The Mission's consular district serves two Special Administrative Regions: Hong Kong and Macau.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China covers an area of 404 square miles, about six times the size of Washington, DC. The HKSAR consists of Hong Kogn Island, the Kowloon Peninsular, the New Territories, and various surrounding islands.  Hong Kong is a bustling, vibrantcity, very Chinese, and very international. This colorful mix of East and West, old and new, is alive with an overwhelmingly entrepreneurial spirit. To the nearly seven million residents, the city represents the dream of prosperity and the opportunity for personal betterment. The incomparable tenacity of the Hong Kong people, their stength of purpose and devotion to work and family are striking.

From the small fishing villages of 150 years ago, Hong Kong has grown into one of the most important trading, industrial, and financial centers in Asia. Official representatives of most major countries reside in the HKSAR, along with a host of international bankers, lawyers, and business people who participate in Hong Kong's booming trade and industry. Hong Kong Island, the site of most of the HKSAR's governmental, commercial, and financial activities, is about 32 square miles in area. The island's population and business centers are located across the harbor from Kowloon and extend from Pok Fu Lam to North Point, encompassing the Central, Mid-Levels, Wan Chai, and Causeway Bay areas of Hong Kong. The Consulate General office and official housing for American staff are located on the island. The seaward, or south side of Hong Kong Island, is made up of a rugged shoreline with high cliffs and sheltered bays. The interior is rough terrain with steep hills and small valleys. The highest area, known as the Peak, is 555 meters (1,830 ft.) above sea level and has a breathtaking view of the scenic harbor and Kowloon on one side and the offshore islands and South China Sea on the other. 

The Kowloon Peninsula is directly across the harbor from Hong Kong Island. It is separated from the New Territories by groups of hills, the highest of which rises to more than 3,000 feet. The Kowloon area, with its major subdivisions of Mong Kok and Tsim Sha Tsui, is the leading industrial area of Hong Kong, as well as a major residential area and tourist center with many hotels and shops. The major railway station, Hung Hom, serving Guangzhou, is also located in this densely populated area.

The New Territories comprises an area of 355 square miles between Kowloon and the Chinese border and also includes some 235 small offshore islands. This area accounts for most of the HKSAR's agricultural activity and a growing portion of its industrial and residential sectors. The topography is mostly steep hills and marshes, but many places are used for small farms. The only major agriculture on the offshore islands is on Lantau Island, the largest. The remaining islands are small, and, if inhabited, are primarily fishing bases. The rustic character of the New Territories has been transformed in recent years with the construction of major satellite towns such as Sha Tin and Tuen Mun, where large numbers of Hong Kong residents live.

The area's varied climate is governed by the monsoons. Although Hong Kong lies within the Tropics, it enjoys a variety of weather because of these seasonal winds. The winter monsoon blows from the north or northeast from September to mid-March, and the summer wind blows from the south or southwest from mid-March to September. During the summer monsoon, the weather is hot and humid; during the winter monsoon it is cool. Average temperatures range from 58° F in February (with lows in the 40's) to 82° F in July (with highs in the 90's.) The mean relative humidity ranges from a low of 67% in November to 84% in May; many days the humidity approaches 100%, accompanied by heavy clouds. Late fall is the most pleasant time of year, generally with dry and sunny weather and high temperatures of 70° to 75° F. The average annual rainfall is 95 inches.

Sovereignty
Hong Kong was a British colony from 1841 until June 30, 1997. On that date, which coincided with the expiration of the 99-year British lease on the New Territories, it became a Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China. Under a unique "one country, two systems" formula agreed to by Britain and China in the Joint Declaration of 1984, Beijing granted Hong Kong people the right to govern Hong Kong with a high degree of autonomy in all areas except defense and foreign affairs. In practice, this means that life in Hong Kong after the transition to Chinese sovereignty has changed very little.

NOTES ABOUT MACAU

Sovereignty
After 400 years as a colonial possession of Portugal, Macau reverted to Chinese sovereignty on December 20, 1999, as a second Special Administrative Region. Macau is a 13-square mile enclave on the South China coast, about an hour's ferry ride from Hong Kong. As a SAR, Macau enjoys a high degree of autonomy, similar to Hong Kong. It remains a free society with legally protected rights. The Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration (1987) and the Basic Law (the Macau SAR's mini-constitution promulgated by China's National People's Congress - or NPC -- in March 1993) specify that Macau is to continue to enjoy substantial autonomy and that its economy and way of life are to remain unchanged for the first 50 years under PRC sovereignty. The Macau SAR government is headed by a Chief Executive who is chosen by a 200-member Selection Committee, who in turn are chosen by a Preparatory Committee (60 Macau and 40 mainland representatives appointed by the NPC). Voters elect only 10 of Macau's  27 legislators directly. There are limits on the types of private member bills that may be tabled. After the handover, most of the laws in force continue to apply. The judiciary is independent.

The police force in Macau is under civilian control. After peaking in 1998, serious organized crime-related violence appears to have been curbed and police report a marked reduction in violent crime. An 800-man People's Liberation Army garrison stationed in Macau under the Garrison Law (Macau SAR), passed by the NPC in June 1999, plays no role in internal security.

Area, Geography and Economy
Located 40 miles west of Hong Kong, Macau is a study in contrasts: its old and gentle Mediterranean charm vies with a city on the move-bright lights, large construction sites and new high rises are rapidly changing its skyline. Macau is the oldest continually inhabited European settlement in Asia. The market based economy is fueled by textile and garment exports, along with tourism and gambling. Per capita gross domestic product in 2002 was approximately $ 15,000 USD.

Macau's economy has grown strongly, with real GDP up 8.4 percent in 2002.  Rising activity in its two main sectors, gaming and tourism, drove this performance.   Tourism benefited by a surge in tourists from China.  Public finances remained sound, with a budget surplus.  Foreign exchange reserves rose 7.7 percent.  Unemployment remained high by historical standards, at 6.3 percent, owing to the relocation of labor-intensive industrial processing to neighboring China and an inflow of migrant mainland China laborers willing to accept low-wage jobs.  Deflation rates in 2001 and 2002 were 1.99 percent and 2.64 percent respectively.

Accumulated government surplus over the past three years (2000-2002) has created a positive balance of $ 308.2 million with no public debt.   The pataca, Macau's currency, remained linked to the U.S. dollar through a currency board system.  However, the pataca accounts for only 28 percent of Macau's money supply while 52 percent is Hong Kong Dollars and 20 percent is in renminbi and other currencies.  Macau ran a trade deficit in 2002 of USD 174 million, with total imports of 2.53 billion exceeding exports of 2.356 billion.  Textiles lead Macau's exports, accounting for nearly 85 percent of all merchandise exports.  Macau has traditionally filled the niches of neighboring economies and is confident it can continue to do so. It is exploring ways to capitalize on its recent restructuring of the gaming industry, and working to develop its status as a gateway to China. 

Hong Kong's population stood at 6.787 million as of mid 2003, with the overwhelming majority being ethnic Chinese. Most were born in Hong Kong, with others coming from China or other countries in Asia. About 42,000 U.S. citizens (including 11,500 dual nationals) are resident in Hong Kong, representing a major foreign presence in the HKSAR. The other major expatriate groups are from Canada, the Philippines, Thailand, and the United Kingdom. The rest of the expatriate community includes mainly government officials and business people representing many nationalities.  The official languages of Hong Kong are Chinese and English.  Cantonese is the most common Chinese dialect spoken, and English is widely used in government and business. Most people follow traditional Chinese beliefs.  The two main religions are Buddhism and Taoism.  About 600,000 or 10% of the population are Christian. Hong Kong has about 50,000 followers of Islam, most of whom are Hong Kong Chinese. The Hindu community, which has been part of the HKSAR since its earliest days, has increased to 12,000.  Hong Kong's Jewish community numbers about 1,000.

Hong Kong has retained almost the entire administrative structure put in place by the British. The Hong Kong Government is staffed by an effective civil service numbering more than 175,000 people.  14 policy bureaus and over 60 departments organized along functional lines constitute this administrative framework.  The executive-led government is headed by the Chief Executive (who replaced the British Governor); he was selected in late 1996 and re-selected in early 2002 for a five-year term.  He is advised by the Executive Council, prominent local residents whom he appoints. The 60-member Legislative Council, whose powers are limited, consists of a mixture of directly and indirectly elected members. Beneath these bodies, the Urban Council and the Regional Council, which were responsible for various local matters like recreation and sanitation were scrapped in late 1999.  At the lowest level, 18 District Councils cover the entire HKSAR, serving as grassroots advisory bodieson matters affecting the well being of the people in the districts and for promoting recreational and cultural activities.

Environment

Due to its small size and location in the Pearl River Delta, Hong Kong's environment is strongly influenced by the rest of China. A densely packed city, Hong Kong regularly suffers from smog that worsens in the winter months.  Air quality is continuously monitored by the government, which issues a daily air quality report.  In 2002, air quality improved slightly over previous years with 68.6 percent of the readings in the low-to-medium level and 31.1 percent in the high leavel (index under 100).  An index of over 100 (the highest recording was 185 in September 2002 is unhealthy.

