Hong Kong is a city of contrasts. It’s a combination of British order and Chinese industriousness. It’s renowned as a high-density, skyscraper-filled business center but surprisingly, over a third of the land is actually designated national park and peaceful green space. Enormous, sleek shopping malls are juxtaposed against narrow alleys crowded with traditional vendor’s stalls. Hong Kong has a cosmopolitan, high-tech veneer, but the ancient customs of fortune-telling and feng shui are valued. Here are some Hong Kong business travel tips to help the western traveler navigate these dichotomies without insulting their hosts.

Transportation in Hong Kong

Airport transfers – From the Hong Kong International Airport, called Chek Lap Kok, the best way into Central Hong Kong is the high-speed Airport Express Link train. For HK$100 (approximately US$13), it departs from inside the arrivals terminal and offers terrific views on the 25 minute ride to Central Hong Kong with a stop in Kowloon. Free shuttle buses to major hotels or taxis are available upon arrival. Alternatively, a taxi from the airport to Central will take 45-60 minutes and cost HK$300-400 (US$40-50). Travel Maestro tip: On the return trip, check in and check your bag in the city up to a day before the flight for a luggage free transfer.

Getting Around the City – Within the city, taxis drivers may understand major location names, but don’t expect them to speak English – always have your destination written in Chinese. Tipping is not customary, although drivers will happily accept a rounded up fare. The Mass Transit Railway (MTR), the pristinely clean and efficient subway system is one of the easiest ways to get around and station announcements on the trains are given in English. Double-decker buses and the Star Ferry public transport is very inexpensive covers an extensive network if you plan to go further afield. Travel Maestro tip: Purchase a reloadable Octopus stored-value card in the MTR station. It is accepted for most forms of public transportation, in convenience stores, supermarkets and some restaurants.

Hong Kong Business Etiquette

What to Wear – First and foremost, business casual has not come to Hong Kong. Attire is conservative; men should wear suits and women dresses or skirts for business meetings. Tee shirts and sandals are acceptable for leisure sightseeing, but avoid revealing clothing. Travel Maestro tip: The weather is hot and humid, April through October, particularly in July and August, so take light weight suits. Don’t forget your umbrella. November through March can be cool, so the layered approach is best.

Introductions and Meetings – Plan appointments far in advance (weeks or even months) and do not be late. Western handshakes are the appropriate way to meet people. Always use the person’s official title, or at a minimum “Mr.,” “Ms.” (unmarried woman), or “Madam” (married woman, but use title with maiden name). Hand and receive business cards using both hands with the type facing the recipient. You should look at the card then put it away. Travel Maestro tip: Hotels can translate your business cards into Chinese on the reverse side for an added courtesy to your host.

Cultural Considerations – Cantonese is the primary language, but business transactions are often done in English. Never say anything that causes your Hong Kong associate to “loose face.” The culture expects control over one’s emotions, so never use an expletive, brag or show anger. Tea is often served in business meetings; allow your host to sip first. Learn to use chopsticks and leave a little food on the plate to indicate that plenty was served.

Hong Kong Sightseeing

Must See Sights – Take a trip to the top of Victoria Peak on the 100-year old tram for spectacular views of the city and Victoria Harbor below or ride on the picturesque Star Ferry over to Kowloon for a water-level perspective. Be sure to leave the bustling vertical city to visit one of the islands or hike a scenic route to get a glimpse of the tranquil side of Hong Kong life.

Must Do Experiences – Do not leave Honk Kong without tasting dim sun, a staple of Cantonese dining culture. Wander the Temple Street Night Market to shop for everything from sunglasses to suitcases (be sure to bargain) or have your fortune told. If you have a few days for fitting and alterations, have a custom suit made by a tailor. Travel Maestro tip: While 24-hour turnaround tailoring can be done, it will look like it! Give them more time for better quality.

These Hong Kong business travel tips will help you enjoy your visit to this important business, shopping and financial center. For more information on business travel to Hong Kong, please contact Covington Travel.