Once that is figured out, you are left with deciding where you want to go and then decide how you plan to travel. Flights, ferries, buses and trains offer a lot of options for all budgets.

Quick summary

Should you plan to get from Hong Kong to Shenzhen or Guangzou, then taking the train or the ferry is the best option. For further destinations, such as Shanghai and Beijing, your best bet is to fly, if you are in a hurry. Otherwise, the train is a good option but be careful when planning because it doesn’t run on a daily basis.

Flights from Hong Kong (airport code: HKG) to China

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is the most important gateway into mainland China and is hub for Air Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific, Dragonair and Hong Kong Airlines. Especially if you plan to get to central or northern China, flying is the fastest option.

You can get from Hong Kong to Beijing in about 4 hours (non stop flight). Fare start around US$250 one way.

It’s also fast to get from Hong Kong to Shanghai . The flight time is about 2 ½ h and the single fares start at US$270.

>>read more about Airfare to Hong Kong

Trains from Hong Kong to China

Traveling by train between Hong Kong and China is fast, safe and reliable. The Kowloon-Canton Railway connects Hong Kong with Shenzhen, Dongguan and Guangzou.

You can get from Hong Kong to Shenzhen in about an hour but the border formalities take another 30-40 min. A single adult ticket is HKD36.50 /US$5.

You can also get from Hong Kong to Guangzou , the further stop on this line. The distance is covered in about 2 hours but you need to add the border formalities to the total travel time. The single adult ticket starts at HKD190 / US$25.

It’s possible to travel by train all the way to Shanghai . There aren’t daily connections and the travel time is about 20 hours. Single adult fares range from HKD508 / US$65 (hard sleeper) to HKD1,039 / US$135 (deluxe soft sleeper). Make sure to book the ticket ahead of time.

You can also get from Hong Kong to Beijing by train. The journey is 24 hours but there aren’t daily departures. The single tickets range from HKD587 / US$75 (hard sleeper) and HKD1191 / US$155) (deluxe soft sleeper)

Buses from Hong Kong to China

Another low cost option for traveling between Hong Kong Guangzhou is by bus, for single fares starting at HKD80 / US$10.

However, there aren’t any long distance buses available. So you cannot get from Hong Kong to Shanghai or Beijing by bus.

Ferries from Hong Kong to China

A fast and comfortable way to get between Hong Kong and China is taking the ferry. They depart from both Kowloon and Hong Kong International Airport and are operated by various companies.

You can get to Shenzhen in about 50 minutes and the single adult fare is HKD105 / US$13.50. There are six ferries per day on this route.

You can also get to Guangzou by ferry. The travel time is 75 min and the single adult fare starts at HKD147 / US$20. The ferry terminal in Guangzou is located further from the city center, but there are buses offering reliable connections.

Driving from Hong Kong to China

Renting a car in Hong Kong and driving to China is not recommended. First of all, you’ll switch from driving on the left hand side of the road (Hong Kong) to driving on the right (China). Then, the traffic signs are more like hints for the locals. So , if you do want to travel by car, you can consider letting someone else driving you.

Photo credits: Hong Kong Airport , Beijing train station , Hong Kong Ferry

Weather

December in Hong Kong falls during winter and it’s definitely cold here. Or shall we say, it’s cold for the locals? With an average day time temperature of 21C and an average during the night of 15C , for someone used to cold winters in North America and Europe, the weather is downright mild. The best example would be Anthony Bourdain’s visit to Hong Kong in winter when he is very pleased with the warm weather but the locals insist it’s actually cold and winter.

>>read more about Weather in Hong Kong

Flights and accommodation

Despite the colder weather, visiting Hong Kong in December is very popular. Christmas and New Year’s Eve add to the popularity, of course. So, it’s high season and the high prices which go along with that. Expect to pay more for your flight and accommodation . Do book them in advance. You might even save some money (especially on accommodation).

What to do

Winter Fest starts by the end of November so December is an excellent month to see the festive lights. Plus, it’s a good time to shop here as the winter sales are in full swing.

And speaking about shopping, you might want to attend the Brands and Products Expo which takes place outdoors and features signature brands from Hong Kong and overseas.

