oC % Gateway to China
Crossing the Border |
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Hong Kong International AirportMultiple daily flights leave from Hong Kong International Airport to airports in mainland China. |
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TrainsMTR service operates the East Rail Line to the border at Shenzhen at Lo Wu and Lok Ma Chau. Passenger Services Hotline: 2881 8888. www.mtr.com |
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FerriesFerry services run from Hong Kong to the province of Guangdong in mainland China, departing from both the city centre and the airport. The three main ferry operators are TurboJet (Tel: 2859 3333), China Travel (Tel: 2851 1700) and Chu Kong (Tel: 2858 3876). |
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Visas |
All foreigners require a visa to enter mainland China, as well as the nearby Shenzhen Special Economic Zone. You may apply for a visa with a valid passport and a passport photograph at Chinese embassies or through a travel agent in Hong Kong. Single entry, multiple entry and express visas are available. Most visas are valid for 30 days, and all incur a fee. Check in advance with a travel agent or visa-issuing office for rules, regulations, visa types and prices. Contact the China Travel Service (CTS) hotline at either 2851 1700 or 2998 7888 for visa application locations and information. www.ctshk.com |
Money |
The currency used in mainland China is the renminbi (RMB), also known as the yuan. Foreign currency or traveller's cheques can be exchanged either in Hong Kong or the mainland at money exchanges or Bank of China outlets. Rates fluctuate with the market. |
Nearby Attractions |
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Shenzhen |
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| Less than an hour from Hong Kong, the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone sits on the Shenzhen River. One of China's fastest growing cities, Shenzhen offers affordable shopping, tailors, restaurants and well-being facilities. |
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Visas |
Visas for China suffice for entry to Shenzhen. You may also purchase visas at the border, excluding US and a number of other passport holders, but beware of long queues and surcharges. Check in advance with a travel agent or visa-issuing office for rules, regulations, visa types and prices. |
Getting there |
Ferry services run from the piers that service China, as well as from the airport. The KCR East Rail Line also runs to Shenzhen. |
Macau |
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| Glitzy casinos, unspoilt beaches and top-class restaurants, Macau is a former Portuguese colony that provides a slice of the Mediterranean in the South China Sea within an hour's reach of Hong Kong. |
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Currency |
Macau's official currency, the pataca, is pegged to the Hong Kong dollar, which is widely accepted. |
Visas |
Most travellers do not need visas to enter Macau, but visas are available upon arrival. |
Getting there |
Ferries are the main source of transportation to Macau and depart 24 hours a day from the Shun Tak Centre on the Central waterfront, which also hosts a daily helicopter service. Prices range from $140-$200 one-way, depending on the time. Kowloon sailings are also available from the China Hong Kong Terminal. |
Information |
Macau Government Tourist Office: (+853) 315 566 or www.macau tourism.gov.mo |
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