| Hong Kong is small and
crowded, which makes public transport the only practical way to get around.
Public transport is cheap, fast, widely used and generally efficient. The
bus system is extensive and bewildering but you will need it to explore
the south side of Hong Kong Island and the New Territories. The north side
of Hong Kong Island and most of Kowloon are well-served by Hong Kong's
ultra-modern Mass Transit Railway (MTR). Three tunnels link Hong Kong with
Kowloon.
The Kowloon-Guangzhou (Canton)
Railway (KCR) runs from Kowloon to the Chinese border at Lo Wu. Light Rail
Transit (fast, modern, air-con trams) run in the New Territories,
connecting the city of Tuen Mun with Yuen Long.
Double-decker
trams trundle along the northern side of Hong Kong Island. Hong Kong's
ferries are usually faster and cheaper than buses and trams.
They are also fun, and
the harbour views are stunning when the weather cooperates. Hoverferries
are about twice as fast as conventional boats.
Metered taxis are red with silver
tops (and green with white tops in the New Territories). They will not
pick up or put down at bus stops. Car rental is available but don't
contemplate it. Bicycling in Kowloon or Central would be suicidal, but in
quiet areas of the islands or the New Territories a bike can be quite a
nice way of getting around.
International
Airport - Chek Lap Kok
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