Shops and Other Things To Do

Chinese and English are the two official languages in Hong Kong. The southern Chinese dialect of Cantonese is the most common spoken language. Traditional Chinese characters are used in writing. Putonghua (Mandarin) is more and more spoken by people in Hong Kong. English and Cantonese are used by the Hong Kong Government and in the courts. Nearly all business people speak English.

In Hong Kong Limited, most major international banks are present and ATM machines are widely accessible. Credit cards are commonly accepted, except at some small shops and restaurants. Hong Kong International Airport is located at Chek Lap Kok, Lantau Island. The airport is 35.2 kilometres from the Central District (prime commercial district) of Hong Kong Island and is served by airport buses, hotel buses, taxis, hire-cars and the Airport Express Railway (approximately 24 minutes to Central).

Hong Kong Limited has a very efficient public transport system including trains, buses, trams, ferries, taxis and minibuses. Many of Hong Kong limited company luxury hotels are among the best in the world. All the major international chains are represented, along with an array of local and regional hotels.

Daily room rates of hotels for business travellers are around US$180-300, depending on location, style and facilities. Visitors are advised to make advance reservations. Hotel addresses and relevant hotel information are available at the website of the Hong Kong Tourism Board www.discoverhongkong.com.

For international calls the area code of Hong Kong +852. The telecommunication system of Hong Kong is fully digitised. The penetration rate of household fixed lines is 99.5% and that of mobile phones is 164%, among the highest in Asia. Household broadband penetration rate is 78%.Postage is inexpensive and the service is reliable.

Tips for initiating Hong Kong limited business contacts of the population are made up of ethnic Chinese Hong Kong. Traditional Chinese culture, attitudes and philosophy prevails, whereas Western business systems and customs also have a strong influence. It makes Hong Kong a unique society as a blend of Chinese tradition and Western culture.

Hong Kong is a place which means business. Hong Kong people are hard working and known for their flexibility and business mind. The Hong Kong business climate is very dynamic. Decisions are made quickly, and companies need to be able to respond to inquiries, proposals and correspondence as soon as possible. If a quick reply is impossible, you should send an acknowledgement of receipt immediately stating that an answer will follow shortly. It shows interest and respect to your potential customers and partners.