Low-Budget Travel Tips to Hong Kong, Still Fun and Enjoyable!
One of the closest metropolitan cities in Asia to Indonesia is Hong Kong. It’s no surprise that Hong Kong is a popular holiday destination for Indonesians.
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While the city offers many exciting attractions, it’s also known for its high cost of living. That’s why here are some essential tips if you’re planning a budget-friendly trip to Hong Kong:
1. Prepare Your Hong Kong Itinerary
Some attractions in Hong Kong are free, while others require expensive tickets. Here are 9 must-visit destinations:
- Hong Kong Disneyland
- Ladies Market
- Clock Tower
- The Peak
- Ocean Park Hong Kong
- Golden Bauhinia Square
- Avenue of Stars
- Lan Kwai Fong
- Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade
2. Bring Instant Food from Home
Food in Hong Kong is more expensive than in Indonesia, so if you’re traveling on a budget, it’s wise to bring instant meals from home. If you must eat out, look for restaurants that serve dim sum or steamboat, which tend to be more affordable.
3. Book Flights and Hotels in Advance
To reduce expenses, be sure to book your flights and hotel early, well before your departure date. Early bookings often come with better prices. You can also use credit card promos to get discounts or cashback on your flight and accommodation bookings.
4. Avoid Exchanging Money at the Airport
Since Indonesia and Hong Kong use different currencies, you’ll need to exchange Rupiah for Hong Kong Dollars. However, avoid exchanging money at the airport, as the rates are usually worse. The poor exchange rate could significantly affect your travel budget.
5. Get an Octopus Card
Using Hong Kong’s Mass Transit Railway (MTR) is the most efficient way to get around. Avoid using cash for MTR rides, as you might struggle to get change.
Instead, buy an Octopus Card, which simplifies travel. Any leftover balance on the card can be refunded when you return it—no worries about expiration.
6. Don’t Buy Too Many Souvenirs
You’ll find lots of attractive souvenirs in Hong Kong, but always stick to your budget when buying gifts. Avoid overbuying as it could lead to excess baggage, which means paying expensive overweight luggage fees.
7. Avoid Withdrawing Money at ATMs
Bring enough cash before you travel to Hong Kong. Withdrawing from ATMs may incur high administrative fees. If you must withdraw money, do it in a larger amount to avoid repeated fees.
8. Choose a Strategically Located Hotel
Choose accommodation that is close to an MTR station, such as in Tsim Sha Tsui. For Muslim travelers, staying in the Wan Chai area is ideal. Wan Chai is near Ammar Mosque, where you can also enjoy affordable halal meals at the mosque canteen for just 20–35 HKD.
9. Bring a Three-Prong Adapter
Since power outlets in Hong Kong differ from those in Indonesia, don’t forget to bring a three-prong plug adapter. You can easily get one at an electronics store, and it’s a must-have if you’re bringing electronics like your phone, power bank, or camera.
10. Choose Strategic Accommodation
Not all accommodations are hotels. When choosing a place to stay in Hong Kong, select one that is near an MTR station; again, Tsim Sha Tsui and Wan Chai are great choices. Wan Chai is especially convenient for Muslim travelers due to its proximity to Ammar Mosque and affordable halal food options.
11. Stay Connected with Fast Wi-Fi
Hong Kong is a modern city with excellent connectivity. You can rent a Wi-Fi device that can be used by multiple people in your group. You can pick it up as soon as you arrive at the airport.
12. Make a Side Trip to Macau
Macau is just an hour away from Hong Kong. You can get there by using the Hong Kong-Macau Turbojet Ferry. In Macau, don’t miss a visit to the Venetian Gondola, where you can ride through crystal-clear canals while the gondolier sings classic Italian songs.
These are some of the best travel tips for visiting Hong Kong on a budget. Be sure to pack only what you need—bringing too much can become a hassle during your trip.
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