Tips on Hong Kong Warnings or Dangers – Stay Safe!

Hong Kong Warnings and Dangers

Hong Kong is a bustling city, inhabiting both residents and tourists who simply enjoy exploring the culture themselves. Whether you are a regular tourist of Honk Kong or you are visiting for your first time, there are a few warnings and dangers to keep in mind at all times, regardless of where you plan on touring during your stay in the city.

Crowds

Although Hong Kong is known for large crowds, it rarely causes violent incidents. Many tourists and residents note there is quite a bit of congestion any time you are in Hong Kong, as many of the areas throughout the cities are packed with residents and tourists on the street. Be sure to keep you purse, wallet, and any other valuable belongings out of sight to steer clear of professional pickpocketers and scammers. You may find yourself walking through the streets whenever construction is going on throughout Hong Kong, which has become more prevalent in recent years,

Shopping

Whenever you are shopping in Hong Kong, be aware of potential “bait and switch” scams, along with price gouging which is fairly common at popular markets in the city. Purchasing everything from tea to electronics may leave you disappointed, especially if you pay a higher price than normal. Ask locals for advice on the best shops and local food and drink stands to avoid those that may cause you to waste your money. Computers, smartphones, and other high priced items are risky when shopping in Hong Kong, as you run the risk of receiving faulty items and knock-off brands that appear similar to those purchased from retail stores in Hong Kong and in the U.S.

Pickpocketing Crimes

Kowloon’s Mong Kok area is filled with shops and markets, naturally attracting tourists to visit the area. However, there have been a surge of thieves and pickpocketers roaming the area to steal from anyone purchasing high-priced items or simply browsing. Always keep money put away in a safe place (not your back pocket) and use smaller bills when paying for goods to become less of a target to those who are looking for individuals who spent more and are lax about their purchases, carrying them without concealing their purchases.  Even if you feel safe in a crowded area, smaller streets, such as Nathan Road, are also known for pickpocketing and selling bootleg DVDs and other stolen merchandise.

Public Toilets

Most public toilets in Hong Kong are noted as clean and well-maintained. However, always be sure to carry a roll of toilet tissue with you in the off chance a public toilet does not have any available. It may also be quite difficult to use the restroom in public buildings as they often turn both residents and tourists away. Regardless of the toilet you choose, always carry tissues and toilet paper to avoid being stuck without them in Hong Kong.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings or dangers in Hong Kong.