Before you even get on the plane , here ’s how to make the most of your Hong Kong slip .

There’s so much to do and see in Hong Kong that it might be hard to know where to start. But if you’re heading there soon, here are 11 essential things to know so you can have the best trip ever.

1.Travellers with a Canadian or American passport don’t need a visa to enter Hong Kong for stays of up to 90 days. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date you leave for your trip!

2.There are four seasons in Hong Kong, so pack accordingly. Typically, March to May is warm and humid, June to August is hot and wet, September to November is mildly chilly, while December to February is cool and dry.

3.Make sure to pack your most comfortable walking shoes too. Hong Kong isn’t just skyscrapers! With a ton of hiking trails, there’s a lot to explore outdoors too — likeThe PeakorDragon’s Back Trail.

4.For other ways to get around, download theOctopus appfor tourists and charge it up so you can easily get around everywhere using their MTR transit system.

5.Another mobile app to download isHKeMobility— a one-stop journey planner covering all modes of public transport that’ll help you get around with ease.

6.There’s art EVERYWHERE, from world class museums like theHong Kong Museum of Artto street art on corners you’d least expect. Hong Kong’svibrant arts sceneis constantly on display, so be sure to soak it all in.

7.Hong Kong’s malls are works of art unto themselves, and malls likeHarbour CityorK11 MUSEAwill make your jaw drop. They’ll also keep you cool on especially humid days!

8.If you can’t get enough shopping, there are places to shop besides malls, too! Hong Kong is equally known for its bustlingstreet marketsthat are open day and night — like the Temple Street Market.

9.If you like eating late, you’re in luck! Hong Kong is renowned for its late-night food options, so be sure to check out all the amazing spots that serve local delicacies (likedim sum) after the sun goes down.

10.In Hong Kong, the main language spoken is Cantonese, but because of its history as a British colony, a lot of locals also speak English. Both are official languages.

11.Last but not least, Hong Kong uses UK-style electrical plugs — so if you want to keep your phone fully charged for taking photos, be sure to bring the right adapter.

What did we miss? Do you have any faves? Let us know below, andcheck out more of our Hong Kong Guide here.

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Before you even get on the plane, here’s how to make the most of your Hong Kong trip.

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