From Hong Kong Airport, travelers have multiple transportation options. Some travelers suggest taking the Airport Express train to Hong Kong Station and then a taxi to the final destination. This is considered fast and less costly than a direct taxi from the airport. The Airport Express operates until shortly before 1 am and resumes around 6 am.

For those preferring a direct route, taxis are available 24/7 at the airport. It is recommended to carry cash as few taxis accept credit cards. Travelers can choose from red taxis for most destinations in Hong Kong, green taxis for the northern territories, and blue taxis for Lantau Island.

Airport buses are another economical option, with comprehensive coverage across the city. The bus routes A11 and NA11 are specifically mentioned as convenient for reaching central parts of Hong Kong. These buses offer a balance of cost and convenience, with stops close to major districts and hotels.

Travelers also noted the convenience of using an Octopus card for easy payment on public transport, including buses and the Airport Express. This card can be purchased at the airport.

According to forum posts, several hotels in Hong Kong are recommended for families. The Royal Plaza Hotel, often mentioned for its family rooms, is popular due to its location near Mong Kok East MTR station, which offers convenience for transportation. It also has a notable pool, which many families find appealing.

Other travelers have suggested the YMCA Salisbury for its affordability and central location, making it a good choice for families on a budget. The Holiday Inn in TST and the ibis Hong Kong Central & Sheung Wan are also recommended for their family-friendly accommodations.

Travelers have noted that the Hyatt Regency in Sha Tin offers suites that can accommodate families, providing both space and a nice pool. This hotel's connection to the MTR system via the East Rail Line extension enhances its appeal by offering easy access to various parts of the city.

Posts suggest staying in areas like Kowloon or on Hong Kong Island to be near public transport facilities such as the MTR, which is beneficial for families planning to explore the city extensively.

According to forum posts, Tsim Sha Tsui (TST) is highly recommended by many travelers for its central location, accessibility to the MTR, and vibrant night scenes. This area is particularly favored for its proximity to major attractions and numerous dining options.

Some travelers also suggested staying along the Island line on Hong Kong Island, particularly in areas like Causeway Bay and Sheung Wan, for good access to public transport and a mix of modern amenities and traditional markets. For those looking for more budget-friendly options, Mong Kok and Yau Ma Tei on the Kowloon side were mentioned as good choices due to their lively street markets and more affordable accommodations.

Travelers have called out that while Central and Admiralty offer luxurious accommodations, they tend to be pricier. Therefore, these areas might be suitable for those willing to spend more on high-end hotels.

According to forum posts, check-in procedures at Hong Kong Airport can vary based on whether passengers have a single or separate tickets and if they are flying with the same airline. For passengers with separate tickets, they must often exit the secure area to check in for their onward flight at the airline's counter when early check-in is not available.

Travelers have called out that transfer procedures at Hong Kong Airport are generally smooth, especially for those with carry-on luggage only. For those with checked luggage, the process might require retrieving bags and rechecking them unless the bags are tagged through to the final destination. A transit desk is available for passengers who need assistance with their boarding passes or transfers between flights.

Some travelers mentioned the possibility of online check-in and obtaining mobile or printed boarding passes to facilitate easier transfers. This can allow passengers to bypass the check-in counter and proceed directly to security and the departure gate.

For travelers with checked luggage, ensuring that bags are tagged through to the final destination at the initial check-in is crucial. Failure to do so might require passengers to go through immigration and customs to retrieve and recheck their luggage, complicating the transfer process.

According to forum posts, the visa requirements for Hong Kong vary based on nationality. For instance, Namibian citizens can stay visa-free for up to 90 days, while Sri Lankans need a visa in advance for entering Hong Kong, mainland China, and Macau. U.S. passport holders are allowed visa-free entry for up to 90 days.

Some travelers mentioned that Vietnamese nationals, including U.S. permanent residents, require visas to enter Hong Kong. Additionally, Bangladeshi passport holders must obtain a visa even if they are just transiting and staying airside at the airport.

For the most accurate and detailed information, travelers have called out the official Hong Kong Immigration Department website. Links to this site were repeatedly suggested for checking specific visa requirements and applying for the necessary travel documents.

According to forum posts, the Octopus card is a versatile payment method accepted across various transport modes including MTR, buses, ferries, and trams in Hong Kong. It also facilitates purchases at convenience stores, vending machines, and some taxis.

Travelers have highlighted the convenience of not needing to carry cash or change as the Octopus card allows for quick and easy tap-and-go payments. This feature is particularly appreciated for its efficiency when transferring between different transport modes.

Some users pointed out that while the Octopus card itself does not offer fare discounts, it eliminates the need to buy single-ride tickets each time, which can be more time-consuming and sometimes more expensive. The card can be topped up as needed, and any remaining balance along with the deposit is refundable upon return of the card.

For many visitors, the Tourist Octopus card is a popular souvenir option, providing a physical memento of their trip to Hong Kong, albeit at a higher upfront cost compared to the standard on-loan Octopus card.

According to forum posts, during the Chinese New Year (CNY), street markets such as Tai Yuen Street in Wanchai and Fuk Wing Street in Sham Shui Po offer New Year decorations. These markets likely start selling festive items even before the official celebrations begin.

Travelers have mentioned that flower markets are operational around CNY. These markets are particularly vibrant and are a traditional part of the festivities, offering an array of flowers that symbolize good luck and prosperity.

Some travelers noted that the traditional Chinese New Year Night Parade in Tsim Sha Tsui, which features floats and performances, is a major attraction. However, in recent years, this parade has been replaced by the Cathay Pacific International Chinese New Year Carnival held at the West Kowloon Cultural District, offering stage entertainment, street entertainers, and food booths.

Posts highlight that many public celebrations such as lion dances, fairs, and various scheduled events take place across the city, contrary to the belief that CNY is not publicly celebrated. These festivities provide a rich cultural experience reflecting local traditions and customs.

According to forum posts, a popular cultural dining experience in Hong Kong is at the Xiqu Centre in West Kowloon Cultural District, where travelers can enjoy Cantonese opera performances along with tea and dim sum. This venue is designed to offer an intimate, traditional Chinese theater experience.

For many users, the local food scene in Hong Kong is a significant draw, with Cantonese cuisine being the most prominent. Travelers have called out the diverse range of dishes available, from street food snacks to upscale dining. Recommended dishes include dim sum, wonton noodles, and char siu. Popular spots for these foods include Mak's Noodle and the Sheraton's Celestial Court Chinese Restaurant.

Some travelers said that Hong Kong's dining scene also boasts a strong international presence. Restaurants like Man Mo Dim Sum and Little Bao are noted for their fusion approaches, blending traditional Chinese elements with international flavors. High-end dining options such as Mott32 offer a luxurious atmosphere with a mix of local and international dishes.

Travelers have called out the availability of Halal Chinese food, which can be found at places like Islam Food in Kowloon and the Islamic Centre Canteen in Wan Chai, providing options for Muslim visitors seeking authentic Chinese dishes prepared according to Halal standards.