Hostel]
* [http://www.hopinn.hk/en.html?article=&id=22 Hop Inn] (single rooms here are for a higher budget than the ones listed above)
* [http://sites.google.com/site/checkinnhk/home Check Inn HK] (also slightly higher budget than the ones listed above)

=== "Most hostels I found online are full, and I have no booking?" ===

Don't worry. There are more than 700 registered hostels in Hong Kong (according to a survey conducted in August 2011), it is almost impossible for all of them to be full at the same time.

Many of the hostels in Hong Kong (especially the ones in the locations listed out below) do not do online booking and they don't have their own website so you have a good chance of finding rooms there if you visit them in person once you arrive, especially during busy holiday seasons.

The following buildings have plenty of hostels (at least 20) in each of them. The streets listed below also have hostel clusters.

* Kowloon: Tsim Sha Tsui: Chungking Mansion – 36-44 Nathan Road (Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station, Exit E) (Yes, that's the Chungking in Chungking Express [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109424/]) - According to a survey in August 2011, there are more than 160 registered hostels in Chungking Mansion.

* Kowloon: Tsim Sha Tsui:: Mirador Mansion – 54-64B Nathan Road (Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station, Exit E)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Sincere House – 83 Argyle Street (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit D2)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Wing Wah Building – 40 Shantung Street (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit E)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Fa Yuen Street (between Argyle Street and Soy Street) (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit E)

The following websites can help you to look for reasonably priced guesthouses in Hong Kong.

* [http://www.hostelworld.com Hostelworld]
* [http://www.hostelbookers.com Hostelbookers]
* [http://www.booking.com Booking.com]

=== Mid-range and Higher end Accommodation ===
These are another option for budget travellers if your couchsearch doesn't work out and hostel reservations are hard to make. Team up with other CSers and you can share costs.
* [http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/china/hong-kong-r1973696/ Lonely Planet's list of mid-range hotel options]
* [http://www.caritas-chs.org.hk/eng/lodge_srv.asp Caritas Lodge] $420(single)-$720(triple)/night, $7,500-$11,700/month
* [http://hotel.ywca.org.hk/eng/AnneBlack/anne_room_rates.htm The Anne Black YWCA] $600-$1,100/night
* [http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2012/jul/04/top-10-budget-hotels-hong-kong Top 10 budget hotels in Hong Kong] Prices are listed in UK pounds.

General info on Hong Kong hotels *[http://12hk.com/accomo/hotels.shtml Link 1] *[http://12hk.com/accomo/ChoosingAHotel.shtml Link 2]

=== Short/Long term stay ===

Some websites that our CS-ers recommend, if you're looking for flatshare/renting a flat in Hong Kong:

* [http://hongkong.gumtree.com.hk Gumtree]

* [http://hongkong.craigslist.hk/hhh/ Craigslist]

* [http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/property/ Asiaxpat]

* [http://cityloft.com.hk Cityloft]

Or try our [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=36058 "Apartment/Flat-Share Hunting"] subgroup under the CS Hong Kong group.

Click [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=9552395 here] for a CSers list of reasonably priced serviced apartment providers in HK.

== Getting Around ==
Public transportation is a Hong Kong specialty. It's something this city does very well. Quick and efficient, you can get almost anywhere in town by some kind of combination of the methods listed below. However, don't expect a taxi driver to have either an encyclopedic knowledge of the city's roads or a GPS device. And if you're going somewhere that isn't a landmark, try to copy down the Chinese name for it or the name of a nearby landmark. It's also helpful to have a map, even a hand-drawn one, with you.

=== From Airport to City ===

'''The MTR Airport Express Train'''
is the fastest way to get to the airport from Central. Express trains run every 12 minutes from around 6 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. Journeys from the airport to Hong Kong station take approximately 24 minutes and a round-trip ticket costs HK$180.00.
The MTR runs 24 hours on New Year's Eve.
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/airport_express/timetable_index.html Airport Express Timetable]
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/airport_express/tf_index.html Airport Express Fares]

'''Bus''' to/from the airport from/to various parts of the city
* [http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/routes/airport-bus/route/index.aspx?intLangID=1 Airport Bus Routes (Day + Night services)]

'''Transfer to MTR''' Buses S1 or S56 take you from the airport to the nearest MTR station (Tung Chung Station).

'''Taxi'''
* to Hong Kong Island - at least HKD300
* to Kowloon - at least HKD250
* to New Territories (except Lantau Island) - at least HKD180
* to Lantau Island - at least HKD50

=== MTR ===
[[File:MTR_train.JPG|350px|left|thumb|]]
The Mass Transit Railway is efficient and reliable and covers the major areas of the city. It can also be taken across the border to Shenzhen. Note that you'll need a visa to enter Shenzhen.
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/jplanner/flash_eng/index.php MTR Route and Fare map]

=== Octopus Card ===
[[File:OctopusCard.jpg|right|thumb|Octopus Card]]
If you're staying for more than a few days, consider buying an Octopus stored-value card. It can be used to pay for the MTR, buses, minibuses, trams and ferries and you can also buy things at 7-11 or Welcome grocery stores with them. The cards are available at service counters at any MTR station. The minimum price is HK$100 plus a HK$50 deposit (refundable when you leave Hong Kong, minus a HK$9 service charge). For travel, simply swipe the card on the unmissable yellow Octopus pad, and the fare is automatically deducted. Airport Express travel pass cards are HK$220 for a single Airport Express journey plus three days' unlimited travel on the MTR, or pay HK$300 for two Airport Express trips plus three days' MTR travel.

=== Buses ===
Buses in Hong Kong are plentiful. Most are double deckers and are excessively air-conditioned. The air-con feels nice on short trips during the summer but for longer trips or on colder days, you can start to lose the feeling in your extremities. Bring a jacket... or a thermal blanket. Fares are based on distance travelled. Exact change is required. Octopus cards are accepted.

The routes are split between several companies and they go to places all over the territory.
* [http://www.kmb.hk/en/services/search.html Kowloon Motor Bus]
* [http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/routes/routesearch.aspx?searchtype=3&intLangID=1 New World First Bus and Citybus]
* [http://www.newlantaobus.com/nlb_map.htm New Lantau Bus]

=== Minibuses ===
Minibuses are small passenger buses that carry about 16 people. Green minibuses operate on specific routes at fixed prices. Exact payment is required when getting on. Octopus cards are accepted. Red minibuses operate on routes that are not always fixed and passengers can get on and off anywhere along the route except where special prohibitions apply. Pay as you alight. The driver can provide change for small notes.

At a terminus, minibuses often don't depart until they're full. En route, they must be flagged down at a designated stop. They won't stop at your destination unless you tell them to with a "Yau lok mgoi," so you need to know where you're supposed to get off or be a gambling type. If you have something that clearly shows where you want to get off or a clearly written Chinese address, the driver may be helpful but if you're not sure where you're going or have no Chinese references to show the driver, they probably won't have the time or ability to help you.
Seatbelt law applies... if you can find them.

=== Taxi ===
Taxis are relatively cheap compared with other international cities. Starting at HK$20 for the first 2 km, the fare increases by HK$1.50 per 200 metres. If you cross the harbor tunnels, expect to pay the return tunnel toll charge. There are lots of taxis and flagging them down with a wave is easy, but they don't stop at double yellow lines. Receipts given on request. It's always a good idea to have a map clearly showing your destination or the address written in Chinese as most drivers don't speak much English and may not be familiar with certain streets or areas of town even if they do. Your drivers will appreciate any references to local landmarks or major hotels that you can give them. And there's a seatbelt law so buckle up.

'''One thing to watch out for'''

Red taxis legally must take you anywhere in Kowloon or on Hong Kong Island but sometimes they have a preferred destination at shift change times. They usually use a piece of cardboard to cover/uncover their flag light on the dashboard as a signal. Cardboard on means the driver is looking for Kowloon passengers. No cardboard means they're looking for Hong Kong passengers. This isn't much of an issue when you can find the taxis going your way around the corner. It however does become a problem when you have something heavy to carry or you can't find a taxi going your way. Beware that some drivers will refuse to take you or 'get lost' if you insist. If you're in a tight spot, we we suggest you explain to the driver and bug him 'til he sees the light and then keep an eye out to prevent 'getting lost'.

=== Tram ===
One of our earliest forms of public transit is still going strong. For HK$2.30 per adult, $1.20 for children under 12 and $1 for seniors 65+, you can ride along the north side of Hong Kong Island from Shau Kei Wan to Kennedy Town. Just get on at the back and pay at the front as you alight. Octopus cards are accepted.

=== Ferries ===

'''The Star Ferry''' - This operates between the Central/Wan Chai and TST/Hung Hom ferry piers on an ever shrinking channel of water. Once heavily travelled by commuters and tourists alike, it's becoming more of a tourist phenomenon due to the relocation of the pier on the island side some years ago. You can get some great skyline photos from the ferry on a clear day.
* [http://www.starferry.com.hk/services.html Star Ferry map, schedule and fare info]

'''Outlying Island ferries''' - There are several companies which operate ferries to Lantau Island (Discovery Bay and Mui Wo), Lamma Island (Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan), Cheung Chau, Peng Chau and other islands around Hong Kong. For schedules and fares, check the links.

* [http://www.nwff.com.hk/eng/fare_table/ New World First Ferry] HK Island/ Kowloon, outlying islands and Macau

* [http://www.hkkf.com.hk/index.php?op=timetable&style=en Hong Kong and Kowloon Ferry Holdings Ltd.] Hong Kong, Lamma and Peng Chau

* [http://www.hkri.com/icms2/template?series=101&article=3421 Discovery Bay Transportation Services] 24 hour service between Central and Discovery Bay

* [http://www.hongkongclimbing.com/guides/tunglung/index.html Tung Lung Island Ferry]

'''Hong Kong/Macau/China ferries'''
* [http://www.turbojet.com.hk/eng/schedule/prd.html Turbojet]
* [http://www.nwff.com.hk/eng/fare_table/local-macau/?section=Macau New World First Ferry]
* [http://cotaijet.com.mo/en/destinations/index.aspx Cotai Jet]
* [http://www.macaodragon.com/website/default.aspx Macau Dragon]
* [http://www.cksp.com.hk/eng/home.html Chu Kong]

=== Further info ===
* [http://www.td.gov.hk/en/transport_in_hong_kong/public_transport/index.html Transport Dept website overview]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==
[[File:Hong_Kong_at_night.jpg|1060px|thumb|centre]]

=== Main Nightlife Areas ===
'''Central''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2fyg65g Lan Kwai Fong and Soho] / '''Wan Chai''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2crjj86 Lockhart Road] /
'''Tsim Sha Tsui''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2dex4fd Knutsford Terrace]

=== Magazines and Event listings ===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows.

* [http://hk.asia-city.com/nightlife HK Magazine] Free print copies available around town.
* [http://www.timeout.com.hk/clubs/ Timeout HK] Print copies available at bookstores and some clubs.
* [http://hkticketing.com/eng/ Hong Kong Ticketing] Be sure to scroll down the yellow column on the right hand side to see all the listed shows.
* [http://www.hkclubbing.com/ HKClubbing.com]
* [http://www.hongkonghustle.com/ Hong Kong Hustle]
* [http://www.s-n-s.com/ s-n-s.com] Click on "SnS Lifestyle Event Calendar" for a listing of a range of events. The list is Hong Kong-centric but also includes some events for Beijing, Shanghai, Singapore, New York and London.
* [http://www.hongkongevents.com Hong Kong Events]
* [http://www.hkfringeclub.com Hong Kong Fringe Club] Hong Kong's leading alternative performing/visual arts venue.
* [http://www.hiphongkong.com Hip Hong Kong]

=== Bars ===
Some favourite local haunts include:
(Central, Soho and Wanchai.)
* [http://www.hiphongkong.com/drink/bars/nightclubs/lounges/le_jardin_bar_lan_kwai_fong_hong_kong Le Jardin] bar, weekly meetup venue
* [http://www.facebook.com/#!/Yumla Yumla] bar, dancing, house music
* [http://www.ilovesoho.hk/features/secret-spots/club-71 Club 71] bar, al fresco, chilled
* [http://www.hiphongkong.com/drink/bars/nightclubs/underground_bars/makumba_african_bar_soho_hong_kong Makumba] African bar, dancing, World music/French influence
* [http://www.mesamis.com.hk/mesamis/menus/venues/wan-chai Mes Amis] bar, dancing, pop music

=== The Underground ===
[[File:ElectricEelShock2006.JPG|320px|left|thumb|Electric Eel Shock in HK 2006]]

Events, venues and organizations
* [http://www.hkfringe.com.hk/ The Fringe Club]
* [http://www.frommers.com/destinations/hongkong/N28933.html The Wanch]
* [http://www.hongkonghustle.com/tag/the-warehouse-aberdeen/ The Warehouse, Aberdeen]
* [http://www.whitenoiserecords.org/ White Noise Records]

=== Comedy ===
* [http://www.takeoutcomedy.com/site/shows/ Takeout Comedy] - live standup and improv shows, local and international performers, most shows in English, Cantonese shows on Mondays and Thursday
* [http://comedy.hk/?ai1ec_event=hkbrewhouse-openmic&instance_id=8855 Free Open Mic Night] Every Wednesday in Central

=== Restaurants ===
* [http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/index.htm Openrice HK restaurant search engine]
* [http://www.frommers.com/destinations/hongkong/78_inddin.html Frommers HK restaurant listings]
* [http://www.eatdrinkhongkong.com/ EatDrink HK restaurant listings]

Vegetarian Restaurants:
* [http://www.happycow.net/asia/china/hong_kong/hong_kong_island/ Vegetarian restaurant listings]
* [http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/sr1.htm?dishes_id=1011&amenity_id=&theme_id=&price=&inputcategory=cname&inputstrrest=&ST=1 Another list of vegetarian restaurants]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8610921 A group discussion thread]
* [http://morethansalad.com/earth/asia/china/hong_kong/hong_kong/ Website of our CS friend Dan F - who did a vegetarian food tour in HK]
* [http://doufumafia.com/tag/hong-kong/ HK Vegetarian blog]

Vegan Restaurants:
* [http://vegan.hk/restaurant-HK.html Vegan restaurant listing]
* [http://www.holisticasia.com Holistic Asia] For listings of holistic/alternative/complementary health and healing events.

=== Karaoke ===
* [http://www.musicbox-hk.com/karaoke Music Box]
* [http://www.redbox.com.my/redbox/eng/default.asp Red Box/Green Box]
* [http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/sr1.htm?amenity_id=1012 Karaoke listings on Open Rice]

* [http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/hong-kong-karaoke-010208 CNNGo's take on the 5 best karaokes in HK (Mar 2010)]

== Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors ==
[[File:Clear_Water_Bay.jpg|250px|right|thumb|Clear Water Bay]]
[[File:Hong_Kong_waterfall.jpg|250px|right|thumb|A waterfall in one of Hong Kong's country parks]]
'''Hiking'''
* [http://www.hiking-in-hong-kong.com/hiking-trails/area/index.html Hiking in Hong Kong trail index]
Be sure to check these boards for regular hiking activities
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 Hong Kong CS Group]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=15546 Hiking in Hong Kong Subgroup]

'''Running and Hiking events'''
* [http://www.oxfamtrailwalker.org.hk/opencms.war/opencms/_info_/homepage.jsp?__locale=en Oxfam Trailwalker]
* [http://www.hkhillrunning.com/ English guide to hill races in HK]
* [http://www.standardchartered.com.hk/sustainability/local_community_initiatives/standard_chartered_hk_marathon/en/index.html Standard Chartered HK Marathon]

'''Swimming and Beaches'''
* [http://www.hkoutdoors.com/hong-kong/hong-kong-beaches.html HK Outdoors Beaches guide]

'''Camping'''
* [http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/camp/en/p_campsite.php List of Hong Kong campgrounds]

'''Wakeboarding and Waterskiing'''
* [http://www.thelist.com.hk/listings/sports-water/wakeboarding-waterskiing-0 The List]

'''Windsurfing and Kayaking'''
* [http://www.ccwindc.com.hk/Cheung_Chau_Windsurfing_Centre/Gear_Rental_Price_List.html Cheung Chau windsurfing and kayaking]

* [http://kayaks.com.hk/en/index.htm Sai Kung Windsurfing Centre]

''' Diving'''
* [http://www.asiadivesite.com/hong-kong-dive-sites/ HK diving info]
* [http://www.scdc.org.hk/diving.html South China Diving Club]

'''Rock Climbing'''
* [http://www.hongkongclimbing.com/ English guide to outdoor climbing in HK]

'''Para-gliding'''
* [http://www.hkpa.net/ Hong Kong Paragliding Association]

'''Snowboarding'''
* [http://www.slopeinfinity.com/index.html Slope Infinity] Indoor snowless snowboarding

== Language Exchange ==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Hong Kong from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Mandarin/Cantonese for English seems to be the most popular combination wanted here but there are also many other languages on offer from Japanese to Russian. Here are some of your options:

For one on one exchange:
* [http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/personals/language-exchange/ Asiaxpat Language Exchange notices]
* [http://mylanguageexchange.com/Search.asp?selCountry=41&selTxtChat=true mylanguageexchange.com]

Groups that meet regularly:
* [http://www.meetup.com/Mandarin-English-Language-Exchange/ Meetup.com Mandarin English Language Exchange]
* [https://www.facebook.com/hklcec?sk=wall Hong Kong Language and Cultural Exchange Club (this group has social outings just for fun or for language/cultural exchange)]

Language exchange social networks:
* [http://www.livemocha.com/ Livemocha.com is an online social network for language exchangers]

Hong Kong CS language groups
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=41357 HKCS Language Exchange sub-group]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=10077149 Mandarin English Exchange Group Ruggers Bar]

'''Paid language courses'''

HKU Space has a [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/programme/category/languages-humanities#&sort=start_date+asc variety of language courses available] including French, German, Italian, Spanish and Russian.
* [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/intensive-intro-putonghua Intensive Introductory Putonghua for non-Chinese speakers]
* [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/int-mandarin Intermediate Putonghua for non-Chinese speakers]
* [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/cantonese-i Cantonese level 1]

[http://www.ymcahkcollege.edu.hk/en/skillsupgrading.htm The Hong Kong YMCA] also has courses in Mandarin and Cantonese for non-Chinese speakers.

== Sightseeing ==
Hong Kong is extremely easy to get around by subway, taxi, bus, minibus, walking etc. You can easily design your own itinerary picking the places that you want to visit from below. Most people do not need a tour guide for Hong Kong. For an overview, here are two fun timelapse videos of Hong Kong featuring many of the city's famous landmarks:
# [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlDD-7oT8z0 Hong Kong: Funky Time Lapse] on youtube.
# [http://vimeo.com/25607851 timelapse Hong Kong] on Vimeo.

'''Cultural Heritage and Building architecture'''
# [http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Monument/en/trails_cw.php Sample itinerary and walk tour - Central area] with a very useful map
# [http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Monument/en/trails.php Temples and historic villages]

'''Markets'''
# '''Stanley Market''' Stanley is famous for its relaxed ambience, sea environs and bargain buys in the main street market. Stanley Market is open daily, 10:30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m..
# '''Temple Street Night Market''' Temple Street night market opens at 4 pm, but really comes alive after sunset. It offers an amazing range of inexpensive items, especially for men. There are also fortune-tellers and impromptu Chinese opera performances.
# '''Jade Market and Jade Street''' The Jade Market, located in Yau Ma Tei at the junction of Kansu and Battery Street, features 400 stalls selling jade of all types, shades, sizes and prices. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Nearby is Jade Street, located on Canton Road between Kansu Street and Jordan Road, with shops open 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Jade and gemstone testing is available at Jade Plaza.
# '''Ladies Market''' The Ladies Market in Tung Choi Street is the place for bags, accessories and inexpensive women's clothing. Men's and children's clothing and toys are also on sale. Open daily from noon to 11:30 p.m.
# '''Bird garden/ flower market/ goldfish market''' The charming Chinese-style garden on Yuen Po Street includes some 70 songbird stalls as well as courtyards and moon gates. Look and listen but it’s wise to avoid contact with the birds. The Bird Garden is open from 7am to 8pm, daily. The colourful Flower Market sells everything from Dutch tulips to exotic orchids, open daily from 7am to 7pm. The Goldfish market on nearby Tung Choi Street sells aquariums, corals and exotic fish, open daily from 10:30am to 10pm.
# '''Western Market''' This Edwardian-style building features arts and crafts, fabric shops, alfresco dining, and ballroom dancing.
# '''[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=9262012 Local neighbourhood street markets discussion]'''

'''Temples, Monasteries, Nunneries'''
# '''Man Mo Temple''' One of Hong Kong's oldest temples, dedicated to two deities, the ‘civil’ (Man) and the ‘military’ (Mo).
# '''Chi Lin Nunnery''' The serene 1930s Chi Lin Nunnery (rebuilt in 1998) is spread across 3.2 hectares and is China’s largest group of hand-crafted timber buildings incorporating traditional Tang dynasty (618-907AD) construction techniques.
# '''Po Lin Monastery, Giant Buddha and Wisdom Path''' Located on Lantau, this is one of Hong Kong's largest temples and monasteries, housing the world's tallest outdoor bronze seated Buddha, at 34 m (111ft.) high.

'''Parks'''
# '''Hong Kong Park''' Overlooked by the towers of Pacific Place and Admiralty on one side and Central on the other, the park features a hot house, a Tai Chi garden, a waterfall and the Museum of Tea Ware.
# '''Kowloon Park''' An oasis in the heart of Kowloon next to the Kowloon Mosque. Enjoy a walk among the trees, a bird sanctuary, fountains and a swimming pool.
# '''Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens''' Looking down on the old Government House, the Gardens date back to 1864. Look out for the gibbons and orangutans.

'''Theme Parks'''
# '''Ocean Park''' [http://www.oceanpark.com.hk/html/en/home/]
# '''Hong Kong Disneyland''' [http://park.hongkongdisneyland.com/hkdl/en_US/home/home?name=HomePage]

'''Other references'''
# For more ideas check the [http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong_Sightseeing Hong Kong Sightseeing Wiki]
# For a very long alphabetical listing of HK areas and sights to see check here [http://www.homeandabroad.com/c/64/64_Hong_Kong_visit_guide.html]
# For Lonely Planet's list of things to do in Hong Kong (based on a recent survey of Lonely Planet readers), see [http://www.lonelyplanet.com/china/hong-kong/things-to-do]
# For a blogger's list of ten things to do in HK check here [http://velvetescape.com/blog/2011/05/ten-things-to-do-in-hong-kong/]
# You can check out some panoramic photos of popular spots at [http://www.360cities.net/map#lat=22.30195&lng=114.17417&zoom=13 360cities.net]
# For more tips about what to see/do in Hong Kong, see [http://guidepal.com/hong-kong]
# For more tourist info about Hong Kong, see [http://ilovehongkong.org/ I Love Hong Kong]
# For a blogger's tips and other HK info, see [http://annatam.com/category/hong-kong/hong-kong-travel-tips/ Journey to Hong Kong]
# Welcome to Hong Kong - a guide for visitors and expats [http://www.hiphongkong.com/visitors_tourist_guide_hong_kong]

== Shopping ==

* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=10146718 Info about English bookstores in Hong Kong]

* [http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong_Shopping Hong Kong Shopping Wiki]

== Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year ==

=== Christmas ===
Christmas Day (Dec. 25th) and Boxing Day (first weekday after Xmas) are holidays in Hong Kong and from late November onwards you'll see the decorations and commercial displays in stores as you do in many other places. You'll also see some elaborate lighting displays go up on tall buildings on both sides of the harbour. It's a local tradition to walk around TST near the waterfront and look at the lights and take photos in front of them on Christmas Day. Some roads are blocked off and traffic diverted to facilitate this. It gets crowded in the evenings so if you're keen to test the limits of your personal space, it's an excellent place and time to go for a stroll.

Hong Kong doesn't come to a standstill for these holidays even though business and government offices are closed. While museums and other venues may close early - usually 5 pm - and other places may be on modified hours, most shops and restaurants are still open as they are normally.

There are various events and displays at local theme parks, shopping malls and special concerts and events such as carolling around town. There are also traditional midnight masses at places like St. John's Cathedral but, here's that phrase again, they can be crowded. They often set up speakers outside the church and people take part in the mass there.

* [http://www.discoverhongkong.com/festivehk2010/eng/winter/overview.jsp Winterfest Christmas and New Year events 2010]

=== New Year ===
December 31st is a night to party and January 1st is a public holiday. But if you want to go to one of the big events like the countdown in Times Square or want to stake out a good spot to see the fireworks, head out early and keep your group together. Roads get blocked off, traffic is diverted, there are loooots of people and security measures are in place which can mean that if you and your buddies get separated, you might remain that way and ring in the new year alone.

The MTR runs all night on New Year's Eve and there are extra bus and minibus services but keep in mind that some roads are blocked off and there are traffic measures in place. Ferries to Discovery Bay also run all night but on a modified schedule.

The crowd control measures, barricades, lines and security presence might be a pain and seem excessive but it's for a reason. In 1993, 20 people died when there was a stampede during the new year celebrations in Lan Kwai Fong. Please listen to the police, respect the barricades and do your best to seek out less crowded spots to celebrate.

* [http://www.fodors.com/community/asia/help-planning-hong-kong-itinerary-please.cfm Sample itineraries and info]
* [http://gohongkong.about.com/od/eventsinhongkong/tp/newyearinhongkong.htm New Year's Eve events in HK]

=== Chinese New Year ===
[[File: Chinese_New_Year.jpg|400px|right|thumb|Lion Dancers]]
This is the biggie.
The dates for the lunar new year change every year according to the lunar calendar and swing between late January and mid-February. In 2012, the dates are Jan 23,24 and 25 and 2012 will be the year of the dragon.
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_new_year#Dates Chinese New Year Dates up to 2031]

This is about the only time of year that Hong Kong quietens down a bit. Lots of people go on holiday. Those that stay spend time at home with their family and, for about the only time all year, most shops will be closed during this period until Feb 6. The crowds you're used to the rest of the year, disappear. Well, sort of.

There's still lots to do and crowds to be found. Parades, fireworks, flower markets, Chinese New Year fair in Victoria Park, horse racing...

