Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR

• Hong Kong is extremely dense and vertical - everything stacks upward because space is limited. You'll see century-old street markets squeezed between glass towers, and the city operates with a level of efficiency that takes some getting used to. The MTR subway is fast and runs until 1am. English works fine in Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, and tourist areas, but you'll need Cantonese or a translation app once you're in local neighborhoods.
• Safety-wise, Hong Kong is one of the safer Asian cities. Violent crime against tourists is rare. Walking alone at night in busy areas like Causeway Bay or Tsim Sha Tsui is generally fine, though harassment reports on crowded MTR trains have gone up in recent years. The main hassles are touts trying to sell you things in tourist areas and pickpockets in crowded spots - annoying but not dangerous.
• The emergency number is 999 and operators speak English. Most hotels and upscale restaurants have English-speaking staff, though you'll encounter less English in local markets and traditional restaurants.
• Everything here is cramped but organized. Tiny apartments stack vertically, streets are narrow and packed with people, but somehow the flow works. It's a strange mix of extreme density and functional order. Just be aware of your surroundings on public transport during rush hour.

Cantonese and English are the official languages. English is widely spoken in Central, Tsim Sha Tsui, tourist areas, hotels, and upscale restaurants. MTR announcements are in both languages. The emergency number 999 has English-speaking operators, and tourist police can assist in multiple languages. You'll need basic Cantonese or a translation app for local neighborhoods, traditional markets, and taxis.

• Cover shoulders and knees for temples. Business districts and upscale restaurants expect smart casual - people here dress more formally than in many Western cities. Bright colors and loud patterns look out of place in professional settings.
• Use both hands when exchanging business cards, money, or gifts. Keep your voice down on public transport, and don't eat smelly food on the MTR - both are considered rude. People take queuing seriously, so don't cut in line or push.
• The concept of 'face' matters here - don't publicly criticize or embarrass anyone, even if you're frustrated. Handle conflicts privately and calmly. Tipping isn't expected except at upscale Western restaurants (10% is standard), though many places already include a service charge.

• The MTR subway is the main way to get around. It runs 6am to 1am, stations are announced in English and Cantonese, and an Octopus card works on MTR, buses, trams, and ferries. Generally safe, but stay alert in packed carriages - harassment reports have gone up recently.
• Taxis are everywhere and metered. Red taxis cover Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, green serve New Territories, blue serve Lantau Island. Uber works here and drivers often speak English. Regular taxis sometimes don't, so have addresses written in Chinese or use a translation app.
• The old double-decker trams (ding-dings) cost HKD $3 and run along the north shore of Hong Kong Island. They're slow but good for sightseeing between Central and Causeway Bay during the day. The Star Ferry between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui costs HKD $3.70, gives you harbor views, and runs until 11:30pm.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Hong Kong with local guides and curated experiences.