Canadians traveling on regular passports do not require a visa to enter Hong Kong. (Traveller is advised to contact the embassy to check visa requirements.)

Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Typhoon season is May to November. When a typhoon is approaching, warnings are broadcast on TV and radio, and signals indicate its significance, the latest position and expected movement of the centre of the tropical cyclone, information on the wind strength, rainfall and sea level in the territory. When typhoon signal 8 is hoisted, businesses and shops close down and flights may be cancelled. There is a separate warning for heavy rain.

Spring: March to May – Temperature and humidity are rising. Evenings can be cool.

Summer: June to August – Hot, humid and sunny, with occasional showers and thunderstorms. The temperture can exceed 31°C.

Autumn: September to November – There are pleasant breezes, plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures. Many people regard these as the best months of the year to visit Hong Kong.

Winter: December to February – Cool, dry and cloudy, with occasional cold fronts. The temperature can drop below 10°C in urban areas.

Light suits and dresses are appropriate for business attire. A light raincoat may also be useful during the summer as it is also the rainy season. A sweater is recommended for indoors, especially in summer months when restaurants tend to turn up their air conditioners. Heavy coats may also be required in winter.

HK dollars ($)

Cantonese is the Chinese dialect spoken by over 88% of the people in Hong Kong. However, English is widely used in the Government and by the legal, professional and business sectors as well as tourist areas. Most taxi drivers and salespeople are able to communicate in English.

UTC/GMT +8 hours

Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilized. Bottled water is recommended.

200/220 volts, 50 cycles. Three-rectangular pin plugs are the norm.

852