Time Zone:

GMT +8 hours.

Climate:

Hong Kong experiences four distinct seasons, with the climate influenced in winter by the north-northeast monsoon and in summer by the south-southwest monsoon. Summers are very hot, with the rainy season running from June to August. Spring and autumn are warm with occasional rain and cooler evenings. Winter can be cold, but most days are mild. There is a risk of typhoons and tropical storms from April to October, although direct hits are rare.

Language:

Cantonese and English are the official languages, with Cantonese the most widely spoken. Mandarin is growing fast as a second language. English is widely spoken, especially in business circles. All signs around the city are in English, making it easy to get around.

Getting There:

Hong Kong has direct flight access from all of the major cities around the world. It is one of the major hubs in Asia, and the gateway to China. Onward access to China is usually a flight to the major destinations as well as Sanya, Hong Kong's closest resort island. Access to Macau is a 45-minute hovercraft journey from the airport or the city centre.

Flying Times:

Visa & Passports Requirements:

• Passports should be valid at least six months from date of entry.

• Nationalities of more than 170 countries and territories may visit Hong Kong visa-free for a period ranging from 7 days to 180 days. The main duration is 90 days.

• Click here for up-to-date visa information.

• If you do require a visa, you must apply for it at a Chinese diplomatic and consular mission before arriving. Be aware that if you visit Hong Kong from China, you will need to have either a multiple-entry visa to re-enter China or get a new visa.

• If you are entering China from Hong Kong you will need to have arranged for your visa in advance.

• All visitors must complete an Entry/Exit card and Customs Declaration Form.

Health & Vaccinations:

• Vaccinations are not necessary for entry into Hong Kong or Macau.

• Prior to travel, please double check the requirements with your doctor.

• A Yellow Fever certificate is required if arriving from infected areas.

• Tap water is safe to drink.

Electricity:

• 220 volts AC, 50Hz.

• Square three-pin plugs (English style).

Communications:

• Country code is +852.

• The country uses GSM 900, 1800 and 3G 2100 networks.

• Please check with your country operator on your mobile network band compatibility.

• Sim cards can be bought at any convenience stores or Pacific World can arrange for you to hire a local mobile phone if you prefer.

Clothing Guidelines:

Lightweight clothing during warmer months, and warmer clothes for winter, spring and autumn evenings. It should be noted that even during the hottest weather, a jacket or pullover will be required for the sometimes fierce air conditioning indoors . Warm medium weights are best during winter. Waterproofing is advisable during summer rains. Business attire in Hong Kong is very formal & in some restaurants and venues formal evening attire may also be required.

Importation/Re-exportation of Goods for Events:

Computers, related equipment and "software" performing cryptographic, cryptanalytic, certifiable multi-level security or certifiable user isolation functions are subject to evaluation for import licenses.

Conference License:

Not required.