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Planning Your Trip

From soaring skyscrapers set against a bustling harbor to incense-perfumed Taoist temples and afternoon English tea service, it’s no surprise that Hong Kong has earned the title of “Asia’s World City.” Packing for such a diverse locale is no easy feat — here’s what you’ll need for your stay in Hong Kong.

A collection of traveler’s items including a cellphone, laptop, notebook, watch, glasses and more

Business Travel

As the longstanding financial capital of Asia, Hong Kong is decidedly more formal than other cities in the region. Even in the city’s warm climate, conservative business attire is expected.  

 

  • A well-tailored dark blue suit is the standard coat of arms for businessmen in Hong Kong, and even outside of the boardroom, most restaurants and clubs require a jacket and tie.
  • A dark skirt and heels are the norm for women's wear, even in the summer.
  • Make sure you have a plentiful supply of business cards — failing to offer one may suggest you don't want to make the person's acquaintance.
A tram climbs a track with a view of a large city

Exploring the City

From the neon lit streets of Mangkok to the quiet calm of Kowloon Park, there’s a lot of ground to cover in Hong Kong. Be prepared for all the city has to offer by packing versatile basics.  

 

  • Fill your bag with lightweight and breathable layers. It'll likely be warm and muggy outside, but the air-conditioned indoor spaces can get chilly.
  • Always carry an umbrella. Rain in Hong Kong is often sudden and unpredictable.
  • Opt for comfort over style when choosing your shoes — the city's cobbled, hilly streets are best tackled in flat sandals or sneakers.
Stairs lead to a large sitting Buddha statue at the top of a hill

Day Trips

Beyond Hong Kong’s city limits lie sandy white beaches and sacred spiritual sites. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and soak in some of the region’s stunning natural wonders.

 

  • Pack your swimwear for a trip to Sai Kung, home to four of the region's most pristine beaches.
  • While you'll want to dress comfortably for things like the 268-stair climb to see the Big Buddha on Launtau Island, remember that many attractions are also religious sites, so modest layers are a good idea.
  • If traveling with kids, save room in your luggage packing for a few compact rain shells instead of heavy jackets.
Don't Forget:

Gift giving is an important part of Hong Kong culture — impress your hosts or business associates by remembering to pack a few small gifts. Tokens from back home like coffee, tea or regional candies go a long way in showing your appreciation for their hospitality.

Hong Kong is home to some of the region’s finest dining, most luxurious spas and world-class golf. Here’s what to book in advance so you don’t miss out on the best the city has to offer.

Dining Reservations

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The Hong Kong peninsula’s vibrant Cantonese culture has paved the way for the city to become a top-notch dining destination. From sleek restaurants with stunning views to hole-in-the-wall noodle shops, there’s something for every taste. For a decadent dining experience, book a table at the sky-high restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton, Tin Lung Heen, where chef Paul Lau Ping Lui serves classic Cantonese fare against a backdrop of city lights. For a more casual but still lively experience, make a reservation at ChomChom, a Vietnamese restaurant that’s widely considered to have the city’s best pho.  

Spa Reservations

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There’s a lot to explore in Hong Kong, and chances are you’ll need a break (or two). Take your luxury spa experience to new heights at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, set on the 116th floor of the hotel. Wind down after a busy day with the lava shell body treatment, which incorporates heated lava shells to soothe tired muscles, and a Y lift intensive facial, a unique treatment that redefines facial contours while smoothing fine lines. Or simply soak in the indoor infinity swimming pool while taking in the stunning views of
Victoria Harbour below.

Day Trips

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While this bustling metropolis may be best known for its vibrant urban culture, there’s lots to do just beyond the city limits too. Spend a day exploring the traditional villages and unspoiled beaches of Lantau, Hong Kong’slargest outlying island and home to the infamous Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery. Follow in the footsteps of some of the region’s best chefs and head to the Chinese-Portuguese enclave of Macau, where the cobblestoned village of Coloane is home to open-air restaurants that are favorites of the foodie set.

Tee Times

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While the Royal Hong Kong Golf Club dates back more than 100 years, it’s just recently that the city has established itself as a destination for golf. For a true championship-like test of your handicap, head to the Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club, which features two contrasting sets of nine holes. For a slightly less challenging round, tee it up at the North Course at the Jockey Club on the island of Kau Sai Chu, which is considered to be one of the best public courses in the region.

Hong Kong is a dynamic city where history and culture converge — a place where starkly modern skyscrapers are set against a backdrop of lush scenery. Revel in the sights and sounds of this international city with one of these three unique itineraries.

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A Perfect Weekend

There isn’t much you can’t find in Hong Kong, one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities: a bounty of celebrated chefs, one of the most exciting art scenes on the planet, and a shopping scene that rivals that of New York. What’s more, despite the fact the city is home to more than 7 million people, there are innumerable opportunities to unwind. About 40 percent of Hong Kong is protected from development, and spectacular scenery is never far away.

 

 

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Stanley Main Street Patio

Culinary Tour

Walk the city’s energetic streets, and you’ll find locals eating pretty much any time of day (and night, for that matter). To get a true taste of the city, experience both the old-school authentic institutions — which serve chewy noodles, piping hot buns and towers of delicious dim sum — and the new guard of restaurants, which are defining the future of Hong Kong cuisine. Along the way, sip plenty of sophisticated creations from the city’s white-hot cocktail scene.

 

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A large sitting Buddha statue

Cultural Treasures

There’s far more to Hong Kong than the five-star dining and luxe shopping that the city is known for. Rich in history and tradition, it’s also home to a burgeoning cultural renaissance, as a new wave of artists, musicians and entrepreneurs infuse the city with a vibrant energy. Explore the galleries, museums and spiritual sites that call the region home.

 

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Tea Time:

Although the British may have introduced the traditional afternoon tea service, it is the people of Hong Kong who have perfected it — afternoon tea is a well-loved custom in the city and not to be missed. Tea service at Café 103 at The Ritz-Carlton is a modern affair, where pastries and savory bites are served on polished silver tiers and expansive views of Victoria Harbour can be found around every corner.