Is Hong Kong Safe for Travel in 2024?

Hong Kong, China
Safety Score
72

Hong Kong, officially the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (HKSAR), is a metropolitan area and special administrative region of the People’s Republic of China on the eastern Pearl River Delta of the South China Sea. With over 7.5 million residents of various nationalities, Hong Kong is one of the world’s most densely populated places.

Warnings & Dangers in Hong Kong

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : LOW

Hong Kong is a relatively safe city to travel to, and serious crime is rare. Normal precautions should be followed to avoid getting involved in conflicts with local authorities.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW

Public transport is well developed and safe. However, watch your pockets. Use only licensed taxi services. Many taxis are operating in the city without licenses. They are not safe.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Hong Kong is the most populous city in the world and also a popular tourist destination. Therefore, pickpocketing happens quite often here. Watch out for pickpockets on public transport and tourist destinations. Do not leave personal items unattended.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM

Hong Kong's natural disasters have largely been wildfires, floods, and storms, with the city being vulnerable to heavy rain, tropical cyclones, and intense heat. Study the weather conditions before your visit here.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : LOW

The risk of serious robbery and armed attack in Hong Kong is shallow. Avoid communicating with suspicious individuals and not walking late at night in remote areas from the city center.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : LOW

The risk of terrorism in Hong Kong is not high. However, there is a global risk of terrorist attacks in public places worldwide, so tourists should be vigilant.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

The most common fraudulent practice in Hong Kong is selling fake goods and cheating buyers with prices. Often too for poor quality goods from tourists demand a high price. Avoid small, unlicensed stores.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Hong Kong. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.

How Safe Is Hong Kong for Tourists?

Hong Kong was originally one of the safest cities in the world. Still, since China passed the national security law on Hong Kong, crime has dramatically risen from violent protesters and serious police brutality, and insulting the Chinese government can and will lead to serious arrests, and tourists are no exceptions.

When you travel to crowded places, some such as Sham Shui Po and Mong Kok have a bad reputation for criminals by Hong Kong standards. As these are densely populated and relatively poor areas, there are pickpockets and notorious Mong Kok acid spills.

Underpricing scams are common in the city’s shops.

It would be best if you were careful about this.

The key to avoiding the tourist trap is “if it sounds too good to be true, it is.” Don’t let the seller talk you into something else if you don’t know what you are doing – Check items and always ask for a receipt before leaving the store – When buying electronics, always check for an international warranty.

Traffic rules are strictly enforced in Hong Kong, where there can be severe fines and excellent road conditions, although road courtesy has yet to be improved.

However, the speed can be so high that more people will die in accidents.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Hong Kong?

Visitors from over 145 countries are permitted visa-free entry for periods ranging from 7 to 180 days to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region for tourism or certain business-related activities. All visitors must hold a passport valid for more than 1 month.

Which Currency Is Used in Hong Kong?

The Hong Kong dollar is the official currency of Hong Kong. It is subdivided into 100 cents.

How's the Weather like in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, the wet season is hot, oppressive, and overcast, and the dry season is comfortable, windy, and mostly clear. During the period from October to early December, the weather is sunny and pleasant.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong International Airport has two parallel runways, which are 3,800 meters long and 60 meters wide. It is Hong Kong’s major airport, located on the island of Chek Lap Kok. The airport’s nickname is Chek Lap Kok Airport, and it is used for the transportation of both cargo and passengers.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Hong Kong?

Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China in the country’s southeast, a former British colony. This dynamic and densely populated city is a major seaport and a global financial center; skyscrapers form the silhouette. Central Hong Kong is famous for its office buildings, including the Bank of China Tower, designed by architect Bei Yuming. Shoppers can order a suit from a tailor or visit the Temple Street Night Market.

Is the Water in Hong Kong Safe to Drink?

Tap water is not drinkable in Hong Kong. You should buy bottled water or boil tap water.

Is Uber Safe in Hong Kong?

There is an Uber taxi in Hong Kong. You can call a taxi from the app on your phone. The cost of the trip will depend on the distance and time of day.

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