* [http://www.discoverhongkong.com/festivehk2010/eng/cny/overview.jsp Overview of CNY events in HK]
* [http://www.12hk.com/festivals/CNY/ChineseNewYearFlowerMarket.shtml CNY Eve Flower market in Victoria Park]
* [http://www.hongkonghustle.com/tag/chinese-new-year-market/ See, crowds]

Other major holidays - note that Hong Kong does not have the Golden Weeks that mainland China does.
* [http://www.gov.hk/en/about/abouthk/holiday/ List of HK holidays for 2013]
* [http://timeanddate.com/calendar/?year=2012&country=42 HK calendar for 2012]

== Crossing the border ==
* Planes: multiple daily flights leave from Hong Kong International Airport (Chek Lap Kok) to airports in mainland China.
* Trains: The subway of Hong Kong and Shenzhen connect to each other (you'll need to get off the train for transit and custom office crossing)
# The MTR East rail line goes Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau where you disembark to cross the border into Shenzhen.
# Intercity trains to Dongguan, Foshan, Guangzhou East rail station and Zhaoqing leave from Hung Hom station daily.
* [http://www.it3.mtr.com.hk/B2C/frmScheduleGuangdong.asp?strLang=Eng Fares, schedules and online ticketing] Note that once you are in China, rail tickets for any destination cannot be purchased online. They must be purchased at the rail station itself.
* Ferries: Ferry services run from Hong Kong to the province of Guangdong in mainland China, departing from both the city centre and the Airport. See the Ferry section above for more information.[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong#Ferries]
* Buses: These private companies operate bus services to many locations in Guangdong, Guangxi and Fujian Province:
# http://www.trans-island.com.hk/
# http://www.eebus.com/
# http://www.gdhkmtc.com/schedule.html
* Hong Kong airport to Shenzhen airport - see discussion [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=13289591 here]

== Visas ==
'''Warning''': This section is intended to help you understand the basics of Hong Kong and China Visas and give you a foundation from which to move forward and make decisions. However, China has a complicated visa policy that is constantly changing for various reasons. Prices, availability, conditions etc. are all subject to change without notice. Although we try to provide helpful, updated information here to help you navigate the process, you must do your own additional research. If you have updated info for us, please let us know and we'll try to incorporate it as soon as possible.

=== Visa for Hong Kong ===

Holders of many passports can travel to Hong Kong visa free.

Visa requirements for holders of different passports, please see [http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_4.htm#part2 this] list maintained by the Hong Kong Government:

If you intend to move to Hong Kong or to stay in Hong Kong for a long time, there are various Hong Kong visa options:
[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_1.htm Hong Kong's Immigration Department website]

[http://www.hongkongvisahandbook.com/hong_kong_visa_handbook_2011_a_guide_to_immigration_employment_investment_work_permit_and_residency_applications.html A list of Hong Kong visa options] Note that this links to a business website not a government website and is for reference only.

[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_10.htm Hong Kong's Working Holiday Scheme]

[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_10a.htm List of eligible countries and basic regulations for the Working Holiday Scheme]

=== Visa for mainland China (ex HK/Macau/Taiwan) ===

Most visitors of mainland China require a visa to visit mainland China, except holders of Singaporean and Japanese passports and holders of Hong Kong Permanent Identity card with Chinese ancestry.

There are 8 types of Chinese visa. The popular types are: L Visa (for tourist), F Visa (for business), Z Visa (for work), X Visa (for study) and G Visa (for transit in Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing airports).

China has a complicated visa policy that is constantly changing for various reasons. The visa requirements for holders of different passports are different. It is highly advisable that you check with the Chinese Embassy in your home country shortly before you visit China.

Hong Kong is a popular place for foreigners to apply for Chinese visas, because the time required for the granting of visa is relatively short compared to most foreign Chinese embassies.

'''L Visa: different sub-categories'''[[File:L-visa.jpg|300px|right|thumb|L Visa - All visas require one full passport page]]
(Note: If you plan to visit the Tibet region of China, you will need to obtain a separate permit in addition to the L Visa.
# Single/double entry in 3 months
#* available to all nationalities
#* '''this is the most common visa that most travelers are granted'''
#* application methods:
#*# via Chinese embassy in your home country (3-10 days)
#*# via CTS in Hong Kong (4 working days, expect to queue up for 1-2 hours)
#*# via visa agents in Hong Kong (0.5-1 working day, most agents charge ~HK$80 as handling fee)
# Single/double entry in 6 months
#* available to all nationalities
#* not a common visa, however, for overseas Chinese visiting relatives in China, it is sometimes granted
#* application methods: same as in item (1) above.
# Multiple entries in 6 months/1 year
#* only for holders of Hong Kong identity card (permanent or non-permanent), whatever passport the applicant is holding
#* application methods
#*# via Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong (about a week)
#*# via CTS (4 working days)
# Visa on arrival: 5-day visa for visit to Shenzhen only
#* for certain nationalities only (as of June 2010 - holders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, Ecudor, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Panama, most EU countries passports) - RMB160 for most nationalities (Note: many exceptions, eg. RMB460 for British)
#* the visa only allow the holder to stay in Shenzhen only. Holder of the visa must exit Shenzhen to Hong Kong (by land) or to Macau (by ferry), you may not travel to any other part of China with this visa.
#* application methods
#*# via Luo Hu Border Custom Building (go up 2/F after crossing the HK-Shenzhen bridge at the Lo Wu border point) (30 minutes)
#*# via Shekou Ferry Terminal (go straight after landing in the Shekou pier) (15 minutes)
#*# Note (1): Not available in Huanggong, Futian (aka Lok Ma Chau), Man Kam To and Sha Tau Kok custom points
#*# Note (2): The policy for the 5-day Shenzhen visa changes from time to time and from our past experience there is no announcement of change. If you intend to apply for this visa at the border, it is advisable that you call the Lo Wu border office (see contact number below) before your trip to check whether your passport is qualified under the latest version of the policy.
#*# Note (3): Further discussion - http://www.evisaasia.com/visa-guide/shenzhen-five-days-visa/
# Visa on arrival: 5-day visa for visit to Zhuhai only
#* for certain nationalities only (as of June 2010 - holders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, Ecudor, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Panama, most EU countries passports) - RMB160 for most nationalities (Note: many exceptions, eg. RMB460 for British)
#* the visa only allow the holder to stay in Zhuhai only. Holder of the visa must exit Zhuhai to Macau (by land) or to Hong Kong (by ferry), you may not travel to any other part of China with this visa.
#* application methods
#*# via Zhuhai Jiuzhou Ferry Terminal (turn right and walk down the narrow corridor after arriving in the ferry terminal) (15 minutes)
#*# Note (1): Not available in Gongbei custom points
#*# Note (2): See Note (2) and (3) for 5-day Shenzhen visa on arrival above.

=== Contacts details ===
===1. Ministry of Foreign Affairs===
[http://www.fmcoprc.gov.hk/eng/zgqz/bgfwxx/default.htm English visa info]
:Address: China Resources building, 26Harbor Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong
:Office Hour: Monday to Friday (except public holidays in Hong Kong)
:Morning: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 a. m.
:Afternoon:2:00p.m.-5:00p.m
:Tel: 852-34132300(according to the website, it's a 24 hour Recorded Visa Information Service but experiences may vary), 852-34132424 (Live Answering Telephone available in office hours )

=== 2. CTS ===
(China Travel Service) - the official visa agent of the Chinese government
:Details: http://www.ctshk.com/english/useful/chinesevisa.htm
:Offices in HK: http://www.ctshk.com/english/aboutus/branch_hkgmac.htm

=== 3. Visa agents ===
: These are some visa agents that our CS-ers have had good experience using:

:* [http://www.fbt-chinavisa.com.hk/ Forever Bright Trading Limited]

:* [http://www.jta.biz/chinavisa/china_visa.htm Japan Travel Service Ltd] (with a list of visa fees for different passports)

:* [http://www.cosmicguesthouse.com/services/china-visa.htm Cosmic Guest House]

:* GuangZhou Guest House, Flat B1/10F Mirador Mansion, 54-64 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui (phone 2311 3085): cheap and fast, for example: 1 day processing time and HKD430 for 3 months single entry, HKD550 for 2 entries (German passport)

=== 4. Lo Wu Custom ===
: Tel: 86-755-82327700 (speaks only mandarin)
: Service hour: 10am - 10pm.

=== Latest Situation ===

These are the latest visa conditions we heard from our CS-ers. (last updated: 27 June 2013):
:* China has imposed extra visa requirements for holders of Norwegian, French passports.
:* The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reduced the application fee for holders of Polish passports (RMB160).
:* [March 2011] There seems to be a quota on the number of Visa On Arrival granted each day - reason: The International University Sports Games is carrying on in Shenzhen
:* [15 July 2011] A headsup for everybody who intends to apply for a Chinese visa. The "International University Games" is going to take place in Shenzhen in the next couple of months and we are seeing that most CSers' Chinese visa applications for more than 30 days (Type L - travel) are being refused (ie. most people are granted only a 30-day visa - one entry)
:* [15 May 2012] Increased scrutiny of visa applications due to a 100 day action against illegal foreigners in China. See [http://shanghaiist.com/2012/05/15/beijing_begins_100-day_crackdown_on.php link] for more info.
:* [27 June 2013] 1) Time required for visa application processing increased from 1 day to 4 days. 2) Multiple entry F visa (6 months - 1 year) no longer granted. 3) Z visa no longer granted in HK. See [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=59854&post=14632805 link] for more info.

'''''Recently it's been noticed that most people can only get 30 day visas. If you intend to travel in China for more than 30 days, do arrange your visa in the Chinese embassy in your home country prior to coming to HK.'''''

== Baggage Storage ==

If you're just passing through HK for a short time and want to leave your luggage at the airport, there's a baggage storage service. There are also lockers at the Macau and China Ferry Terminals, Sha Tin MTR station, Hong Kong station and the Hung Hom Inter-city train station.
* [http://www.hongkongairport.com/eng/passenger/departure/all/baggage/left-baggage.html Hong Kong Airport Baggage Storage information]
* [http://gohongkong.about.com/od/travelplanner/a/leftluggage.htm Overview of locker services at Hong Kong Station, the airport, the HK/Macau Ferry Terminal and the China Ferry Terminal]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=13624&post=10110709 Bag storage in Tung Chung, closest town to the airport]

For mid/long term luggage storage:
* [http://www.scstorage.com/index.php?lang=us SC Storage]
* [http://www.hongkongselfstorage.com/locker.html Hong Kong Self Storage]
* [http://www.thestorehouse.com.hk/sizeguide.html The Store House]
* [http://hongkongstorage.com/HKS/household.html Self Storage]
* [http://www.yes-storage.com/en/what-is-yes-storage/mini-storage-with-point-to-point-delivery.html Storage Boxes]

== Wi-Fi/ Internet Access / Mobile Internet ==

=== Free + Unlimited Wi-Fi ===
* HK Airport
* Most government premises ([http://www.gov.hk/en/theme/wifi/location/ link])

=== Free but limited Wi-Fi ===
* first 20 mins free in all McDonalds
* first 20 mins free in all Starbucks
* first 30 mins free in all Dragon Centre, Sham Shui Po (near MTR Exit C)

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7790735 more options listed on this HK Group thread]

=== Paid internet ===
* [http://www.i-one.com.hk/branch.php i-One] - HK's largest chain internet services shop

=== Computer booth (with free internet access) ===
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/facilities/icentre.html iCentre] - in 14 MTR stations
* All Pacific Coffee

=== Prepaid Mobile Internet ===

* Check [http://www2.pccwmobile.com/portal/gen/WEB/home/Services_And_Pricing/3G_Rechargeable_SIM_Card.jsp?lang=en&treeMenu=treeMenu_mainMenuID0&subMenu=subMenu_level_1ID0_3&parent=parent_level_1ID0_3 here] for details.

=== Prepaid BlackBerry Plans ===
* There are no prepaid BlackBerry plans in Hong Kong but inexpensive monthly plans are available. Check [http://www.peoples.com.hk/p_tariff_plan_blackberry_lite_en.jsp here] for details.

=== Prepaid Sim Card for iPad ===
* Check [http://www.three.com.hk/website/appmanager/three/home?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=P200470391219567710594&lang=eng&pageid=61I001 here] for details.

=== More info ===
The review on this blog is from 2009 but may still be a helpful reference. [http://browngeek.blogspot.com/2009/09/which-is-best-unlimited-data-plan-to.html Review of mobile data plans in Hong Kong]

== Money ==
The currency used in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD $). It's currently pegged to the US dollar. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport, at currency exchange outlets in major tourist areas or at local banks. Beware if your currency is heavily coin based - I'm looking at you Canadians - as coins cannot be exchanged. Your bank cards will also work in local ATMs. You can use Hong Kong dollars in Macau but not vice versa.
For an idea of exchange rates, you can try this website. [http://www.xe.com/ucc/ XE.com]

The currency used in mainland China is the renminbi (RMB, CNY, ¥), also known as the yuan.

== Cost of living ==
We've had some questions about the cost of living here. Hong Kong can be an expensive city but it can also suit tighter budgets if you play your cards right. Rent/housing will always be your biggest expense here. Here's a link to a thread on the topic to give you some idea.[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7577536#gpid7577536]

== Air quality ==
Hong Kong suffers from poor air quality. If you have respiratory conditions such as asthma, you'll likely need your inhaler. We have no such thing as Euro or California regulations on emissions and a fleet of diesel buses. One small step in the right direction has been converting taxis to LPG but we have a long way to go.

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_Pollution_Index#Hong_Kong HK's Air Pollution Index explained]

[http://www.epd-asg.gov.hk/eindex.html HK's Air Pollution Index at the EPD]

[http://hedleyindex.sph.hku.hk/home.php The Headley Environmental Index]

== The Amazing Race ==
Here are links to the most recent Hong Kong leg of The Amazing Race (US). You get to see and get a sense of several areas of the city.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ou7Cx7LLUJY&feature=related Part 1]

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-lg7ORbzqg&feature=related Part 2]

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYMjKaMgF8c&feature=related Part 3]

== FAQs ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7117576 1. Where can I take Cantonese classes?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7475127 2. Where can I get prepaid SIM cards?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5871216 3. How to renew Chinese visa within China?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7577536#gpid7577536 4. Moving to HK, Cost of living] [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7402561#gpid7402561 answer 2]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7848982 5. Going from Shenzhen Airport to HK City at night]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7520022 6. Salsa dancing places in Hong Kong]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8263436 7. Outdoor Cafes in Hong Kong]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8393230 8. Hostels/hotels near the airport]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8530996 9. Useful budget flight/hotel websites in Asia]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8632531 10. Going to Shenzhen by bus via Huang Gang]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8659656 11. Home internet service providers - ISPs]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8862633 12. Alternatives to hotels, hostels and couches for 24-48 hour stopovers]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8840560 13. Ideas for 3-5 hour stopovers]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=12445697 14. Sharings of HK CS hosts]

== HK Travel and Tourism related articles ==

[http://goop.com/newsletter/115/ Gwyneth Paltrow's take on HK]

[http://laineygossip.com/Gwyneth_Paltrow_GOOP_Hong_Kong_03feb11.aspx?CatID=0&CelID=0 Rebuttal to Goop's take on HK from CBC blogger Elaine Liu]

[http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/04/hong-kong-gadget-flea-market-a-blast-from-the-past/ Engadget feature on Sham Shui Po]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/88-things-do-summer-654587?page=0,0 CNNGo's 88 Things to do in the summer in Hong Kong]

[http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/beachside-camping-getaway-on-lantau-island-just-a-one-hour-ferry-ride-from-hong-kong/2011/05/10/AFfDcuiG_story.html# The Washington Post goes camping near Pui O]

[http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/08/25/finding-fireflies-during-the-hong-kong-summer/ The New York Times Travel blog finds fireflies in HK]

[http://travel.nytimes.com/2011/05/22/travel/inside-hong-kongs-private-kitchens.html The New York Times checks out some of the newest private kitchens]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/50-secret-tips-hong-kong-sightseeing-371481 CNN Go's 45 sightseeing tips for HK]

[http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/08/06/destination.adventure.hong.kong/index.html CNN's travel tips for newbies and a slideshow of some of our major attractions]

[http://www.worldcrunch.com/chungking-mansions-globalization-packed-inside-one-hong-kong-high-rise/3691 La Stampa via Worldcrunch - Chungking Mansions]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/visit/complete-guide-hong-kong-mid-autumn-festival-057124 CNNGo's guide to the Mid-Autumn Festival 2011]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/indie-music-venues-903611 CNNGo's guide to the best live music venues in HK]

[http://travel.yahoo.com/p-interests-40686621 Yahoo's World's Most Beautiful Ferry Rides]

== Further info ==

To find further or more detailed information, please try Hong Kong's wikitravel.org entry.

[http://wikitravel.org/en/Hong_Kong ''' Hong Kong's entry at Wikitravel.org''']
== CS Hong Kong moments ==
9 June 2012 International CS Day celebration in Hong Kong
(Article published in the June 2012 issue of the CS Magazine: http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/article/215)

== Hong Kong group on BeWelcome ==
Alternative to CS: non-profit, volunteer-driven, uncensored.
* [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/249 '''BW Hong Kong group''']

== Hong Kong group on CS ==
If you still can't find the answer you wanted, subscribe to the
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 '''CS Hong Kong group''']
and ask the friendly folks there!

[[Category:China]]
[[hitch:Hong Kong]]

Hong Kong

2013-06-25T12:41:24Z

Gusgusgus: /* Free + Unlimited Wi-Fi */

'''Hong Kong''' is part of [[China]], kind of.

[[File:Pauliyas_Hongkong.jpg|1060px|thumb|centre]]

== Hong Kong's Couch Situation ==

WARNING - We have reports coming in to our moderators about a Hong Kong CS member. The member is known to long-term HKCS members for his ill treatment of surfers and inappropriate behaviour toward young female surfers. There have been attempts to bring his misdeeds to light in the past but people still wanted to be hosted by him, despite some of his rather creepy negative references. His original profile has numerous detailed negative references which include stealing clothing, cheating surfers out of money, taking photos of female surfers while they are sleeping without their consent... the list goes on. This member has now resorted to making fake profiles. Although the fake ones that were brought to the Safety Team's attention have now been deleted, we suspect that he will simply create more, likely in multiple in order to post self-made references or include some of the fake profiles as 'friends' in order to make his profile look more legitimate.

We encourage you to avoid any members with multiple or disturbing negative references and click friend and reference links to try to establish whether they are real people. Please report any profiles that you suspect to be fake to the local moderator and the safety team. We feel this member is using HK's couch shortage to his advantage to prey on people and it's clear that his preferred targets are young women. Please plan ahead, arrive with enough money for a hostel and immediately get out of any situation which does not feel 'right' to you, even if you can't explain why. Should you need support going to law enforcement, we can provide this.

It may be hard for you to find a couch here. There are far more surfers than couches in our city.

Hong Kong is a densely populated city of small flats and high rents. It's also a business, tourism and travel hub. When searching for a couch in Hong Kong, please keep in mind that many of us can't host due to our living situation (small apartment shared with roommates/family, demanding work schedules) and that those of us who do host get many requests every day that we have to say "No" to or that we have trouble keeping on top of due to their sheer volume. 10-20 requests a day - that's per available couch - is not unusual here and some members have reported as many as 30 requests per day.

Members who have their couch settings set to "Coffee or a drink", "Travelling" or "No" also report getting Couch Requests. Please don't do this.

Members have also reported receiving messages with headings such as "URGENT! HELP NEEDED!" only to find that the requester has failed to a) research, b) plan for and c) budget for their Hong Kong accommodation. Please don't do this. Not only is it annoying and falsely indicative of a true emergency but this kind of behaviour also puts you in a vulnerable position safety-wise (see above). Be street smart and remember that your travel is your own responsibility.

Also remember that when you advertise your Couchsearch by posting on the Hong Kong city message board, your audience consists of an unknown percentage of potential couches (you know, the same people receiving all those Couch Requests they have to say no to), people who are local but don't host and a lot of fellow travellers looking for HK info and activities... who can't host you.

'''To minimize frustration, manage your expectations and keep our Hong Kong city message board FREE of Couch Requests, we encourage you to:'''

# Develop a firm plan B and be ready to use it.
# Start clicking that "CouchSearch" button early and be prepared to send out more requests than usual.
# Write personalized couch requests. Make sure your host is aware that you have read their profile and that you are interested not only in surfing their couch but meeting and connecting with them on a personal level.
# Arrange a guesthouse or hostel for your first few nights and then meet with people at our regular Thursday night gathering or by meeting with people for coffee or a drink. Travellers occasionally find a couch after networking once they arrive.

You can also try our
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=13624 Last Minute Couchsearch Group]

== Hong Kong Hostels and Guesthouses ==

The Hong Kong Youth Hostel Association has [http://www.yha.org.hk/eng/hostel.php?channel=hostels-overview seven youth hostels] with curfews located mostly [http://www.hihostels.com/dba/country-HK.en.htm?himap=Y#book outside the city]. Free shuttle bus service is provided by several hostels but the service stops at 10:30pm so you'll need to factor in $100 to $300 for late night and early morning arrivals.

For accomodation in the HK$150-$250 range within the city, the major backpacker's hostel area in Hong Kong include: Mongkok, Tsim Sha Shui and Causeway Bay. Most of Hong Kong's guesthouses and hostels are located in high-rise buildings called ... Mansion. Don't expect a European style hostel experience... or a real mansion. They usually offer very small motel style rooms for 1 or 2 people or a simple bedspace. The following places have been recommended by CSers.

* [http://www.yesinn.com/hk/ehostel.htm YesInn]
* [http://www.youthsquare.hk/en/#/YLoft YLoft Youth Square]
* [http://www.dragonhostel.com/ Dragon Hostel]
* [http://www.gardenhostel.com/ Garden Hostel]
* [http://www.hopinn.hk/en.html?article=&id=22 Hop Inn] (single rooms here are for a higher budget than the ones listed above)
* [http://sites.google.com/site/checkinnhk/home Check Inn HK] (also slightly higher budget than the ones listed above)

=== "Most hostels I found online are full, and I have no booking?" ===

Don't worry. There are more than 700 registered hostels in Hong Kong (according to a survey conducted in August 2011), it is almost impossible for all of them to be full at the same time.

Many of the hostels in Hong Kong (especially the ones in the locations listed out below) do not do online booking and they don't have their own website so you have a good chance of finding rooms there if you visit them in person once you arrive, especially during busy holiday seasons.

The following buildings have plenty of hostels (at least 20) in each of them. The streets listed below also have hostel clusters.

* Kowloon: Tsim Sha Tsui: Chungking Mansion – 36-44 Nathan Road (Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station, Exit E) (Yes, that's the Chungking in Chungking Express [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109424/]) - According to a survey in August 2011, there are more than 160 registered hostels in Chungking Mansion.

* Kowloon: Tsim Sha Tsui:: Mirador Mansion – 54-64B Nathan Road (Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station, Exit E)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Sincere House – 83 Argyle Street (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit D2)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Wing Wah Building – 40 Shantung Street (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit E)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Fa Yuen Street (between Argyle Street and Soy Street) (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit E)

The following websites can help you to look for reasonably priced guesthouses in Hong Kong.

* [http://www.hostelworld.com Hostelworld]
* [http://www.hostelbookers.com Hostelbookers]
* [http://www.booking.com Booking.com]

=== Mid-range and Higher end Accommodation ===
These are another option for budget travellers if your couchsearch doesn't work out and hostel reservations are hard to make. Team up with other CSers and you can share costs.
* [http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/china/hong-kong-r1973696/ Lonely Planet's list of mid-range hotel options]
* [http://www.caritas-chs.org.hk/eng/lodge_srv.asp Caritas Lodge] $420(single)-$720(triple)/night, $7,500-$11,700/month
* [http://hotel.ywca.org.hk/eng/AnneBlack/anne_room_rates.htm The Anne Black YWCA] $600-$1,100/night
* [http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2012/jul/04/top-10-budget-hotels-hong-kong Top 10 budget hotels in Hong Kong] Prices are listed in UK pounds.

General info on Hong Kong hotels *[http://12hk.com/accomo/hotels.shtml Link 1] *[http://12hk.com/accomo/ChoosingAHotel.shtml Link 2]

=== Short/Long term stay ===

Some websites that our CS-ers recommend, if you're looking for flatshare/renting a flat in Hong Kong:

* [http://hongkong.gumtree.com.hk Gumtree]

* [http://hongkong.craigslist.hk/hhh/ Craigslist]

* [http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/property/ Asiaxpat]

* [http://cityloft.com.hk Cityloft]

Or try our [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=36058 "Apartment/Flat-Share Hunting"] subgroup under the CS Hong Kong group.

Click [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=9552395 here] for a CSers list of reasonably priced serviced apartment providers in HK.

== Getting Around ==
Public transportation is a Hong Kong specialty. It's something this city does very well. Quick and efficient, you can get almost anywhere in town by some kind of combination of the methods listed below. However, don't expect a taxi driver to have either an encyclopedic knowledge of the city's roads or a GPS device. And if you're going somewhere that isn't a landmark, try to copy down the Chinese name for it or the name of a nearby landmark. It's also helpful to have a map, even a hand-drawn one, with you.

=== From Airport to City ===

'''The MTR Airport Express Train'''
is the fastest way to get to the airport from Central. Express trains run every 12 minutes from around 6 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. Journeys from the airport to Hong Kong station take approximately 24 minutes and a round-trip ticket costs HK$180.00.
The MTR runs 24 hours on New Year's Eve.
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/airport_express/timetable_index.html Airport Express Timetable]
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/airport_express/tf_index.html Airport Express Fares]

'''Bus''' to/from the airport from/to various parts of the city
* [http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/routes/airport-bus/route/index.aspx?intLangID=1 Airport Bus Routes (Day + Night services)]

'''Transfer to MTR''' Buses S1 or S56 take you from the airport to the nearest MTR station (Tung Chung Station).

'''Taxi'''
* to Hong Kong Island - at least HKD300
* to Kowloon - at least HKD250
* to New Territories (except Lantau Island) - at least HKD180
* to Lantau Island - at least HKD50

=== MTR ===
[[File:MTR_train.JPG|350px|left|thumb|]]
The Mass Transit Railway is efficient and reliable and covers the major areas of the city. It can also be taken across the border to Shenzhen. Note that you'll need a visa to enter Shenzhen.
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/jplanner/flash_eng/index.php MTR Route and Fare map]

=== Octopus Card ===
[[File:OctopusCard.jpg|right|thumb|Octopus Card]]
If you're staying for more than a few days, consider buying an Octopus stored-value card. It can be used to pay for the MTR, buses, minibuses, trams and ferries and you can also buy things at 7-11 or Welcome grocery stores with them. The cards are available at service counters at any MTR station. The minimum price is HK$100 plus a HK$50 deposit (refundable when you leave Hong Kong, minus a HK$9 service charge). For travel, simply swipe the card on the unmissable yellow Octopus pad, and the fare is automatically deducted. Airport Express travel pass cards are HK$220 for a single Airport Express journey plus three days' unlimited travel on the MTR, or pay HK$300 for two Airport Express trips plus three days' MTR travel.