 Air pollution from diesel vehicle emissions is a health concern, with studies associating concerntrations of polluction with hospital admissions for respiratory problems and related health effects.  The Hong Kong government's program to replace diesel fuel with low-sulfur liquid petroleum gas and encourage conversion of diesel vehicles to cleaner fuels is proceeding slowly, though particulate and nitrous dioxide emissions are expected to drop significantly by 2005.  The quality of inshore water, particularly around the beaches, is improving, and the government's infrastructure program to treat all raw sewage and waste before discharge into the ocean south of Hong Kong, to be completed in 2004, already has improved the quality of Victoria Habour.

Fresh water, mostly piped from China, is treated at several water treatment plants located in Hong Kong before being used.  The quality of water meets current World Health Organization requirements.  However, some people choose to use distilled water or use filters to remove sediment from water sources at home.

Hong Kong has a rich cultural life that embraces the arts and traditions of both East and West.  A variety of performing arts is presented, including symphony concerts, recitals, ballet and dance performances, drama, Western opera, and Chinese traditional stage arts. There are two professional orchestras, three full-time dance companies, a handful of professional drama groups, and scores of amateur orchestras, choirs, dance groups and drama clubs, plus overseas artists and groups who visit the HKSAR throughout the year. Long-established performing companies like the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, the Hong Kong Repertory Theater, and Hong Kong Ballet offer annual subscriptions for their performances.  See the section on Entertainment for more details.

Education is highly valued by the Government and people of Hong Kong; no other element takes a larger share of the government budget. Full-time education is compulsory between the ages of 6 and 15.  Instruction is mainly in Chinese in primary school and in Chinese and English in secondary school.

Ten degree-granting institutions are supported by the Hong Kong government's University Grants Committee. They all follow the British three-year system. The University of Hong Kong, founded in 1911, uses English as the language of instruction.  The Chinese University of Hong Kong, a federated university composed of four colleges, uses both English and Chinese in teaching.  Both universities offer academic as well as professional courses and include graduate and extension programs. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, opened in 1991, offers first and advanced degrees primarily in science, engineering and business management.  The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the City University of Hong Kong offer degree and diploma courses combined with work and vocational training programs.  The Hong Kong Baptist University and Lingnan College Hong Kong offer degree programs, primarily in social sciences, business, and liberal arts. The Hong Kong Institute of Education was formed in 1994 by merging four colleges of education. It provides pre-service teacher education for primary and secondary school teachers. It enrolled its first degree program students in 1998. The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts offers comprehensive multidisciplinary professional training for performing and related technical and media arts, leading to diploma and first degree. The Open Learning Institute of Hong Kong provides the adult population with opportunities for further education in non-degree and degree programs.

Hong Kong is a leading international and financial center, as well as a strategically located regional entrepot, especially for products originating from or destined for the People's Republic of China. Hong Kong maintains a free and open trading regime, has a skilled and industrious work force and a legal framework that encourages business initiative.  These factors have contributed to the HKSAR's success and have helped transform it into the world's 10th largest trading economy in 2002. 

Today, Hong Kong is primarily a service economy with services making up over 85% of GDP.  An important Asian financial center, Hong Kong plays a leading role in regional banking, shipping, and communications.  The local currency, the Hong Kong dollar, is freely convertible and fluctuates in a narrow band around 7.8 to the U.S. dollar.  There is complete freedom of capital movement.  At the end of September 2003, 134 fully licensed banks operated in the HKSAR (11 are subsidiaries of U.S. Banks.)  U.S. firms are the second most numerous in the insurance industry with 21 wholly-owned firms here at the end of 2002.

Hong Kong taxes are low.  The salary and corporate tax rates were 15% and 16.5%, respectively in FY 2002-03.  There are no taxes on royalties, interest, or capital gains.  Hong Kong imposes no import tariffs.  Excise taxes are levied for revenue purposes on tobacco, cosmetics, alcoholic beverages, ethyl alcohol, methyl alcohol, and some petroleum products.

With few natural re-sources, the HKSAR must depend on imports.  Principal imports consist of food, textile yarn and fabrics, iron and steel, plastic molding materials, consumer products, paper, and machinery. Principal exports consist of textiles and apparel, watches and clocks, electronic components, and other light industrial products. The value of domestic exports alone was equal to 10.6% of Hong Kong's gross domestic product (GDP) in 2002 (a declining percentage as labor-intensive production moves across the border into China). Tourism constitutes a major industry for the economy with 13.7 million visitors passing through the HKSAR in 2001 and 16.6 million in 2003.  Recently, increasing numbers of mainland Chinese tourists to Hong Kong have sustained growth in this sector.

The U.S. is the HKSAR's second largest trading partner (after the PRC), with 13.4% of total trade.  In 2002, the U.S. was the second largest market for domestic Hong Kong exports with a 32% share. The U.S. supplied 5.7% of imports and was the number two destination for re-exports through Hong Kong at 20.4%. Principal imports from the U.S. are electrical machinery; computer and office machines; telecommunications, sound recording and reproducing equipment; plastic, meat, vegetables, and fruit. Principal domestic exports to the U.S. are textiles, apparel, electrical machinery, photographic equipment, watches and clocks, computer and office machines, textiles, yarn and fabric.

Currently, about 1,100 U.S. firms operate here and U.S. direct investment was estimated at $29.4 billion in 2001. The American business community is well represented by the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong.

Historically, fewer than half the employees of the Consulate General have had privately owned vehicles, for several good reasons.  Public transportation is reliable and inexpensive, and the cost of owning, registering and operating a vehicle can be onerous.  Because of the restrictions on importation of vehicles, you will not be authorized to ship a personal vehicle to post without first contacting the General Services Office for permission.  If you wish to ship a vehicle, cable the Consulate General, attention General Services Office, and provide the following information: make, model, year, number of cylinders, displacement (in cubic centimeters or cubic inches), chassis number, engine number, and engine model.  The engine model designation is particularly important, as the Hong Kong Government certifies that vehicles meet emissions standards based on this designation.  When the General Services Office receives the above information, they will determine if the Hong Kong Government will certify the vehicle.  If the vehicle cannot be certified, it will not be allowed to enter Hong Kong and must not be shipped. 

Your actual need for a car will depend on your lifestyle, family composition, and housing assignment.  If you reside on the south side of the Island (e.g., Shouson Hill, Repulse Bay, or Tai Tam) or have school-age children, you may want to have a car, be it for frequent trips to the Hong Kong International School (HKIS) campuses located in Repulse Bay and Tai Tam, or shopping or attending church services.  Many Mid-Levels residents walk to work and to grocery stores, etc., and have no need for a vehicle.

Driving in Hong Kong and Macau is on the left (right-hand-drive.)  Although importing left-hand-drive (e.g., U.S.) vehicles is not illegal, the cost of upgrading such vehicles to Hong Kong standards can be prohibitive.  Employees should note that all U.S.-spec vehicles require some expense and modification to be certified.  Left-hand-drive vehicles cannot be sold on the open market in Hong Kong and must be exported or transferred to another party with consular status upon the termination of the owner's tour of duty.  Automobile insurance is expensive; however, substantial discounts can be obtained based on the length of accident-free or "no-claim" driving, documented by presenting a letter from your previous insurance company(ies).  This letter is a good thing to bring to post.

Parking throughout Hong Kong, especially in the downtown areas, is extremely limited and costly (approx. US$3 an hour).  Parking fees often exceed the cost of travel by taxi.  Parking spaces at the Consulate General for privately owned vehicles are limited to two "visitor" spots and parking in those spots is limited to two hours.  Other parking spaces within the Consulate compound are taken by official vehicles, except for a small number of spaces that are allocated annually by an Employee Parking Committee.  Of these "at large" spaces, most are taken by carpools.  After hours and on weekends, Mission employees may park at the Consulate General on a space-available basis.  The USG-owned Shouson Hill housing complex currently runs a shuttle service to and from work; the fee is 2.70 USD one way. 

To operate a motor vehicle, drivers must have a Hong Kong license, obtained at their own expense. In order to purchase gasoline at tax-free rates, personnel must have a local Hong Kong dollar bank account and credit cards from a local oil company (taxes are more than half of the pump price on unleaded gasoline).  You can apply for these cards only after you have set up a local bank account and registered your vehicle, since the vehicle license plate number is also recorded on the credit card.  The General Services Office (GSO) will assist you in obtaining these cards but the process takes time.  Maintenance and spare parts are available at reasonable prices; however, parts for American-made cars may be more difficult to obtain than for the foreign makes, which abound in Hong Kong.  The Consulate General will assist you in registering your vehicle (the fee is 1,000 HKD and the annual inspection is 530 HKD) and in obtaining a Hong Kong driving license (380 HKD) which is valid for ten years.  Driving tests are not required for those presenting a valid license from the U.S. or from other countries whose licenses are recognized by the Hong Kong Government.