The mild weather allows for exploring the nature, as well. So put on your hiking shoes and head to Victoria Peak. You can see some lovely views of Victoria Harbour , by the way.

Especially if you travel with the kids, plan a day or two exploring the theme parks. Disneyland is a lovely choice during this time of the year, but try to avoid the weekends when it’s very crowded. Ocean Park is another good option.

>>read more about the Attractions in Hong Kong

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Weather

November is one of the best months to visit Hong Kong. The skies are clear and the sun shines. Also, the temperatures are moderate and the air is clearer.

Sample temperatures:

Hong Kong avg high 24C ; avg low 19C

>>read more about Weather in Hong Kong

Flights and accommodation

November is one of the best and most popular months to visit Hong Kong, so it’s pretty much high season. While, traveling to Hong Kong is never a cheap affair, do expect to pay more for both airfare and accommodation . Booking in advance will save some money but don’t expect to find too many deals available.

What to do

November is the perfect month to visit Hong Kong for those who plan to explore the nature. You can visit the Hong Kong National Geopark or enjoy some of the hiking trails available (within the park and in the rest of Hong Kong). Those include the trails on Victoria Peak, which offer stunning views of Victoria Harbour . Lantau Island is another good option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

November is Wine & Dine month in Hong Kong , an event which showcases international wines paired with local food. Add the live entertainment and you’ll surely love this event. The major hotels hold food and wine promotions.

Winter Fest starts by the end of November but you still have about a week of enjoying the festive lighting and Victoria Harbour sparkling with the Christmas decorations. If you want to benefit from the lovely Christmas atmosphere, come to Hong Kong in December.

You can also check out the theme parks, including Disneyland and Ocean Park. Just try to avoid the weekends when it’s usually crowded. Don’t forget about visiting the museums either.

>>read more about the Attractions in Hong Kong

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Weather

Hong Kong has a sub-tropical climate. Winter lasts from January to March and is dry and cool. March is quite pleasant , with occasional humidity spells (fog, drizzle).

Sample temperatures:
Hong Kong avg high 21C ; avg low 17C

>>read more about the Weather in Hong Kong

Flights and accommodation

While Hong Kong is definitely a year-round destination, the most popular time to visit is during the end of February and in mid-September. So, traveling in March means you won’t be traveling during the high season, but don’t exactly expect to find cheap airfare or accommodation .

In general, Hong Kong is not a cheap destination, but you can save some money if you book ahead of time. Plus, you might find some bargains available from time to time.

What to do

Traveling in March means you won’t be able to attend any festivals in Hong Kong. Instead, you can spend your vacation visiting Hong Kong Disneyland – a good option especially if you travel with the kids. Ocean Park is another good idea if you want to have fun but don’t fancy Disneyland.

Explore Victoria Harbour and its promenade area. Or head to Victoria Peak for some lovely views of the Harbour. While here, you can also visit the Botanical Gardens. And there are also plenty of museums to check out.

>>read more about the Attractions in Hong Kong

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Taiwan is an island and the only possible way for travelers to get between Hong Kong and Taipei is by plane. There isn’t any passenger ferry route available (the China Sea isn’t exactly a pleasure to deal with).

Flights from Hong Kong (airport code: HKG) to Taipei

Hong Kong International Airport (HKG) is an important gateway for those looking to fly to mainland China. It is also an important regional transportation hub. The airport is hub for Air Hong Kong, Cathay Pacific Airways, Dragonair, Evergreen International Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Hong Kong Express Airways and UPS Airlines.

Taipei is served by Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) , a hub for China Airlines, EVA Air and TransAsia Airways. The airport is connected to the city by express buses and high speed rail.

Flights between Hong Kong and Taipei are operated by Cathay Pacific, China Airlines, Dragonair and EVA Air. The flight time is about 1h 35 min. Non-stop single flights start at HKD 2214 / US$285 on EVA Air in February and March 2012. By April 2012 expect to pay from HDK 2649 / US$341 on EVA Air. For certain times of the year (i.e Feb, Mar) it might be slightly cheaper to choose a connecting flight on JetStar Airways.

>>read more about flights to Hong Kong

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Most of the hotels located close to the Hong Kong airport are 4-star or 5-star, so expect to pay a premium for staying here. Further from the airport, there are some 3-star hotels which offer cheaper rates and quite good locations.