=== Buses ===
Buses in Hong Kong are plentiful. Most are double deckers and are excessively air-conditioned. The air-con feels nice on short trips during the summer but for longer trips or on colder days, you can start to lose the feeling in your extremities. Bring a jacket... or a thermal blanket. Fares are based on distance travelled. Exact change is required. Octopus cards are accepted.

The routes are split between several companies and they go to places all over the territory.
* [http://www.kmb.hk/en/services/search.html Kowloon Motor Bus]
* [http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/routes/routesearch.aspx?searchtype=3&intLangID=1 New World First Bus and Citybus]
* [http://www.newlantaobus.com/nlb_map.htm New Lantau Bus]

=== Minibuses ===
Minibuses are small passenger buses that carry about 16 people. Green minibuses operate on specific routes at fixed prices. Exact payment is required when getting on. Octopus cards are accepted. Red minibuses operate on routes that are not always fixed and passengers can get on and off anywhere along the route except where special prohibitions apply. Pay as you alight. The driver can provide change for small notes.

At a terminus, minibuses often don't depart until they're full. En route, they must be flagged down at a designated stop. They won't stop at your destination unless you tell them to with a "Yau lok mgoi," so you need to know where you're supposed to get off or be a gambling type. If you have something that clearly shows where you want to get off or a clearly written Chinese address, the driver may be helpful but if you're not sure where you're going or have no Chinese references to show the driver, they probably won't have the time or ability to help you.
Seatbelt law applies... if you can find them.

=== Taxi ===
Taxis are relatively cheap compared with other international cities. Starting at HK$20 for the first 2 km, the fare increases by HK$1.50 per 200 metres. If you cross the harbor tunnels, expect to pay the return tunnel toll charge. There are lots of taxis and flagging them down with a wave is easy, but they don't stop at double yellow lines. Receipts given on request. It's always a good idea to have a map clearly showing your destination or the address written in Chinese as most drivers don't speak much English and may not be familiar with certain streets or areas of town even if they do. Your drivers will appreciate any references to local landmarks or major hotels that you can give them. And there's a seatbelt law so buckle up.

'''One thing to watch out for'''

Red taxis legally must take you anywhere in Kowloon or on Hong Kong Island but sometimes they have a preferred destination at shift change times. They usually use a piece of cardboard to cover/uncover their flag light on the dashboard as a signal. Cardboard on means the driver is looking for Kowloon passengers. No cardboard means they're looking for Hong Kong passengers. This isn't much of an issue when you can find the taxis going your way around the corner. It however does become a problem when you have something heavy to carry or you can't find a taxi going your way. Beware that some drivers will refuse to take you or 'get lost' if you insist. If you're in a tight spot, we we suggest you explain to the driver and bug him 'til he sees the light and then keep an eye out to prevent 'getting lost'.

=== Tram ===
One of our earliest forms of public transit is still going strong. For HK$2.30 per adult, $1.20 for children under 12 and $1 for seniors 65+, you can ride along the north side of Hong Kong Island from Shau Kei Wan to Kennedy Town. Just get on at the back and pay at the front as you alight. Octopus cards are accepted.

=== Ferries ===

'''The Star Ferry''' - This operates between the Central/Wan Chai and TST/Hung Hom ferry piers on an ever shrinking channel of water. Once heavily travelled by commuters and tourists alike, it's becoming more of a tourist phenomenon due to the relocation of the pier on the island side some years ago. You can get some great skyline photos from the ferry on a clear day.
* [http://www.starferry.com.hk/services.html Star Ferry map, schedule and fare info]

'''Outlying Island ferries''' - There are several companies which operate ferries to Lantau Island (Discovery Bay and Mui Wo), Lamma Island (Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan), Cheung Chau, Peng Chau and other islands around Hong Kong. For schedules and fares, check the links.

* [http://www.nwff.com.hk/eng/fare_table/ New World First Ferry] HK Island/ Kowloon, outlying islands and Macau

* [http://www.hkkf.com.hk/index.php?op=timetable&style=en Hong Kong and Kowloon Ferry Holdings Ltd.] Hong Kong, Lamma and Peng Chau

* [http://www.hkri.com/icms2/template?series=101&article=3421 Discovery Bay Transportation Services] 24 hour service between Central and Discovery Bay

* [http://www.hongkongclimbing.com/guides/tunglung/index.html Tung Lung Island Ferry]

'''Hong Kong/Macau/China ferries'''
* [http://www.turbojet.com.hk/eng/schedule/prd.html Turbojet]
* [http://www.nwff.com.hk/eng/fare_table/local-macau/?section=Macau New World First Ferry]
* [http://cotaijet.com.mo/en/destinations/index.aspx Cotai Jet]
* [http://www.macaodragon.com/website/default.aspx Macau Dragon]
* [http://www.cksp.com.hk/eng/home.html Chu Kong]

=== Further info ===
* [http://www.td.gov.hk/en/transport_in_hong_kong/public_transport/index.html Transport Dept website overview]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==
[[File:Hong_Kong_at_night.jpg|1060px|thumb|centre]]

=== Main Nightlife Areas ===
'''Central''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2fyg65g Lan Kwai Fong and Soho] / '''Wan Chai''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2crjj86 Lockhart Road] /
'''Tsim Sha Tsui''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2dex4fd Knutsford Terrace]

=== Magazines and Event listings ===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows.

* [http://hk.asia-city.com/nightlife HK Magazine] Free print copies available around town.
* [http://www.timeout.com.hk/clubs/ Timeout HK] Print copies available at bookstores and some clubs.
* [http://hkticketing.com/eng/ Hong Kong Ticketing] Be sure to scroll down the yellow column on the right hand side to see all the listed shows.
* [http://www.hkclubbing.com/ HKClubbing.com]
* [http://www.hongkonghustle.com/ Hong Kong Hustle]
* [http://www.s-n-s.com/ s-n-s.com] Click on "SnS Lifestyle Event Calendar" for a listing of a range of events. The list is Hong Kong-centric but also includes some events for Beijing, Shanghai, Singapore, New York and London.
* [http://www.hongkongevents.com Hong Kong Events]
* [http://www.hkfringeclub.com Hong Kong Fringe Club] Hong Kong's leading alternative performing/visual arts venue.
* [http://www.hiphongkong.com Hip Hong Kong]

=== Bars ===
Some favourite local haunts include:
(Central, Soho and Wanchai.)
* [http://www.hiphongkong.com/drink/bars/nightclubs/lounges/le_jardin_bar_lan_kwai_fong_hong_kong Le Jardin] bar, weekly meetup venue
* [http://www.facebook.com/#!/Yumla Yumla] bar, dancing, house music
* [http://www.ilovesoho.hk/features/secret-spots/club-71 Club 71] bar, al fresco, chilled
* [http://www.hiphongkong.com/drink/bars/nightclubs/underground_bars/makumba_african_bar_soho_hong_kong Makumba] African bar, dancing, World music/French influence
* [http://www.mesamis.com.hk/mesamis/menus/venues/wan-chai Mes Amis] bar, dancing, pop music

=== The Underground ===
[[File:ElectricEelShock2006.JPG|320px|left|thumb|Electric Eel Shock in HK 2006]]

Events, venues and organizations
* [http://www.hkfringe.com.hk/ The Fringe Club]
* [http://www.frommers.com/destinations/hongkong/N28933.html The Wanch]
* [http://www.hongkonghustle.com/tag/the-warehouse-aberdeen/ The Warehouse, Aberdeen]
* [http://www.whitenoiserecords.org/ White Noise Records]

=== Comedy ===
* [http://www.takeoutcomedy.com/site/shows/ Takeout Comedy] - live standup and improv shows, local and international performers, most shows in English, Cantonese shows on Mondays and Thursday
* [http://comedy.hk/?ai1ec_event=hkbrewhouse-openmic&instance_id=8855 Free Open Mic Night] Every Wednesday in Central

=== Restaurants ===
* [http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/index.htm Openrice HK restaurant search engine]
* [http://www.frommers.com/destinations/hongkong/78_inddin.html Frommers HK restaurant listings]
* [http://www.eatdrinkhongkong.com/ EatDrink HK restaurant listings]

Vegetarian Restaurants:
* [http://www.happycow.net/asia/china/hong_kong/hong_kong_island/ Vegetarian restaurant listings]
* [http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/sr1.htm?dishes_id=1011&amenity_id=&theme_id=&price=&inputcategory=cname&inputstrrest=&ST=1 Another list of vegetarian restaurants]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8610921 A group discussion thread]
* [http://morethansalad.com/earth/asia/china/hong_kong/hong_kong/ Website of our CS friend Dan F - who did a vegetarian food tour in HK]
* [http://doufumafia.com/tag/hong-kong/ HK Vegetarian blog]

Vegan Restaurants:
* [http://vegan.hk/restaurant-HK.html Vegan restaurant listing]
* [http://www.holisticasia.com Holistic Asia] For listings of holistic/alternative/complementary health and healing events.

=== Karaoke ===
* [http://www.musicbox-hk.com/karaoke Music Box]
* [http://www.redbox.com.my/redbox/eng/default.asp Red Box/Green Box]
* [http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/sr1.htm?amenity_id=1012 Karaoke listings on Open Rice]

* [http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/hong-kong-karaoke-010208 CNNGo's take on the 5 best karaokes in HK (Mar 2010)]

== Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors ==
[[File:Clear_Water_Bay.jpg|250px|right|thumb|Clear Water Bay]]
[[File:Hong_Kong_waterfall.jpg|250px|right|thumb|A waterfall in one of Hong Kong's country parks]]
'''Hiking'''
* [http://www.hiking-in-hong-kong.com/hiking-trails/area/index.html Hiking in Hong Kong trail index]
Be sure to check these boards for regular hiking activities
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 Hong Kong CS Group]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=15546 Hiking in Hong Kong Subgroup]

'''Running and Hiking events'''
* [http://www.oxfamtrailwalker.org.hk/opencms.war/opencms/_info_/homepage.jsp?__locale=en Oxfam Trailwalker]
* [http://www.hkhillrunning.com/ English guide to hill races in HK]
* [http://www.standardchartered.com.hk/sustainability/local_community_initiatives/standard_chartered_hk_marathon/en/index.html Standard Chartered HK Marathon]

'''Swimming and Beaches'''
* [http://www.hkoutdoors.com/hong-kong/hong-kong-beaches.html HK Outdoors Beaches guide]

'''Camping'''
* [http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/camp/en/p_campsite.php List of Hong Kong campgrounds]

'''Wakeboarding and Waterskiing'''
* [http://www.thelist.com.hk/listings/sports-water/wakeboarding-waterskiing-0 The List]

'''Windsurfing and Kayaking'''
* [http://www.ccwindc.com.hk/Cheung_Chau_Windsurfing_Centre/Gear_Rental_Price_List.html Cheung Chau windsurfing and kayaking]

* [http://kayaks.com.hk/en/index.htm Sai Kung Windsurfing Centre]

''' Diving'''
* [http://www.asiadivesite.com/hong-kong-dive-sites/ HK diving info]
* [http://www.scdc.org.hk/diving.html South China Diving Club]

'''Rock Climbing'''
* [http://www.hongkongclimbing.com/ English guide to outdoor climbing in HK]

'''Para-gliding'''
* [http://www.hkpa.net/ Hong Kong Paragliding Association]

'''Snowboarding'''
* [http://www.slopeinfinity.com/index.html Slope Infinity] Indoor snowless snowboarding

== Language Exchange ==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Hong Kong from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Mandarin/Cantonese for English seems to be the most popular combination wanted here but there are also many other languages on offer from Japanese to Russian. Here are some of your options:

For one on one exchange:
* [http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/personals/language-exchange/ Asiaxpat Language Exchange notices]
* [http://mylanguageexchange.com/Search.asp?selCountry=41&selTxtChat=true mylanguageexchange.com]

Groups that meet regularly:
* [http://www.meetup.com/Mandarin-English-Language-Exchange/ Meetup.com Mandarin English Language Exchange]
* [https://www.facebook.com/hklcec?sk=wall Hong Kong Language and Cultural Exchange Club (this group has social outings just for fun or for language/cultural exchange)]

Language exchange social networks:
* [http://www.livemocha.com/ Livemocha.com is an online social network for language exchangers]

Hong Kong CS language groups
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=41357 HKCS Language Exchange sub-group]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=10077149 Mandarin English Exchange Group Ruggers Bar]

'''Paid language courses'''

HKU Space has a [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/programme/category/languages-humanities#&sort=start_date+asc variety of language courses available] including French, German, Italian, Spanish and Russian.
* [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/intensive-intro-putonghua Intensive Introductory Putonghua for non-Chinese speakers]
* [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/int-mandarin Intermediate Putonghua for non-Chinese speakers]
* [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/cantonese-i Cantonese level 1]

[http://www.ymcahkcollege.edu.hk/en/skillsupgrading.htm The Hong Kong YMCA] also has courses in Mandarin and Cantonese for non-Chinese speakers.

== Sightseeing ==
Hong Kong is extremely easy to get around by subway, taxi, bus, minibus, walking etc. You can easily design your own itinerary picking the places that you want to visit from below. Most people do not need a tour guide for Hong Kong. For an overview, here are two fun timelapse videos of Hong Kong featuring many of the city's famous landmarks:
# [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlDD-7oT8z0 Hong Kong: Funky Time Lapse] on youtube.
# [http://vimeo.com/25607851 timelapse Hong Kong] on Vimeo.

'''Cultural Heritage and Building architecture'''
# [http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Monument/en/trails_cw.php Sample itinerary and walk tour - Central area] with a very useful map
# [http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Monument/en/trails.php Temples and historic villages]

'''Markets'''
# '''Stanley Market''' Stanley is famous for its relaxed ambience, sea environs and bargain buys in the main street market. Stanley Market is open daily, 10:30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m..
# '''Temple Street Night Market''' Temple Street night market opens at 4 pm, but really comes alive after sunset. It offers an amazing range of inexpensive items, especially for men. There are also fortune-tellers and impromptu Chinese opera performances.
# '''Jade Market and Jade Street''' The Jade Market, located in Yau Ma Tei at the junction of Kansu and Battery Street, features 400 stalls selling jade of all types, shades, sizes and prices. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Nearby is Jade Street, located on Canton Road between Kansu Street and Jordan Road, with shops open 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Jade and gemstone testing is available at Jade Plaza.
# '''Ladies Market''' The Ladies Market in Tung Choi Street is the place for bags, accessories and inexpensive women's clothing. Men's and children's clothing and toys are also on sale. Open daily from noon to 11:30 p.m.
# '''Bird garden/ flower market/ goldfish market''' The charming Chinese-style garden on Yuen Po Street includes some 70 songbird stalls as well as courtyards and moon gates. Look and listen but it’s wise to avoid contact with the birds. The Bird Garden is open from 7am to 8pm, daily. The colourful Flower Market sells everything from Dutch tulips to exotic orchids, open daily from 7am to 7pm. The Goldfish market on nearby Tung Choi Street sells aquariums, corals and exotic fish, open daily from 10:30am to 10pm.
# '''Western Market''' This Edwardian-style building features arts and crafts, fabric shops, alfresco dining, and ballroom dancing.
# '''[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=9262012 Local neighbourhood street markets discussion]'''

'''Temples, Monasteries, Nunneries'''
# '''Man Mo Temple''' One of Hong Kong's oldest temples, dedicated to two deities, the ‘civil’ (Man) and the ‘military’ (Mo).
# '''Chi Lin Nunnery''' The serene 1930s Chi Lin Nunnery (rebuilt in 1998) is spread across 3.2 hectares and is China’s largest group of hand-crafted timber buildings incorporating traditional Tang dynasty (618-907AD) construction techniques.
# '''Po Lin Monastery, Giant Buddha and Wisdom Path''' Located on Lantau, this is one of Hong Kong's largest temples and monasteries, housing the world's tallest outdoor bronze seated Buddha, at 34 m (111ft.) high.

'''Parks'''
# '''Hong Kong Park''' Overlooked by the towers of Pacific Place and Admiralty on one side and Central on the other, the park features a hot house, a Tai Chi garden, a waterfall and the Museum of Tea Ware.
# '''Kowloon Park''' An oasis in the heart of Kowloon next to the Kowloon Mosque. Enjoy a walk among the trees, a bird sanctuary, fountains and a swimming pool.
# '''Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens''' Looking down on the old Government House, the Gardens date back to 1864. Look out for the gibbons and orangutans.

'''Theme Parks'''
# '''Ocean Park''' [http://www.oceanpark.com.hk/html/en/home/]
# '''Hong Kong Disneyland''' [http://park.hongkongdisneyland.com/hkdl/en_US/home/home?name=HomePage]

'''Other references'''
# For more ideas check the [http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong_Sightseeing Hong Kong Sightseeing Wiki]
# For a very long alphabetical listing of HK areas and sights to see check here [http://www.homeandabroad.com/c/64/64_Hong_Kong_visit_guide.html]
# For Lonely Planet's list of things to do in Hong Kong (based on a recent survey of Lonely Planet readers), see [http://www.lonelyplanet.com/china/hong-kong/things-to-do]
# For a blogger's list of ten things to do in HK check here [http://velvetescape.com/blog/2011/05/ten-things-to-do-in-hong-kong/]
# You can check out some panoramic photos of popular spots at [http://www.360cities.net/map#lat=22.30195&lng=114.17417&zoom=13 360cities.net]
# For more tips about what to see/do in Hong Kong, see [http://guidepal.com/hong-kong]
# For more tourist info about Hong Kong, see [http://ilovehongkong.org/ I Love Hong Kong]
# For a blogger's tips and other HK info, see [http://annatam.com/category/hong-kong/hong-kong-travel-tips/ Journey to Hong Kong]
# Welcome to Hong Kong - a guide for visitors and expats [http://www.hiphongkong.com/visitors_tourist_guide_hong_kong]

== Shopping ==

* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=10146718 Info about English bookstores in Hong Kong]

* [http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong_Shopping Hong Kong Shopping Wiki]

== Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year ==

=== Christmas ===
Christmas Day (Dec. 25th) and Boxing Day (first weekday after Xmas) are holidays in Hong Kong and from late November onwards you'll see the decorations and commercial displays in stores as you do in many other places. You'll also see some elaborate lighting displays go up on tall buildings on both sides of the harbour. It's a local tradition to walk around TST near the waterfront and look at the lights and take photos in front of them on Christmas Day. Some roads are blocked off and traffic diverted to facilitate this. It gets crowded in the evenings so if you're keen to test the limits of your personal space, it's an excellent place and time to go for a stroll.

Hong Kong doesn't come to a standstill for these holidays even though business and government offices are closed. While museums and other venues may close early - usually 5 pm - and other places may be on modified hours, most shops and restaurants are still open as they are normally.

There are various events and displays at local theme parks, shopping malls and special concerts and events such as carolling around town. There are also traditional midnight masses at places like St. John's Cathedral but, here's that phrase again, they can be crowded. They often set up speakers outside the church and people take part in the mass there.

* [http://www.discoverhongkong.com/festivehk2010/eng/winter/overview.jsp Winterfest Christmas and New Year events 2010]

=== New Year ===
December 31st is a night to party and January 1st is a public holiday. But if you want to go to one of the big events like the countdown in Times Square or want to stake out a good spot to see the fireworks, head out early and keep your group together. Roads get blocked off, traffic is diverted, there are loooots of people and security measures are in place which can mean that if you and your buddies get separated, you might remain that way and ring in the new year alone.

The MTR runs all night on New Year's Eve and there are extra bus and minibus services but keep in mind that some roads are blocked off and there are traffic measures in place. Ferries to Discovery Bay also run all night but on a modified schedule.

The crowd control measures, barricades, lines and security presence might be a pain and seem excessive but it's for a reason. In 1993, 20 people died when there was a stampede during the new year celebrations in Lan Kwai Fong. Please listen to the police, respect the barricades and do your best to seek out less crowded spots to celebrate.

* [http://www.fodors.com/community/asia/help-planning-hong-kong-itinerary-please.cfm Sample itineraries and info]
* [http://gohongkong.about.com/od/eventsinhongkong/tp/newyearinhongkong.htm New Year's Eve events in HK]

=== Chinese New Year ===
[[File: Chinese_New_Year.jpg|400px|right|thumb|Lion Dancers]]
This is the biggie.
The dates for the lunar new year change every year according to the lunar calendar and swing between late January and mid-February. In 2012, the dates are Jan 23,24 and 25 and 2012 will be the year of the dragon.
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_new_year#Dates Chinese New Year Dates up to 2031]

This is about the only time of year that Hong Kong quietens down a bit. Lots of people go on holiday. Those that stay spend time at home with their family and, for about the only time all year, most shops will be closed during this period until Feb 6. The crowds you're used to the rest of the year, disappear. Well, sort of.

There's still lots to do and crowds to be found. Parades, fireworks, flower markets, Chinese New Year fair in Victoria Park, horse racing...

* [http://www.discoverhongkong.com/festivehk2010/eng/cny/overview.jsp Overview of CNY events in HK]
* [http://www.12hk.com/festivals/CNY/ChineseNewYearFlowerMarket.shtml CNY Eve Flower market in Victoria Park]
* [http://www.hongkonghustle.com/tag/chinese-new-year-market/ See, crowds]

Other major holidays - note that Hong Kong does not have the Golden Weeks that mainland China does.
* [http://www.gov.hk/en/about/abouthk/holiday/ List of HK holidays for 2013]
* [http://timeanddate.com/calendar/?year=2012&country=42 HK calendar for 2012]

== Crossing the border ==
* Planes: multiple daily flights leave from Hong Kong International Airport (Chek Lap Kok) to airports in mainland China.
* Trains: The subway of Hong Kong and Shenzhen connect to each other (you'll need to get off the train for transit and custom office crossing)
# The MTR East rail line goes Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau where you disembark to cross the border into Shenzhen.
# Intercity trains to Dongguan, Foshan, Guangzhou East rail station and Zhaoqing leave from Hung Hom station daily.
* [http://www.it3.mtr.com.hk/B2C/frmScheduleGuangdong.asp?strLang=Eng Fares, schedules and online ticketing] Note that once you are in China, rail tickets for any destination cannot be purchased online. They must be purchased at the rail station itself.
* Ferries: Ferry services run from Hong Kong to the province of Guangdong in mainland China, departing from both the city centre and the Airport. See the Ferry section above for more information.[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong#Ferries]
* Buses: These private companies operate bus services to many locations in Guangdong, Guangxi and Fujian Province:
# http://www.trans-island.com.hk/
# http://www.eebus.com/
# http://www.gdhkmtc.com/schedule.html
* Hong Kong airport to Shenzhen airport - see discussion [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=13289591 here]

== Visas ==
'''Warning''': This section is intended to help you understand the basics of Hong Kong and China Visas and give you a foundation from which to move forward and make decisions. However, China has a complicated visa policy that is constantly changing for various reasons. Prices, availability, conditions etc. are all subject to change without notice. Although we try to provide helpful, updated information here to help you navigate the process, you must do your own additional research. If you have updated info for us, please let us know and we'll try to incorporate it as soon as possible.

=== Visa for Hong Kong ===

Holders of many passports can travel to Hong Kong visa free.

Visa requirements for holders of different passports, please see [http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_4.htm#part2 this] list maintained by the Hong Kong Government:

If you intend to move to Hong Kong or to stay in Hong Kong for a long time, there are various Hong Kong visa options:
[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_1.htm Hong Kong's Immigration Department website]

[http://www.hongkongvisahandbook.com/hong_kong_visa_handbook_2011_a_guide_to_immigration_employment_investment_work_permit_and_residency_applications.html A list of Hong Kong visa options] Note that this links to a business website not a government website and is for reference only.

[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_10.htm Hong Kong's Working Holiday Scheme]

[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_10a.htm List of eligible countries and basic regulations for the Working Holiday Scheme]

=== Visa for mainland China (ex HK/Macau/Taiwan) ===

Most visitors of mainland China require a visa to visit mainland China, except holders of Singaporean and Japanese passports and holders of Hong Kong Permanent Identity card with Chinese ancestry.

There are 8 types of Chinese visa. The popular types are: L Visa (for tourist), F Visa (for business), Z Visa (for work), X Visa (for study) and G Visa (for transit in Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing airports).

China has a complicated visa policy that is constantly changing for various reasons. The visa requirements for holders of different passports are different. It is highly advisable that you check with the Chinese Embassy in your home country shortly before you visit China.

Hong Kong is a popular place for foreigners to apply for Chinese visas, because the time required for the granting of visa is relatively short compared to most foreign Chinese embassies.

'''L Visa: different sub-categories'''[[File:L-visa.jpg|300px|right|thumb|L Visa - All visas require one full passport page]]
(Note: If you plan to visit the Tibet region of China, you will need to obtain a separate permit in addition to the L Visa.
# Single/double entry in 3 months
#* available to all nationalities
#* '''this is the most common visa that most travelers are granted'''
#* application methods:
#*# via Chinese embassy in your home country (3-10 days)
#*# via CTS in Hong Kong (4 working days, expect to queue up for 1-2 hours)
#*# via visa agents in Hong Kong (0.5-1 working day, most agents charge ~HK$80 as handling fee)
# Single/double entry in 6 months
#* available to all nationalities
#* not a common visa, however, for overseas Chinese visiting relatives in China, it is sometimes granted
#* application methods: same as in item (1) above.
# Multiple entries in 6 months/1 year
#* only for holders of Hong Kong identity card (permanent or non-permanent), whatever passport the applicant is holding
#* application methods
#*# via Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong (about a week)
#*# via CTS (4 working days)
# Visa on arrival: 5-day visa for visit to Shenzhen only
#* for certain nationalities only (as of June 2010 - holders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, Ecudor, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Panama, most EU countries passports) - RMB160 for most nationalities (Note: many exceptions, eg. RMB460 for British)
#* the visa only allow the holder to stay in Shenzhen only. Holder of the visa must exit Shenzhen to Hong Kong (by land) or to Macau (by ferry), you may not travel to any other part of China with this visa.
#* application methods
#*# via Luo Hu Border Custom Building (go up 2/F after crossing the HK-Shenzhen bridge at the Lo Wu border point) (30 minutes)
#*# via Shekou Ferry Terminal (go straight after landing in the Shekou pier) (15 minutes)
#*# Note (1): Not available in Huanggong, Futian (aka Lok Ma Chau), Man Kam To and Sha Tau Kok custom points
#*# Note (2): The policy for the 5-day Shenzhen visa changes from time to time and from our past experience there is no announcement of change. If you intend to apply for this visa at the border, it is advisable that you call the Lo Wu border office (see contact number below) before your trip to check whether your passport is qualified under the latest version of the policy.
#*# Note (3): Further discussion - http://www.evisaasia.com/visa-guide/shenzhen-five-days-visa/
# Visa on arrival: 5-day visa for visit to Zhuhai only
#* for certain nationalities only (as of June 2010 - holders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, Ecudor, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Panama, most EU countries passports) - RMB160 for most nationalities (Note: many exceptions, eg. RMB460 for British)
#* the visa only allow the holder to stay in Zhuhai only. Holder of the visa must exit Zhuhai to Macau (by land) or to Hong Kong (by ferry), you may not travel to any other part of China with this visa.
#* application methods
#*# via Zhuhai Jiuzhou Ferry Terminal (turn right and walk down the narrow corridor after arriving in the ferry terminal) (15 minutes)
#*# Note (1): Not available in Gongbei custom points
#*# Note (2): See Note (2) and (3) for 5-day Shenzhen visa on arrival above.