Public transport (buses, taxis, subways, ferries, trolleys and trams) is readily available and reasonably priced.  Carpools, shared taxis, or public transport are the most commonly used modes of transport between home and work.  Those living in the Mid-Levels usually walk to and from work or take a taxi.  Taxis are 15 HKD for the first two kilometers or five minutes (whichever is shorter), and then 1.4 HKD for each additional unit. 

The MTR (Mass Transit Railway) subway system connects Hong Kong Island with Kowloon and nearby portions of the New Territories.  Since opening in February 1980, it has become a highly efficient, reasonably priced mode of transportation.  The Island Line, which connects much of the harbor side of Hong Kong Island to the existing system, opened in 1985.  Streetcars operate only along the northern coast of Hong Kong Island.  Streetcars (trolleys) are inexpensive (2 HKD for adults) but are always crowded; also they are not air conditioned, making for a very uncomfortable ride in the summer.  The turnstiles make it a challenge for people encumbered with shopping bags or strollers.

Bus service, including minibuses, covers almost the entire island, Kowloon, and the New Territories.  Buses and streetcars are quite crowded during peak hours.  Taxi service is relatively inexpensive and generally available at all hours; however, it is difficult to get a taxi on a rainy day.  Radio-dispatched taxis are available.

The Peak Tram, a cable car is a very popular tourist attraction, providing a breathtaking view of Hong Kong and Kowloon as you climb to its terminus on the Peak.  It costs 30 HKD round trip, with a slight discount for monthly passholders.  The Peak Tram starts from just across the street from the Consulate General and travels up to the Peak, stopping on request at any of three locations on the way up.  At the Peak, the view is spectacular and there are many shops and restaurants.  The Peak is also served by bus, mini bus and taxi for easy transport to the City or other locations on Hong Kong Island.

An extensive network of roads exists throughout the HKSAR; however, most are narrow and many are steep and winding because of the terrain.  Traffic, which moves on the left, can be heavy but is well regulated.  There are three cross-harbor tunnels connecting Kowloon and Hong Kong Island (fees range from 20 - 40 HKD).  For those with a more romantic bent, the Star Ferry operates a very efficient and inexpensive (2.20 HKD) passenger service between Central on the Hong Kong side and Ocean Terminal on the Kowloon side.  Ferries also operate from numerous points on Hong Kong Island and the Kowloon Peninsula to many of the outlying islands.

The airport at Chek Lap Kok is located on the north side of Lantau Island.  An impressive road, bridge, and tunnel link connects the airport to Hong Kong Island.  In addition, a high-speed rail line transports passengers from the airport to the Central business district in Hong Kong (HKD 100 for a one-way trip).  Departing passengers can obtain boarding passes and check their baggage at the train terminus in Central, provided they check in at least 90 minutes in advance of departure.  Air service in and out of Hong Kong is excellent.  About 50 airlines operate over 700 scheduled flights per week to Hong Kong.  The U.S. carriers currently offering non-stop flights to Hong Kong are United and Continental.

Trains run between Kowloon and Guangzhou (Canton), China.  Hydrofoil and air transportation between Hong Kong and Guangzhou are also available, with connections there to other cities in China.  Helicopter, hydrofoil and ferry transport between Hong Kong and Macau operate frequently throughout the day and evening.

Visits to Macau can easily be accomplished as single-day or overnight trips.  Ferries to Macau leave from the Macau Ferry Terminal in Central every 15 minutes from early morning to late at night, and (for economy class) the round trip fare is approximately 40 USD; with slightly higher fares on weekends, holidays and at night.
Hong Kong Harbor, one of Asia's busiest, handles more than 8,000 incoming ships a year, principally cargo ships but also a large number of cruise ships as well as U.S. Navy ships on port call. 

Hong Kong is a top competitor for the "Most Wired City in the World" award.  Your apartment will have a single telephone line and instrument installed.  Once your HHE arrives, you will be responsible for supplying your own telephone above the one instrument provided by the USG.  American phones work fine but you will need to buy adapter plugs (4 USD each) to connect them to the local wall outlets.  You may also buy phones once you arrive - selection is wide and prices are reasonable.  Local phone service is reliable and cost about 11 USD per month for unlimited local calling, with a fuller range of additional services available at additional cost.  A wide variety of home telephone services, IDD, callback, voice-mail and fax-on-demand are available.  Cell phones are widely used and due to competition among many providers, service is relatively inexpensive.  American employees are provided a cellular telephone for official calls.  The telephone and cable system in Hong Kong is fiber-based and power systems are extremely reliable.

Personal mail and packages may be sent via U.S. Navy Fleet Post Office (FPO) facilities in Hong Kong.  The Fleet Post Office is located on the ground floor of the Fleet Arcade.  The FPO is a full-service U.S. Post Office and handles packages, letter mailing, stamp purchase and money orders; money orders and other services are not offered every day - check before you go.  A commercial packaging facility is located next to the FPO.  The hours of operation are generally Monday through Friday 1000 to 1600, and 1000 to 1800 when ships are in port.  The FPO is closed on local and U.S. holidays as well as weekends.  To use FPO services, identification is required (diplomatic passport, official passport with TDY orders showing temporary assignment to congen Hong Kong, military ID or federal agency ID).  Payment is only accepted in US dollars or personal checks; no credit cards.  Use the following address to receive mail originating in the USA:

Full Name
U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong
PSC 461, Box 1
FPO AP 96521-0006

Employees receive mail Monday through Friday, except for holidays.  There is no Saturday service.  Because the FPO and international mail facilities in Hong Kong are good, diplomatic pouch facilities are restricted to official use, with the exception of medicine, eyeglasses, and orthopedic supplies.
As a convenience to the consulate's FPO users, you can drop off your pre-stamped mail or send your packages at the consulate's mailroom.  The mailroom has a postage franking machine and the staff will weigh and apply the postage onto the package.  Payment for the postage is accepted only in US dollars. 
International mail service is reliable, and transit time to the west coast is 5-7 days.  Address international mail as follows:

Full Name
U.S. Consulate General
26 Garden Road
Hong Kong

Hong Kong has 13 radio channels, of which seven are operated by government-affiliated Radio Television Hong Kong.  Cantonese, English, and Mandarin programming include classical and popular music, BBC World Service, local news, and public affairs.  Transistor radios and short-wave receivers are available in abundance at reasonable prices in Hong Kong.

Both PAL and NTSC (U.S. System) format television programs are broadcast, and there are four Hong Kong TV stations, two broadcasting in English.  A multi-system television set, readily available in Hong Kong, is the most convenient option for viewers.   Most residences receive Star TV Channels (some NTSC, some PAL format) which include entertainment and sports channels in English.  Some USG-owned residences receive up to four channels of armed forces network television programming, which is received in the NTSC format.  Local Cable TV is also available, and offers additional channels including programming content from CNN, BBC-World, Discovery Channel, ESPN, National Geographic TV, Cartoon Network/TNT, French TV5, and a variety of Chinese Language Channels.  Most commercial video rental facilities rent video tapes, laser discs, DVDs and VCDs, mostly in the PAL format, but with NTSC format movies also available. 

The U. S. Consulate General is the official U.S. Government Mission in Hong Kong.  The Consul General is a designated Chief of Mission and reports directly to the Department of State.  The Consul General and other designated officers are also accredited to the Macau Special Administrative Region.  The Consulate General is staffed by approximately 130 U.S. citizen direct-hire employees and 200 foreign national employees.  A Marine Security Guard is on duty at all times.  Organizationally, the Consulate General has an Executive Office including the Chief of Mission and Executive Staff, as well as Management, Consular, Economic/Political, Public Affairs, and Publications Translation Sections.  In addition, other U.S. Government agencies represented in Hong Kong under the authority of the Consul General include: Department of Defense (Office of Liaison Administration, Ship Support Office and Fleet Post Office) Foreign Agricultural Service, Foreign Commercial Service, Department of Homeland Security (Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Secret Service), Department of Justice (Legal Liaison Office and Drug Enforcement Administration), Department of the Treasury (Internal Revenue Service) and the Voice of America.  The Ship Support Office, with its affiliated shops comprising the Fleet Arcade and the Fleet Post Office, are located at Fenwick Pier in Wan Chai.  Personnel of all agencies are under the authority of the Consul General in accordance with NSDD-38.  Disbursing and other financial management support is provided by the Financial Services Center (FSC) in Bangkok.  Payroll support is provided by FSC Bangkok (local staff) and FSC Charleston.  Salaries and allowances are paid by electronic funds transfer only.  Education allowances, as a general rule, are paid directly to the schools.  Hong Kong is one of the most expensive cities in the world which is reflected in the cost of living allowance.  Life in this international city is interesting and offers many comforts but health issues, pollution concerns, and geographic restrictions have justified a minimal differential allowance.

You will be met on initial arrival by a Consulate General staff member, usually your sponsor, if you provide the Management Section with your arrival information.  Please include number of people traveling, any pets, and approximate number of pieces of accompanying baggage.  For other official visitors, airport assistance is limited to those of Assistant Secretary rank or above.

