Population
Approximately 7.07 million and about 94% was of Chinese ethnicity in 2011.
Official Language
The official languages are Chinese and English. All major signage are bilingual. Cantonese is the most commonly spoken Chinese dialect in Hong Kong, but majority of people can speak both English and Mandarin.
Weather
Hong Kong has a sub-tropical climate with distinct seasons. February is part of winter so cool, dry and cloudy, with occasional cold fronts. Average temperature is about 12°C to 20°C. The temperature can drop below 10°C in urban areas. You can find detailed information about current weather on the Hong Kong Observatory website.
Time Zone
Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) + 8 hours
Transportation
Hong Kong is geographically compact and the public transport system is efficient, relatively inexpensive and user-friendly. The Airport Express links Hong Kong International Airport directly to Hong Kong's central business district and buses connect the airport with most of the city. The Mass Transit Railway (MTR) and public buses allow easy access throughout the territories. Taxis are inexpensive with a HKD16.5 - HKD20 flag fall fare.
Visa Requirement
In general, all visitors to Hong Kong must have a passport that is valid for at least one month after the period of their intended stay in Hong Kong. Nationals of about 170 countries and territories may visit Hong Kong without a visa/entry permit for a period ranging from 7 days to 180 days. You may refer to the website of Immigration Department of the Government of the Hong Kong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) for more information on visa/entry permit requirements.
Useful Numbers
Directory Inquiry Hotline (English) 1083
Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance) 999
Hong Kong Tourism Board Visitor Hotline 2508 1234
Hong Kong International Airport 2181 8888
Hong Kong Immigration Department 2824 6111
* For those calling from places outside Hong Kong, please dial the area code “852” before the telephone number.
Further information on Hong Kong, travel and tourist attractions is available on the Hong Kong Tourism Board website.