=== Contacts details ===
===1. Ministry of Foreign Affairs===
[http://www.fmcoprc.gov.hk/eng/zgqz/bgfwxx/default.htm English visa info]
:Address: China Resources building, 26Harbor Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong
:Office Hour: Monday to Friday (except public holidays in Hong Kong)
:Morning: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 a. m.
:Afternoon:2:00p.m.-5:00p.m
:Tel: 852-34132300(according to the website, it's a 24 hour Recorded Visa Information Service but experiences may vary), 852-34132424 (Live Answering Telephone available in office hours )

=== 2. CTS ===
(China Travel Service) - the official visa agent of the Chinese government
:Details: http://www.ctshk.com/english/useful/chinesevisa.htm
:Offices in HK: http://www.ctshk.com/english/aboutus/branch_hkgmac.htm

=== 3. Visa agents ===
: These are some visa agents that our CS-ers have had good experience using:

:* [http://www.fbt-chinavisa.com.hk/ Forever Bright Trading Limited]

:* [http://www.jta.biz/chinavisa/china_visa.htm Japan Travel Service Ltd] (with a list of visa fees for different passports)

:* [http://www.cosmicguesthouse.com/services/china-visa.htm Cosmic Guest House]

:* GuangZhou Guest House, Flat B1/10F Mirador Mansion, 54-64 Nathan Road, Tsim Sha Tsui (phone 2311 3085): cheap and fast, for example: 1 day processing time and HKD430 for 3 months single entry, HKD550 for 2 entries (German passport)

=== 4. Lo Wu Custom ===
: Tel: 86-755-82327700 (speaks only mandarin)
: Service hour: 10am - 10pm.

=== Latest Situation ===

These are the latest visa conditions we heard from our CS-ers. (last updated: 16 May 2012):
:* China has imposed extra visa requirements for holders of Norwegian, French passports.
:* The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reduced the application fee for holders of Polish passports (RMB160).
:* [March 2011] There seems to be a quota on the number of Visa On Arrival granted each day - reason: The International University Sports Games is carrying on in Shenzhen
:* [15 July 2011] A headsup for everybody who intends to apply for a Chinese visa. The "International University Games" is going to take place in Shenzhen in the next couple of months and we are seeing that most CSers' Chinese visa applications for more than 30 days (Type L - travel) are being refused (ie. most people are granted only a 30-day visa - one entry)
:* [15 May 2012] Increased scrutiny of visa applications due to a 100 day action against illegal foreigners in China. See [http://shanghaiist.com/2012/05/15/beijing_begins_100-day_crackdown_on.php link] for more info.

'''''Recently it's been noticed that most people can only get 30 day visas. If you intend to travel in China for more than 30 days, do arrange your visa in the Chinese embassy in your home country prior to coming to HK.'''''

== Baggage Storage ==

If you're just passing through HK for a short time and want to leave your luggage at the airport, there's a baggage storage service. There are also lockers at the Macau and China Ferry Terminals, Sha Tin MTR station, Hong Kong station and the Hung Hom Inter-city train station.
* [http://www.hongkongairport.com/eng/passenger/departure/all/baggage/left-baggage.html Hong Kong Airport Baggage Storage information]
* [http://gohongkong.about.com/od/travelplanner/a/leftluggage.htm Overview of locker services at Hong Kong Station, the airport, the HK/Macau Ferry Terminal and the China Ferry Terminal]
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=13624&post=10110709 Bag storage in Tung Chung, closest town to the airport]

For mid/long term luggage storage:
* [http://www.scstorage.com/index.php?lang=us SC Storage]
* [http://www.hongkongselfstorage.com/locker.html Hong Kong Self Storage]
* [http://www.thestorehouse.com.hk/sizeguide.html The Store House]
* [http://hongkongstorage.com/HKS/household.html Self Storage]
* [http://www.yes-storage.com/en/what-is-yes-storage/mini-storage-with-point-to-point-delivery.html Storage Boxes]

== Wi-Fi/ Internet Access / Mobile Internet ==

=== Free + Unlimited Wi-Fi ===
* HK Airport
* Most government premises ([http://www.gov.hk/en/theme/wifi/location/ link])

=== Free but limited Wi-Fi ===
* first 20 mins free in all McDonalds
* first 20 mins free in all Starbucks
* first 30 mins free in all Dragon Centre, Sham Shui Po (near MTR Exit C)

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7790735 more options listed on this HK Group thread]

=== Paid internet ===
* [http://www.i-one.com.hk/branch.php i-One] - HK's largest chain internet services shop

=== Computer booth (with free internet access) ===
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/facilities/icentre.html iCentre] - in 14 MTR stations
* All Pacific Coffee

=== Prepaid Mobile Internet ===

* Check [http://www2.pccwmobile.com/portal/gen/WEB/home/Services_And_Pricing/3G_Rechargeable_SIM_Card.jsp?lang=en&treeMenu=treeMenu_mainMenuID0&subMenu=subMenu_level_1ID0_3&parent=parent_level_1ID0_3 here] for details.

=== Prepaid BlackBerry Plans ===
* There are no prepaid BlackBerry plans in Hong Kong but inexpensive monthly plans are available. Check [http://www.peoples.com.hk/p_tariff_plan_blackberry_lite_en.jsp here] for details.

=== Prepaid Sim Card for iPad ===
* Check [http://www.three.com.hk/website/appmanager/three/home?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=P200470391219567710594&lang=eng&pageid=61I001 here] for details.

=== More info ===
The review on this blog is from 2009 but may still be a helpful reference. [http://browngeek.blogspot.com/2009/09/which-is-best-unlimited-data-plan-to.html Review of mobile data plans in Hong Kong]

== Money ==
The currency used in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD $). It's currently pegged to the US dollar. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport, at currency exchange outlets in major tourist areas or at local banks. Beware if your currency is heavily coin based - I'm looking at you Canadians - as coins cannot be exchanged. Your bank cards will also work in local ATMs. You can use Hong Kong dollars in Macau but not vice versa.
For an idea of exchange rates, you can try this website. [http://www.xe.com/ucc/ XE.com]

The currency used in mainland China is the renminbi (RMB, CNY, ¥), also known as the yuan.

== Cost of living ==
We've had some questions about the cost of living here. Hong Kong can be an expensive city but it can also suit tighter budgets if you play your cards right. Rent/housing will always be your biggest expense here. Here's a link to a thread on the topic to give you some idea.[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7577536#gpid7577536]

== Air quality ==
Hong Kong suffers from poor air quality. If you have respiratory conditions such as asthma, you'll likely need your inhaler. We have no such thing as Euro or California regulations on emissions and a fleet of diesel buses. One small step in the right direction has been converting taxis to LPG but we have a long way to go.

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_Pollution_Index#Hong_Kong HK's Air Pollution Index explained]

[http://www.epd-asg.gov.hk/eindex.html HK's Air Pollution Index at the EPD]

[http://hedleyindex.sph.hku.hk/home.php The Headley Environmental Index]

== The Amazing Race ==
Here are links to the most recent Hong Kong leg of The Amazing Race (US). You get to see and get a sense of several areas of the city.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ou7Cx7LLUJY&feature=related Part 1]

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-lg7ORbzqg&feature=related Part 2]

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYMjKaMgF8c&feature=related Part 3]

== FAQs ==

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7117576 1. Where can I take Cantonese classes?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7475127 2. Where can I get prepaid SIM cards?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5871216 3. How to renew Chinese visa within China?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7577536#gpid7577536 4. Moving to HK, Cost of living] [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7402561#gpid7402561 answer 2]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7848982 5. Going from Shenzhen Airport to HK City at night]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7520022 6. Salsa dancing places in Hong Kong]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8263436 7. Outdoor Cafes in Hong Kong]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8393230 8. Hostels/hotels near the airport]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8530996 9. Useful budget flight/hotel websites in Asia]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8632531 10. Going to Shenzhen by bus via Huang Gang]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8659656 11. Home internet service providers - ISPs]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8862633 12. Alternatives to hotels, hostels and couches for 24-48 hour stopovers]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8840560 13. Ideas for 3-5 hour stopovers]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=12445697 14. Sharings of HK CS hosts]

== HK Travel and Tourism related articles ==

[http://goop.com/newsletter/115/ Gwyneth Paltrow's take on HK]

[http://laineygossip.com/Gwyneth_Paltrow_GOOP_Hong_Kong_03feb11.aspx?CatID=0&CelID=0 Rebuttal to Goop's take on HK from CBC blogger Elaine Liu]

[http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/04/hong-kong-gadget-flea-market-a-blast-from-the-past/ Engadget feature on Sham Shui Po]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/88-things-do-summer-654587?page=0,0 CNNGo's 88 Things to do in the summer in Hong Kong]

[http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/beachside-camping-getaway-on-lantau-island-just-a-one-hour-ferry-ride-from-hong-kong/2011/05/10/AFfDcuiG_story.html# The Washington Post goes camping near Pui O]

[http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/08/25/finding-fireflies-during-the-hong-kong-summer/ The New York Times Travel blog finds fireflies in HK]

[http://travel.nytimes.com/2011/05/22/travel/inside-hong-kongs-private-kitchens.html The New York Times checks out some of the newest private kitchens]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/50-secret-tips-hong-kong-sightseeing-371481 CNN Go's 45 sightseeing tips for HK]

[http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/08/06/destination.adventure.hong.kong/index.html CNN's travel tips for newbies and a slideshow of some of our major attractions]

[http://www.worldcrunch.com/chungking-mansions-globalization-packed-inside-one-hong-kong-high-rise/3691 La Stampa via Worldcrunch - Chungking Mansions]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/visit/complete-guide-hong-kong-mid-autumn-festival-057124 CNNGo's guide to the Mid-Autumn Festival 2011]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/indie-music-venues-903611 CNNGo's guide to the best live music venues in HK]

[http://travel.yahoo.com/p-interests-40686621 Yahoo's World's Most Beautiful Ferry Rides]

== Further info ==

To find further or more detailed information, please try Hong Kong's wikitravel.org entry.

[http://wikitravel.org/en/Hong_Kong ''' Hong Kong's entry at Wikitravel.org''']
== CS Hong Kong moments ==
9 June 2012 International CS Day celebration in Hong Kong
(Article published in the June 2012 issue of the CS Magazine: http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/article/215)

== Hong Kong group on BeWelcome ==
Alternative to CS: non-profit, volunteer-driven, uncensored.
* [http://www.bewelcome.org/groups/249 '''BW Hong Kong group''']

== Hong Kong group on CS ==
If you still can't find the answer you wanted, subscribe to the
* [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 '''CS Hong Kong group''']
and ask the friendly folks there!

[[Category:China]]
[[hitch:Hong Kong]]

User:Gusgusgus

2013-03-24T18:35:58Z

Gusgusgus: Created page with "This page is the identifier for user "GusGusGus". Gus is a CS Ambassador and moderator of the CS China, CS Hong Kong, and CS Rural China groups. Gus has travelled extensively..."

This page is the identifier for user "GusGusGus".

Gus is a CS Ambassador and moderator of the CS China, CS Hong Kong, and CS Rural China groups.
Gus has travelled extensively in China, South East Asia, South America and East Asia.

Gus is active on both Couchsurfing and BeWelcome.

Berlin

2013-02-14T06:51:42Z

Gusgusgus:

Berlin

2013-02-14T06:48:03Z

Gusgusgus:

Berlin

2013-02-14T06:44:24Z

Gusgusgus:

Berlin

2013-02-14T04:29:18Z

Gusgusgus:

== Berlin's Couch Situation ==

Berlin is a major Couchsurfing city where there are CS events happening almost every day. XX

XX

The Berlin last minute couch request group is in:
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=XX Last Minute Couchsearch Group]

== Berlin Hostels and Guesthouses ==

Hostels cost in the range of Euro XX to XX within the city.

The major backpacker's hostel area in Berlin are:

These hostels come highly recommend by CS travellers:
*[http://www.yesinn.com/hk/ehostel.htm XX]
*[http://www.youthsquare.hk/en/#/YLoft YLoft XX]
*[http://www.dragonhostel.com/ XX]
*[http://www.gardenhostel.com/ XX]
*[http://www.hopinn.hk/en.html?article=&id=22 XX] (single rooms here are for a higher budget than the ones listed above)
*[http://sites.google.com/site/checkinnhk/home XX] (also slightly higher budget than the ones listed above)

===Mid-range and Higher end Accommodation===
These are another option for budget travellers if your couchsearch doesn't work out and hostel reservations are hard to make. Team up with other CSers and you can share costs.
*[http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/china/hong-kong-r1973696/ Lonely Planet's list of mid-range hotel options]
*[http://www.caritas-chs.org.hk/eng/lodge_srv.asp XX] $420(single)-$720(triple)/night, $7,500-$11,700/month
*[http://hotel.ywca.org.hk/eng/AnneBlack/anne_room_rates.htm XX] $600-$1,100/night
*[http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2012/jul/04/top-10-budget-hotels-hong-kong Top 10 budget hotels in XX] Prices are listed in Euros.

=== Short/Long term stay ===

Some websites that our CS-ers recommend, if you're looking for flatshare/renting a flat in Hong Kong:

*[http://berlin.gumtree.com.hk Gumtree]

*[http://berlin.craigslist.hk/hhh/ Craigslist]

Or try our [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=36058 "Apartment/Flat-Share Hunting"] subgroup under the CS Berlin group.

== Getting Around ==
Public transportation generally goes almost everywhere in the city. XX

=== From Airport to City ===

'''Express Train'''
is the fastest way to get to the airport from XX. Express trains run every XX minutes from around XX a.m. to XX a.m. Journeys from the airport to XX take approximately XX minutes and a round-trip ticket costs XX.

*[http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/airport_express/timetable_index.html Timetable]
*[http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/airport_express/tf_index.html Fares]

'''Bus''' to/from the airport from/to various parts of the city
*[http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/routes/airport-bus/route/index.aspx?intLangID=1 Airport Bus Routes (Day + Night services)]

'''Transfer to MTR''' Buses S1 or S56 take you from the airport to the nearest MTR station (Tung Chung Station).

'''Taxi'''
*to XX - at least Euro XX
*to XX - at least Euro XX

=== Subway ===
[[File:MTR_train.JPG|350px|left|thumb|]]
The Subway is efficient and reliable and covers the major areas of the city. It can also be taken across the border to XX. Note that you'll need a visa to enter XX.
*[http://www.mtr.com.hk/jplanner/flash_eng/index.php Route and Fare map]

=== Subway Card ===
[[File:OctopusCard.jpg|right|thumb|Octopus Card]]
XX

===Buses===
Buses in Berlin are plentiful.

The routes are split between several companies and they go to places all over the territory.
*[http://www.kmb.hk/en/services/search.html XX]
*[http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/routes/routesearch.aspx?searchtype=3&intLangID=1 XX]
*[http://www.newlantaobus.com/nlb_map.htm XX]

=== Taxi ===
Taxis are expensive. XX.

'''One thing to watch out for'''

Red taxis legally must take you anywhere in Kowloon or on Hong Kong Island but sometimes they have a preferred destination at shift change times. They usually use a piece of cardboard to cover/uncover their flag light on the dashboard as a signal. Cardboard on means the driver is looking for Kowloon passengers. No cardboard means they're looking for Hong Kong passengers. This isn't much of an issue when you can find the taxis going your way around the corner. It however does become a problem when you have something heavy to carry or you can't find a taxi going your way. Beware that some drivers will refuse to take you or 'get lost' if you insist. If you're in a tight spot, we we suggest you explain to the driver and bug him 'til he sees the light and then keep an eye out to prevent 'getting lost'.

=== Tram ===
One of our earliest forms of public transit is still going strong. For HK$2.30 per adult, $1.20 for children under 12 and $1 for seniors 65+, you can ride along the north side of Hong Kong Island from Shau Kei Wan to Kennedy Town. Just get on at the back and pay at the front as you alight. Octopus cards are accepted.

===Ferries===

'''Outlying Island ferries''' - There are several companies which operate ferries to XX Island. For schedules and fares, check the links.

*[http://www.nwff.com.hk/eng/fare_table/ New World First Ferry] HK Island/ Kowloon, outlying islands and Macau

*[http://www.hkkf.com.hk/index.php?op=timetable&style=en Hong Kong and Kowloon Ferry Holdings Ltd.] Hong Kong, Lamma and Peng Chau

*[http://www.hkri.com/icms2/template?series=101&article=3421 Discovery Bay Transportation Services] 24 hour service between Central and Discovery Bay

*[http://www.hongkongclimbing.com/guides/tunglung/index.html Tung Lung Island Ferry]

'''XX ferries'''
*[http://www.turbojet.com.hk/eng/schedule/prd.html Turbojet]
*[http://www.nwff.com.hk/eng/fare_table/local-macau/?section=Macau New World First Ferry]
*[http://cotaijet.com.mo/en/destinations/index.aspx Cotai Jet]
*[http://www.macaodragon.com/website/default.aspx Macau Dragon]
*[http://www.cksp.com.hk/eng/home.html Chu Kong]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==
[[File:Hong_Kong_at_night.jpg|1060px|thumb|centre]]

===Main Nightlife Areas===
'''Central''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2fyg65g Lan Kwai Fong and Soho] / '''Wan Chai''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2crjj86 Lockhart Road] /
'''Tsim Sha Tsui''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2dex4fd Knutsford Terrace]

===Magazines and Event listings===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows.

*[http://hk.asia-city.com/nightlife HK Magazine] Free print copies available around town.
*[http://www.timeout.com.hk/clubs/ Timeout HK] Print copies available at bookstores and some clubs.
*[http://hkticketing.com/eng/ Hong Kong Ticketing] Be sure to scroll down the yellow column on the right hand side to see all the listed shows.

===Bars===
Some favourite local haunts include:
(Central, Soho and Wanchai.)
*[http://www.hiphongkong.com/drink/bars/nightclubs/lounges/le_jardin_bar_lan_kwai_fong_hong_kong Le Jardin] bar, weekly meetup venue
*[http://www.facebook.com/#!/Yumla Yumla] bar, dancing, house music
*[http://www.ilovesoho.hk/features/secret-spots/club-71 Club 71] bar, al fresco, chilled
*[http://www.hiphongkong.com/drink/bars/nightclubs/underground_bars/makumba_african_bar_soho_hong_kong Makumba] African bar, dancing, World music/French influence
*[http://www.mesamis.com.hk/mesamis/menus/venues/wan-chai Mes Amis] bar, dancing, pop music

===The Underground===
[[File:ElectricEelShock2006.JPG|320px|left|thumb|Electric Eel Shock in HK 2006]]

Events, venues and organizations
*[http://www.hkfringe.com.hk/ The Fringe Club]
*[http://www.frommers.com/destinations/hongkong/N28933.html The Wanch]
*[http://www.hongkonghustle.com/tag/the-warehouse-aberdeen/ The Warehouse, Aberdeen]
*[http://www.whitenoiserecords.org/ White Noise Records]

===Comedy===
*[http://www.takeoutcomedy.com/site/shows/ Takeout Comedy] - live standup and improv shows, local and international performers, most shows in English, Cantonese shows on Mondays and Thursday
*[http://comedy.hk/?ai1ec_event=hkbrewhouse-openmic&instance_id=8855 Free Open Mic Night] Every Wednesday in Central

===Restaurants===
*[http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/index.htm Openrice HK restaurant search engine]
*[http://www.frommers.com/destinations/hongkong/78_inddin.html Frommers HK restaurant listings]
*[http://www.eatdrinkhongkong.com/ EatDrink HK restaurant listings]

Vegetarian Restaurants:
*[http://www.happycow.net/asia/china/hong_kong/hong_kong_island/ Vegetarian restaurant listings]
*[http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/sr1.htm?dishes_id=1011&amenity_id=&theme_id=&price=&inputcategory=cname&inputstrrest=&ST=1 Another list of vegetarian restaurants]
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8610921 A group discussion thread]
*[http://morethansalad.com/earth/asia/china/hong_kong/hong_kong/ Website of our CS friend Dan F - who did a vegetarian food tour in HK]
*[http://doufumafia.com/tag/hong-kong/ HK Vegetarian blog]

Vegan Restaurants:
*[http://vegan.hk/restaurant-HK.html Vegan restaurant listing]
*[http://www.holisticasia.com Holistic Asia] For listings of holistic/alternative/complementary health and healing events.

===Karaoke===
*[http://www.musicbox-hk.com/karaoke Music Box]
*[http://www.redbox.com.my/redbox/eng/default.asp Red Box/Green Box]
*[http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/sr1.htm?amenity_id=1012 Karaoke listings on Open Rice]

*[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/hong-kong-karaoke-010208 CNNGo's take on the 5 best karaokes in HK (Mar 2010)]

==Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors==
[[File:Clear_Water_Bay.jpg|250px|right|thumb|Clear Water Bay]]
[[File:Hong_Kong_waterfall.jpg|250px|right|thumb|A waterfall in one of Hong Kong's country parks]]
'''Hiking'''
*[http://www.hiking-in-hong-kong.com/hiking-trails/area/index.html Hiking in Hong Kong trail index]
Be sure to check these boards for regular hiking activities
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 Hong Kong CS Group]
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=15546 Hiking in Hong Kong Subgroup]

'''Running and Hiking events'''
*[http://www.oxfamtrailwalker.org.hk/opencms.war/opencms/_info_/homepage.jsp?__locale=en Oxfam Trailwalker]
*[http://www.hkhillrunning.com/ English guide to hill races in HK]
*[http://www.standardchartered.com.hk/sustainability/local_community_initiatives/standard_chartered_hk_marathon/en/index.html Standard Chartered HK Marathon]

'''Swimming and Beaches'''
*[http://www.hkoutdoors.com/hong-kong/hong-kong-beaches.html HK Outdoors Beaches guide]

'''Camping'''
*[http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/camp/en/p_campsite.php List of Hong Kong campgrounds]

'''Wakeboarding and Waterskiing'''
*[http://www.thelist.com.hk/listings/sports-water/wakeboarding-waterskiing-0 The List]

'''Windsurfing and Kayaking'''
*[http://www.ccwindc.com.hk/Cheung_Chau_Windsurfing_Centre/Gear_Rental_Price_List.html Cheung Chau windsurfing and kayaking]

*[http://kayaks.com.hk/en/index.htm Sai Kung Windsurfing Centre]

''' Diving'''
*[http://www.asiadivesite.com/hong-kong-dive-sites/ HK diving info]
*[http://www.scdc.org.hk/diving.html South China Diving Club]

'''Rock Climbing'''
*[http://www.hongkongclimbing.com/ English guide to outdoor climbing in HK]

'''Para-gliding'''
*[http://www.hkpa.net/ Hong Kong Paragliding Association]

'''Snowboarding'''
*[http://www.slopeinfinity.com/index.html Slope Infinity] Indoor snowless snowboarding

== Language Exchange ==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Hong Kong from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Mandarin/Cantonese for English seems to be the most popular combination wanted here but there are also many other languages on offer from Japanese to Russian. Here are some of your options:

For one on one exchange:
*[http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/personals/language-exchange/ Asiaxpat Language Exchange notices]
*[http://mylanguageexchange.com/Search.asp?selCountry=41&selTxtChat=true mylanguageexchange.com]

Groups that meet regularly:
*[http://www.meetup.com/Mandarin-English-Language-Exchange/ Meetup.com Mandarin English Language Exchange]
*[https://www.facebook.com/hklcec?sk=wall Hong Kong Language and Cultural Exchange Club (this group has social outings just for fun or for language/cultural exchange)]

Language exchange social networks:
*[http://www.livemocha.com/ Livemocha.com is an online social network for language exchangers]

Hong Kong CS language groups
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=41357 HKCS Language Exchange sub-group]
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=10077149 Mandarin English Exchange Group Ruggers Bar]

'''Paid language courses'''

HKU Space has a [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/programme/category/languages-humanities#&sort=start_date+asc variety of language courses available] including French, German, Italian, Spanish and Russian.
*[http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/intensive-intro-putonghua Intensive Introductory Putonghua for non-Chinese speakers]
*[http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/int-mandarin Intermediate Putonghua for non-Chinese speakers]
*[http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/cantonese-i Cantonese level 1]

[http://www.ymcahkcollege.edu.hk/en/skillsupgrading.htm The Hong Kong YMCA] also has courses in Mandarin and Cantonese for non-Chinese speakers.

== Sightseeing ==
Hong Kong is extremely easy to get around by subway, taxi, bus, minibus, walking etc. You can easily design your own itinerary picking the places that you want to visit from below. Most people do not need a tour guide for Hong Kong. For an overview, here are two fun timelapse videos of Hong Kong featuring many of the city's famous landmarks:
#[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlDD-7oT8z0 Hong Kong: Funky Time Lapse] on youtube.
#[http://vimeo.com/25607851 timelapse Hong Kong] on Vimeo.