The Consulate General's Inter-Agency Housing Board assigns quarters to official American employees of the Mission. The Board is composed of employees selected to represent the official community.  The Board assigns housing on the basis of rank and family size in accordance with 6 FAM 720.  Unless you are assigned to one of the apartments at the Government-owned complex at 37 Shouson Hill Road or 3 Barker Road, you should expect to live in an apartment in a high-rise building. The size of the apartment you will be assigned is set in accordance with space standards in 6 FAM 724 Exhibit 724.7A. As the State Department has been designated the real property manager for all U.S. Government overseas properties, these regulations apply to American employees of all Agencies who come under the authority of the Chief of Mission.

Residences
The apartments in the Consulate's housing pool vary in character and design: some are new, others are older; some have balconies, and a few still have the spectacular views for which Hong Kong is famous.  While all are located on Hong Kong Island, some apartments are in the "Mid-Levels" near the Consulate, others are located on the south side of the island near the International School and beaches.  Commuting time varies from a short walk to a 30-minute drive.  Every apartment comes with parking space for one car.

Government-Owned Housing:
Consul General's Residence: the U.S. Government-owned residence of the Consul General is located on the Peak at No. 3 Barker Road.  The three-story residence has large living and dining rooms, study, guest room, family room, breakfast room, and three bedrooms.  There is also a room for domestics, a laundry room, and a storage room.  The site is 1,025 feet above sea level and has a magnificent view of Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor and Kowloon on one side and the South China Sea on the other.

3 Barker Road: also located at the Barker Road complex are five townhouses of two different designs that are usually assigned to section chiefs or heads of agency.  These units are three story, four bedroom residences with living room/dining room, family room, sitting room, three-and-one-half baths, a room for domestics and laundry facilities.  The town houses have small balconies off the living room area with a view toward the South China Sea.  A Consulate General community tennis court is also located on the site.

37 Shouson Hill: another Government-owned property is located at No. 37 Shouson Hill Road, approximately a 15-minute drive from the Consulate General.  This 24-unit complex consists of six multistory buildings with swimming pool, children's play area, and barbecue area/sun deck.  It also has an underground parking area and sufficient parking for guests.  The site has views of the ocean entrance to Deep Water Bay and of a mountainside in Ocean Park which displays a huge sea horse fashioned from various types and colors of plants, shrubs, and trees, as well as the city skyline of Aberdeen.  Each unit has an associated modest storage cage; approximately 8 by 8 by 10 feet.

12-14 MacDonnell Road: the U.S. Government owns 13 of the 25 apartments at the Wilshire Park Apartments located at No. 12-14 MacDonnell Road in the Mid-Levels.  These apartments are a 5-minute walk up a steep hill from the Consulate General; the steepness is felt most during the summer months of high humidity.  These are three bedroom apartments with a living/dining room, a small den, a kitchen, a laundry room and a room for domestics.

Locations
The U.S. Government owns residences in the following locations:
37 Shouson Hill Road (south side near Aberdeen)
3 Barker Road (The Peak, this six-residence complex includes the Consul General's Residence)
Wilshire Park, 12 MacDonnell Road (Mid-Levels)
Hanking Court,  41 Cloud View Road (North Point)

The Consulate currently leases properties in the following locations:
Southside Villas, 9 Shouson Hill Road (just down the hill from 37 Shouson Hill)
The Repulse Bay, 101 Repulse Bay Road (south side with views of Repulse Bay)
The Manhattan, 33 Tai Tam Road (south side near the International School and Stanley)
Pacific View, 38 Tai Tam Road (south side across the street from the Manhattan)
Eva Court, 36 MacDonnell Road (Mid-Levels, Residence of the Deputy Principal Officer)
Bamboo Grove, 74-84 Kennedy Road (Mid-Levels)
Estoril Court, 55 Garden Road (Mid-Levels)

Housing Assignment Requests

Employees who have specific requests regarding their housing assignment may communicate them to their section/agency chief, or to the GSO Housing Officer.  You may also fill-out a Housing Questionnaire located on the Consulate General intranet website under "Post Information". The questionnaire gives you an opportunity to let the Housing Board know your preferences e.g. location and amenities. Every attempt will be made to satisfy reasonable requests, but housing assignments are at least partially dependent on availability of apartments at the time of your arrival.

Furniture Pool
The Department of State and the Office of Liaison Administration are participants in post's furniture and appliance pool.  Service standards for furniture are in accordance with Post's ICASS service standards.  The inventory provided in housing units in Hong Kong is intended to accommodate many purposes, and it is therefore necessary that there be a certain degree of uniformity. All items are standardized to the extent possible to meet basic requirements and for long-term occupancy rather than the short-term needs of individual occupants. Therefore, every attempt has been made to furnish your quarters with attractive and sturdy furnishings along with high-quality appliances and equipment.
Generally, respective apartments are furnished somewhat differently to account for variations in size, physical layout and other factors. GSO attempts to provide the basics so that you will have as attractive and livable a home as possible. We try to avoid a crowded look in smaller quarters or a sparse, sterile atmosphere in the larger residences.

Standard Items:
Following is a list of items that are normally provided all USG leased/owned apartments:
Living Room
Sofa, love seat, arm chairs, coffee and end tables, a wall unit/book shelf with space for a TV/VCR or stereo, table lamps, floor lamp and area rug.
Dining Room
Dining table and chairs to seat eight, china cabinet, breakfront and area rug.
Bedrooms
Master bedrooms are provided with a queen size bed, other bedrooms will have single beds, night tables, table lamps, chest of drawers, vanity table or desk with chair, area rug.  Sofa beds are sometimes available and if requested and available, will be exchanged for single beds.

Kitchen
Gas or electric stove (which will probably be slightly smaller than a standard American stove), refrigerator, microwave oven and, whenever possible, a dishwasher. Storage space is usually limited, and kitchens tend to be smaller than in the U.S.

Other Items
Curtains and air-conditioners for all occupied rooms excluding the kitchen, smoke detectors, fire extinguisher, transformers (step-down from 220 volt to 110 volt), up to 3 dehumidifiers, vacuum cleaner, clothes washer and dryer, space heaters. We have a limited supply of baby cribs that, if available, may be loaned on request.

Special Notes
Other than those items issued for temporary hospitality kit use, GSO does not provide small household appliances such as toasters, toaster ovens, coffee pots, irons and ironing boards, hair dryers, radios, TVs, stereos, VCRs or fans. A maximum of 3 transformers will be provided, as available, if you bring 110-volt small appliances.
One of the shortcomings of almost all Hong Kong apartments is a lack of adequate closet and storage space.  Since your apartment will be fully furnished, you should not bring any large pieces of furniture, as there will be little room to store them.

Inventory
GSO will give you an inventory of all USG property in your quarters shortly after you take possession of your new residence. You will be required to acknowledge receipt of the household furniture, furnishings, appliances and equipment listed on the inventory report and to accept responsibility for the preservation and upkeep of the property.  Please read this inventory.

Keys 
The GSO Maintenance Section will provide you with three complete sets of keys for your apartment.  You can obtain additional copies from local locksmiths at your own expense.  All sets of keys must be turned over to GSO when you depart post.

Utilities
The Consulate pays for basic utilities, such as electricity, gas and water.  Cooling and heating are usually by reversible-cycle air-conditioners supplemented in some apartments by electric heaters.  Electrical current is 220v, 50 cycle, AC.  Power is dependable with little voltage fluctuation.  Transformers are required for 110v appliances.  Synchronous 60 cycle appliances, such as electric clocks, record players, and tape recorders, will not function properly on 50 cycles without modification.  American and Continental European plugs will not fit into the three-prong U.K. standard sockets used in Hong Kong but adapter plugs are available.  Hong Kong has a wide variety of 220v appliances available at prices comparable to those in the U.S.  Color TVs, video players, stereo components, and electric clocks with built-in converters for either 50 or 60 cycles and voltage adjusters from 120v to 220v are also readily available.  TV cabling with local plugs on one end and US style on the other end are inexpensive and readily available.

Hospitality Kits
The Consulate General provides Hospitality Kits for all its arriving and departing employees.  It is by no means a complete housekeeping kit but is intended to tide over employees in government quarters until their unaccompanied air freight arrives.  Prior to your arrival, GSO will place the kit in your quarters, consisting of essentials such as bedding, towels, dishes, flatware, kitchen utensils, pots and pans, small appliances and other basic items.

Televisions
GSO has a small number of multi-system televisions available for temporary use on a first-come, first-served basis for arriving and departing employees.  Please request one of these televisions with a work order upon arrival.

If you love shopping, you will love Hong Kong. You will be able to choose from a wealth of goods in an assortment of locations: department stores, chic boutiques, night markets, street stalls, lanes and alleys, shopping malls and factory outlets. Prices and quality of goods vary and buyers usually get what they pay for, but there are, nevertheless, many bargains to be found.  Be aware that some items are not legal to import to the USA due to licensing restrictions.

