The Hong Kong dollar (HK$) is the currency of Hong Kong, which is made up of 100 cents.

Dollar bills come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1000.

Coins come in denominations of 10, 20, and 50 cents, HK$1, HK$2, HK$5 and HK$10.

Please note that because currency is issued by the banks, there are variations in the designs - though not colours.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are welcomed at establishments in Hong Kong; however, some retailers add a surcharge for credit card purchases. Others offer shoppers a 5% discount for cash purchases.

Accepted credit cards include Visa, Diners, JCB, MasterCard and American Express.

Banks

Banking hours are generally from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm, Monday to Friday. Opening hours on Saturday are from 9:00 am to 12:30 pm.

ATMs

Automated teller machines are common throughout Hong Kong. HSBC provides ATMs for Visa and MasterCard holders, whilst Jetco take American Express cards. Both currency and traveller's cheques can be withdrawn.

Before arriving in Hong Kong, make sure that your card's PIN (Personal Identification Number) will work in Hong Kong's ATMs.

Tipping

Tourists have been responsible for introducing the concept of tipping in a land where it was never expected. It is still very much a matter of individual discretion.

Restaurants generally add a 10% service charge to the bill, but an extra 5% is appreciated if the service has been good. Porters will expect tips, though taxi drivers should only be tipped if their service has included exemplary care and attention.

In respect of bargaining, don't expect more than a 10% discount from a reputable retailer. Bargaining should never be a contest of wills, and if a retailer agrees to reduce the item by as much as 50%, the chances are that its value is still inflated. Bargaining is not acceptable in large department stores where prices are clearly labelled.

Departure Tax

There may be a departure tax of HK$120 per person to pay on leaving Hong Kong. This does not apply to children aged 12 years and under.