Passport and Visa
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 most countries do not require a visa to enter Hong Kong for tourism and can stay for periods varying from 7 to 180 days, depending on nationality. If you’re unsure of your status, please check with any Chinese embassy or consulate.
You can also find further details about visa requirements on the Immigration Department website at:
http://www.immd.gov.hk/en/services/hk-visas/visit-transit/visit-visa-entry-permit.html
Climate and Time Zone:
Hong Kong SAR has a subtropical climate. Clear and sunny days are the norm in autumn. The average temperature in November lies between 19 – 24°C (66 – 75°F). Long sleeves and light jackets are most suitable at this time of year.
Hong Kong SAR time is GMT plus 8 hours.
Currency and Banks:
The unit of currency is the Hong Kong dollar (HKD). It is pegged to the US$ at approximately HKD 7.8 to USD 1. Most foreign currencies and traveler’s cheques can be changed at banks, money-changers, hotels and major retail outlets. Banks usually offer the best exchange rate. Hong Kong dollar notes are available in $10, $20, $50, $100, $500 and $1,000 denominations. Coins come in 10 cents, 20 cents, 50 cents, $1, $2, $5 and $10 denominations. All major credit cards are widely accepted.
Most Bank offices are open from 09:00 to 17:00 on weekdays and 09:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays.
You may find the following Banking and ATM facilities near the Academy at the United Centre or Pacific Place Mall, which is 10 minutes walking distance to the symposium venue:
Bank of China: Shop 1021, United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty
HSBC: Shop 102, Pacific Place Mall, 88 Queensway, Admiralty
Hang Seng Bank: Shop 2029, 2/F, United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty
CitiBank Limited: Shop 2003-2006, 2/F, United Center, 95 Queensway, Admiralty
Standard Chartered Bank: Unit 355, Level 3, Pacific Place, 88 Queensway, Admiralty
Bank of East Asia: Shop 1007-1008, 1/F, United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty
Industrial and Commercial Bank of China: Shop 1013-1014, 1/F., United Centre, 95 Queensway, Admiralty
Public Transport
Hong Kong SAR is geographically compact with plentiful metered taxis, day and night, which are inexpensive; meters are clearly displayed. Excellent public transportation is in the form of buses, trams and the Mass Transit Railway (MTR).
MTR is relatively cheap and frequent. The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts is within walking distance of the Wan Chai MTR Station, and the Admiralty MTR Station.
The famous Star Ferry operates from Tsim Sha Tsui to Central District and Wan Chai.
Electricity
Local voltage is 220V at 50Hz. Adapters can be easily bought, and most hotels have multi-voltage fittings for electric razors.
Dining
As a compact city with more than 12,000 restaurants, Hong Kong could be described as a dining district in itself. Culinary discoveries can be made just about anywhere in the city. Restaurant hubs near the Academy include the Starstreet Precinct (Wan Chai) and The East (Wan Chai). More information can be found at:
http://www.discoverhongkong.com/eng/dine-drink/where-to-eat/index.jsp
Emergency and Insurance
In case of emergency situation (e.g., accidents, crime, lost or fire), you may dial 999 and ask for assistance. It is also strongly recommended that you should also make arrangement to take out your own travel insurance.