A couple of things you should know. Shops displaying the Hong Kong Tourist Board (HKTB) logo are recommended and reliable. Complaints can be registered with the Consumer Council (Telephone 2541-1422) but you must have the receipt of purchase. Sale items are rarely exchangeable. Many of the smaller clothes shops will NOT let you try on items during the sales period. Most stores have two major sales which fall between December and February and July and September.

Clothing

General
With its increasing prosperity, Hong Kong has become very fashion conscious in recent years.  In central Hong Kong and the shopping arcades of Kowloon, more and more fashion boutiques, including the finest of European import houses, cater to the affluent tastes of this economically flourishing region.  The sophistication of conservative big-city business attire predominates, and Hong Kong "dresses up" not only for the office but also for teas, lunches, and dinners.  On the other hand, designer label "casual wear" is also very common all over Hong Kong; and jeans and sneakers identify the tourist and resident alike, whether sightseeing or bargain shopping.  Beware, however, Hong Kong is no longer the bargain mecca that it once was.  A varied wardrobe, similar to what you would wear in Washington, is appropriate for Hong Kong.  Definite seasons call for summer lightweight garments most of the year with medium-weight or lightweight wool for the Hong Kong winter.  The winter, although short, December through March, can be cool with temperatures averaging 15¢X C (59¢X F).  For most employees, social life in Hong Kong is quite active whether representational or recreational.  Most social occasions are not "formal" (black tie, long dress), although there is the annual Marine Ball and a definite "Ball Season" in Hong Kong that require formal dress.  For women, a dinner suit or smart dress is very appropriate for most receptions, dinners, and the theater.  For men, a business suit is always appropriate.  Three other general comments:  1) during the many humid months, cotton is highly preferable to synthetic fabric for clothing as well as undergarments; 2) getting around Hong Kong requires considerable walking, uphill as well as down, therefore special attention should be given to comfortable footwear for all activities; and 3) if you wear an unusual or especially large size, you may have difficulty with some items such as shoes or underwear.  Online options lessen the burden; e.g., JC Penny and Payless shoes will ship to FPO.

Women should bring a supply of summer cottons and other lightweight dresses to post.  Women who plan to work in Hong Kong should bring suits and other professionally appropriate outfits such as one would wear in Washington.  Although dry cleaning services are readily available, the costs are similar to the U.S., so many prefer to use wash and wear apparel.  Materials such as cotton and varieties of silks and woolens are stocked for tailor-made dresses, suits, and coats.  Some fabrics are inexpensive, but tailoring of women's clothing is not, and the finished product often leaves much to be desired.  American patterns and some sewing notions are available in a few locations.  An increasing number of shops carry imported American and European ready-to-wear sweaters, dresses, suits and coats but prices are higher than in the U.S. unless found at bargain factory outlets or markets.  Locally manufactured clothing is also available but is very limited in sizes above U.S. size 12.  Many women order clothing and shoes from mail-order houses in the States.  Evening wear, both informal and formal, is more difficult to find and is more expensive in Hong Kong than in the States.  Lingerie, including British and U.S. brands, is available; however, it is more expensive than in the States.  Cotton undergarments, which are preferred due to heat and humidity, are not easily found.  The supply of U.S. or British hosiery items is very limited and very expensive; tall or queen-sized hosiery is virtually unavailable.

Lightweight coats or lined raincoats are often worn during the cooler months; unlined raincoats are desirable for the warmer, rainy season.  If you have a fur jacket or stole, you will probably have an opportunity to wear it in the winter.  Long pants are beneficial during Summer months to avoid bug bites.  Some ready-made American and European shoes are available but expensive and usually come in wider widths.  Narrow shoes and sizes above 7-1/2 are difficult to find.  Bring a good supply of shoes with you.  Having shoes made by Hong Kong shoemakers is expensive.  Because of the need for comfortable walking shoes and the level of fashion seen in the main shopping/business district, "smart-casual" shoes are recommended.  Sports clothes, including bathing suits, are sold here but generally in small sizes and with price tags higher than in the States.  Locally made, inexpensive knits are also available in the street markets.  Women do not generally wear shorts on the streets in Hong Kong, but slacks and pantsuits are often worn.  White is still the only color acceptable on many tennis courts.

As with food and clothing, almost anything you want is available in Hong Kong; however, unless it is made locally, it may be hard to find and it will most probably be more expensive than in the States.  American, British, French, and German toiletries, cosmetics, and hygiene products are available in Hong Kong, but are expensive.  You may wish to bring an ample supply of cosmetics to Hong Kong in your shipment or arrange to order through a supplier in the States.  French perfumes, however, can be purchased at a reasonable price as compared to prices in the States.  Pharmacies in Hong Kong are good; however, bring any needed prescriptions with you.  The Consulate General Health Unit has a prescription ordering service.  Most household products are available in several brands.  Note paper, stationery, gift wrappings, greeting cards, and party favors are available; because of their high prices, you may want to bring a basic supply to post.  Hong Kong is renowned for its toys, but you have to be careful that what you purchase complies with U.S. safety standards.  Toys "R" Us has two outlets in Hong Kong and Kowloon and carries approved brands that comply with U.S. standards, although the prices are higher than you will find in the States.  In shopping for toys locally, you must remember that there is a great difference in quality between export quality and local quality.  Both kinds are available on the local market.

Books
There are many excellent bookstores in Hong Kong but be prepared for prices considerably higher than in the States. Most people use Amazon.com or Barnes&Noble.com for their reading material.  Note that paperback editions of best sellers are often out in Hong Kong long before paperback rights are released in the States.  You can continue your magazine subscriptions using your Consulate General FPO address or you can purchase up to date books and magazines at Fenwick Pier at U.S. prices.

You can choose from a large selection of preschool, primary and secondary educational institutions.  Demand for a place in private schools is extremely high; apply as early as possible as eight-month waiting lists are regular occurrences.  The Canadian International School, the German-Swiss School, and the Hong Kong International School all offer schooling in English from preschool through grade 12.  Preschools are expensive, total costs average about $1000 USD a month.

Hong Kong International School
The vast majority of Consulate General school-age dependents attend the Hong Kong International School (HKIS).  It is recognized as one of the leading international schools and provides a U.S.-style education and U.S. curriculum.  HKIS is sponsored by and operated under the auspices of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod (USA).  It is registered with the Office of Education of the Hong Kong Government and is associated with other American overseas schools in the Far East.  Accredited status by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges of the U.S. reflects its conformity with American educational standards.  Half the staff is composed of trained teachers recruited in the U.S. through the Lutheran school system and appointed for a minimum of 3 years.  The remainder of the staff, also professionally trained and experienced, consists of members of the American and European community in Hong Kong plus a few Chinese instructors.

HKIS serves a religiously diverse community.  Although religious instruction is mandatory, course offerings may be selected that encompass Christian or Bible subjects as well as a variety of non-Christian topics such as existentialism and oriental religions.  Chapel is voluntary for students in grades 7-12.  For kindergarten through grade 6 there are weekly chapel services and 20-minute religious instruction classes.

Of its approximately 2000 students, slightly more than half are U.S. citizens while fewer than 100 are dependents of U. S. Government employees.  Instruction is in English with emphasis on academic or college preparatory courses.  Some advanced placement courses are offered.  More than 90% of graduates enroll in American colleges and universities.  In the recent years, HKIS has made great strides to include programs for special needs children.  However, there is currently no school in Hong Kong, including HKIS, which is staffed or equipped to handle students with severe learning, physical or emotional disabilities.  Parents with special educational needs for their children should consult directly with the school to see how those needs can best be met.

The HKIS elementary school (K-5) in Repulse Bay is an air-conditioned "open space" facility consisting of six clusters of over 4,000 square feet each.  There is also a gymnasium, library, and swimming pool.  Educational approaches range from self-contained classrooms to independent learning and team-teaching situations.  The middle school (grades 6-8) and high school (grades 9-12) are located together at Tai Tam, several miles from Repulse Bay.  The multi-million dollar facility features an open air campus similar to schools found in many parts of the U.S. with classrooms, separate science laboratories, computer lab, music rooms, a cafeteria, gymnasium, swimming pool, audio visual center, bookstore, library, and guidance offices.  Parking is rather limited.

Sixth grade through High School students participate annually during the school year in an "Interim Program" which consists of a week of cultural explorations in Hong Kong or overseas.  These programs are a prerequisite for graduation.  The school offers approximately 37 interim trips each year with about 20 students enrolled in each. These trips can be expensive depending on the one your child chooses and the cost of the trip is borne by the parents. As an example, the least expensive trip is US$350 (for 6th grade), and the most expensive is a High School trip for US$1,600.  The parents or the children are allowed to indicate their preferences but sometimes are not placed in their top choice. Parents will be reimbursed for a portion of the fees. The fees for the "Interim Program" are broken down into 3 categories: Tuition, Accommodation and Travel. You will be reimbursed up to U.S. $400.00 for the tuition fees.

