Hong Kong Accommodation Guide

An Insider’s Relocating Guide to Hong Kong

 

Are you thinking of relocating to Hong Kong? You may be going to one of the world’s biggest business and leisure hubs for professional commitments although there are several other things that should be kept in mind. 

There are several options available for long-term accommodation in Hong Kong. You will find everything from studio units and one bedroom apartments to two bedroom units as well. You may find numerous serviced apartments in the city which come with the very best amenities and other add-ons that will contribute greatly towards making your day-to-day experiences more memorable.

You may also choose between furnished and unfurnished units available in Hong Kong. A furnished apartment means that you can expect premier furnishings and fixtures along with comfortable bedding and all necessary bathroom and other amenities. Choices are available at almost every conceivable price point for maximum convenience. 

Best Areas to Stay in Hong Kong

There are several places where you can consider looking for quality Hong Kong accommodation. These include the following: 

1. Happy Valley

Happy Valley is a posh residential zone in the city of Hong Kong and lies on Hong Kong Island itself. It is surrounded by Jardine’s Lookout, Caroline Hill, Morrison Hill and Causeway Bay. It is also within the Wan Chai District. Happy Valley is famous for its racecourse, one of the two such facilities in Hong Kong and this is a major draw for tourists as well. It also has the famous HK Jockey Club and the Hong Kong Racing Museum among other attractions.

2. Kowloon Tong/West

Kowloon Tong is one of the costliest residential zones in Hong Kong, lying within the Kowloon City District near Beacon Hill and Boundary Street. It is home to numerous leading hotels and restaurants including the likes of Corinne Hotel, Exotic Hotel Viva Villa, Simply Life and more. 

3. Kowloon- The Mid Levels

The Mid Levels is another posh residential locality on Hong Kong Island. It is located strategically between Central and Victoria Peak. 

4. Repulse Bay

This is one of the world’s costliest residential localities, lying on the southern portion of Hong Kong Island and within the Southern District. The Bay got its name from an interesting incident. Pirates captured the bay in 1841 and resided there and for safeguarding ships at their mercy, the British fleet repulsed the pirates and destroyed their base. This led to the place being named as Repulse Bay. 

5. Stanley

Stanley is a charming seaside retreat with a casual and relaxed vibe. It has the best cafes and restaurants along the glimmering promenade. Murray House is a major attraction nearby while you can shop for ornaments, clothing, souvenirs and more. 

6. The Peak

Victoria Peak lies on Hong Kong Island’s western portion. It is also called as Mount Austin. It goes up to 552 metres as the island’s tallest hill. This is one of the best places to stay in Hong Kong. 

From solo travellers and families to couples and business travellers, serviced apartments are the best choice in Hong Kong. They offer furnished and strategically located accommodation with all formalities taken care of. Access the best apartments with well-equipped kitchens, Wi-Fi, air conditioning and flat-screen televisions among other amenities. We help you get the best accommodation that is tailored to your specific needs and requirements. 

Local Currency Tips in Hong Kong

Hong Kong has its currency HKD or the Hong Kong Dollar. The currency is not the same as MAP (Macau Pataca) or RMB (Yuan) that is used in Mainland China. Foreign cards are extensively accepted throughout Hong Kong and withdrawals are seamless across ATMs. The HKD is tied to the U.S. dollar and the rates are approximately 1 HKD is equivalent to approximately 0.13 USD. ATMs may be found anywhere and they usually enable withdrawals up to 300-400 USD or 4,000 HKD. 

Hong Kong Travel and Guidelines

Once you have finalized apartments in Hong Kong, you should take a closer look at prevailing travel guidelines and restrictions. 

COVID-19 Regulations

Hong Kong has a stringent zero COVID policy which has led to the imposition of quarantine, testing and other regulations for travellers. Inbound travellers will have to submit their health declaration forms online. The QR code generated afterwards has to be saved and shown to the border control personnel upon entering Hong Kong. This will remain valid for 48 hours here and for arrivals through the airport. Hong Kong is now allowing those from mainland China to enter without quarantine regulations. Up to 2,000 non residents from Macau and mainland China will be allowed to enter Hong Kong daily without quarantine. However, they will have to undergo hotel quarantine upon going back to mainland China. 

Hong Kong has successfully kept the coronavirus outbreak in check although stringent quarantine policies have made it slightly difficult for international travellers. Travellers and places have been categorized into multiple groups. High-risk group (India, Bangladesh, France, UK, USA, Russia, etc.) travellers have to furnish full vaccination records. They will be going through compulsory quarantine for 21 days and undergo 6 tests in this period. Group B (medium risk or places outside China not in Group A) travellers will have to provide negative PCR test results and undergo the same quarantine regulations. Low-risk travellers (Group C) will have to do the same although the quarantine period is 14 days with 4 tests in this period.  

Reaching Hong Kong 

You can reach Hong Kong with the high-speed Guangzhou-Shenzen-Hong Kong railway and also by flying to the Hong Kong International Airport that has more than 120 airlines operating here. The MTR has intercity buses between Guangdong and Hong Kong while cross-boundary coaches run from the Mainland and Macau. Ferry services also ply till Kowloon, Hong Kong Island and the Airport from various Mainland ports. 

 Average Rents

Average monthly rents for private apartments may touch anywhere around 382-442 HKD per square metre. Average rentals for one bedroom apartments will be between 12-20,000 HKD every month. 

Visa Guidelines to Hong Kong

People from 170 countries and regions may come without a visa to Hong Kong and stay for durations varying between 7-180 days, depending upon various regulations. Indian nationals may go visa-free and stay for 14 days for instance although they should complete the PAR (pre-arrival registration) beforehand. The suitable entry permit or visa can be garnered from your nearest Chinese consular/diplomatic mission. 

Hong Kong is one of the best places to live and work, offering the highest standards of living. We help you find the best accommodation options along with helping you comfortably settle into your new journey. Discover the finest furnished and serviced Hong Kong apartments while getting end-to-end guidance and support from our end.