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Currency
Hong Kong dollar has been the currency of Hongkong since 1937. It is normally written as $HK to distinguish it from other dollar-denominated currencies. Hong Kong Dollar is divided into 100 cents. Some call Hong Kong Dollar 'hongkie'. One US dollar is equivalent to about 7.80 Hong Kong Dollar.
Currency notes in everyday circulation are $HK10 (which is not provided by the Bank of China), $HK20, $HK50, $HK100, $HK500 and $HK1,000. The Government has authorised three commercial banks: Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation (HSBC), Standard Chartered, and Bank of China, to isuue currency notes. However, $HK10 is issued by the Government itself. The Government also issues coins of $HK10, $HK5, $HK2, $HK1, 50 cents, 20 cents and 10 cents.
Changing Money
Change money at the airport in case you are not journeying with a group or there is no one to pick you up from the airport. You would need some local currency to use the local transportation facilities. However, there is no requirement to change all your money at the airport.
Form of Money
Plastic would suffice as ATMs are available in most places. Credit cards are also becoming more and more acceptable in Hongkong and China, with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, JCB and Diners Club the most common. Cards are accepted in most mid to top-range hotels and department stores. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for cards can't meet your local transportation demands. Carry a mixture of cash and travellers' cheques when journeying in the West and the countryside.
