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Official name: Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China
Capital city: Hong Kong (administrative region, no separate capital)
Languages spoken: Cantonese, Mandarin, English
Population: Around 7.5 million
Currency: Hong Kong dollar (HKD)
Time zone: GMT+8
Driving side: Left
Climate: Subtropical, with hot, humid summers, mild winters, and a typhoon season from May to November.
Hong Kong SAR is a global financial hub and one of Asia’s most dynamic cities, combining a dramatic skyline with lush green hills and bustling harbour life. Once a British colony, it is now a Special Administrative Region of China with a high degree of autonomy under the “one country, two systems” principle. Visitors flock to its mix of modern shopping districts, vibrant food culture, and easy access to nature trails and beaches.
Hong Kong is made up of Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, the New Territories, and over 200 outlying islands. The region covers just over 1,100 square kilometres but is densely populated, with urban development pressed against steep hillsides and natural parks. Victoria Peak offers sweeping views over Victoria Harbour and the surrounding cityscape.
Hong Kong International Airport on Chek Lap Kok Island is one of the world’s busiest and most efficient, offering excellent global connections. The city’s public transport is outstanding, with the MTR metro system, ferries, buses, and trams. The iconic Star Ferry links Kowloon and Hong Kong Island. Taxis are widely available and affordable by international standards. An Octopus card provides easy payment across most forms of transport.
UK citizens can enter Hong Kong visa-free for stays of up to 180 days. Passports must be valid for at least six months. For longer stays, work, or study, appropriate visas are required. The British Consulate-General in Hong Kong provides consular services to UK nationals.
The Hong Kong dollar (HKD) is the local currency. It is pegged to the US dollar, providing stability. Credit cards are widely accepted, ATMs are plentiful, and mobile payments are increasingly common. Cash is still useful for small vendors and in traditional markets.
Hong Kong has a modern healthcare system with well-equipped public and private hospitals. Standards of care are high, and many doctors speak English. Public healthcare is affordable, but visitors may need to pay upfront for services. Travel insurance that covers private care and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended. Tap water is safe to drink, though bottled water is widely available.