'''Cultural Heritage and Building architecture'''
#[http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Monument/en/trails_cw.php Sample itinerary and walk tour - Central area] with a very useful map
#[http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Monument/en/trails.php Temples and historic villages]

'''Markets'''
# '''Stanley Market''' Stanley is famous for its relaxed ambience, sea environs and bargain buys in the main street market. Stanley Market is open daily, 10:30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m..
# '''Temple Street Night Market''' Temple Street night market opens at 4 pm, but really comes alive after sunset. It offers an amazing range of inexpensive items, especially for men. There are also fortune-tellers and impromptu Chinese opera performances.
# '''Jade Market and Jade Street''' The Jade Market, located in Yau Ma Tei at the junction of Kansu and Battery Street, features 400 stalls selling jade of all types, shades, sizes and prices. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Nearby is Jade Street, located on Canton Road between Kansu Street and Jordan Road, with shops open 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Jade and gemstone testing is available at Jade Plaza.
# '''Ladies Market''' The Ladies Market in Tung Choi Street is the place for bags, accessories and inexpensive women's clothing. Men's and children's clothing and toys are also on sale. Open daily from noon to 11:30 p.m.
# '''Bird garden/ flower market/ goldfish market''' The charming Chinese-style garden on Yuen Po Street includes some 70 songbird stalls as well as courtyards and moon gates. Look and listen but it’s wise to avoid contact with the birds. The Bird Garden is open from 7am to 8pm, daily. The colourful Flower Market sells everything from Dutch tulips to exotic orchids, open daily from 7am to 7pm. The Goldfish market on nearby Tung Choi Street sells aquariums, corals and exotic fish, open daily from 10:30am to 10pm.
# '''Western Market''' This Edwardian-style building features arts and crafts, fabric shops, alfresco dining, and ballroom dancing.
#'''[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=9262012 Local neighbourhood street markets discussion]'''

'''Temples, Monasteries, Nunneries'''
# '''Man Mo Temple''' One of Hong Kong's oldest temples, dedicated to two deities, the ‘civil’ (Man) and the ‘military’ (Mo).
# '''Chi Lin Nunnery''' The serene 1930s Chi Lin Nunnery (rebuilt in 1998) is spread across 3.2 hectares and is China’s largest group of hand-crafted timber buildings incorporating traditional Tang dynasty (618-907AD) construction techniques.
# '''Po Lin Monastery, Giant Buddha and Wisdom Path''' Located on Lantau, this is one of Hong Kong's largest temples and monasteries, housing the world's tallest outdoor bronze seated Buddha, at 34 m (111ft.) high.

'''Parks'''
# '''Hong Kong Park''' Overlooked by the towers of Pacific Place and Admiralty on one side and Central on the other, the park features a hot house, a Tai Chi garden, a waterfall and the Museum of Tea Ware.
# '''Kowloon Park''' An oasis in the heart of Kowloon next to the Kowloon Mosque. Enjoy a walk among the trees, a bird sanctuary, fountains and a swimming pool.
# '''Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens''' Looking down on the old Government House, the Gardens date back to 1864. Look out for the gibbons and orangutans.

'''Theme Parks'''
# '''Ocean Park''' [http://www.oceanpark.com.hk/html/en/home/]
#'''Hong Kong Disneyland''' [http://park.hongkongdisneyland.com/hkdl/en_US/home/home?name=HomePage]

'''Other references'''
#For more ideas check the [http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong_Sightseeing Hong Kong Sightseeing Wiki]
#For a very long alphabetical listing of HK areas and sights to see check here [http://www.homeandabroad.com/c/64/64_Hong_Kong_visit_guide.html]
#For Lonely Planet's list of things to do in Hong Kong (based on a recent survey of Lonely Planet readers), see [http://www.lonelyplanet.com/china/hong-kong/things-to-do]
#For a blogger's list of ten things to do in HK check here [http://velvetescape.com/blog/2011/05/ten-things-to-do-in-hong-kong/]
#You can check out some panoramic photos of popular spots at [http://www.360cities.net/map#lat=22.30195&lng=114.17417&zoom=13 360cities.net]
#For more tips about what to see/do in Hong Kong, see [http://guidepal.com/hong-kong]
#For more tourist info about Hong Kong, see [http://ilovehongkong.org/ I Love Hong Kong]
#For a blogger's tips and other HK info, see [http://annatam.com/category/hong-kong/hong-kong-travel-tips/ Journey to Hong Kong]
#Welcome to Hong Kong - a guide for visitors and expats [http://www.hiphongkong.com/visitors_tourist_guide_hong_kong]

== Crossing the border ==
*Planes: multiple daily flights leave from Hong Kong International Airport (Chek Lap Kok) to airports in mainland China.
*Trains: The subway of Hong Kong and Shenzhen connect to each other (you'll need to get off the train for transit and custom office crossing)
# The MTR East rail line goes Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau where you disembark to cross the border into Shenzhen.
# Intercity trains to Dongguan, Foshan, Guangzhou East rail station and Zhaoqing leave from Hung Hom station daily.
*[http://www.it3.mtr.com.hk/B2C/frmScheduleGuangdong.asp?strLang=Eng Fares, schedules and online ticketing] Note that once you are in China, rail tickets for any destination cannot be purchased online. They must be purchased at the rail station itself.
*Ferries: Ferry services run from Hong Kong to the province of Guangdong in mainland China, departing from both the city centre and the Airport. See the Ferry section above for more information.[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong#Ferries]
*Buses: These private companies operate bus services to many locations in Guangdong, Guangxi and Fujian Province:
#http://www.trans-island.com.hk/
#http://www.eebus.com/
#http://www.gdhkmtc.com/schedule.html
*Hong Kong airport to Shenzhen airport - see discussion [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=13289591 here]

== Visas ==
'''Warning''': This section is intended to help you understand the basics of Hong Kong and China Visas and give you a foundation from which to move forward and make decisions. However, China has a complicated visa policy that is constantly changing for various reasons. Prices, availability, conditions etc. are all subject to change without notice. Although we try to provide helpful, updated information here to help you navigate the process, you must do your own additional research. If you have updated info for us, please let us know and we'll try to incorporate it as soon as possible.

=== Visa for Hong Kong ===

Holders of many passports can travel to Hong Kong visa free.

Visa requirements for holders of different passports, please see [http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_4.htm#part2 this] list maintained by the Hong Kong Government:

If you intend to move to Hong Kong or to stay in Hong Kong for a long time, there are various Hong Kong visa options:
[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_1.htm Hong Kong's Immigration Department website]

[http://www.hongkongvisahandbook.com/hong_kong_visa_handbook_2011_a_guide_to_immigration_employment_investment_work_permit_and_residency_applications.html A list of Hong Kong visa options] Note that this links to a business website not a government website and is for reference only.

[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_10.htm Hong Kong's Working Holiday Scheme]

[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_10a.htm List of eligible countries and basic regulations for the Working Holiday Scheme]

=== Visa for mainland China (ex HK/Macau/Taiwan) ===

Most visitors of mainland China require a visa to visit mainland China, except holders of Singaporean and Japanese passports and holders of Hong Kong Permanent Identity card with Chinese ancestry.

There are 8 types of Chinese visa. The popular types are: L Visa (for tourist), F Visa (for business), Z Visa (for work), X Visa (for study) and G Visa (for transit in Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing airports).

China has a complicated visa policy that is constantly changing for various reasons. The visa requirements for holders of different passports are different. It is highly advisable that you check with the Chinese Embassy in your home country shortly before you visit China.

Hong Kong is a popular place for foreigners to apply for Chinese visas, because the time required for the granting of visa is relatively short compared to most foreign Chinese embassies.

'''L Visa: different sub-categories'''[[File:L-visa.jpg|300px|right|thumb|L Visa - All visas require one full passport page]]
(Note: If you plan to visit the Tibet region of China, you will need to obtain a separate permit in addition to the L Visa.
# Single/double entry in 3 months
#* available to all nationalities
#* this is the most common visa that most travelers are granted
#* application methods:
#*# via Chinese embassy in your home country (3-10 days)
#*# via CTS in Hong Kong (4 working days, expect to queue up for 1-2 hours)
#*# via visa agents in Hong Kong (0.5-1 working day, most agents charge ~HK$80 as handling fee)
# Single/double entry in 6 months
#* available to all nationalities
#* not a common visa, however, for overseas Chinese visiting relatives in China, it is sometimes granted
#* application methods: same as in item (1) above.
# Multiple entries in 6 months/1 year
#* only for holders of Hong Kong identity card (permanent or non-permanent), whatever passport the applicant is holding
#* application methods
#*# via Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong (about a week)
#*# via CTS (4 working days)
# Visa on arrival: 5-day visa for visit to Shenzhen only
#* for certain nationalities only (as of June 2010 - holders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, Ecudor, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Panama, most EU countries passports) - RMB160 for most nationalities (Note: many exceptions, eg. RMB460 for British)
#* the visa only allow the holder to stay in Shenzhen only. Holder of the visa must exit Shenzhen to Hong Kong (by land) or to Macau (by ferry), you may not travel to any other part of China with this visa.
#* application methods
#*# via Luo Hu Border Custom Building (go up 2/F after crossing the HK-Shenzhen bridge at the Lo Wu border point) (30 minutes)
#*# via Shekou Ferry Terminal (go straight after landing in the Shekou pier) (15 minutes)
#*# Note (1): Not available in Huanggong, Futian (aka Lok Ma Chau), Man Kam To and Sha Tau Kok custom points
#*# Note (2): The policy for the 5-day Shenzhen visa changes from time to time and from our past experience there is no announcement of change. If you intend to apply for this visa at the border, it is advisable that you call the Lo Wu border office (see contact number below) before your trip to check whether your passport is qualified under the latest version of the policy.
#*# Note (3): Further discussion - http://www.evisaasia.com/visa-guide/shenzhen-five-days-visa/
# Visa on arrival: 5-day visa for visit to Zhuhai only
#* for certain nationalities only (as of June 2010 - holders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, Ecudor, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Panama, most EU countries passports) - RMB160 for most nationalities (Note: many exceptions, eg. RMB460 for British)
#* the visa only allow the holder to stay in Zhuhai only. Holder of the visa must exit Zhuhai to Macau (by land) or to Hong Kong (by ferry), you may not travel to any other part of China with this visa.
#* application methods
#*# via Zhuhai Jiuzhou Ferry Terminal (turn right and walk down the narrow corridor after arriving in the ferry terminal) (15 minutes)
#*# Note (1): Not available in Gongbei custom points
#*# Note (2): See Note (2) and (3) for 5-day Shenzhen visa on arrival above.

=== Contacts details ===
===1. Ministry of Foreign Affairs===
[http://www.fmcoprc.gov.hk/eng/zgqz/bgfwxx/default.htm English visa info]
:Address: China Resources building, 26Harbor Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong
:Office Hour: Monday to Friday (except public holidays in Hong Kong)
:Morning: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 a. m.
:Afternoon:2:00p.m.-5:00p.m
:Tel: 852-34132300(according to the website, it's a 24 hour Recorded Visa Information Service but experiences may vary), 852-34132424 (Live Answering Telephone available in office hours )

===2. CTS===
(China Travel Service) - the official visa agent of the Chinese government
:Details: http://www.ctshk.com/english/useful/chinesevisa.htm
:Offices in HK: http://www.ctshk.com/english/aboutus/branch_hkgmac.htm

===3. Visa agents===
: These are some visa agents that our CS-ers have had good experience using:

:* [http://www.fbt-chinavisa.com.hk/ Forever Bright Trading Limited]

:* [http://www.jta.biz/chinavisa/china_visa.htm Japan Travel Service Ltd] (with a list of visa fees for different passports)

:* [http://www.cosmicguesthouse.com/services/china-visa.htm Cosmic Guest House]

===4. Lo Wu Custom===
: Tel: 86-755-82327700 (speaks only mandarin)
: Service hour: 10am - 10pm.

=== Latest Situation ===

These are the latest visa conditions we heard from our CS-ers. (last updated: 16 May 2012):
:* China has imposed extra visa requirements for holders of Norwegian, French passports.
:* The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reduced the application fee for holders of Polish passports (RMB160).
:* [March 2011] There seems to be a quota on the number of Visa On Arrival granted each day - reason: The International University Sports Games is carrying on in Shenzhen
:* [15 July 2011] A headsup for everybody who intends to apply for a Chinese visa. The "International University Games" is going to take place in Shenzhen in the next couple of months and we are seeing that most CSers' Chinese visa applications for more than 30 days (Type L - travel) are being refused (ie. most people are granted only a 30-day visa - one entry)
:* [15 May 2012] Increased scrutiny of visa applications due to a 100 day action against illegal foreigners in China. See [http://shanghaiist.com/2012/05/15/beijing_begins_100-day_crackdown_on.php link] for more info.

'''''Recently it's been noticed that most people can only get 30 day visas. If you intend to travel in China for more than 30 days, do arrange your visa in the Chinese embassy in your home country prior to coming to HK.'''''

==Baggage Storage==

If you're just passing through HK for a short time and want to leave your luggage at the airport, there's a baggage storage service. There are also lockers at the Macau and China Ferry Terminals, Sha Tin MTR station, Hong Kong station and the Hung Hom Inter-city train station.
*[http://www.hongkongairport.com/eng/passenger/departure/all/baggage/left-baggage.html Hong Kong Airport Baggage Storage information]
*[http://gohongkong.about.com/od/travelplanner/a/leftluggage.htm Overview of locker services at Hong Kong Station, the airport, the HK/Macau Ferry Terminal and the China Ferry Terminal]
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=13624&post=10110709 Bag storage in Tung Chung, closest town to the airport]

For mid/long term luggage storage:
*[http://www.scstorage.com/index.php?lang=us SC Storage]
*[http://www.hongkongselfstorage.com/locker.html Hong Kong Self Storage]
*[http://www.thestorehouse.com.hk/sizeguide.html The Store House]

== Wi-Fi/ Internet Access / Mobile Internet==

=== Free + Unlimited Wi-Fi ===
* HK Airport
* Most government premises ([http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&q=%E6%94%BF%E5%BA%9C+WiFi&mrt=ds&sll=22.395793,114.11705&sspn=0.334567,0.468292&ie=UTF8&filter=0&radius=17.97&split=1&rq=1&ev=p&hq=%E6%94%BF%E5%BA%9C+WiFi&hnear=&ll=22.337374,114.086151&spn=0.334708,0.468292&z=11 Google map])

=== Free but limited Wi-Fi ===
* first 20 mins free in all McDonalds
* first 20 mins free in all Starbucks
* first 30 mins free in all Dragon Centre, Sham Shui Po (near MTR Exit C)

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7790735 more options listed on this HK Group thread]

=== Paid internet===
* [http://www.i-one.com.hk/branch.php i-One] - HK's largest chain internet services shop

=== Computer booth (with free internet access) ===
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/facilities/icentre.html iCentre] - in 14 MTR stations
* All Pacific Coffee

=== Prepaid Mobile Internet ===

* Check [http://www2.pccwmobile.com/portal/gen/WEB/home/Services_And_Pricing/3G_Rechargeable_SIM_Card.jsp?lang=en&treeMenu=treeMenu_mainMenuID0&subMenu=subMenu_level_1ID0_3&parent=parent_level_1ID0_3 here] for details.

=== Prepaid BlackBerry Plans ===
* There are no prepaid BlackBerry plans in Hong Kong but inexpensive monthly plans are available. Check [http://www.peoples.com.hk/p_tariff_plan_blackberry_lite_en.jsp here] for details.

=== Prepaid Sim Card for iPad ===
*Check [http://www.three.com.hk/website/appmanager/three/home?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=P200470391219567710594&lang=eng&pageid=61I001 here] for details.

=== More info ===
The review on this blog is from 2009 but may still be a helpful reference. [http://browngeek.blogspot.com/2009/09/which-is-best-unlimited-data-plan-to.html Review of mobile data plans in Hong Kong]

== Money ==
The currency used in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD $). It's currently pegged to the US dollar. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport, at currency exchange outlets in major tourist areas or at local banks. Beware if your currency is heavily coin based - I'm looking at you Canadians - as coins cannot be exchanged. Your bank cards will also work in local ATMs. You can use Hong Kong dollars in Macau but not vice versa.
For an idea of exchange rates, you can try this website. [http://www.xe.com/ucc/ XE.com]

The currency used in mainland China is the renminbi (RMB, CNY, ¥), also known as the yuan.

==Cost of living==
We've had some questions about the cost of living here. Hong Kong can be an expensive city but it can also suit tighter budgets if you play your cards right. Rent/housing will always be your biggest expense here. Here's a link to a thread on the topic to give you some idea.[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7577536#gpid7577536]

==Air quality==
Hong Kong suffers from poor air quality. If you have respiratory conditions such as asthma, you'll likely need your inhaler. We have no such thing as Euro or California regulations on emissions and a fleet of diesel buses. One small step in the right direction has been converting taxis to LPG but we have a long way to go.

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_Pollution_Index#Hong_Kong HK's Air Pollution Index explained]

[http://www.epd-asg.gov.hk/eindex.html HK's Air Pollution Index at the EPD]

[http://hedleyindex.sph.hku.hk/home.php The Headley Environmental Index]

==The Amazing Race==
Here are links to the most recent Hong Kong leg of The Amazing Race (US). You get to see and get a sense of several areas of the city.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ou7Cx7LLUJY&feature=related Part 1]

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-lg7ORbzqg&feature=related Part 2]

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYMjKaMgF8c&feature=related Part 3]

==FAQs==

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7117576 1. Where can I take Cantonese classes?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7475127 2. Where can I get prepaid SIM cards?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5871216 3. How to renew Chinese visa within China?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7577536#gpid7577536 4. Moving to HK, Cost of living] [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7402561#gpid7402561 answer 2]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7848982 5. Going from Shenzhen Airport to HK City at night]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7520022 6. Salsa dancing places in Hong Kong]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8263436 7. Outdoor Cafes in Hong Kong]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8393230 8. Hostels/hotels near the airport]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8530996 9. Useful budget flight/hotel websites in Asia]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8632531 10. Going to Shenzhen by bus via Huang Gang]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8659656 11. Home internet service providers - ISPs]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8862633 12. Alternatives to hotels, hostels and couches for 24-48 hour stopovers]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8840560 13. Ideas for 3-5 hour stopovers]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=12445697 14. Sharings of HK CS hosts]

==HK Travel and Tourism related articles==

[http://goop.com/newsletter/115/ Gwyneth Paltrow's take on HK]

[http://laineygossip.com/Gwyneth_Paltrow_GOOP_Hong_Kong_03feb11.aspx?CatID=0&CelID=0 Rebuttal to Goop's take on HK from CBC blogger Elaine Liu]

[http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/04/hong-kong-gadget-flea-market-a-blast-from-the-past/ Engadget feature on Sham Shui Po]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/88-things-do-summer-654587?page=0,0 CNNGo's 88 Things to do in the summer in Hong Kong]

[http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/beachside-camping-getaway-on-lantau-island-just-a-one-hour-ferry-ride-from-hong-kong/2011/05/10/AFfDcuiG_story.html# The Washington Post goes camping near Pui O]

[http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/08/25/finding-fireflies-during-the-hong-kong-summer/ The New York Times Travel blog finds fireflies in HK]

[http://travel.nytimes.com/2011/05/22/travel/inside-hong-kongs-private-kitchens.html The New York Times checks out some of the newest private kitchens]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/50-secret-tips-hong-kong-sightseeing-371481 CNN Go's 45 sightseeing tips for HK]

[http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/08/06/destination.adventure.hong.kong/index.html CNN's travel tips for newbies and a slideshow of some of our major attractions]

[http://www.worldcrunch.com/chungking-mansions-globalization-packed-inside-one-hong-kong-high-rise/3691 La Stampa via Worldcrunch - Chungking Mansions]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/visit/complete-guide-hong-kong-mid-autumn-festival-057124 CNNGo's guide to the Mid-Autumn Festival 2011]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/indie-music-venues-903611 CNNGo's guide to the best live music venues in HK]

[http://travel.yahoo.com/p-interests-40686621 Yahoo's World's Most Beautiful Ferry Rides]

==Further info==

To find further or more detailed information, please try Hong Kong's wikitravel.org entry.

[http://wikitravel.org/en/Hong_Kong ''' Hong Kong's entry at Wikitravel.org''']

[[category:China]]

== CS Hong Kong moments ==
9 June 2012 International CS Day celebration in Hong Kong
(Article published in the June 2012 issue of the CS Magazine: http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/article/215)

== Hong Kong group on CS ==
If you still can't find the answer you wanted, subscribe to the
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 '''Hong Kong group''']
and ask the friendly folks there!

{{Germany}}
{{Berlin}}

{{stub}}

China

2013-01-02T08:37:17Z

Gusgusgus:

{{China}}

[[File:漓江山水.jpg|400px|thumb|left| Li River Guangxi]]

== Basics ==

'''PAGE CURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION (as of 5 June 2011)
'''

The CS China Wiki is a collective of information contributed by members and volunteers of the CS China group. It is not supposed to be used by non-CSers and does not replace your guidebook/ travel research. It only addresses the question that are frequently being asked by CSers on the CS China group and contains only the information relevant and useful to CSers.

If you have a general question about travelling in China or a particular city in China, we recommend the website of Wiki-travel for all the basic information:

http://wikitravel.org/en/China

Note that you are responsible to do your own research, the information contained here is only to assist you as a beginner's guide and may not be up-to-date.

'''CS China Wiki Editing Guidelines'''

'''1) CS Terms and References'''
Please observe the CS Terms and Reference.

'''2) Factual Guide'''
The Wiki is a neutral and impartial guide that serves as a beginners reference for CSers visiting China for the first time. Please be impartial in your writing and do not favour or dis-favour any Chinese city or town. The content here should be basic facts about China, no personal views or comments.

'''3) No Promotion'''
No promotion of hostel, travel services, job-hunting agencies, estate agencies, e-shops or any business

'''4) No discussion of politics'''
Couchsurfing is a website created solely as a platform for travellers to share travel information. No discussion of any political issues here - you should note that wikipedia is blocked in China for various reasons surrounding this and we do not want to see this happen to our dear website.

'''5) Photos'''
[Please add photos that show the diversity - ethnic, climatic, geographic etc. - of China.]

Photos must be copyleft, public domain etc. or your own personal photos that you are willing to allow others access to via a release to the public domain or via a Share-alike licence. See here for an example of the licence I'm talking about.
Wikimedia Commons is a good source of free and share-alike licensed photos.

Do not use any images without permission, clearance etc. Do not just copy and paste photos you like from the web without checking copyright, ownership, authorship etc.

==Getting To==

===Visas and Permits===
Note that as of April 2012, it was announced that authorities would be focussing on fining and deporting foreigners in the country without the proper credentials. This would include people who have overstayed their visa as well as those using incorrect visas, such as teachers using tourist visas, and teaching is one of the areas they are focussing on. There have also been previous announcements that government departments would improve collection and storage of data related to visas and enhance the tracking of arrivals to and departures from the country by foreigners and Chinese citizens. See post [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=11904635 here].

On June 30, 2012 China enacted a new Exit-Entry Administration Law which comes into effect officially on July 1, 2013. It applies in particular to those who will be working in China. Click [http://lawandborder.com/?p=1381 here] for highlights of the law. Please note that these are preliminary highlights of the law only and that you must do your own further research and due diligence.

====Applying For a Visa in Your Home Country====

It is strongly advisable that you obtain your Chinese visa in your home country.

The Chinese Government has a uniform policy on visa application fees, meaning no matter which Chinese embassy you are applying your Chinese visa in (be it your home country, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand or Vietnam), you will pay the same amount of application fee - ie. the only difference is that you are paying a different currency.

Differences between different types of visa: [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=9158118 Discussion]

====Applying For a Visa in Hong Kong/Macau====
[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong#Visa_for_mainland_China_.28ex_HK.2FMacau.2FTaiwan.29 Hong Kong CS Wiki]

===Applying For a Visa in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia===
The visa section of the Chinese consular in Ulaanbatar is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:30-12:00. Get there early as people start lining up around 8am, although it's probably not as busy outside of high season (summer). The door for visa services is on the west side of the embassy, not the front (south). There will probably be two lines at the door: One line for people submitting applications and one for those picking up their passport. For applying, most nationalities will need:
*Passport with one blank page.
*Copy of passport.
*One recent photo on a plain, light background.
*Ticket (train or flight) out of Mongolia into China as well as ticket out of China. (Tickets in and out of China are required for each entry you request).
*Accommodation booking for at least the first few nights in China.
*Filled out application which can be done at the embassy or in advance by filling out these forms [http://mn.china-embassy.org/eng/lsfw/t782024.htm here] .
*Price varies by nationality and express services exist for an extra charge (same day, pay extra $30; 2nd day, pay extra $20). Pay on pick-up in new (post 1996) US dollars that are clean and crisp.

Note: Number of entries and length of stay will depend on nationality, previous trips to China, and flight/train tickets provided. Please check the Chinese embassy in Ulaanbaatar's [http://mn.china-embassy.org/eng/lsfw/ website] for further information.

====Visa Renewal Within China====
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5880181 Discussion]

====Tibet Permits====
Have a look at [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=7241651 this] discussion thread.

===Overland Trips===
Ferry from Shanghai to Japan - [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5311603 Discussion]

Overland Trip to Vietnam - [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5049226 Discussion 1], [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=9222879 Discussion 2]

Ferry to Korea from 6 cities in China - [http://www.itisnet.com/english/asia/e-korea/boat-to-china.html Link] [http://visitkorea.or.kr/ena/GK/GK_EN_2_3_2.jsp#Ferry Route Link 2] [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=10260018 Discussion 1]

Train to Mongolia/ Russia - [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trans-Mongolian_Railway Link]

Bus to Kazakhstan - [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=4921395 Link]

Overland to Myanmar - [https://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=13995581 Link]

== Getting Around ==

===Flights and hotels===
For booking flights and hotels, there is a very convenient English website: [http://www.ctrip.com www.ctrip.com]. Here you'll find the lowest rates for flights and accommodations of your choice. (again I hate to promote a specific commercial company, but it is the best site out there widely used by the Chinese themselves!). However you will not find the backpackers or youth hostels listed there...

For those who know a little Chinese, also try [http://www.qunar.com www.qunar.com] to find cheap flights in China. This is just a search website that will direct you to other, independent agencies. Investigate payment methods since foreign credit cards are usually not accepted.

These are some of the hostels recommended by our group members: [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=7140537 Discussion]

===Train===

[[File:China_Railway_High-Speed_-1-.png|400px|thumb|left| China National Rail Map]]

China has one of the best train networks in the world. Taking the train in China is the most convenient way to travel the country. Distances from one big city to another can be quite long. Some provinces are bigger than the state of Texas or France! An expanding network of high speed trains is adding both comfort and speed to the otherwise fairly slow pace of the trains.

====Buying a train ticket====
Buying yourself a train ticket is not the easiest task. If possible, ALWAYS buy your ticket one or two days in advance. If you go to the train station, the bigger the city, the more you have to be careful of pickpockets, harassers and stalkers who want to sell you all kinds of business (train tickets, hotels, transport, even maybe mei-mei (prostitutes!)). The train tickets are the hottest commodity on the black market in China. Although it's illegal to trade train tickets in China, enforcement is scarce, so many black market traders or brokers will just go to queue the lines at the ticket counters, buy tickets in bulk, then sell them at black market price.

