Originally Posted by
tsmith12
Thanks Rkkwan..you're awesome!
Just a few clarifications-
If I can't use a credit card to buy a Octopus card, then I'll need HKD at the airport to pay for the octopus card prior to getting on AE. So, I'll need to convert some USD at the airport to buy the octopus card I presume.
Also, I'm not planning to carry/use my ATM..so, should I just go ahead and convert like $200 USD at the airport. It's not a big amount where the conversion rate will hurt me..unless they have currency conversions counters at the places I'm visiting. But, I'll need HKD before/(at) I get to HK station and plan to take a taxi to peak tram station.
I'll get the same-day return AE tik, but if I take a blue taxi from Tung Chung back to the airport, I really won't be using the roundtrip return on AE right. Just making sure I have it right.
Pushing my luck, but is there a good place to grab a bite (maybe dim sum) around the areas I'll be in? (HK station-peak-star ferry-ave of stars-lantau) If I have time, I can swing by and get a taste of infamous HK dim sum.
Thanks again.
The regular banks won't be open at HKG at that time, and you do need HKD right away. If you can't or won't use a ATM, then I guess Travelex will be there.
You are absolutely right you won't need a same-day return ticket. In fact, in this case, I suggest you to take the Cityflyer bus A11 out to Central, instead of the train. It's a bit cheaper, but most importantly you can see more - the Tsing Ma Bridge, the container port, etc. And that early in the morning, you won't hit traffic. First bus starts at 6:10a, and runs every 25 minutes. Get off in front of Connaught Center in Central, and then walk up to Peak Tram.
I suggest you have the vegetarian lunch at Po Lin Monastery. Food's okay, price moderate, and the meal ticket allows you to go into the base of the Big Buddha for some exhibits, including a Buddha's relic. Consider the cost of the meal as a donation, rather than for the actual food item.
Then go back to HKG a bit early and have dim sum at Chao Inn in T2. Quality pretty good and they're running 30% off in the afternoon. Very good deal.