The Regal Airport Hotel

This 5star hotel is actually connected to Terminal 1 by an AC bridge. The hotel offers conference facilities and there are restaurants on site to suit many tastes. There’s broadband in the rooms and the guests are offered a free shuttle to/from the airport. Expect to pay from HKD 1480 / US$190.50 per night for a superior room.

Hotel Novotel Hong Kong Citygate

The 4 star hotel is located just 5 minutes from the airport and has direct access to MTR. Disneyland is 2 stops away and the city center is just 30 min away. The hotel offers 2 restaurants, a bar, a gym and a pool. The guests can use the free shuttle to/from the airport. Rooms have LCD TV. Wi fi is available for a fee. Expect to pay from HKD 2100 / US$270.30 per need for a superior queen bed room .

The Mercer Boutique Hotel

Much further from the airport (24.6 km) you can find this lovely 4-star hotel which offers free internet and free local calls. It is close to the Macau Ferry Terminal. There’s an outdoor pool available and it’s close to the MTR station. All rooms have iPod dock, flat-screen TV and free mini bar items. Expect to pay from HKD 2232 / US$287.30 per night in a deluxe double or twin room.

Silvermine Beach Resort

The 3 star hotel is located on Lantau Island, about 10 km from the airport (45 min drive). All rooms have view of the sea, hill or garden. There are 3 restaurants within the site and the guests can use the outdoor pool. All rooms have flat screen TV and minibar. Expect to pay from HKD 950 / US$122.30 per night for a double room with hill view.

The Bauhinia Hotel – Central

The 3-star hotel is located about 24.5 km from the airport, in the Sheung Wan’s business area, close to the MTR station. The Hong Kong Airport Express Station is a 10-minute walk from the hotel. All rooms have flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, DVD player and free wi-fi. Expect to pay from HKD 1080 / US$139 per night for a superior double or twin room.

Sohotel

The 3-star hotel is also located about 24.5 km from the airport and offers rooms with free wi fi, flat screen TV and minibar. Expect to pay from HKD 900 /US$116 per night for a standard double room.

When an American citizen is arrested, is victim of a crime or loses the passport, the Consulate General may provide help. If an American citizen dies, goes missing or is abducted, the Consulate General may also help. The Consulate General also is able to offer a list of lawyers and doctors if an American citizen needs such services.

Emergency contact

If a US citizen needs immediate consular assistance contact the American Citizens Services Unit at [852] 2841-2211, 2841-2225 or 2841-2323 during regular business hours. For death, arrests, hospitalizations or other emergencies involving U.S. citizens outside of the regular business hours, call 2523-9011, press 2 for English and 1 for emergencies to be connected to our after-hours duty officer.

Consulate General of the United States in Hong Kong

Address: 26 Garden Road, Central, Hong Kong

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Email: acshk@state.gov
Tel: 2841-2211, 2841-2323, 2841-2225
Fax: 2845-4845
Website

Hours For American Citizens Services
Monday – Friday 8:30 – Noon and 1:30 to 4:00,
Except Wednesdays (8:30 to Noon only)

All services are by appointment only.

If a UK citizen is victim of a crime, loses the passport, loses a bank card, is seriously injured or ill, needs a doctor or is arrested in Hong Kong, then help may come from the Consulate-General. If a UK national dies , goes missing or their child is abducted or they need a lawyer, the Consulate-General may provide help as well.

Emergency contact

If you need assistance outside office hours, please call: (+852) 2901 3000.

British Consulate-General in Hong Kong

Address: 1 Supreme Court Road
Hong Kong

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Telephone:
(+852) 2901 3000 Main Switchboard
(+852) 2901 3222 Consular
(+44) 208 082 4744 Passport Information Helpline

Website:

Office hours: Monday-Friday: 08:30-17:15 (Local time)

Hong Kong Disneyland is located on Lantau Island and there are two resorts on site. While it makes sense to look for accommodation within the park, you should also look for hotels located near-by , which usually offer a cheaper alternative.