To buy tickets you can actually find official train tickets counters in specific shops in the city. At the train station the tickets counters are usually located in a special 'ticket sales hall' or 'center', it is usually just a big hall that's not the departure nor the arrival hall with lots of people queueing.

'''Holiday season:''' If you are travelling around the month of the Chinese New Year, the week of May 1st or the week of October 1st, do book your tickets at least weeks in advance. That's when the entire population of China seems to be taking the train and public transportation to go on holidays, tourism, go home to visit family...etc

'''Online ticket purchase?'''The National Rail Department does not sell train tickets online. There are travel agents who claim that they can assist you to purchase train tickets if you transfer money to them online. However, in our CS-ers experience, there are plenty of online scams that we have heard of - do watch out. We do not recommend that you purchase train ticket through an online agent unless you do not have any other option.

====Around China on Train====

[http://www.johomaps.com/as/china/chinarail.jpg National Rail Map]

You can search trains schedules and fares on these websites:
http://www.tielu.org/

http://www.seat61.com

http://www.travelchinaguide.com/china-trains/

More train trip advice:
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=8863667 Discussion]

====The 4 train seat options====

Hard Seat (yìngzuò, 硬坐) - the cheapest
There are 3 seats on each side of the aisle which makes this the most crowded choice. The seats are not as hard as wood but the upholstery is not as comfortable as the soft seats. They are also not as consistently clean.

Soft Seat (ruǎnzuò, 软坐)
This is a fairly comfortable seat. There are 2 seats on each side of the aisle. Getting a soft seat ticket will usually get you into a “soft seat lounge” as well. The soft seat lounges have sofas and are not as crowded as the hard seat lounges.

Hard sleeper (yìngwò, 硬卧)
Hard sleepers are usually arranged in a triple bunk bed type set up. There are two triple bunk beds in a berth (a berth is like a small door-less room). That is, there is one bed on the bottom, one on the middle and one on the top. On one side of the aisle there are triple bunk beds arranged perpendicular to the windows. Opposite every berth is one or two seats and a very small table. Sheets, blankets and pillows are included.

Soft Sleeper (ruǎnwò, 软卧) - most expensive
There are both 2-bed berth and 4-bed berth soft sleepers. 4-bed berths are the standard. Due to the higher price, it is easier to book a ticket for a soft sleeper than it is for a hard sleeper. The beds are more comfortable and it’s a quieter environment inside. The berths are lockable.

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=3709942 Group Post]

====Travelling by Train During The Peak Seasons - Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb) and National Day Holiday (Oct)====

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=6973246 Discussion 1]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=8380092#post8409484 Discussion 2]

== Phone and communication: ==
In China, there are 3 mobile phone networks, all 3 of them are owned by the same state-owned entity.

While more than 90% of the SIM cards sold in convenient stores across the country can call/receive calls everywhere in China, in some provinces there are certain SIM cards issued by a local telecom company (local subsidiary of 1 of the 3 telecom companies) that you can only call/receive calls from within the same province (at a cheaper rate).

'''Voice Calls'''

For the most common type of SIM card, you are charged only for making calls. However, for some SIM cards (which are usually cheaper), you are charged for both making calls and receiving calls. Do check the package or to ask the shop owner when you purchase.

''National roaming'' - Every card has an "issuing province".

#For making calls, the calling rates for intra-province (cheaper) and inter-province are different.
#When you are picking a call on your "province A sim card" when you travel to province B, you are charged an extra inter-province roaming surrcharge.

'''Data usage'''

If you are staying in China only for a short time (say, less than 9 months). Your best (and only) option is to get a pay-as-you-go GPRS/3G internet card.

Most GPRS/3G internet data plan require you to sign up for 12 months or more and that you pay a huge deposit.

There is no short-term (10-day or 1-month) data package. The group has been asked many times:-
http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=9998364
http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=9986918

==FAQs:==

The following questions are frequently asked on the CS China forum.

The members of the CS China group will be happy to answer any question about travelling in China that you have, however, it will be helpful to both you and us if you read these following "classic" previous posts before making a new post on the same topic. Chances are that your question have been asked and answered by someone already and you will get the info you want by just one click on the following links (and... to be honest, our members are getting bored reading and answering the same questions again and again):

===1) Advice on travel itineraries===
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=4107846 Two Weeks in China]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=6931964 Thirty-two Days in China]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=2816257 Three to Four weeks between Shanghai and Beijing]

1 month in China -
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5618819 Discussion 1]
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=7988197 Discussion 2]
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=8984334 Discussion 3]

2 months in China -
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5269849 Discussion 1]
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=8116682 Discussion 2]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=2560356 Destinations between Beijing and Shanghai]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5014802 From Chengdu to Lhasa]

===2) Budget===
Daily expenses [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=8937320 Discussion]

Budget for a month [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=3832758 Discussion]

Hostels/food [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=1720601 Discussion]

===3) Getting a job in China===
Caution: From the experience of our CSers, we have heard MANY scams from many self-proclaimed "job search agencies" who promised you everything to lure you to sign to them and many of those promises turned out to be untrue and it became very difficult for the person to get out from the situation.

For highlights of China's new Exit-Entry law from July 1, 2012 - click [http://lawandborder.com/?p=1381 here]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5726514 English teaching jobs 1]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=6880246 English teaching jobs 2]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=10023411 General work/ intern/ work visa sponsor]

===4) Chinese Visa===
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=6355161 Discussion 1]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=2270460 Discussion 2]

You do not need to provide an "Invitation Letter" if you are applying for "L" Type Chinese Visa (ie. Tourist Visa), Read discussion [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=9425553 here].

===5) Hostels recommended by our CSers===
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=6257419 Thread covering recommendations in various locations]

===6) Police registration system for foreign travellers===
If you're an independent traveller at low to mid-range accommodations, beware that you may be turned away or asked to self-register at a nearby police station if the hotel does not have the registration system. This is a bigger concern if you're off the beaten track or it's late and you cannot self-register at a nearby police station. See discussion and examples [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=11760399 here]

==Active CS groups in China==
(in alphabetical order)

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1232 Beijing] Has 3 regular weekly meetups and other regular weekly events. Check the link for details.

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2356 Guangzhou]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2360 Guilin]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 Hong Kong] Thursday meetups at Le Jardin. [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 Map and directions] at the bottom

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=410 Macau]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1461 Nanjing]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1464 Qingdao]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=21563 Rural China]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1233 Shanghai] Has several weekly meetups. Check the link for details.

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2357 Shenzhen] Meetups every Thursday at different locations. Check the link for details.

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1459 Xi'an]

And from the island so beautiful that everyone wants to call their own...

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=417 Taiwan]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1311 Taipei]

==Culture Shock / Etiquette Issues for CSers to note in China==

* Some great tips in this article entitled [http://matadornetwork.com/abroad/how-to-travel-around-china-without-speaking-the-language/ How to Travel Around China Without Speaking the Language] Note that the hand signals for the numbers 7 and 8 on the diagram in the article should be switched.

* Recommended Reading: [http://www.amazon.com/Factory-Girls-Village-Changing-China/dp/0385520182/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1309091814&sr=8-1 Factory Girls] by Leslie Chang is the best book I've read on modern China in this regard.

[[File:Some_kids_are_playing_with_snow.jpg|300px|thumb|right| Kids in Nanjing playing in the snow]]

Culture Shock is a given when you come to China. Read up before you arrive and do your best to know a bit about the place beforehand. Be aware that this is preparation, not a solution or preventative measure. Even up to date reading you do beforehand might be out of date by the time you arrive due to the rapidly changing nature of the country. Also, please try to be sensitive to the fact that even locals may be trying to understand the most recent changes in their lives and may not be able to easily explain them to you.

Although there are some commonalities across the nation, be aware that there may be differences in perceptions / behaviours / customs / habits / traditions from neighbourhood to neighbourhood, city to city, province to province, region to region and differences among the generations.

Keep in mind that many cities in China are centres for migration and people from all over, with their own habits, customs, traditions and dialects, are living and working next to each other. Don't assume that behaviours or attitudes are shared or practiced by all just because you've seen or experienced them from some people.

If you have complaints or need to vent about certain behaviours that you do not understand or that you find frustrating, please do your best to seek advice from other expats in private... and do so sparingly. Please don't voice your complaints around local people or others who may take offense or feel unfairly stereotyped. If you do need to ask a local about a certain issue, please do so calmly and sensitively in order to find an answer or a solution.

Some issues surfers have come up against:

- Foreign Couchsurfers should technically register with the local police when staying with a Host. You can find this information on the arrival card you fill out when reaching China, so nobody can really claim ignorance here. When staying in a hostel/hotel/guesthouse, they will do it for you, but to avoid trouble for your Host, you should spend the time to go to the station. In the city you should register within 24 hours of arrival, but in the countryside you have 72 hours. Usually, it will be necessary to bring a Chinese speaker for translation. Although there are no reports of foreigners being stopped at the border and asked about their whereabouts for "missing days", it is mainly beneficial for your Host. The police might get upset with a Host who has foreign strangers going in and out all the time. Realize that foreigners are very noticeable in China and that the police may have concerns about their presence.

- Be aware of sensitive topics and who you are speaking to. Please don't ask a local person about an issue that may make them feel uncomfortable or 'put on the spot'. Also be aware that although Chinese people discuss and joke about many topics freely among family and friends, they may not want to discuss these same issues with a relative stranger or with a foreigner.

- It may take some local people a long time to 'warm up' and feel that they know you or feel that you are now a friend rather than a passing acquaintance.

- Some people, especially those from outside major cities, may engage in spitting, nose-picking, uncovered sneezing etc. The government has engaged in health campaigns to discourage this and to promote spitting into tissues etc. to prevent the spread of colds and flus but old habits are hard to break.

- Toilet facilities and plumbing may be different from those you are used to back home. Be prepared to be flexible. Pun intended.

- In general, showers or baths are taken in the evening and it may be seen as unhygienic not to bathe before bedtime so please note this and ask your hosts if they prefer that you shower at a certain time of day.

- Be aware that some parts of China have strong 'drinking cultures' when it comes to social events. Men in particular may be expected to drink large amounts of alcohol - often straight hard liquor - in order to bond with locals. If this is not your thing, have a polite excuse on hand about a medical condition or other polite technique at hand to moderate your alcohol intake without offending anyone.

- Please remember that common courtesy never goes astray. A smile, a thank you, a gift or any other appropriate show of gratitude for hospitality received is always appreciated.

== China At A Glance ==
* [http://www.theatlantic.com/infocus/2011/10/21st-century-china/100174/ China in photos] in The Atlantic.

* Most populous nation on Earth - over 1,300,000,000 people.

* One of the largest nations on Earth by area along with Russia, Canada, the US and Brazil.

* 55 recognized minority groups.

* 41 [http://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/cn UNESCO World Heritage sites]

==China CS in the press/blogosphere==
*[http://epaper.tianjindaily.com.cn/tjrb/tjrb/2008-11/30/content_6051531.htm “沙发客”：让世界变得很小"]
*[http://zqb.cyol.com/content/2008-11/14/content_2431231.htm 沙发客的多彩旅途]
*[http://china.org.cn/living_in_china/expat_tales/2008-04/21/content_14985686.htm Philippe's open-door adventure]
*[http://shanghaiist.com/2008/04/02/couchsurfing_sh.php#comments CS in The Shanghaiist]
*[http://www.china.org.cn/english/LivinginChina/234126.htm See the world by traveling couch to couch]

Books about CS in Chinese language
*你家沙发借我睡 by 林鸿麟 ISBN: 9787208088368
*我,睡了,81个人的沙发 by Rose Lien ISBN: 9789573909002
*22岁走遍世界：我睡沙发去旅行 by Leo Long ISBN: 9787214075567
*7500元28天游港澳大阪京都-35岁单身女子的沙发客之旅 (赵菊阳) ISBN：9787538455243
*沙发旅行 by Momo ISBN:9787807297659

A movie about CS in Chinese:
*第三十六个故事（Taipei Exchanges）

==Useful references:==
*[http://unices.over-blog.com/ China photo blog]
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/People%27s_Republic_of_China China on Wikipedia]
*[http://wikitravel.org/en/China Wikitravel China]

*[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/China_geography China's geography]
*[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/China_history China's history]

Other material that used to be on this page has been saved here - [http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/China_miscellaneous China miscellaneous]

China

2012-12-10T17:22:24Z

Gusgusgus:

[[File:漓江山水.jpg|400px|thumb|left| Li River Guangxi]]

== Basics ==

'''PAGE CURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION (as of 5 June 2011)
'''

The CS China Wiki is a collective of information contributed by members and volunteers of the CS China group. It is not supposed to be used by non-CSers and does not replace your guidebook/ travel research. It only addresses the question that are frequently being asked by CSers on the CS China group and contains only the information relevant and useful to CSers.

If you have a general question about travelling in China or a particular city in China, we recommend the website of Wiki-travel for all the basic information:

http://wikitravel.org/en/China

Note that you are responsible to do your own research, the information contained here is only to assist you as a beginner's guide and may not be up-to-date.

'''CS China Wiki Editing Guidelines'''

'''1) CS Terms and References'''
Please observe the CS Terms and Reference.

'''2) Factual Guide'''
The Wiki is a neutral and impartial guide that serves as a beginners reference for CSers visiting China for the first time. Please be impartial in your writing and do not favour or dis-favour any Chinese city or town. The content here should be basic facts about China, no personal views or comments.

'''3) No Promotion'''
No promotion of hostel, travel services, job-hunting agencies, estate agencies, e-shops or any business

'''4) No discussion of politics'''
Couchsurfing is a website created solely as a platform for travellers to share travel information. No discussion of any political issues here - you should note that wikipedia is blocked in China for various reasons surrounding this and we do not want to see this happen to our dear website.

'''5) Photos'''
[Please add photos that show the diversity - ethnic, climatic, geographic etc. - of China.]

Photos must be copyleft, public domain etc. or your own personal photos that you are willing to allow others access to via a release to the public domain or via a Share-alike licence. See here for an example of the licence I'm talking about.
Wikimedia Commons is a good source of free and share-alike licensed photos.

Do not use any images without permission, clearance etc. Do not just copy and paste photos you like from the web without checking copyright, ownership, authorship etc.

==Getting To==

===Visas and Permits===
Note that as of April 2012, it was announced that authorities would be focussing on fining and deporting foreigners in the country without the proper credentials. This would include people who have overstayed their visa as well as those using incorrect visas, such as teachers using tourist visas, and teaching is one of the areas they are focussing on. There have also been previous announcements that government departments would improve collection and storage of data related to visas and enhance the tracking of arrivals to and departures from the country by foreigners and Chinese citizens. See post [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=11904635 here].

On June 30, 2012 China enacted a new Exit-Entry Administration Law which comes into effect officially on July 1, 2013. It applies in particular to those who will be working in China. Click [http://lawandborder.com/?p=1381 here] for highlights of the law. Please note that these are preliminary highlights of the law only and that you must do your own further research and due diligence.

====Applying For a Visa in Your Home Country====

It is strongly advisable that you obtain your Chinese visa in your home country.

The Chinese Government has a uniform policy on visa application fees, meaning no matter which Chinese embassy you are applying your Chinese visa in (be it your home country, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand or Vietnam), you will pay the same amount of application fee - ie. the only difference is that you are paying a different currency.

Differences between different types of visa: [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=9158118 Discussion]

====Applying For a Visa in Hong Kong/Macau====
[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong#Visa_for_mainland_China_.28ex_HK.2FMacau.2FTaiwan.29 Hong Kong CS Wiki]

===Applying For a Visa in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia===
The visa section of the Chinese consular in Ulaanbatar is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:30-12:00. Get there early as people start lining up around 8am, although it's probably not as busy outside of high season (summer). The door for visa services is on the west side of the embassy, not the front (south). There will probably be two lines at the door: One line for people submitting applications and one for those picking up their passport. For applying, most nationalities will need:
*Passport with one blank page.
*Copy of passport.
*One recent photo on a plain, light background.
*Ticket (train or flight) out of Mongolia into China as well as ticket out of China. (Tickets in and out of China are required for each entry you request).
*Accommodation booking for at least the first few nights in China.
*Filled out application which can be done at the embassy or in advance by filling out these forms [http://mn.china-embassy.org/eng/lsfw/t782024.htm here] .
*Price varies by nationality and express services exist for an extra charge (same day, pay extra $30; 2nd day, pay extra $20). Pay on pick-up in new (post 1996) US dollars that are clean and crisp.

Note: Number of entries and length of stay will depend on nationality, previous trips to China, and flight/train tickets provided. Please check the Chinese embassy in Ulaanbaatar's [http://mn.china-embassy.org/eng/lsfw/ website] for further information.

====Visa Renewal Within China====
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5880181 Discussion]

====Tibet Permits====
Have a look at [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=7241651 this] discussion thread.

===Overland Trips===
Ferry from Shanghai to Japan - [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5311603 Discussion]

Overland Trip to Vietnam - [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5049226 Discussion 1], [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=9222879 Discussion 2]

Ferry to Korea from 6 cities in China - [http://www.itisnet.com/english/asia/e-korea/boat-to-china.html Link] [http://visitkorea.or.kr/ena/GK/GK_EN_2_3_2.jsp#Ferry Route Link 2] [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=10260018 Discussion 1]

Train to Mongolia/ Russia - [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trans-Mongolian_Railway Link]

Bus to Kazakhstan - [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=4921395 Link]

== Getting Around ==

===Flights and hotels===
For booking flights and hotels, there is a very convenient English website: [http://www.ctrip.com www.ctrip.com]. Here you'll find the lowest rates for flights and accommodations of your choice. (again I hate to promote a specific commercial company, but it is the best site out there widely used by the Chinese themselves!). However you will not find the backpackers or youth hostels listed there...

For those who know a little Chinese, also try [http://www.qunar.com www.qunar.com] to find cheap flights in China. This is just a search website that will direct you to other, independent agencies. Investigate payment methods since foreign credit cards are usually not accepted.

These are some of the hostels recommended by our group members: [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=7140537 Discussion]

===Train===

[[File:China_Railway_High-Speed_-1-.png|400px|thumb|left| China National Rail Map]]

China has one of the best train networks in the world. Taking the train in China is the most convenient way to travel the country. Distances from one big city to another can be quite long. Some provinces are bigger than the state of Texas or France! An expanding network of high speed trains is adding both comfort and speed to the otherwise fairly slow pace of the trains.

====Buying a train ticket====
Buying yourself a train ticket is not the easiest task. If possible, ALWAYS buy your ticket one or two days in advance. If you go to the train station, the bigger the city, the more you have to be careful of pickpockets, harassers and stalkers who want to sell you all kinds of business (train tickets, hotels, transport, even maybe mei-mei (prostitutes!)). The train tickets are the hottest commodity on the black market in China. Although it's illegal to trade train tickets in China, enforcement is scarce, so many black market traders or brokers will just go to queue the lines at the ticket counters, buy tickets in bulk, then sell them at black market price.

To buy tickets you can actually find official train tickets counters in specific shops in the city. At the train station the tickets counters are usually located in a special 'ticket sales hall' or 'center', it is usually just a big hall that's not the departure nor the arrival hall with lots of people queueing.

'''Holiday season:''' If you are travelling around the month of the Chinese New Year, the week of May 1st or the week of October 1st, do book your tickets at least weeks in advance. That's when the entire population of China seems to be taking the train and public transportation to go on holidays, tourism, go home to visit family...etc

'''Online ticket purchase?'''The National Rail Department does not sell train tickets online. There are travel agents who claim that they can assist you to purchase train tickets if you transfer money to them online. However, in our CS-ers experience, there are plenty of online scams that we have heard of - do watch out. We do not recommend that you purchase train ticket through an online agent unless you do not have any other option.

====Around China on Train====

[http://www.johomaps.com/as/china/chinarail.jpg National Rail Map]

You can search trains schedules and fares on these websites:
http://www.tielu.org/

http://www.seat61.com

http://www.travelchinaguide.com/china-trains/

More train trip advice:
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=8863667 Discussion]

====The 4 train seat options====

Hard Seat (yìngzuò, 硬坐) - the cheapest
There are 3 seats on each side of the aisle which makes this the most crowded choice. The seats are not as hard as wood but the upholstery is not as comfortable as the soft seats. They are also not as consistently clean.

Soft Seat (ruǎnzuò, 软坐)
This is a fairly comfortable seat. There are 2 seats on each side of the aisle. Getting a soft seat ticket will usually get you into a “soft seat lounge” as well. The soft seat lounges have sofas and are not as crowded as the hard seat lounges.

Hard sleeper (yìngwò, 硬卧)
Hard sleepers are usually arranged in a triple bunk bed type set up. There are two triple bunk beds in a berth (a berth is like a small door-less room). That is, there is one bed on the bottom, one on the middle and one on the top. On one side of the aisle there are triple bunk beds arranged perpendicular to the windows. Opposite every berth is one or two seats and a very small table. Sheets, blankets and pillows are included.

Soft Sleeper (ruǎnwò, 软卧) - most expensive
There are both 2-bed berth and 4-bed berth soft sleepers. 4-bed berths are the standard. Due to the higher price, it is easier to book a ticket for a soft sleeper than it is for a hard sleeper. The beds are more comfortable and it’s a quieter environment inside. The berths are lockable.

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=3709942 Group Post]

====Travelling by Train During The Peak Seasons - Chinese New Year (Jan/Feb) and National Day Holiday (Oct)====

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=6973246 Discussion 1]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=8380092#post8409484 Discussion 2]

== Phone and communication: ==
In China, there are 3 mobile phone networks, all 3 of them are owned by the same state-owned entity.

While more than 90% of the SIM cards sold in convenient stores across the country can call/receive calls everywhere in China, in some provinces there are certain SIM cards issued by a local telecom company (local subsidiary of 1 of the 3 telecom companies) that you can only call/receive calls from within the same province (at a cheaper rate).

'''Voice Calls'''

For the most common type of SIM card, you are charged only for making calls. However, for some SIM cards (which are usually cheaper), you are charged for both making calls and receiving calls. Do check the package or to ask the shop owner when you purchase.

''National roaming'' - Every card has an "issuing province".

#For making calls, the calling rates for intra-province (cheaper) and inter-province are different.
#When you are picking a call on your "province A sim card" when you travel to province B, you are charged an extra inter-province roaming surrcharge.

'''Data usage'''

If you are staying in China only for a short time (say, less than 9 months). Your best (and only) option is to get a pay-as-you-go GPRS/3G internet card.

Most GPRS/3G internet data plan require you to sign up for 12 months or more and that you pay a huge deposit.

There is no short-term (10-day or 1-month) data package. The group has been asked many times:-
http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=9998364
http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=9986918

==FAQs:==

The following questions are frequently asked on the CS China forum.

The members of the CS China group will be happy to answer any question about travelling in China that you have, however, it will be helpful to both you and us if you read these following "classic" previous posts before making a new post on the same topic. Chances are that your question have been asked and answered by someone already and you will get the info you want by just one click on the following links (and... to be honest, our members are getting bored reading and answering the same questions again and again):

===1) Advice on travel itineraries===
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=4107846 Two Weeks in China]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=6931964 Thirty-two Days in China]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=2816257 Three to Four weeks between Shanghai and Beijing]

1 month in China -
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5618819 Discussion 1]
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=7988197 Discussion 2]
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=8984334 Discussion 3]

2 months in China -
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5269849 Discussion 1]
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=8116682 Discussion 2]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=2560356 Destinations between Beijing and Shanghai]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5014802 From Chengdu to Lhasa]

===2) Budget===
Daily expenses [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=8937320 Discussion]

Budget for a month [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=3832758 Discussion]

Hostels/food [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=1720601 Discussion]

===3) Getting a job in China===
Caution: From the experience of our CSers, we have heard MANY scams from many self-proclaimed "job search agencies" who promised you everything to lure you to sign to them and many of those promises turned out to be untrue and it became very difficult for the person to get out from the situation.

For highlights of China's new Exit-Entry law from July 1, 2012 - click [http://lawandborder.com/?p=1381 here]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5726514 English teaching jobs 1]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=6880246 English teaching jobs 2]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=10023411 General work/ intern/ work visa sponsor]

===4) Chinese Visa===
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=6355161 Discussion 1]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=2270460 Discussion 2]

You do not need to provide an "Invitation Letter" if you are applying for "L" Type Chinese Visa (ie. Tourist Visa), Read discussion [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=9425553 here].

===5) Hostels recommended by our CSers===
[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=6257419 Thread covering recommendations in various locations]

===6) Police registration system for foreign travellers===
If you're an independent traveller at low to mid-range accommodations, beware that you may be turned away or asked to self-register at a nearby police station if the hotel does not have the registration system. This is a bigger concern if you're off the beaten track or it's late and you cannot self-register at a nearby police station. See discussion and examples [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=11760399 here]

==Active CS groups in China==
(in alphabetical order)

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1232 Beijing] Has 3 regular weekly meetups and other regular weekly events. Check the link for details.

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2356 Guangzhou]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2360 Guilin]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 Hong Kong] Thursday meetups at Le Jardin. [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 Map and directions] at the bottom

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=410 Macau]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1461 Nanjing]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1464 Qingdao]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=21563 Rural China]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1233 Shanghai] Has several weekly meetups. Check the link for details.

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=2357 Shenzhen] Meetups every Thursday at different locations. Check the link for details.

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1459 Xi'an]

And from the island so beautiful that everyone wants to call their own...

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=417 Taiwan]

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=1311 Taipei]

==Culture Shock / Etiquette Issues for CSers to note in China==

* Some great tips in this article entitled [http://matadornetwork.com/abroad/how-to-travel-around-china-without-speaking-the-language/ How to Travel Around China Without Speaking the Language] Note that the hand signals for the numbers 7 and 8 on the diagram in the article should be switched.

* Recommended Reading: [http://www.amazon.com/Factory-Girls-Village-Changing-China/dp/0385520182/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1309091814&sr=8-1 Factory Girls] by Leslie Chang is the best book I've read on modern China in this regard.

[[File:Some_kids_are_playing_with_snow.jpg|300px|thumb|right| Kids in Nanjing playing in the snow]]

Culture Shock is a given when you come to China. Read up before you arrive and do your best to know a bit about the place beforehand. Be aware that this is preparation, not a solution or preventative measure. Even up to date reading you do beforehand might be out of date by the time you arrive due to the rapidly changing nature of the country. Also, please try to be sensitive to the fact that even locals may be trying to understand the most recent changes in their lives and may not be able to easily explain them to you.

