Safety Tips for Women Travelers in Hong Kong
In July 2010 I traveled to Hong Kong and China for the first time. What started as spontaneous trip joining friends who were going there for business, turned into numerous trips for me over the last 9 years and great business relationships. Hong Kong is a very cosmopolitan, international and safe city, but here are a few very useful tips:
The fastest and most efficient way to get into Hong Kong from the airport is via the Airport Express train. It stops at Tsing Yi, Kowloon and Hong Kong stations and will take you into the city in just 24 minutes. One of the best ways to not stand out as a visitor when you’re traveling abroad is to look like you know where you’re going and what you’re doing. Before you take the Airport Express train, purchase your ticket ahead of time via Klook like the locals do – a voucher will be sent to you immediately so you don’t waste time queuing for a physical ticket.
In general, you can wear pretty much anything you want, and I’ve personally never felt unsafe. However, Hong Kong can still be considered relatively conservative compared to some Western cities. During the summer, it can be hot and humid so bring loose fitting and flowy tops or dresses. However, most places blast the air conditioning so it can be freezing cold indoors – you’ll want to have a thin cardigan or scarf to stop you from turning into a popsicle. During the winter months, it rarely falls below 8-10 degrees Celsius but because of the humidity it can feel much chillier. If you are visiting from mid-December to mid-March it would be prudent to bring leather boots and a thick coat or down jacket.
Hong Kong is a great place to go out drinking and dancing. Drinks are cheap and many bars and clubs open until the wee hours of the morning. In general, there are many police patrolmen in both Lan Kwai Fong and Wan Chai, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. That being said, watch your drink, watch your wallet, watch your phone.
Thank you Yoga, Wine, Travel for these useful tips!