A full program of American-type extracurricular activities is offered, including a broad selection of clubs, drama, choral and band groups, publications, scouts, and sports: badminton, baseball, basketball, bowling, cross-country, field hockey, gymnastics, rugby, soccer, squash, swimming, tennis, track and field, volleyball, and water polo.  Inter-scholastic competition includes meets with other schools in Hong Kong as well as the International School Bangkok (ISB) and the Taipei American School (TAS).  HKIS also hosts an invitational basketball tournament each December that attracts schools from other Asian cities.  Some emphasis is placed on inter-cultural programs.  Mandarin is taught in elementary school and is offered as an elective in middle school and high school.  French and Spanish are offered in grades 6-12.

The school year normally runs from the third or fourth week in August until mid-June.  Most Consulate General children travel by private buses leased by the school. The at-post education allowance covers this cost.  Some students walk, take public transport, private cars or taxis.  Since the school is normally at capacity enrollment and Consulate General children are not guaranteed admission, it is vital that application forms be requested and forwarded well in advance.  Application forms can be requested in writing from the Admissions Office, Hong Kong International School, 6 South Bay Close, Repulse Bay, Hong Kong.  Contact the CLO if you need assistance.  It is particularly important that parents discuss well in advance any instances in which a student has poor academic records or special needs.

There are many quality educational institutions in Hong Kong and though the majority of Consulate children attend HKIS, it is by no means the only alternative.  English Schools Foundation (British Curriculum) schools have been attended by some Consulate General children in the past.  Before an application can be submitted, the student must be a resident of Hong Kong.  Admittance and decision as to grade level placement are based on age, the results of an entrance examination in English and mathematics, an interview and availability of space.  A medical examination is also required.  The city is zoned and children attend the ESF schools according to where they live.  ESF schools previously used by Consulate General families and located in Mid-Levels where many employees are housed include Glenealy Junior School and Kennedy Road Junior School for children 5 - 10 and Island School for children 11 - 17.

Other school options include the Canadian International School; the Chinese International School and Singapore International School, which provide bicultural English-Mandarin programs; the French International School which has both French and English streams; the German-Swiss School which has both German and English streams; the International Christian School which is based on Taiwan's American-based Morrison Academy; and the American International School, which follows a U.S. curriculum, in Kowloon.  Kellett School, the only private British Primary school in Hong Kong, is another alternative considered by American families.  Good preschools are available on Hong Kong Island but are quite costly.  Contact the CLO and the Office of Overseas Schools in Washington for more information.

School web sites are listed at the end of this publication.

Most sports facilities such as golf, tennis, squash, riding and swimming pools are available through private clubs only.  The Consulate General has a tennis court located on the grounds of the Consul General's compound on Barker Road and an unheated swimming pool located at the Shouson Hill compound which are available to employees and their families for part of the year.

The recent opening of two 18-hole public golf courses in the New Territories has made it affordable for non-club members to hit the links.  Also, diplomatic discounts may be obtained on weekdays at the Macau Golf and Country Club (one hour away by hydrofoil).  Within a two hour bus or boat ride from Hong Kong, there are several courses in China that offer affordable golfing packages.  Keep in mind that golf in Hong Kong is neither cheap nor convenient; outings normally last the better part of the day.

Sailing and yachting are popular and possible year round.  Joining a sail-boarding, kayak or rowing club often provides the opportunity for sport without the expense of a recreational club.  There are some very nice beaches in the area, though parking is limited and can be expensive.  Shek-O offers beach umbrellas (30 HKD) and chairs (15 HKD) for rent.  Beaches on Hong Kong Island, especially on the South Side of the island, tend to be quite crowded in the Summer months and on weekends.  Pollution is a concern and beach goers need to pay attention to environmental reports in the media on pollution ratings.  The more remote beaches in the New Territories and on Outlying Islands are more appealing; these beaches are reached by ferries, private "junks," and/or on foot.

If you are a runner or tri-athlete, there are numerous associations to join as well as several Hash House Harriers groups that meet weekly.  There are many events sponsored by such groups throughout the year for competitors.  One of the more popular means of recreation and exercise for both Chinese and expatriates is walking and hiking.  The opportunities are endless and the HKSAR has a multitude of very well-marked and maintained paths and trails that meet the needs of the leisurely stroller, the family on an outing, the casual hiker, and the ardent mountain trekker.  Bicycling is not for the faint of heart.  While there are some dedicated cyclists, narrow roads, getting passed by double-decker busses plus the driving habits of locals put riders at risk. You can however go to ShaTin where they have beautiful bike trails and bike rental.

Team sports:  Some Americans participate in the activities of the Hong Kong Softball Association which includes both men's and women's softball teams.  Because of the summer heat, the softball teams are active only from September through April and games are played at night.  The Consulate General also enters teams in the Dragon Boat Festival held annually in June and for the 100 km Trail-walker event held in November.

Popular spectator sports include soccer, cricket, rugby, tennis, basketball, and horse racing (October-May).

The Outlying Islands of Cheung Chau, Ping Chau, Lamma, and Lantau, which are accessible by ferry, offer hiking and browsing opportunities for day trips.  Overnight "vacation rentals" are also available at reasonable prices.

Macau is an interesting place to spend a day or weekend.  As stated earlier, this 400 year-old former Portuguese colony located 40 miles west of Hong Kong is a place of old and gentle Mediterranean charm on the one hand, and a city on the move on the other; bright lights, large construction sites and new high rises are rapidly changing its skyline.  It is the oldest continuously inhabited European settlement in Asia.  Travel by high-speed ferry takes just about an hour.  The cuisine, a mixture of Portuguese, Indian, English, and Chinese styles, is tasty and interesting.  Antique shopping is another good excuse to make the trip to Macau.

Hong Kong is a crossroads to most destinations in Asia.  Vacations in Southeast Asia, Japan, and the Philippines are popular.  Many use Hong Kong as a door to tourist travel in China.  Travel agents are plentiful and can offer you package deals as well as help in crafting self-determined itineraries.

Hong Kong itself has many interesting sights for tourists and photographers.  Tourist agencies offer excellent tours.  Among the more interesting excursions are the water tours of the island, tours of Kowloon, the New Territories, Hong Kong Island, the fishing village of junks and sampans at Aberdeen, and the ride to the top of the Peak by funicular cable car (Peak Tram). There are also heritage tours and opportunities to visit local housing areas and schools.  Ocean Park is one of Hong Kong's most popular recreational attractions.  Facilities include amusement park rides, the world's largest aquarium, an ocean theater, a zoo, flower and water gardens, and oriental and western restaurants.  A visit to Ocean Park makes a pleasurable and interesting outing for the entire family.  Year round passes cost 495 HKD for adults and 250HKD for children under age 11.  One day passes are 180 HKD for adults and 90 HKD for children under age 11.

Eating is the most popular form of entertainment in Hong Kong.  About 1.5 million people eat in restaurants daily, the highest per capita rate in the world.  The range of restaurants runs from world class to street vendors.  All types of western restaurants are available, and the choice of Asian cuisine is practically endless.

A variety of performing arts programs are presented throughout the year, including symphony concerts, recitals, ballet and dance performances, drama, and western opera.  The Hong Kong Cultural Center, the Academy for the Performing Arts, the Hong Kong Arts Center and City Hall are the centers of Hong Kong's cultural life.  The Hong Kong Cultural Center includes a 2,085-seat concert hall, a 1,724-seat grand theater, and a flexible 300 to 500-seat studio theater for experimental drama.  It is the home of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra.  The Cultural Center complex also houses the Hong Kong Museum of Art, with its collections of Chinese arts and antiquities, ethnographic materials and archaeological finds, and the Hong Kong Space Museum.  The Hong Kong Academy for the Performing Arts (APA) is a professional degree granting institution providing training, education, and research in the performing arts and related fields.  Students from the APA Schools of Dance and Drama give public performances throughout the year in the APA's theater.  The Hong Kong Arts Center features a multipurpose theater, a recital hall for music performances and films, and art galleries. It is a multidisciplinary center, featuring contemporary work in the performing, visual, and cinematic arts. The Center also offers classes in painting, ceramics, and other art forms for children and adults.  The Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra is the nucleus of Hong Kong's musical life.  It has an 11-month season from April through February and season subscriptions are available.  Guest artists of world renown appear regularly with the orchestra.

Other performing arts groups that perform at Hong Kong's cultural venues include the Hong Kong Repertory Theater, the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, the Hong Kong Dance Company, City Contemporary Dance Company, the Hong Kong Ballet, and the Chung Ying Theater Company.  The American Community Theater (ACT) is Hong Kong's most active amateur theatrical group.  The ACT produces several plays a year.  It has an international membership and stages American theatrical productions, including musicals.  The most active and best known choral groups are the Bach Choir, the Hong Kong Singers, and the St. Cecilia Singers.  These nonprofessional groups present one or two cantatas, operettas, or musicals a year.  Free lunch time concerts and recitals are held each Wednesday in St. John's Cathedral (Episcopal), which is located one-half block from the Consulate General.  The program includes both sacred and secular music.

