Hong Kong's peak tourist season used to be in spring and fall, but now tourists come to Hong Kong virtually year-round, especially from neighboring mainland China. It's best, therefore, to make hotel reservations in advance, particularly if you're arriving during the Chinese New Year, one of the festivals described below, or the two peak vacation periods for mainland Chinese (the so-called "Golden Weeks" beginning May 1 and Oct 1). In addition, major conventions and trade fairs can also tie up the city's best hotels, particularly in spring (Mar-Apr) and autumn (Oct-Nov); check www.discoverhongkong.com for an updated calendar. If you're on a budget, keep in mind that many Hong Kong hotels offer package deals and cheaper rates in summer and winter.
Climate
Because of its subtropical location, Hong Kong's weather is generally mild in winter and uncomfortably hot and humid in summer, with an average annual rainfall of 89 inches. The most pleasant time of year is late September through early December, when skies are clear and sunny, temperatures are in the 70s (21°C-26°C), and the humidity drops to 70%. January and February are the coldest months, when temperatures can drop to 50°F (10°C) but are usually in the upper 50s and 60s (14°C-20°C). You'll want a jacket during this time. In spring (Mar-May), the temperature can range between 64°F and 81°F (18°C-27°C) and the humidity rises to about 82%, with fog and rain fairly common. That means you'll need a raincoat and there may not be much of a view from the cloud-enveloped Victoria Peak. By May, it can also be quite hot and muggy.
By summer (late May to mid-Sept), temperatures are often in the 90s (32°C-37°C), humidity can be 90% or more, and there's little or no relief, even at night. If you're visiting the SAR this time of year, you'd be prudent to carry a hat, sunblock, sunglasses, and plenty of bottled water with you wherever you go. You'll also want a light jacket for air-conditioned rooms and an umbrella. This is when Hong Kong receives the most rain; it's also typhoon season. However, Hong Kong has a very good warning system, so there's no need to worry about the dangers of a tropical storm.
Holidays
Hong Kong has 17 public holidays a year, including some of the festivals described below. The majority are Chinese and are therefore celebrated according to the lunar calendar, with different dates each year (for 2008 lunar holidays, which had not yet been determined when we went to press, go to www.info.gov.hk/info/holiday_e.htm). Since most shops, restaurants, and attractions remain open except during the Chinese New Year, the holidays should not cause any inconvenience to visitors. Banks, however, are closed.