Disney’s Hollywood Hotel

The 4-star hotel is located just 5 minutes from the Disneyland Resort MTR station and 15 minutes from the resort. The AC rooms have safety deposit box and TV. The hotel also offers a piano-shaped pool. A restaurant, a bar and a lounge are available for the guests. Rates start at HKD 1870 / US$241 per night for a sea view room.

Hong Kong Disneyland Hotel

The 5 star hotel is part of the Disneyland complex and is located just 6 km from the airport. The hotel is themed after the park and the wake up calls are made by Mickey Mouse. There are two restaurants on site. Rates start at HKD 2010 / US$259 per night in a double room with garden view.

Noah’s Ark Resort

The 3-star hotel is located about 4.4 km from Hong Kong Disneyland , in Hong Kong’s New Territories. All rooms have wi-fi and there are both dorms and private rooms available. The AC rooms have a safe and DVD player. Expect to pay from HKD 1100 / US$142 per night for a deluxe double or twin room including breakfast.

Royal View Hotel

This 4-star hotel is located by the waterfront, about 7.4 km from Hong Kong Disneyland (20 min drive). It offers an outdoor pool and a spa. The rooms come with a view of the South China Sea. The AC rooms feature flat-screen TV. Rates start at HKD 578 / US$74.50 per night for a superior double or twin room

Mexan Harbour Hotel Hong Kong

The 3-star hotel is located about 8 km from Hong Kong Disneyland (35 min by shuttle). There is free internet in public spaces. The AC rooms have tea / coffee making facilities and the hotels offer an outdoor pool. The restaurant offers a verity of options, including oriental and seafood dishes. Rates start at HKD 1273 / US$164 per night for a superior double or twin room.

Rambler Garden Hotel

The stylish 4-star hotel is located about 8 km from Hong Kong Disneyland (20 minutes by MTR) . There is free wi-fi and a sky garden. The AC rooms have minibar, coffee/tea making facilities and satellite TV. Expect to pay from HKD 1200 / US$155 per night for superior double or twin room.

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Considering that the distance between Hong Kong and Beijing is 1967 km (1222 miles), it only makes sense to find a quick and affordable way to travel.

Quick summary

If your vacation time is limited, do consider flying. For about US$210 you can get from Hong Kong to Beijing on a connecting flight (travel time: about 8 ½ h). Direct flights take almost 4 h and start at US$260. The cheap alternative is the train. Sleepers start at HK$ 587 / US$75 and the travel time is 24 hours.

Flights from Hong Kong (airport code: HKG) to Beijing

Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) is located 26 km from the city center and is the main international gateway into Beijing. It is hub for Air China, China Southern Airlines and Hainan Airlines.

Flights between Hong Kong and Beijing are run by Air China, Cathay Pacific, China Southern Airlines, Dragonair and Hong Kong Airlines. Non stop flights take 3h 50 min and start at US$260 per adult, one way, on China Southern Airlines. However, connecting flights (1 stop) start at US$214 per person, one way, but take 8 h 20 min. Return flights (with a connection) start at US$355 on China Eastern Airlines but the total travel time is from 7 h one way.

>>read more about Airfare to Hong Kong

Trains from Hong Kong to Beijing

Trains from Hong Kong arrive at Beijing’s West Railway Station , currently the largest train station in the city. Train T98 departs from Hong Kong every two days at 3:15 p.m. and tickets range from HK$ 587 / US$75 (hard sleeper) and HK$ 1191 / US$155) (deluxe soft sleeper)*. The train ride takes 24 hours.

The train runs on odd days in January, April, May, August, November, December and on even dates in February, March, Jun, July, September and October.

In Hong Kong you can buy tickets directly from the Kowloon’s Hung Hom station, but you also have the possibility to get them online . The route is very popular so make sure to book your ticket way in advance. Arrive at the Hong Kong station 45 minutes prior to departure for the Customs formalities.

Another option is to take the train from Guangzhou, which can be easily reached by rail, bus or ferry from Hong Kong. There are two daily trains to Beijing: T16 (leaves at 4:48 pm) and T202 (leaves at 9:46 a.m.). Fares range between RMB 458 / US$55 and RMB 1447 / US$226. The travel time is about 21 h.

>>read more about Getting from Hong Kong to Guangzhou

Note: * it’s more expensive to purchase the tickets in advance (between US$95 and US$199).

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