Hong Kong is fun

So, we went for a trip to Hong Kong last week and had a great time!

It's a good reminder that when in Korea, it's pretty easy to hop on a plane with short notice and for little money be in another country.

Hong Kong is a good option for English teachers in Korea because the flight is only about 3 hours, it's no problem to get a visa, and it's one of the cheapest flights you can get.

Here are a few things to remember:

1. You'll have to get a re-entry visa before leaving at immigration. If you're planning on doing several trips throughout the year, go for the multiple re-entry and spend 50,000 won to have unlimited re-entry, as opposed to spending 30,000 won every trip.

2. If you are getting a package with hotel, try to make sure your hotel is closer to the Hong Kong Island area. We had our hotel up north at the end of the subway line, and although it was fine, it was out of the way for everywhere we wanted to go.

3. Don't be satisfied unless you pay at least 50% off of the prices they quote for clothes, watches, bags etc... at the markets. You really can get good deals. Also, they may take you up to the "special warehouses" which are places up in apartments behind the market. Seems a bit sketchy at first, but it's part of the fun. Of course this is all about the not so authentic watches, Luis Vuitton bags and other goods.

4. The Octopus card is a good deal for getting around. You can use it for the express train to and from the airport, and you can use it for subway/bus etc...

5. From my estimate, taxis seem to be even cheaper in Hong Kong than in Korea. Sweet!

Those are a few tips on a quick trip to Hong Kong. It really is something you can do for a weekend trip and you'll have enough time to see and do enough that it makes it feel like it was worth the trip.

Later!

Jason