A Business Traveller’s Guide to Hong Kong
Everything You Need to Know Ahead of Your Work Trip to the City
Hong Kong, a global business powerhouse, is home to nearly every major corporate entity. Positioned at the edge of the Chinese Mainland, this dynamic city offers an exceptional blend of world-class dining, vibrant nightlife, and exclusive members’ clubs—perfect for leaving a lasting impression on even the most demanding clients.
For today’s bleisure travelers, Hong Kong provides a wealth of opportunities: explore its thriving art scene, immerse yourself in nature, or wander its eclectic neighborhoods for unforgettable food. After your meetings, the city comes alive with endless experiences waiting to be discovered.
Where to Start
Hong Kong is compact yet multifaceted, divided into four main regions:
• Hong Kong Island
• Kowloon Peninsula
• New Territories
• Outlying Islands
As a business traveler, your time will likely be spent in Central, Admiralty, or Quarry Bay on Hong Kong Island, or Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon—key districts for international business.
Octopus transport card
Getting around is effortless, thanks to Hong Kong’s well-connected transport system. Start by purchasing an Octopus Card (available at Hong Kong International Airport or city convenience stores), which grants access to the MTR, buses, minibuses, and iconic trams. Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper to navigate, while TakeTaxi translates English addresses into Traditional Chinese for cab drivers. Ride-hailing options such as Uber and HK Taxi are also readily available.
Where to Take Clients
Impressive Dining
• Upscale Chinese Cuisine:
• Mott 32: A refined, atmospheric gem beneath the Standard Chartered Bank Building.
• The Chairman: A Michelin-starred destination showcasing traditional flavors.
• Duddell’s: Modern Cantonese dishes in a chic Central setting.
• International Flavors:
• The Magistracy: Elevated British dining in a heritage judicial building.
• Bouillon: A vibrant French bistro, perfect for casual yet refined meals.
Exclusive Venues
• Carlyle Club at Rosewood Hong Kong or Whale Club: Ideal for private, high-level meetings.
• Soho House Hong Kong: A sleek members-only space in trendy Sheung Wan.
Cocktail Spots
• Bar Leone: Renowned for its Negroni, it’s a winner in Asia’s 50 Best Bars.
• DarkSide: A sophisticated jazz bar offering expertly crafted cocktails.
• Alto: A rooftop gem in Causeway Bay with stunning skyline views.
Where to Stay
On Hong Kong Island:
• Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong: Luxurious accommodation next to IFC Mall, with breathtaking harbor vistas.
• The Upper House: Minimalist elegance by André Fu, paired with sweeping city views.
In Kowloon:
• Rosewood Hong Kong: A beacon of luxury near Tsim Sha Tsui’s vibrant boardwalk and shopping districts.
• Mondrian Hong Kong: A design-forward hotel featuring the acclaimed Avoca cocktail bar.
If you're in search of a unique living experience, whether for the short-term or long-term, explore our wide selection of high-quality, fully furnished, and serviced apartments, all tailored to suit your specific needs here.
What to Say
Hong Kong locals are deeply passionate about their city. Ask for tips on dining or hidden gems, and you’ll spark enthusiastic recommendations. Sharing your experiences in the city is another great way to connect and build rapport.
What to Know
• Language: Both Chinese and English are official languages, making it easy to navigate the city. While Cantonese is predominant, Mandarin is also widely understood.
• Business Etiquette:
• Bring business cards, presenting them and receiving others with both hands.
• Greet the most senior individual first with a firm handshake.
• Maintain professionalism, avoiding overt displays of emotion or blunt refusals.
Downtime Done Right
M+ Museum in Hong Kong
Cultural Highlights
• M+ Museum: Explore the Sigg Collection, one of the world’s largest troves of contemporary Chinese art.
• Sham Shui Po: A neighborhood of contrasts, blending hip cafes and boutiques with traditional dim sum spots.
Outdoor Escapes
• The Peak: A serene, circular trail with sweeping day-and-night views of Hong Kong’s skyline and harbor.
• Dragon’s Back: A scenic hike ending at Big Wave Bay, where you can unwind with a cold drink by the water.
Take Something Home
Sourdough egg tarts from Bakehouse
Ditch cliché souvenirs and discover unique keepsakes at:
• Central Market or The Mills: Home to innovative, independent designers.
• G.O.D.: Stylish, contemporary Hong Kong-inspired furnishings and clothing, with an airport branch for last-minute purchases.
• Bakehouse: Renowned for its irresistible sourdough egg tarts.
At the airport, grab delicious cookie-crust egg tarts from King Bakery, or shop for striking design-forward pieces at Homeless.
Hong Kong masterfully combines business efficiency with leisure indulgence. Its rich culture, world-class dining, and stunning vistas ensure that every visit is both productive and unforgettable.