Getting Around Hong Kong
The easiest way to get around Hong Kong is via the MTR underground and the double decker buses. The traffic is insane in Hong Kong. Unless you like sitting in perpetual gridlock, taking a taxi isn’t worth it. Although they are inexpensive, the meter adds up rather quickly in a standstill.
The Octopus card is an absolute necessity. It can be purchased at any customer service counter throughout the MTR station. The card is purchased with cash only, beginning in increments of $150.00 HKD. ($50.00 HKD is a deposit, which is returned to you) The card can be used for all MTR and KCR trains as well as the double decker buses and the Star Ferry. The KCR train whisks business people to Schenzhen on Mainland China in about an hour’s time. Additionally, the card comes in handy at any 7-11 store—they are all over Kowloon and Hong Kong. You can purchase anything in the store with the card. When the balance becomes low, just simply replenish it at any MTR customer service counter.
Every visitor is obligated to visit The Peak in Hong Kong. Incredible vistas of Hong Kong’s 7,422 high-rise buildings and outlying islands can be seen on a clear day. Unfortunately, Hong Kong has a serious pollution problem. Thick grey smog settles over the skyline regularly. In order to go to the peak, wait for a clear day—time permitting. After a heavy rainfall, it can become clear as well. To avoid a long wait in line, go early in the morning. Try to avoid going on a Sunday, when the line is unforgiving.
To reach the Peak, head over to Peak Tram Terminus on Garden Road where the ticket booth is located. A funicular takes you up the steep hill—about a ten-minute ride. (1,299 ft—396 metres) Set aside at least two hours for sightseeing.
For anyone who would rather walk down from the peak, there are lovely, circuitous footpaths leading to the base of the tram. If you choose to walk down, make sure you purchase a one-way ticket.
Peak Tram hours: 7am to midnight. R/T ticket: $30.00 HKD/less than $4.00 USD
One-way ticket: $20.00 HKD/about $2.75 USD.
Before leaving Hong Kong, don’t forget to get your Octopus Card deposit back. At the Kowloon Station where you’ll catch the Airport Express back to the airport, there’s a ticket counter. Simply show your card, receive the deposit back and you’ll have enough money for last minute souvenirs at the airport.
by Susan Fogwell
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