Although there are some commonalities across the nation, be aware that there may be differences in perceptions / behaviours / customs / habits / traditions from neighbourhood to neighbourhood, city to city, province to province, region to region and differences among the generations.

Keep in mind that many cities in China are centres for migration and people from all over, with their own habits, customs, traditions and dialects, are living and working next to each other. Don't assume that behaviours or attitudes are shared or practiced by all just because you've seen or experienced them from some people.

If you have complaints or need to vent about certain behaviours that you do not understand or that you find frustrating, please do your best to seek advice from other expats in private... and do so sparingly. Please don't voice your complaints around local people or others who may take offense or feel unfairly stereotyped. If you do need to ask a local about a certain issue, please do so calmly and sensitively in order to find an answer or a solution.

Some issues surfers have come up against:

- Foreign Couchsurfers should technically register with the local police when staying with a Host. You can find this information on the arrival card you fill out when reaching China, so nobody can really claim ignorance here. When staying in a hostel/hotel/guesthouse, they will do it for you, but to avoid trouble for your Host, you should spend the time to go to the station. In the city you should register within 24 hours of arrival, but in the countryside you have 72 hours. Usually, it will be necessary to bring a Chinese speaker for translation. Although there are no reports of foreigners being stopped at the border and asked about their whereabouts for "missing days", it is mainly beneficial for your Host. The police might get upset with a Host who has foreign strangers going in and out all the time. Realize that foreigners are very noticeable in China and that the police may have concerns about their presence.

- Be aware of sensitive topics and who you are speaking to. Please don't ask a local person about an issue that may make them feel uncomfortable or 'put on the spot'. Also be aware that although Chinese people discuss and joke about many topics freely among family and friends, they may not want to discuss these same issues with a relative stranger or with a foreigner.

- It may take some local people a long time to 'warm up' and feel that they know you or feel that you are now a friend rather than a passing acquaintance.

- Some people, especially those from outside major cities, may engage in spitting, nose-picking, uncovered sneezing etc. The government has engaged in health campaigns to discourage this and to promote spitting into tissues etc. to prevent the spread of colds and flus but old habits are hard to break.

- Toilet facilities and plumbing may be different from those you are used to back home. Be prepared to be flexible. Pun intended.

- In general, showers or baths are taken in the evening and it may be seen as unhygienic not to bathe before bedtime so please note this and ask your hosts if they prefer that you shower at a certain time of day.

- Be aware that some parts of China have strong 'drinking cultures' when it comes to social events. Men in particular may be expected to drink large amounts of alcohol - often straight hard liquor - in order to bond with locals. If this is not your thing, have a polite excuse on hand about a medical condition or other polite technique at hand to moderate your alcohol intake without offending anyone.

- Please remember that common courtesy never goes astray. A smile, a thank you, a gift or any other appropriate show of gratitude for hospitality received is always appreciated.

== China At A Glance ==
* [http://www.theatlantic.com/infocus/2011/10/21st-century-china/100174/ China in photos] in The Atlantic.

* Most populous nation on Earth - over 1,300,000,000 people.

* One of the largest nations on Earth by area along with Russia, Canada, the US and Brazil.

* 55 recognized minority groups.

* 41 [http://whc.unesco.org/en/statesparties/cn UNESCO World Heritage sites]

==China CS in the press/blogosphere==
*[http://epaper.tianjindaily.com.cn/tjrb/tjrb/2008-11/30/content_6051531.htm “沙发客”：让世界变得很小"]
*[http://zqb.cyol.com/content/2008-11/14/content_2431231.htm 沙发客的多彩旅途]
*[http://china.org.cn/living_in_china/expat_tales/2008-04/21/content_14985686.htm Philippe's open-door adventure]
*[http://shanghaiist.com/2008/04/02/couchsurfing_sh.php#comments CS in The Shanghaiist]
*[http://www.china.org.cn/english/LivinginChina/234126.htm See the world by traveling couch to couch]

Books about CS in Chinese language
*你家沙发借我睡 by 林鸿麟 ISBN: 9787208088368
*我,睡了,81个人的沙发 by Rose Lien ISBN: 9789573909002
*22岁走遍世界：我睡沙发去旅行 by Leo Long ISBN: 9787214075567
*7500元28天游港澳大阪京都-35岁单身女子的沙发客之旅 (赵菊阳) ISBN：9787538455243
*沙发旅行 by Momo ISBN:9787807297659

A movie about CS in Chinese:
*第三十六个故事（Taipei Exchanges）

==Useful references:==
*[http://unices.over-blog.com/ China photo blog]
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/People%27s_Republic_of_China China on Wikipedia]
*[http://wikitravel.org/en/China Wikitravel China]

*[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/China_geography China's geography]
*[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/China_history China's history]

Other material that used to be on this page has been saved here - [http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/China_miscellaneous China miscellaneous]

Hong Kong

2012-12-10T17:21:08Z

Gusgusgus:

[[File:Pauliyas_Hongkong.jpg|1060px|thumb|centre]]

== Hong Kong's Couch Situation ==

WARNING - We have reports coming in to our moderators about a Hong Kong CS member. The member is known to long-term HKCS members for his ill treatment of surfers and inappropriate behaviour toward young female surfers. There have been attempts to bring his misdeeds to light in the past but people still wanted to be hosted by him, despite some of his rather creepy negative references. His original profile has numerous detailed negative references which include stealing clothing, cheating surfers out of money, taking photos of female surfers while they are sleeping without their consent... the list goes on. This member has now resorted to making fake profiles. Although the fake ones that were brought to the Safety Team's attention have now been deleted, we suspect that he will simply create more, likely in multiple in order to post self-made references or include some of the fake profiles as 'friends' in order to make his profile look more legitimate.

We encourage you to avoid any members with multiple or disturbing negative references and click friend and reference links to try to establish whether they are real people. Please report any profiles that you suspect to be fake to the local moderator and the safety team. We feel this member is using HK's couch shortage to his advantage to prey on people and it's clear that his preferred targets are young women. Please plan ahead, arrive with enough money for a hostel and immediately get out of any situation which does not feel 'right' to you, even if you can't explain why. Should you need support going to law enforcement, we can provide this.

It may be hard for you to find a couch here. There are far more surfers than couches in our city.

Hong Kong is a densely populated city of small flats and high rents. It's also a business, tourism and travel hub. When searching for a couch in Hong Kong, please keep in mind that many of us can't host due to our living situation (small apartment shared with roommates/family, demanding work schedules) and that those of us who do host get many requests every day that we have to say "No" to or that we have trouble keeping on top of due to their sheer volume. 10-20 requests a day - that's per available couch - is not unusual here and some members have reported as many as 30 requests per day.

Members who have their couch settings set to "Coffee or a drink", "Travelling" or "No" also report getting Couch Requests. Please don't do this.

Members have also reported receiving messages with headings such as "URGENT! HELP NEEDED!" only to find that the requester has failed to a) research, b) plan for and c) budget for their Hong Kong accommodation. Please don't do this. Not only is it annoying and falsely indicative of a true emergency but this kind of behaviour also puts you in a vulnerable position safety-wise (see above). Be street smart and remember that your travel is your own responsibility.

Also remember that when you advertise your Couchsearch by posting on the Hong Kong city message board, your audience consists of an unknown percentage of potential couches (you know, the same people receiving all those Couch Requests they have to say no to), people who are local but don't host and a lot of fellow travellers looking for HK info and activities... who can't host you.

To minimize frustration, manage your expectations and keep our Hong Kong city message board FREE of Couch Requests, we encourage you to:

# Develop a firm plan B and be ready to use it.
# Start clicking that "CouchSearch" button early and be prepared to send out more requests than usual.
# Write personalized couch requests. Make sure your host is aware that you have read their profile and that you are interested not only in surfing their couch but meeting and connecting with them on a personal level.
# Arrange a guesthouse or hostel for your first few nights and then meet with people at our regular Thursday night gathering or by meeting with people for coffee or a drink. Travellers occasionally find a couch after networking once they arrive.

You can also try our
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=13624 Last Minute Couchsearch Group]

== Hong Kong Hostels and Guesthouses ==

The Hong Kong Youth Hostel Association has [http://www.yha.org.hk/eng/hostel.php?channel=hostels-overview seven youth hostels] with curfews located mostly [http://www.hihostels.com/dba/country-HK.en.htm?himap=Y#book outside the city]. Free shuttle bus service is provided by several hostels but the service stops at 10:30pm so you'll need to factor in $100 to $300 for late night and early morning arrivals.

For accomodation in the HK$150-$250 range within the city, the major backpacker's hostel area in Hong Kong include: Mongkok, Tsim Sha Shui and Causeway Bay. Most of Hong Kong's guesthouses and hostels are located in high-rise buildings called ... Mansion. Don't expect a European style hostel experience... or a real mansion. They usually offer very small motel style rooms for 1 or 2 people or a simple bedspace. The following places have been recommended by CSers.

*[http://www.yesinn.com/hk/ehostel.htm YesInn]
*[http://www.youthsquare.hk/en/#/YLoft YLoft Youth Square]
*[http://www.dragonhostel.com/ Dragon Hostel]
*[http://www.gardenhostel.com/ Garden Hostel]
*[http://www.hopinn.hk/en.html?article=&id=22 Hop Inn] (single rooms here are for a higher budget than the ones listed above)
*[http://sites.google.com/site/checkinnhk/home Check Inn HK] (also slightly higher budget than the ones listed above)

=== "Most hostels I found online are full, and I have no booking?" ===

Don't worry. There are more than 700 registered hostels in Hong Kong (according to a survey conducted in August 2011), it is almost impossible for all of them to be full at the same time.

Many of the hostels in Hong Kong (especially the ones in the locations listed out below) do not do online booking and they don't have their own website so you have a good chance of finding rooms there if you visit them in person once you arrive, especially during busy holiday seasons.

The following buildings have plenty of hostels (at least 20) in each of them. The streets listed below also have hostel clusters.

* Kowloon: Tsim Sha Tsui: Chungking Mansion – 36-44 Nathan Road (Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station, Exit E) (Yes, that's the Chungking in Chungking Express [http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0109424/]) - According to a survey in August 2011, there are more than 160 registered hostels in Chungking Mansion.

* Kowloon: Tsim Sha Tsui:: Mirador Mansion – 54-64B Nathan Road (Tsim Sha Tsui MTR Station, Exit E)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Sincere House – 83 Argyle Street (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit D2)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Wing Wah Building – 40 Shantung Street (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit E)

* Kowloon: Mongkok: Fa Yuen Street (between Argyle Street and Soy Street) (Mongkok MTR Station, Exit E)

The following websites can help you to look for reasonably priced guesthouses in Hong Kong.

*[http://www.hostelworld.com Hostelworld]
*[http://www.hostelbookers.com Hostelbookers]
*[http://www.booking.com Booking.com]

===Mid-range and Higher end Accommodation===
These are another option for budget travellers if your couchsearch doesn't work out and hostel reservations are hard to make. Team up with other CSers and you can share costs.
*[http://hotels.lonelyplanet.com/china/hong-kong-r1973696/ Lonely Planet's list of mid-range hotel options]
*[http://www.caritas-chs.org.hk/eng/lodge_srv.asp Caritas Lodge] $420(single)-$720(triple)/night, $7,500-$11,700/month
*[http://hotel.ywca.org.hk/eng/AnneBlack/anne_room_rates.htm The Anne Black YWCA] $600-$1,100/night
*[http://www.guardian.co.uk/travel/2012/jul/04/top-10-budget-hotels-hong-kong Top 10 budget hotels in Hong Kong] Prices are listed in UK pounds.

General info on Hong Kong hotels *[http://12hk.com/accomo/hotels.shtml Link 1] *[http://12hk.com/accomo/ChoosingAHotel.shtml Link 2]

=== Short/Long term stay ===

Some websites that our CS-ers recommend, if you're looking for flatshare/renting a flat in Hong Kong:

*[http://hongkong.gumtree.com.hk Gumtree]

*[http://hongkong.craigslist.hk/hhh/ Craigslist]

*[http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/property/ Asiaxpat]

*[http://cityloft.com.hk Cityloft]

Or try our [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=36058 "Apartment/Flat-Share Hunting"] subgroup under the CS Hong Kong group.

Click [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=9552395 here] for a CSers list of reasonably priced serviced apartment providers in HK.

== Getting Around ==
Public transportation is a Hong Kong specialty. It's something this city does very well. Quick and efficient, you can get almost anywhere in town by some kind of combination of the methods listed below. However, don't expect a taxi driver to have either an encyclopedic knowledge of the city's roads or a GPS device. And if you're going somewhere that isn't a landmark, try to copy down the Chinese name for it or the name of a nearby landmark. It's also helpful to have a map, even a hand-drawn one, with you.

=== From Airport to City ===

'''The MTR Airport Express Train'''
is the fastest way to get to the airport from Central. Express trains run every 12 minutes from around 6 a.m. to 12:45 a.m. Journeys from the airport to Hong Kong station take approximately 24 minutes and a round-trip ticket costs HK$180.00.
The MTR runs 24 hours on New Year's Eve.
*[http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/airport_express/timetable_index.html Airport Express Timetable]
*[http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/airport_express/tf_index.html Airport Express Fares]

'''Bus''' to/from the airport from/to various parts of the city
*[http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/routes/airport-bus/route/index.aspx?intLangID=1 Airport Bus Routes (Day + Night services)]

'''Transfer to MTR''' Buses S1 or S56 take you from the airport to the nearest MTR station (Tung Chung Station).

'''Taxi'''
*to Hong Kong Island - at least HKD300
*to Kowloon - at least HKD250
*to New Territories (except Lantau Island) - at least HKD180
*to Lantau Island - at least HKD50

=== MTR ===
[[File:MTR_train.JPG|350px|left|thumb|]]
The Mass Transit Railway is efficient and reliable and covers the major areas of the city. It can also be taken across the border to Shenzhen. Note that you'll need a visa to enter Shenzhen.
*[http://www.mtr.com.hk/jplanner/flash_eng/index.php MTR Route and Fare map]

=== Octopus Card ===
[[File:OctopusCard.jpg|right|thumb|Octopus Card]]
If you're staying for more than a few days, consider buying an Octopus stored-value card. It can be used to pay for the MTR, buses, minibuses, trams and ferries and you can also buy things at 7-11 or Welcome grocery stores with them. The cards are available at service counters at any MTR station. The minimum price is HK$100 plus a HK$50 deposit (refundable when you leave Hong Kong). For travel, simply swipe the card on the unmissable yellow Octopus pad, and the fare is automatically deducted. Airport Express travel pass cards are HK$220 for a single Airport Express journey plus three days' unlimited travel on the MTR, or pay HK$300 for two Airport Express trips plus three days' MTR travel.

===Buses===
Buses in Hong Kong are plentiful. Most are double deckers and are excessively air-conditioned. The air-con feels nice on short trips during the summer but for longer trips or on colder days, you can start to lose the feeling in your extremities. Bring a jacket... or a thermal blanket. Fares are based on distance travelled. Exact change is required. Octopus cards are accepted.

The routes are split between several companies and they go to places all over the territory.
*[http://www.kmb.hk/en/services/search.html Kowloon Motor Bus]
*[http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/routes/routesearch.aspx?searchtype=3&intLangID=1 New World First Bus and Citybus]
*[http://www.newlantaobus.com/nlb_map.htm New Lantau Bus]

===Minibuses===
Minibuses are small passenger buses that carry about 16 people. Green minibuses operate on specific routes at fixed prices. Exact payment is required when getting on. Octopus cards are accepted. Red minibuses operate on routes that are not always fixed and passengers can get on and off anywhere along the route except where special prohibitions apply. Pay as you alight. The driver can provide change for small notes.

At a terminus, minibuses often don't depart until they're full. En route, they must be flagged down at a designated stop. They won't stop at your destination unless you tell them to with a "Yau lok mgoi," so you need to know where you're supposed to get off or be a gambling type. If you have something that clearly shows where you want to get off or a clearly written Chinese address, the driver may be helpful but if you're not sure where you're going or have no Chinese references to show the driver, they probably won't have the time or ability to help you.
Seatbelt law applies... if you can find them.

=== Taxi ===
Taxis are relatively cheap compared with other international cities. Starting at HK$20 for the first 2 km, the fare increases by HK$1.50 per 200 metres. If you cross the harbor tunnels, expect to pay the return tunnel toll charge. There are lots of taxis and flagging them down with a wave is easy, but they don't stop at double yellow lines. Receipts given on request. It's always a good idea to have a map clearly showing your destination or the address written in Chinese as most drivers don't speak much English and may not be familiar with certain streets or areas of town even if they do. Your drivers will appreciate any references to local landmarks or major hotels that you can give them. And there's a seatbelt law so buckle up.

'''One thing to watch out for'''

Red taxis legally must take you anywhere in Kowloon or on Hong Kong Island but sometimes they have a preferred destination at shift change times. They usually use a piece of cardboard to cover/uncover their flag light on the dashboard as a signal. Cardboard on means the driver is looking for Kowloon passengers. No cardboard means they're looking for Hong Kong passengers. This isn't much of an issue when you can find the taxis going your way around the corner. It however does become a problem when you have something heavy to carry or you can't find a taxi going your way. Beware that some drivers will refuse to take you or 'get lost' if you insist. If you're in a tight spot, we we suggest you explain to the driver and bug him 'til he sees the light and then keep an eye out to prevent 'getting lost'.

=== Tram ===
One of our earliest forms of public transit is still going strong. For HK$2.30 per adult, $1.20 for children under 12 and $1 for seniors 65+, you can ride along the north side of Hong Kong Island from Shau Kei Wan to Kennedy Town. Just get on at the back and pay at the front as you alight. Octopus cards are accepted.

===Ferries===

'''The Star Ferry''' - This operates between the Central/Wan Chai and TST/Hung Hom ferry piers on an ever shrinking channel of water. Once heavily travelled by commuters and tourists alike, it's becoming more of a tourist phenomenon due to the relocation of the pier on the island side some years ago. You can get some great skyline photos from the ferry on a clear day.
*[http://www.starferry.com.hk/services.html Star Ferry map, schedule and fare info]

'''Outlying Island ferries''' - There are several companies which operate ferries to Lantau Island (Discovery Bay and Mui Wo), Lamma Island (Yung Shue Wan and Sok Kwu Wan), Cheung Chau, Peng Chau and other islands around Hong Kong. For schedules and fares, check the links.

*[http://www.nwff.com.hk/eng/fare_table/ New World First Ferry] HK Island/ Kowloon, outlying islands and Macau

*[http://www.hkkf.com.hk/index.php?op=timetable&style=en Hong Kong and Kowloon Ferry Holdings Ltd.] Hong Kong, Lamma and Peng Chau

*[http://www.hkri.com/icms2/template?series=101&article=3421 Discovery Bay Transportation Services] 24 hour service between Central and Discovery Bay

*[http://www.hongkongclimbing.com/guides/tunglung/index.html Tung Lung Island Ferry]

'''Hong Kong/Macau/China ferries'''
*[http://www.turbojet.com.hk/eng/schedule/prd.html Turbojet]
*[http://www.nwff.com.hk/eng/fare_table/local-macau/?section=Macau New World First Ferry]
*[http://cotaijet.com.mo/en/destinations/index.aspx Cotai Jet]
*[http://www.macaodragon.com/website/default.aspx Macau Dragon]
*[http://www.cksp.com.hk/eng/home.html Chu Kong]

===Further info===
*[http://www.td.gov.hk/en/transport_in_hong_kong/public_transport/index.html Transport Dept website overview]

== Nightlife, Dining and Entertainment ==
[[File:Hong_Kong_at_night.jpg|1060px|thumb|centre]]

===Main Nightlife Areas===
'''Central''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2fyg65g Lan Kwai Fong and Soho] / '''Wan Chai''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2crjj86 Lockhart Road] /
'''Tsim Sha Tsui''' - [http://tinyurl.com/2dex4fd Knutsford Terrace]

===Magazines and Event listings===
The following websites can help bring you up to speed on the local club scene, nightlife, concerts, festivals and shows.

*[http://hk.asia-city.com/nightlife HK Magazine] Free print copies available around town.
*[http://www.timeout.com.hk/clubs/ Timeout HK] Print copies available at bookstores and some clubs.
*[http://hkticketing.com/eng/ Hong Kong Ticketing] Be sure to scroll down the yellow column on the right hand side to see all the listed shows.
*[http://www.hkclubbing.com/ HKClubbing.com]
*[http://www.hongkonghustle.com/ Hong Kong Hustle]
*[http://www.s-n-s.com/ s-n-s.com] Click on "SnS Lifestyle Event Calendar" for a listing of a range of events. The list is Hong Kong-centric but also includes some events for Beijing, Shanghai, Singapore, New York and London.
*[http://www.hongkongevents.com Hong Kong Events]
*[http://www.hkfringeclub.com Hong Kong Fringe Club] Hong Kong's leading alternative performing/visual arts venue.
*[http://www.hiphongkong.com Hip Hong Kong]

===Bars===
Some favourite local haunts include:
(Central, Soho and Wanchai.)
*[http://www.hiphongkong.com/drink/bars/nightclubs/lounges/le_jardin_bar_lan_kwai_fong_hong_kong Le Jardin] bar, weekly meetup venue
*[http://www.facebook.com/#!/Yumla Yumla] bar, dancing, house music
*[http://www.ilovesoho.hk/features/secret-spots/club-71 Club 71] bar, al fresco, chilled
*[http://www.hiphongkong.com/drink/bars/nightclubs/underground_bars/makumba_african_bar_soho_hong_kong Makumba] African bar, dancing, World music/French influence
*[http://www.mesamis.com.hk/mesamis/menus/venues/wan-chai Mes Amis] bar, dancing, pop music

===The Underground===
[[File:ElectricEelShock2006.JPG|320px|left|thumb|Electric Eel Shock in HK 2006]]

Events, venues and organizations
*[http://www.hkfringe.com.hk/ The Fringe Club]
*[http://www.frommers.com/destinations/hongkong/N28933.html The Wanch]
*[http://www.hongkonghustle.com/tag/the-warehouse-aberdeen/ The Warehouse, Aberdeen]
*[http://www.whitenoiserecords.org/ White Noise Records]

===Comedy===
*[http://www.takeoutcomedy.com/site/shows/ Takeout Comedy] - live standup and improv shows, local and international performers, most shows in English, Cantonese shows on Mondays and Thursday
*[http://comedy.hk/?ai1ec_event=hkbrewhouse-openmic&instance_id=8855 Free Open Mic Night] Every Wednesday in Central

===Restaurants===
*[http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/index.htm Openrice HK restaurant search engine]
*[http://www.frommers.com/destinations/hongkong/78_inddin.html Frommers HK restaurant listings]
*[http://www.eatdrinkhongkong.com/ EatDrink HK restaurant listings]

Vegetarian Restaurants:
*[http://www.happycow.net/asia/china/hong_kong/hong_kong_island/ Vegetarian restaurant listings]
*[http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/sr1.htm?dishes_id=1011&amenity_id=&theme_id=&price=&inputcategory=cname&inputstrrest=&ST=1 Another list of vegetarian restaurants]
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8610921 A group discussion thread]
*[http://morethansalad.com/earth/asia/china/hong_kong/hong_kong/ Website of our CS friend Dan F - who did a vegetarian food tour in HK]
*[http://doufumafia.com/tag/hong-kong/ HK Vegetarian blog]

Vegan Restaurants:
*[http://vegan.hk/restaurant-HK.html Vegan restaurant listing]
*[http://www.holisticasia.com Holistic Asia] For listings of holistic/alternative/complementary health and healing events.

===Karaoke===
*[http://www.musicbox-hk.com/karaoke Music Box]
*[http://www.redbox.com.my/redbox/eng/default.asp Red Box/Green Box]
*[http://www.openrice.com/english/restaurant/sr1.htm?amenity_id=1012 Karaoke listings on Open Rice]

*[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/hong-kong-karaoke-010208 CNNGo's take on the 5 best karaokes in HK (Mar 2010)]

==Sports, Activities and the Great Outdoors==
[[File:Clear_Water_Bay.jpg|250px|right|thumb|Clear Water Bay]]
[[File:Hong_Kong_waterfall.jpg|250px|right|thumb|A waterfall in one of Hong Kong's country parks]]
'''Hiking'''
*[http://www.hiking-in-hong-kong.com/hiking-trails/area/index.html Hiking in Hong Kong trail index]
Be sure to check these boards for regular hiking activities
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 Hong Kong CS Group]
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=15546 Hiking in Hong Kong Subgroup]

'''Running and Hiking events'''
*[http://www.oxfamtrailwalker.org.hk/opencms.war/opencms/_info_/homepage.jsp?__locale=en Oxfam Trailwalker]
*[http://www.hkhillrunning.com/ English guide to hill races in HK]
*[http://www.standardchartered.com.hk/sustainability/local_community_initiatives/standard_chartered_hk_marathon/en/index.html Standard Chartered HK Marathon]

'''Swimming and Beaches'''
*[http://www.hkoutdoors.com/hong-kong/hong-kong-beaches.html HK Outdoors Beaches guide]

'''Camping'''
*[http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/camp/en/p_campsite.php List of Hong Kong campgrounds]

'''Wakeboarding and Waterskiing'''
*[http://www.thelist.com.hk/listings/sports-water/wakeboarding-waterskiing-0 The List]

'''Windsurfing and Kayaking'''
*[http://www.ccwindc.com.hk/Cheung_Chau_Windsurfing_Centre/Gear_Rental_Price_List.html Cheung Chau windsurfing and kayaking]

*[http://kayaks.com.hk/en/index.htm Sai Kung Windsurfing Centre]

''' Diving'''
*[http://www.asiadivesite.com/hong-kong-dive-sites/ HK diving info]
*[http://www.scdc.org.hk/diving.html South China Diving Club]

'''Rock Climbing'''
*[http://www.hongkongclimbing.com/ English guide to outdoor climbing in HK]

'''Para-gliding'''
*[http://www.hkpa.net/ Hong Kong Paragliding Association]

'''Snowboarding'''
*[http://www.slopeinfinity.com/index.html Slope Infinity] Indoor snowless snowboarding

== Language Exchange ==
There are lots of language exchange options available in Hong Kong from one on one meetups to clubs that meet regularly in person to social networks available online at your convenience. Mandarin/Cantonese for English seems to be the most popular combination wanted here but there are also many other languages on offer from Japanese to Russian. Here are some of your options:

For one on one exchange:
*[http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/personals/language-exchange/ Asiaxpat Language Exchange notices]
*[http://mylanguageexchange.com/Search.asp?selCountry=41&selTxtChat=true mylanguageexchange.com]

Groups that meet regularly:
*[http://www.meetup.com/Mandarin-English-Language-Exchange/ Meetup.com Mandarin English Language Exchange]
*[https://www.facebook.com/hklcec?sk=wall Hong Kong Language and Cultural Exchange Club (this group has social outings just for fun or for language/cultural exchange)]

Language exchange social networks:
*[http://www.livemocha.com/ Livemocha.com is an online social network for language exchangers]

Hong Kong CS language groups
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=41357 HKCS Language Exchange sub-group]
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=10077149 Mandarin English Exchange Group Ruggers Bar]

'''Paid language courses'''

HKU Space has a [http://hkuspace.hku.hk/programme/category/languages-humanities#&sort=start_date+asc variety of language courses available] including French, German, Italian, Spanish and Russian.
*[http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/intensive-intro-putonghua Intensive Introductory Putonghua for non-Chinese speakers]
*[http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/int-mandarin Intermediate Putonghua for non-Chinese speakers]
*[http://hkuspace.hku.hk/prog/cantonese-i Cantonese level 1]

[http://www.ymcahkcollege.edu.hk/en/skillsupgrading.htm The Hong Kong YMCA] also has courses in Mandarin and Cantonese for non-Chinese speakers.