The annual Hong Kong Arts Festival in February/March brings a wide array of well-known local and overseas groups and is the highlight of the cultural year.  The Festival of Asian Arts is a biennial event featuring performing arts from Asian and Oceanic cultures.  The International Arts Carnival in the summer aims to introduce children and young people to the performing arts.  The annual Hong Kong International Film Festival is one of the world's major noncompetitive film festivals.  The Fringe Festival in January/February is an open platform for the arts.

Hong Kong has several museums and small galleries.  The Hong Kong Museum of Art houses a collection of Chinese bronzes, ceramics, and paintings and stages major international loan exhibitions of Chinese and Western art.  Its branch museum, the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware, is devoted exclusively to Chinese tea ware.  Both the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the University of Hong Kong have museums exhibiting Chinese art and cultural artifacts.  The Tsui Museum of Art displays a privately-owned collection of Chinese fine art.  Galleries at the Hong Kong Arts Center emphasize contemporary and Western arts.  Small commercial galleries sell works by Chinese and overseas artists.

The Hong Kong Museum of History focuses on local and Chinese history.  The Hong Kong Space Museum has visitor-participatory exhibits and a planetarium to introduce visitors to astronomy and space science.  Exhibits at the Hong Kong Science Museum cover basic science principles, mathematics, earth science, life science, the applications of technology, and high-tech areas such as computers and robotics.

Representational and social activities with the local official, consular, and business communities are extensive.  The Consulate General receives over 1,700 official visitors a year, which can also add to social requirements.  More senior officers find, as a result of their numerous contacts within the community, that their representational and social responsibilities are wide ranging.  To varying degrees, many other employees are also involved in representational activities.  Junior officers, on a rotating basis, assist the Consul General and the Deputy Principal Officer in hosting events or by representing the CG, DPO or section heads at many events.  All employees and dependents at post have the opportunity for a very active social life as they enjoy the wonderful restaurants of Hong Kong, theaters, school activities, wine tastings, food fairs, night spots, Marine Security Guard-sponsored events, holiday functions, CLO activities (including fun events for children at Easter, Halloween, Christmas), and sporting events.  Mission employees also organize boat excursions, tram parties, shopping trips, and get-togethers for informal dinners at home.

The American Women's Association (AWA) has about 1,600 regular and associate members; by charter the membership is at least 51% American regular members with international members as associates.  The Association has a number of popular monthly activities and several special membership luncheons/meetings/programs during the year.  It supports many community projects and offers a wide variety of both social and charitable activities.  Joining AWA is a good way to meet Americans outside the Consulate General and also to get to know women of other nationalities.  The English Speaking Members' Department of the YWCA located near the Consulate General offers their members a vast number of day and evening activities including lectures on Asian Affairs, seminars on family issues, bridge, tennis, exercise, cooking and language classes, computer and other skill development sessions, and a variety of arts and crafts offerings.  Their "At Home in Hong Kong" program is highly recommended for newcomers to the region.  The Rotary Clubs, American Chamber of Commerce, Lions Clubs, Toastmaster and Toastmistress Clubs, the American University Club, League of Women Voters Hong Kong, (an integral part of the League of Women Voters of the U.S.), and many other groups where individuals can meet local residents and expatriates are available.  Boy Scouts, Brownies, Cub Scouts, Girl Guides, and Little League baseball are active in Hong Kong.  A public children's library is in City Hall.  HKIS sponsors summer sports and skills programs.  Various churches also have youth activities.  The Welfare Handicrafts, Mother's Choice, the Red Cross, YMCA, and many other welfare agencies - some branches of U.S. organizations - offer a variety of opportunities for both men and women for volunteer service. Both civic and professional associations are numerous.

Official functions include the more senior members of the Hong Kong Government and the leading members of the diplomatic, business, professional, and cultural communities.  The weight of representational entertaining falls on senior Consulate General staff members.  Semi-official functions are more numerous and embrace a wider circle of people.  Consulate General officers have excellent opportunities to develop useful contacts during their assignment to Hong Kong.  There are various groups including members of the consular corps and American Chamber of Commerce who have periodic meetings to discuss matters of mutual interest and concern.  This allows our officers ample opportunities to develop social and business contacts with members of the Hong Kong Government as well as members of the consular corps, professional groups and business communities.  Hong Kong has official representatives from nearly 100 countries who participate in the numerous official and social functions throughout the year, including national day celebrations for the various countries.

Printed invitations are used for official and semiofficial functions.  "Informals" are also used for invitations to teas and coffees and for other informal occasions.  Response is generally by telephone or fax.  A good supply of informals or other note paper is useful.  Printing can be done at post quickly and inexpensively.  The business suit is the appropriate dress for men in most social situations unless black tie is specified.  Black tie is worn all year round.  For women, unless the occasion is formal, which requires a long dress, a tailored or "dinner" suit or smart dress is appropriate for receptions, dinner, concerts, theater, or other social occasions.

Business cards are widely used in Hong Kong.  Spouses also find it useful to carry a personal card.  For both, a double-sided card, English on one side and Chinese on the other, is most popular and most practical. Cards should include your consular title, section, address, and office telephone numbers, the office fax number and your email address. The printing of cards is easily handled at post.  Laser printer cardstock with USG logos can be obtained from GSO Supply Room for U.S. government employees' use.  You can purchase higher quality cards ranging in cost from 120 HKD per 200 to 200 HKD per 200.

Post Orientation Program

The Consulate General has a full orientation program designed to aid new arrivals in getting settled at post.  Prior to arrival, newcomers will receive a welcome cable from the CLO and, time permitting, a letter from both their agency/office sponsor and community sponsor.  Normally, the agency/office sponsor will meet the newcomer upon arrival and will help with the formal check-in procedure at the Consulate General.  Newcomers, employees, and family members alike, regardless of parent agency, should expect to spend the first day and a half completing the necessary administrative check-in procedures required for all newly assigned personnel.  The community sponsor will meet the family shortly after arrival and be available to orient them to their immediate community and help with basic "survival" information.  The employee and family will meet the CLO, who will provide advice and resources to help with matters pertaining to housing, domestic help, shopping, social life, cultural orientation, and various other aspects of living in Hong Kong.  An appointment to meet the Consul General and the Deputy Principal Officer and a tour of the Consulate General will be arranged during these first days. 

Hong Kong is served by many of the world's major airlines including leading U.S. carriers.  United and Northwest offer several flights a day including nonstop service from the west coast of the U.S. and Minneapolis-St. Paul and to Chicago.  Continental Airlines provides non-stop service to New York.  The Department of State has authorized Business Class travel for employees and eligible family members if the total flight time plus transfer time exceeds 14 hours (this must be included on your Travel Authorization). Other agencies and departments should consult their parent organization regarding specific regulations. Personnel traveling across the Pacific may elect to take a rest stop en route in several cities in the continental U.S., as well as Honolulu, Tokyo (expect a four and a half hour layover), or Guam in lieu of traveling by Business Class.

The Consulate General will supply incoming families with a Hospitality Kit, but you may wish to include towels, baby items, toys, and other small household items in air freight.  Air freight from the U.S. usually arrives within 2 weeks after pickup.  Surface shipments from the U.S. normally take 5-7 weeks after loading.  There are no restrictions on the size of cartons, crates, or lift vans entering the region.  Wooden lift vans should be waterproof and steel banded.  All shipments should be marked as follows:

U. S. Consulate General Hong Kong
For: Name (title, agency)

The amount of pilferage and breakage is small.  Packers and movers in Hong Kong are competent and reliable.  Because of the restrictions on importation of vehicles, you will not be authorized to ship a personal vehicle to post without first contacting the General Services Office for permission.  Personally owned vehicles are shipped to post in standard 20-foot containers.  The Department does not authorize the crating of cars for shipment to Hong Kong from the States.  If you choose to crate your car, you must bear the crating charges as well as additional freight costs unless the car is shipped from a country that requires crating.

Some apartment buildings prohibit dogs, and others require a damage deposit for keeping any type of pet.  This deposit is payable by the employee.  Additionally, pets brought to Hong Kong are normally subject to quarantine. Pets arriving from rabies free countries may qualify for quarantine waiver.  If you are considering bringing a pet to post, contact the General Services Office as soon as possible.  Employees are responsible for any damage caused to government property by their pets.  U.S. Government employees are expected to comply with all local government and housing complex rules relating to animal control including leash requirements and the disposition of animal wastes.  Common courtesy and common sense are expected, especially in closely packed, densely populated housing complexes. 

