Time
Hong Kong time is 8 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.
Climate
Winter with occasional cold fronts followed by dry northerly winds. Temperatures ranges from 10 oC - 20 oC (75-80F). Humidity averages 70 percent.
Currency
The currency unit is Hong Kong dollars (HK$). It is pledged with to the US Dollars at a rate of HK$7.8 to US$1, with narrow fluctuation. Most foreign currencies and traveller's cheques are easily exchanged in banks, hotels or money changes. Credit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants throughout Hong Kong.
Banks
| Business Hours | |
| Monday to Friday | 9:00 am - 4:30 pm |
| Saturday | 9:00 am - 12:30 pm |
| Sunday and public holidays | Closed |
Electricity
Electricity is supplied as alternating current; the voltage is 220 Volts and frequency 50 cycles (Hz). Three-rectangular pin plugs are the norm.
Entry Visa
Hong Kong has a liberal visa policy that allows visa free entries to nationals of more than 170 countries. Those who do require visas should apply at the nearest Chinese Embassy Consulate or Visa Office. When applying for a visa, it is advisable to be at least six weeks in advance. For more details please visit here: http://www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_4.htm
Identification
Visitors are advised to carry some photo identification, such as a passport or driving license.
Language
Chinese and English are the official languages in Hong Kong. All road signs, menus and tourist publications are bilingual. Cantonese is the predominant Chinese dialect widely spoken here while Putonghua has become more popular here nowadays.
Population
The estimated population of Hong Kong is 7 million. Almost 98% is Chinese.
Postal Services
Hotels often provide simple postage service. Post offices open every day except Saturday afternoons, Sundays and public holidays.
Public Transport
Metered taxis, frequent buses and MTR (underground train) service provide fast, clean, air-conditioned transport in Kowloon and on the Island. Combine all this with famous ferries, trams, trains and local transportation in Hong Kong is both safe, easy and inexpensive.
Restaurants
Hong Kong has more than 6,000 restaurants specializing in cuisine form many parts of the world. Please contact the Hotel and Tour desk for further information
Safety & Security
Hong Kong is generally considered a very safe city both at night and during the day. As everywhere, however, protect yourself from pickpockets and carry as little cash and valuables as possible. Use a hotel safe-deposit box to store valuables. The Hong Kong Police Force (HKPC) has stations and reporting centers throughout the territory.
Shopping
Most shops and department stores open seven days a week until 9:00 pm. Street markets are in business every day until late into the night. Hong Kong renowned for bargains, speedily made tailored clothing, antiques, jewellery, and electronic equipment. Major credit cards are widely accepted.
Tipping
Most restaurants add a 10% service charge and also expect to keep the charge. Where tipping is voluntary, 10% is fine. Taxi driver, bellboys, restroom attendants and doorman are also often tipped if the service is good.
Insurance
The Conference Committee of APFSSH 2008 is not responsible for personal accident and / or damage to the property of participants. Participants should therefore make their own arrangements with respect to personal insurance if required.
Hong Kong Information