== Sightseeing ==
Hong Kong is extremely easy to get around by subway, taxi, bus, minibus, walking etc. You can easily design your own itinerary picking the places that you want to visit from below. Most people do not need a tour guide for Hong Kong. For an overview, here are two fun timelapse videos of Hong Kong featuring many of the city's famous landmarks:
#[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlDD-7oT8z0 Hong Kong: Funky Time Lapse] on youtube.
#[http://vimeo.com/25607851 timelapse Hong Kong] on Vimeo.

'''Cultural Heritage and Building architecture'''
#[http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Monument/en/trails_cw.php Sample itinerary and walk tour - Central area] with a very useful map
#[http://www.lcsd.gov.hk/CE/Museum/Monument/en/trails.php Temples and historic villages]

'''Markets'''
# '''Stanley Market''' Stanley is famous for its relaxed ambience, sea environs and bargain buys in the main street market. Stanley Market is open daily, 10:30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m..
# '''Temple Street Night Market''' Temple Street night market opens at 4 pm, but really comes alive after sunset. It offers an amazing range of inexpensive items, especially for men. There are also fortune-tellers and impromptu Chinese opera performances.
# '''Jade Market and Jade Street''' The Jade Market, located in Yau Ma Tei at the junction of Kansu and Battery Street, features 400 stalls selling jade of all types, shades, sizes and prices. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. Nearby is Jade Street, located on Canton Road between Kansu Street and Jordan Road, with shops open 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Jade and gemstone testing is available at Jade Plaza.
# '''Ladies Market''' The Ladies Market in Tung Choi Street is the place for bags, accessories and inexpensive women's clothing. Men's and children's clothing and toys are also on sale. Open daily from noon to 11:30 p.m.
# '''Bird garden/ flower market/ goldfish market''' The charming Chinese-style garden on Yuen Po Street includes some 70 songbird stalls as well as courtyards and moon gates. Look and listen but it’s wise to avoid contact with the birds. The Bird Garden is open from 7am to 8pm, daily. The colourful Flower Market sells everything from Dutch tulips to exotic orchids, open daily from 7am to 7pm. The Goldfish market on nearby Tung Choi Street sells aquariums, corals and exotic fish, open daily from 10:30am to 10pm.
# '''Western Market''' This Edwardian-style building features arts and crafts, fabric shops, alfresco dining, and ballroom dancing.
#'''[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=9262012 Local neighbourhood street markets discussion]'''

'''Temples, Monasteries, Nunneries'''
# '''Man Mo Temple''' One of Hong Kong's oldest temples, dedicated to two deities, the ‘civil’ (Man) and the ‘military’ (Mo).
# '''Chi Lin Nunnery''' The serene 1930s Chi Lin Nunnery (rebuilt in 1998) is spread across 3.2 hectares and is China’s largest group of hand-crafted timber buildings incorporating traditional Tang dynasty (618-907AD) construction techniques.
# '''Po Lin Monastery, Giant Buddha and Wisdom Path''' Located on Lantau, this is one of Hong Kong's largest temples and monasteries, housing the world's tallest outdoor bronze seated Buddha, at 34 m (111ft.) high.

'''Parks'''
# '''Hong Kong Park''' Overlooked by the towers of Pacific Place and Admiralty on one side and Central on the other, the park features a hot house, a Tai Chi garden, a waterfall and the Museum of Tea Ware.
# '''Kowloon Park''' An oasis in the heart of Kowloon next to the Kowloon Mosque. Enjoy a walk among the trees, a bird sanctuary, fountains and a swimming pool.
# '''Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens''' Looking down on the old Government House, the Gardens date back to 1864. Look out for the gibbons and orangutans.

'''Theme Parks'''
# '''Ocean Park''' [http://www.oceanpark.com.hk/html/en/home/]
#'''Hong Kong Disneyland''' [http://park.hongkongdisneyland.com/hkdl/en_US/home/home?name=HomePage]

'''Other references'''
#For more ideas check the [http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong_Sightseeing Hong Kong Sightseeing Wiki]
#For a very long alphabetical listing of HK areas and sights to see check here [http://www.homeandabroad.com/c/64/64_Hong_Kong_visit_guide.html]
#For Lonely Planet's list of things to do in Hong Kong (based on a recent survey of Lonely Planet readers), see [http://www.lonelyplanet.com/china/hong-kong/things-to-do]
#For a blogger's list of ten things to do in HK check here [http://velvetescape.com/blog/2011/05/ten-things-to-do-in-hong-kong/]
#You can check out some panoramic photos of popular spots at [http://www.360cities.net/map#lat=22.30195&lng=114.17417&zoom=13 360cities.net]
#For more tips about what to see/do in Hong Kong, see [http://guidepal.com/hong-kong]
#For more tourist info about Hong Kong, see [http://ilovehongkong.org/ I Love Hong Kong]
#For a blogger's tips and other HK info, see [http://annatam.com/category/hong-kong/hong-kong-travel-tips/ Journey to Hong Kong]
#Welcome to Hong Kong - a guide for visitors and expats [http://www.hiphongkong.com/visitors_tourist_guide_hong_kong]

== Shopping ==

*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=10146718 Info about English bookstores in Hong Kong]

*[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong_Shopping Hong Kong Shopping Wiki]

==Christmas, New Year and Chinese New Year==

===Christmas===
Christmas Day (Dec. 25th) and Boxing Day (first weekday after Xmas) are holidays in Hong Kong and from late November onwards you'll see the decorations and commercial displays in stores as you do in many other places. You'll also see some elaborate lighting displays go up on tall buildings on both sides of the harbour. It's a local tradition to walk around TST near the waterfront and look at the lights and take photos in front of them on Christmas Day. Some roads are blocked off and traffic diverted to facilitate this. It gets crowded in the evenings so if you're keen to test the limits of your personal space, it's an excellent place and time to go for a stroll.

Hong Kong doesn't come to a standstill for these holidays even though business and government offices are closed. While museums and other venues may close early - usually 5 pm - and other places may be on modified hours, most shops and restaurants are still open as they are normally.

There are various events and displays at local theme parks, shopping malls and special concerts and events such as carolling around town. There are also traditional midnight masses at places like St. John's Cathedral but, here's that phrase again, they can be crowded. They often set up speakers outside the church and people take part in the mass there.

*[http://www.discoverhongkong.com/festivehk2010/eng/winter/overview.jsp Winterfest Christmas and New Year events 2010]

===New Year===
December 31st is a night to party and January 1st is a public holiday. But if you want to go to one of the big events like the countdown in Times Square or want to stake out a good spot to see the fireworks, head out early and keep your group together. Roads get blocked off, traffic is diverted, there are loooots of people and security measures are in place which can mean that if you and your buddies get separated, you might remain that way and ring in the new year alone.

The MTR runs all night on New Year's Eve and there are extra bus and minibus services but keep in mind that some roads are blocked off and there are traffic measures in place. Ferries to Discovery Bay also run all night but on a modified schedule.

The crowd control measures, barricades, lines and security presence might be a pain and seem excessive but it's for a reason. In 1993, 20 people died when there was a stampede during the new year celebrations in Lan Kwai Fong. Please listen to the police, respect the barricades and do your best to seek out less crowded spots to celebrate.

*[http://www.fodors.com/community/asia/help-planning-hong-kong-itinerary-please.cfm Sample itineraries and info]
*[http://gohongkong.about.com/od/eventsinhongkong/tp/newyearinhongkong.htm New Year's Eve events in HK]

===Chinese New Year===
[[File: Chinese_New_Year.jpg|400px|right|thumb|Lion Dancers]]
This is the biggie.
The dates for the lunar new year change every year according to the lunar calendar and swing between late January and mid-February. In 2012, the dates are Jan 23,24 and 25 and 2012 will be the year of the dragon.
*[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinese_new_year#Dates Chinese New Year Dates up to 2031]

This is about the only time of year that Hong Kong quietens down a bit. Lots of people go on holiday. Those that stay spend time at home with their family and, for about the only time all year, most shops will be closed during this period until Feb 6. The crowds you're used to the rest of the year, disappear. Well, sort of.

There's still lots to do and crowds to be found. Parades, fireworks, flower markets, Chinese New Year fair in Victoria Park, horse racing...

*[http://www.discoverhongkong.com/festivehk2010/eng/cny/overview.jsp Overview of CNY events in HK]
*[http://www.12hk.com/festivals/CNY/ChineseNewYearFlowerMarket.shtml CNY Eve Flower market in Victoria Park]
*[http://www.hongkonghustle.com/tag/chinese-new-year-market/ See, crowds]

Other major holidays - note that Hong Kong does not have the Golden Weeks that mainland China does.
*[http://www.gov.hk/en/about/abouthk/holiday/ List of HK holidays for 2013]
*[http://timeanddate.com/calendar/?year=2012&country=42 HK calendar for 2012]

== Crossing the border ==
*Planes: multiple daily flights leave from Hong Kong International Airport (Chek Lap Kok) to airports in mainland China.
*Trains: The subway of Hong Kong and Shenzhen connect to each other (you'll need to get off the train for transit and custom office crossing)
# The MTR East rail line goes Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau where you disembark to cross the border into Shenzhen.
# Intercity trains to Dongguan, Foshan, Guangzhou East rail station and Zhaoqing leave from Hung Hom station daily.
*[http://www.it3.mtr.com.hk/B2C/frmScheduleGuangdong.asp?strLang=Eng Fares, schedules and online ticketing] Note that once you are in China, rail tickets for any destination cannot be purchased online. They must be purchased at the rail station itself.
*Ferries: Ferry services run from Hong Kong to the province of Guangdong in mainland China, departing from both the city centre and the Airport. See the Ferry section above for more information.[http://wiki.couchsurfing.com/en/Hong_Kong#Ferries]
*Buses: These private companies operate bus services to many locations in Guangdong, Guangxi and Fujian Province:
#http://www.trans-island.com.hk/
#http://www.eebus.com/
#http://www.gdhkmtc.com/schedule.html
*Hong Kong airport to Shenzhen airport - see discussion [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=13289591 here]

== Visas ==
'''Warning''': This section is intended to help you understand the basics of Hong Kong and China Visas and give you a foundation from which to move forward and make decisions. However, China has a complicated visa policy that is constantly changing for various reasons. Prices, availability, conditions etc. are all subject to change without notice. Although we try to provide helpful, updated information here to help you navigate the process, you must do your own additional research. If you have updated info for us, please let us know and we'll try to incorporate it as soon as possible.

=== Visa for Hong Kong ===

Holders of many passports can travel to Hong Kong visa free.

Visa requirements for holders of different passports, please see [http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_4.htm#part2 this] list maintained by the Hong Kong Government:

If you intend to move to Hong Kong or to stay in Hong Kong for a long time, there are various Hong Kong visa options:
[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_1.htm Hong Kong's Immigration Department website]

[http://www.hongkongvisahandbook.com/hong_kong_visa_handbook_2011_a_guide_to_immigration_employment_investment_work_permit_and_residency_applications.html A list of Hong Kong visa options] Note that this links to a business website not a government website and is for reference only.

[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_10.htm Hong Kong's Working Holiday Scheme]

[http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_10a.htm List of eligible countries and basic regulations for the Working Holiday Scheme]

=== Visa for mainland China (ex HK/Macau/Taiwan) ===

Most visitors of mainland China require a visa to visit mainland China, except holders of Singaporean and Japanese passports and holders of Hong Kong Permanent Identity card with Chinese ancestry.

There are 8 types of Chinese visa. The popular types are: L Visa (for tourist), F Visa (for business), Z Visa (for work), X Visa (for study) and G Visa (for transit in Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing airports).

China has a complicated visa policy that is constantly changing for various reasons. The visa requirements for holders of different passports are different. It is highly advisable that you check with the Chinese Embassy in your home country shortly before you visit China.

Hong Kong is a popular place for foreigners to apply for Chinese visas, because the time required for the granting of visa is relatively short compared to most foreign Chinese embassies.

'''L Visa: different sub-categories'''[[File:L-visa.jpg|300px|right|thumb|L Visa - All visas require one full passport page]]
(Note: If you plan to visit the Tibet region of China, you will need to obtain a separate permit in addition to the L Visa.
# Single/double entry in 3 months
#* available to all nationalities
#* this is the most common visa that most travelers are granted
#* application methods:
#*# via Chinese embassy in your home country (3-10 days)
#*# via CTS in Hong Kong (4 working days, expect to queue up for 1-2 hours)
#*# via visa agents in Hong Kong (0.5-1 working day, most agents charge ~HK$80 as handling fee)
# Single/double entry in 6 months
#* available to all nationalities
#* not a common visa, however, for overseas Chinese visiting relatives in China, it is sometimes granted
#* application methods: same as in item (1) above.
# Multiple entries in 6 months/1 year
#* only for holders of Hong Kong identity card (permanent or non-permanent), whatever passport the applicant is holding
#* application methods
#*# via Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Hong Kong (about a week)
#*# via CTS (4 working days)
# Visa on arrival: 5-day visa for visit to Shenzhen only
#* for certain nationalities only (as of June 2010 - holders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, Ecudor, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Panama, most EU countries passports) - RMB160 for most nationalities (Note: many exceptions, eg. RMB460 for British)
#* the visa only allow the holder to stay in Shenzhen only. Holder of the visa must exit Shenzhen to Hong Kong (by land) or to Macau (by ferry), you may not travel to any other part of China with this visa.
#* application methods
#*# via Luo Hu Border Custom Building (go up 2/F after crossing the HK-Shenzhen bridge at the Lo Wu border point) (30 minutes)
#*# via Shekou Ferry Terminal (go straight after landing in the Shekou pier) (15 minutes)
#*# Note (1): Not available in Huanggong, Futian (aka Lok Ma Chau), Man Kam To and Sha Tau Kok custom points
#*# Note (2): The policy for the 5-day Shenzhen visa changes from time to time and from our past experience there is no announcement of change. If you intend to apply for this visa at the border, it is advisable that you call the Lo Wu border office (see contact number below) before your trip to check whether your passport is qualified under the latest version of the policy.
#*# Note (3): Further discussion - http://www.evisaasia.com/visa-guide/shenzhen-five-days-visa/
# Visa on arrival: 5-day visa for visit to Zhuhai only
#* for certain nationalities only (as of June 2010 - holders of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Brazil, Ecudor, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Panama, most EU countries passports) - RMB160 for most nationalities (Note: many exceptions, eg. RMB460 for British)
#* the visa only allow the holder to stay in Zhuhai only. Holder of the visa must exit Zhuhai to Macau (by land) or to Hong Kong (by ferry), you may not travel to any other part of China with this visa.
#* application methods
#*# via Zhuhai Jiuzhou Ferry Terminal (turn right and walk down the narrow corridor after arriving in the ferry terminal) (15 minutes)
#*# Note (1): Not available in Gongbei custom points
#*# Note (2): See Note (2) and (3) for 5-day Shenzhen visa on arrival above.

=== Contacts details ===
===1. Ministry of Foreign Affairs===
[http://www.fmcoprc.gov.hk/eng/zgqz/bgfwxx/default.htm English visa info]
:Address: China Resources building, 26Harbor Road, Wanchai, Hong Kong
:Office Hour: Monday to Friday (except public holidays in Hong Kong)
:Morning: 9:00 a.m.-12:00 a. m.
:Afternoon:2:00p.m.-5:00p.m
:Tel: 852-34132300(according to the website, it's a 24 hour Recorded Visa Information Service but experiences may vary), 852-34132424 (Live Answering Telephone available in office hours )

===2. CTS===
(China Travel Service) - the official visa agent of the Chinese government
:Details: http://www.ctshk.com/english/useful/chinesevisa.htm
:Offices in HK: http://www.ctshk.com/english/aboutus/branch_hkgmac.htm

===3. Visa agents===
: These are some visa agents that our CS-ers have had good experience using:

:* [http://www.fbt-chinavisa.com.hk/ Forever Bright Trading Limited]

:* [http://www.jta.biz/chinavisa/china_visa.htm Japan Travel Service Ltd] (with a list of visa fees for different passports)

:* [http://www.cosmicguesthouse.com/services/china-visa.htm Cosmic Guest House]

===4. Lo Wu Custom===
: Tel: 86-755-82327700 (speaks only mandarin)
: Service hour: 10am - 10pm.

=== Latest Situation ===

These are the latest visa conditions we heard from our CS-ers. (last updated: 16 May 2012):
:* China has imposed extra visa requirements for holders of Norwegian, French passports.
:* The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reduced the application fee for holders of Polish passports (RMB160).
:* [March 2011] There seems to be a quota on the number of Visa On Arrival granted each day - reason: The International University Sports Games is carrying on in Shenzhen
:* [15 July 2011] A headsup for everybody who intends to apply for a Chinese visa. The "International University Games" is going to take place in Shenzhen in the next couple of months and we are seeing that most CSers' Chinese visa applications for more than 30 days (Type L - travel) are being refused (ie. most people are granted only a 30-day visa - one entry)
:* [15 May 2012] Increased scrutiny of visa applications due to a 100 day action against illegal foreigners in China. See [http://shanghaiist.com/2012/05/15/beijing_begins_100-day_crackdown_on.php link] for more info.

'''''Recently it's been noticed that most people can only get 30 day visas. If you intend to travel in China for more than 30 days, do arrange your visa in the Chinese embassy in your home country prior to coming to HK.'''''

==Baggage Storage==

If you're just passing through HK for a short time and want to leave your luggage at the airport, there's a baggage storage service. There are also lockers at the Macau and China Ferry Terminals, Sha Tin MTR station, Hong Kong station and the Hung Hom Inter-city train station.
*[http://www.hongkongairport.com/eng/passenger/departure/all/baggage/left-baggage.html Hong Kong Airport Baggage Storage information]
*[http://gohongkong.about.com/od/travelplanner/a/leftluggage.htm Overview of locker services at Hong Kong Station, the airport, the HK/Macau Ferry Terminal and the China Ferry Terminal]
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=13624&post=10110709 Bag storage in Tung Chung, closest town to the airport]

For mid/long term luggage storage:
*[http://www.scstorage.com/index.php?lang=us SC Storage]
*[http://www.hongkongselfstorage.com/locker.html Hong Kong Self Storage]
*[http://www.thestorehouse.com.hk/sizeguide.html The Store House]

== Wi-Fi/ Internet Access / Mobile Internet==

=== Free + Unlimited Wi-Fi ===
* HK Airport
* Most government premises ([http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&q=%E6%94%BF%E5%BA%9C+WiFi&mrt=ds&sll=22.395793,114.11705&sspn=0.334567,0.468292&ie=UTF8&filter=0&radius=17.97&split=1&rq=1&ev=p&hq=%E6%94%BF%E5%BA%9C+WiFi&hnear=&ll=22.337374,114.086151&spn=0.334708,0.468292&z=11 Google map])

=== Free but limited Wi-Fi ===
* first 20 mins free in all McDonalds
* first 20 mins free in all Starbucks
* first 30 mins free in all Dragon Centre, Sham Shui Po (near MTR Exit C)

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7790735 more options listed on this HK Group thread]

=== Paid internet===
* [http://www.i-one.com.hk/branch.php i-One] - HK's largest chain internet services shop

=== Computer booth (with free internet access) ===
* [http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/facilities/icentre.html iCentre] - in 14 MTR stations
* All Pacific Coffee

=== Prepaid Mobile Internet ===

* Check [http://www2.pccwmobile.com/portal/gen/WEB/home/Services_And_Pricing/3G_Rechargeable_SIM_Card.jsp?lang=en&treeMenu=treeMenu_mainMenuID0&subMenu=subMenu_level_1ID0_3&parent=parent_level_1ID0_3 here] for details.

=== Prepaid BlackBerry Plans ===
* There are no prepaid BlackBerry plans in Hong Kong but inexpensive monthly plans are available. Check [http://www.peoples.com.hk/p_tariff_plan_blackberry_lite_en.jsp here] for details.

=== Prepaid Sim Card for iPad ===
*Check [http://www.three.com.hk/website/appmanager/three/home?_nfpb=true&_pageLabel=P200470391219567710594&lang=eng&pageid=61I001 here] for details.

=== More info ===
The review on this blog is from 2009 but may still be a helpful reference. [http://browngeek.blogspot.com/2009/09/which-is-best-unlimited-data-plan-to.html Review of mobile data plans in Hong Kong]

== Money ==
The currency used in Hong Kong is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD $). It's currently pegged to the US dollar. Foreign currency can be exchanged at the airport, at currency exchange outlets in major tourist areas or at local banks. Beware if your currency is heavily coin based - I'm looking at you Canadians - as coins cannot be exchanged. Your bank cards will also work in local ATMs. You can use Hong Kong dollars in Macau but not vice versa.
For an idea of exchange rates, you can try this website. [http://www.xe.com/ucc/ XE.com]

The currency used in mainland China is the renminbi (RMB, CNY, ¥), also known as the yuan.

==Cost of living==
We've had some questions about the cost of living here. Hong Kong can be an expensive city but it can also suit tighter budgets if you play your cards right. Rent/housing will always be your biggest expense here. Here's a link to a thread on the topic to give you some idea.[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7577536#gpid7577536]

==Air quality==
Hong Kong suffers from poor air quality. If you have respiratory conditions such as asthma, you'll likely need your inhaler. We have no such thing as Euro or California regulations on emissions and a fleet of diesel buses. One small step in the right direction has been converting taxis to LPG but we have a long way to go.

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Air_Pollution_Index#Hong_Kong HK's Air Pollution Index explained]

[http://www.epd-asg.gov.hk/eindex.html HK's Air Pollution Index at the EPD]

[http://hedleyindex.sph.hku.hk/home.php The Headley Environmental Index]

==The Amazing Race==
Here are links to the most recent Hong Kong leg of The Amazing Race (US). You get to see and get a sense of several areas of the city.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ou7Cx7LLUJY&feature=related Part 1]

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-lg7ORbzqg&feature=related Part 2]

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fYMjKaMgF8c&feature=related Part 3]

==FAQs==

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7117576 1. Where can I take Cantonese classes?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7475127 2. Where can I get prepaid SIM cards?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=111&post=5871216 3. How to renew Chinese visa within China?]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7577536#gpid7577536 4. Moving to HK, Cost of living] [http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7402561#gpid7402561 answer 2]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7848982 5. Going from Shenzhen Airport to HK City at night]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=7520022 6. Salsa dancing places in Hong Kong]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8263436 7. Outdoor Cafes in Hong Kong]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8393230 8. Hostels/hotels near the airport]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8530996 9. Useful budget flight/hotel websites in Asia]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8632531 10. Going to Shenzhen by bus via Huang Gang]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8659656 11. Home internet service providers - ISPs]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8862633 12. Alternatives to hotels, hostels and couches for 24-48 hour stopovers]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=8840560 13. Ideas for 3-5 hour stopovers]

[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group_read.html?gid=407&post=12445697 14. Sharings of HK CS hosts]

==HK Travel and Tourism related articles==

[http://goop.com/newsletter/115/ Gwyneth Paltrow's take on HK]

[http://laineygossip.com/Gwyneth_Paltrow_GOOP_Hong_Kong_03feb11.aspx?CatID=0&CelID=0 Rebuttal to Goop's take on HK from CBC blogger Elaine Liu]

[http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/04/hong-kong-gadget-flea-market-a-blast-from-the-past/ Engadget feature on Sham Shui Po]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/88-things-do-summer-654587?page=0,0 CNNGo's 88 Things to do in the summer in Hong Kong]

[http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/beachside-camping-getaway-on-lantau-island-just-a-one-hour-ferry-ride-from-hong-kong/2011/05/10/AFfDcuiG_story.html# The Washington Post goes camping near Pui O]

[http://intransit.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/08/25/finding-fireflies-during-the-hong-kong-summer/ The New York Times Travel blog finds fireflies in HK]

[http://travel.nytimes.com/2011/05/22/travel/inside-hong-kongs-private-kitchens.html The New York Times checks out some of the newest private kitchens]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/play/50-secret-tips-hong-kong-sightseeing-371481 CNN Go's 45 sightseeing tips for HK]

[http://edition.cnn.com/2011/TRAVEL/08/06/destination.adventure.hong.kong/index.html CNN's travel tips for newbies and a slideshow of some of our major attractions]

[http://www.worldcrunch.com/chungking-mansions-globalization-packed-inside-one-hong-kong-high-rise/3691 La Stampa via Worldcrunch - Chungking Mansions]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/visit/complete-guide-hong-kong-mid-autumn-festival-057124 CNNGo's guide to the Mid-Autumn Festival 2011]

[http://www.cnngo.com/hong-kong/indie-music-venues-903611 CNNGo's guide to the best live music venues in HK]

[http://travel.yahoo.com/p-interests-40686621 Yahoo's World's Most Beautiful Ferry Rides]

==Further info==

To find further or more detailed information, please try Hong Kong's wikitravel.org entry.

[http://wikitravel.org/en/Hong_Kong ''' Hong Kong's entry at Wikitravel.org''']

[[category:China]]

== CS Hong Kong moments ==
9 June 2012 International CS Day celebration in Hong Kong
(Article published in the June 2012 issue of the CS Magazine: http://www.couchsurfing.org/news/article/215)

== Hong Kong group on CS ==
If you still can't find the answer you wanted, subscribe to the
*[http://www.couchsurfing.org/group.html?gid=407 '''Hong Kong group''']
and ask the friendly folks there!