What to know before visiting Hong Kong

Hong Kong's dynamic, diversified culture and gorgeous cityscape set it apart from its Chinese counterparts Shanghai and Beijing. The remarkable juxtaposition of towering buildings and beautiful landscapes in this British-Chinese mix astounds tourists. There's more fresh air than most tourists realize, from sandy beaches to rugby fields. Hong Kong, being a world-class metropolis, also has a plethora of urban attractions, such as culinary hotspots and museums. The only question you could have after visiting Hong Kong is, "Why didn't I come sooner?"

Summer in Hong Kong may be oppressively hot and humid, even if the sky is blue and the weather is pleasant. Visit the city between October and December, when temperatures are more bearable, to avoid sweltering afternoons. Similar temperatures may be found in the spring, albeit the season is brief and temperatures can reach the 80s by May.