Hong Kong Travel
The ultra-modern city of Hong Kong is a cultural melting pot that’s influenced by the East and the West. This urban metropolis is packed with attractions that range from ancient temples and historical sites to modern skyscrapers, shopping malls and street markets.
A Hong Kong trip can easily burn through your vacation budget if you’re not careful. But with a bit of advance planning, you can stay within your budget and still have an amazing time in this world-class destination.
One of the best things you can do to save money in Hong Kong is purchase an Octopus digital or physical travel card before your trip. This smart payment tool works on all public transportation and can also be used for dining, entertainment and shopping. You can buy a Mobile Octopus in advance for HK$39 and have it loaded with HK$50, or get the Tourist Octopus that includes a refundable deposit of HK$39 when you arrive at the airport or the Tsim Sha Tsui Star Ferry concourse.
Another way to save on your Hong Kong travel is to shop around and find the cheapest hotel prices. A stay at a luxury four-star hotel can set you back several thousand dollars per night, but there are plenty of affordable options as well. Some of the best places to look for deals on hotels in Hong Kong are in Wan Chai, Central, Soho and Sheung Wan.
If you want to save even more, you can avoid some of the most popular events and activities in Hong Kong. For instance, summer is a popular time for tourists to visit the city, but it can be hot and humid with high crowds. Similarly, major holidays like New Years can see spikes in hotel prices and crowds. Instead, you can enjoy more affordable room rates and fewer crowds by visiting in the shoulder season of October to early December.
When it comes to food, try to avoid the many chain restaurants and opt for local eateries. These smaller establishments tend to have cheaper menu items and are more authentic. Plus, they will likely speak English or Cantonese, so you don’t have to worry about language barriers.
You can save even more on meals by packing your own lunch. You can find a variety of grocery stores and mini-markets throughout the city, and many carry a wide selection of snacks and supplies for your backpacking adventure.