Travel Information

Visa or Entry Permit

For Visa requirement to enter Hong Kong, please refer to the Immigration Department website.                                                                                                                      

Weather in Hong Kong

In winter (late December to February), it is generally sunny, bright and cool with temperatures ranges from 14^oC-20^oC (57^oF-68^oF) with the temperature averaging 17^oC (62°F) and humidity near 72%. Warm sweaters and overcoats work best in this season.

Hong Kong may sometimes be affected by extreme weather. For the latest weather information, please click on the Hong Kong Observatory website.     

Time

Hong Kong is set at GMT/UTC plus eight hours.

Electricity

The voltage in Hong Kong is 220/240 volts. Most hotels provide adaptors.

Currency

The unit of currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HK$). There are 100 cents in a dollar. Coins, issued by the government, are bronze-colored for 10 cents, 20 cents and 50 cents; silver-colored for HK$1, HK$2, and HK$5; nickel and bronze for HK$10. Notes are in denominations of HK$10, HK$20, HK$50, HK$100, HK$500, and HK$1,000. 

Exchange Rate

Since the mid-1980s, the value of the Hong Kong dollar has been pegged at HK$7.8 to the US dollar, and consequent rates of exchange to other currencies. However, the market rate exchange to the US dollar fluctuates marginally. Credit cards, e.g. VISA MasterCard and American Express, are all widely accepted.

Commission Fees

Banks and money changers charge commission. Similarly, commissions are payable in hotels and major retail outlets which provide exchange facilities for their customers. As elsewhere, the rates of exchange for cash and travelers' cheques are marginally different and coins are not exchangeable. The display of net rates of exchange by money changers is a legal obligation. Visitors are advised to check them -- and also the amount of any additional commission payable for the exchange of travelers' cheques -- before handing over the money for exchange. Receipt notes must be issued by law. There are no restrictions on currencies being brought in or taken out of Hong Kong.

Insurance

The registration fee does not include provision for the insurance of participants such as insurance against personal accidents, sickness, theft and property damage/loss. Participants are advised to provide their own travel insurance.

Transportation

Please refer to the page under Venue.

Gateway to China

Travel to mainland China, home to an ancient and rich culture as well as stunning natural beauty, is better and easier than ever before. Frequent air links from Hong Kong's international airport, efficient rail services and some of the world's largest fleets of high-speed and overnight ferries make China easily accessible. So why not take advantage of Hong Kong's proximity and step through the exciting gateway to China!

For more information, please click on the Hong Kong Tourism Board website.

Airline Schedules

Details on the airline schedules departing and arriving in Hong Kong can be checked at:

http://www.hkairport.com/eng/index.jsp