Shipment of Pets: If you plan to ship a pet to Hong Kong, you should notify GSO as soon as possible.  You will be sent up-to-date information on animal quarantine, health regulations and inoculation certificate requirements.  Paperwork requirements are extensive and not hassle free, particularly if you wish to avoid quarantine, which can be waived under certain, narrowly defined circumstances.  Pets must arrive in Hong Kong as air freight.  They cannot accompany you as checked or carry-on baggage.  Practically, this means that shipment will be more expensive and time consuming.  Use of a pet forwarding agent to avoid headaches should be seriously considered.  A Hong Kong Government website, containing rules and regulations for the importation of animals, may be found at http://www.info.gov.hk/afd.  Do not ship a pet until you receive information from the Post.  Hong Kong is a densely populated, congested city with most people, including consulate employees, living in small apartments in high-rise buildings.  There are very few green areas and parks where you can take your pets for walks.  It is an unfriendly environment for large dogs.  If you decide to bring a large dog, you may need to compromise the quality of your housing as many Hong Kong landlords do not accept them in their apartment buildings.
The Hong Kong Government requires that all dogs brought into the Hong Kong receive a microchip identification device immediately upon entry.  A tiny, encapsulated microchip is injected under the skin between the neck and the shoulders using a single-use needle.  This device, which can be read by a scanner held close to the dog, is linked to ownership and vaccination records stored in government computers.
Animals under quarantine can only be housed in government kennels or the private Hong Kong Animal Management Centre.  It is extremely difficult to secure space at the government kennels.  Reservations for the private kennel should be made well in advance.  The General Services Office can make reservations on your behalf or you may write directly to:
Hong Kong Animal Management Centre
688 Victoria Road, Pokfulam
Hong Kong
Tel. No.: (852) 2551-8586
Fax No.: (852) 2875-6429
Arrangements can also be made to send animals prior to your arrival.  Contact the General Services Office for additional information.  Local veterinarians and international moving firms can also provide excellent airport-to-kennel service.

The local currency is the Hong Kong dollar, which is pegged to the U.S. dollar and is freely convertible to other currencies.  The value in relation to the U.S. dollar fluctuates slightly according to market conditions.

Personnel may want to open a local checking account as most local shops and stores accept personal checks.  A local account is also useful since many service companies that bill monthly (gas stations, cable TV, telephone, internet, etc.) require payment by automatic monthly withdrawal from a bank account or credit card.  If a family member is working for a local company, the common practice is to have salaries deposited electronically to local bank accounts.  Automated teller machines on the Plus(tm) and Cirrus(tm) networks abound and accept most debit cards and credit cards.  Most stores and restaurants accept major credit cards.   

Hong Kong is a major financial center and can provide most services that are typically found in the United States.  Checking accounts, savings accounts, traveler's checks, and foreign exchange facilities are readily available.  Minimum balances are common, and you should be aware of this before opening a new account.  The time to clear checks drawn on banks in the U.S. is about four days if your banking institution does not use the Automated Clearing House.  Otherwise, checks clear within 48 hours. 

The Bank of America provides accommodation exchange three days a week at the Consulate General.  To get U.S. dollars, there is a fee in addition to the exchange rate.  Employees and TDY visitors may cash up to US$ 1,000 per day. 

Hong Kong has converted to the metric system, but pounds, inches and gallons still compete with grams, meters and liters.  Local markets continue to use the catty, which is roughly 1 1/4 pounds.  Temperature is recorded in Celsius.

These titles are provided as a general indication of the material published on Hong Kong. The Department of State does not endorse unofficial publications.

-- American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. Living In Hong Kong. (9th edition).
-- Baker, Hugh. Hong Kong Images: People & Animals. Hong Kong University Press, 1990.
-- Cameron, Nigel. An Illustrated History of Hong Kong. Oxford University Press, 1991.
-- Cresswell, Colin M. The Taipans: Hong Kong's Merchant Princes. Oxford University Press, 1991.
-- Coates, Austin. Myself a Mandarin: Memoirs of a Special Magistrate. Oxford University Press, 1991.
-- Endacott, G.B. A History of Hong Kong. Oxford University Press, 1987.
-- Enright, M., Scott, E. & Dodwell, D. The Hong Kong Advantage. Oxford University Press, 1997
-- Gershman, Suzy. Born to Shop: Hong Kong. MacMillan, 1997
-- Hoe, Susana. Private Life of Old Hong Kong. Oxford University Press, 1991.
-- Hong Kong Government Information Services. Hong Kong 1997. Hong Kong Government Printing Department, 1997. (last in annual series under British administration)
-- Insight Guide to Hong Kong. APA Productions, 1998.
-- Lau Siukai and Kuan Hsinchi. The Ethos of the Hong Kong Chinese. Coronet Books, 1989.
-- Mo, Timothy. An Insular Possession. Random House, 1987
-- Mo, Timothy. Monkey King. William Morrow, 1987
-- Miners, Norman. The Government and Politics of Hong Kong. (5th ed. revised) Oxford University Press, 1996.
-- Morris, Jan. Hong Kong: Epilogue to an Empire (Vintage Departures). Vintage Books, 1997.
-- O'Reilly & Habegger, Travelers' Tales of Hong Kong. O'Reilly & Assts, Inc. 1996.
-- Rodwell, Sally. Historic Hong Kong. The Guidebook Co. 1991.
-- Schepel, Kaarlo. Magic Walks (vols. 1,2, &3) . The Alternate Press, 1992.
-- Storey, Robert. Lonely Planet Hong Kong, Macau and Guangzhou Travel Survuval Kit. Lonely Planet Publishing 1997
-- Welsh, Frank. A Borrowed Place: The History of Hong Kong. Kodansha, 1993
-- Wei, Betty Peh-Ti & Li, Elizabeth. Culture Shock! Hong Kong. Graphic Arts Center Publishing Co. 1994

Recommended Web Sites
General:

Department of State - http://www.state.gov
Consulate General Home Page - http://www.hongkong.usconsulate.gov
Hong Kong Government Official Information Site - http://www.info.gov.hk
Hong Kong Tourism Association - http://www.hkta.org
American Chamber of Commerce Hong Kong - http://www.amcham.org.hk
Hong Kong Telecom - http://www.netvigator.com
Shopping online:
City'Super Supermarket in Times Square, Wan Chai - http://www.citysuper.com
Wellcome Supermarket- http://www.wellcomehk.com
Park-n-Shop Supermarket - http://www.parknshop.com
Used furniture, electronics & collectibles - http://www.asiaxpat.com
 Weather sites:
Hong Kong Observatory - http://www.hko.gov.hk/
The HK weather underground - http://www.underground.org.hk
Weather Underground - http://www.wunderground.com/global/stations/45007.html
School sites:
American International School - http://www.ais.edu.hk
Canadian International School - http://www.cdnis.edu.hk
Carmel School Hong Kong - http://www.carmel.edu.hk
Chinese International School -http://is7.pacific.net.hk/~cis/
Concordia International School - http://www.cihs.edu.hk
English Schools Foundation - http://www.esf.edu.hk
French International School (e-mail only) - fis@lfis.edu.hk
German Swiss International School - http://www.gsis.edu.hk
Hong Kong International School - http://www.hkis.edu.hk
International Christian School - http://www.ics.edu 
Kellet School - http://home.netvigator.com/~kellschl/
Parkview International Pre-school - http://www.hk.super.net/~pips
Away from Post Schools:
Canadian Academy - http://canada.canacad.ac.jp/canacad/welcome.html
Morrison Academy-Taichung - http://www.xc.org/mk/schools/morrison
Brent School - http://www.wco.com/~brent
Colleges and Universities:
Chinese University of Hong Kong - http://www.cuhk.edu.hk
City University of Hong Kong - http://www.cityu.edu.hk
Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts - http://www.hkapa.edu.hk
Hong Kong Baptist University - http://www.hkbu.edu.hk
Hong Kong University of Science and Technology - http://www.ust.hk
Lingnan University - http://www.ln.edu.hk
Open University of Hong Kong - http://www.ouhk.edu.hk
University of Hong Kong - http://www.hku.hk
Media Sites:
South China Morning Post - http://www.scmp.com
Hong Kong Standard - http://www.hkstandard.com
Far Eastern Economic Review - http://www.feer.com
Asia Television (ATV) - http://www.hkstar.com/atv/home.html
Television Video Broadcasting (TVB) - http://www.tvb.com.hk

The Chinese calendar contains many holidays, but the most widely celebrated is the Chinese or Lunar New Year (January/February).  This is a family-type holiday when most shops and offices are closed for three days, visits and calls are paid on family and friends, and gifts are exchanged.  Other Chinese holidays include Ching Ming (April), the commemoration of the dead; Dragon Boat Festival (May/June), a time for boat races between various groups and associations; and the Harvest or Moon Festival (September/October).  Public celebrations commemorating local holidays are very popular and well attended, usually resulting in large crowds.  For the most part, foreigners are welcome to attend these festivities and photographs are allowed.  The following local holidays are observed by the Consulate General.  Some vary from year to year according to the lunar calendar.

Lunar New Year  (3 days)	January/February
Ching Ming Festival	April
Good Friday	April
Easter Monday	April
Buddha's Birthday	May
Dragon Boat Festival	May/June
Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Establishment Day	July
Labor Day	September
Mid-Autumn Festival	September/October
National Day	October
Chung Yeung Festival	October
Boxing Day	Day after Christmas