Living in HK
Climate
Hong Kong’s climate is sub-tropical, tending towards temperate for nearly half the year. There are four seasons all the year around: cold and dry winter, unstable and wet spring, hot and humid summer, and warm and pleasant autumn.
The rainy season in Hong Kong is from May to September. Typhoons usually occur during the summer.
During November and December, there are pleasant breezes, plenty of sunshine and comfortable temperatures. January and February are relatively cloudier, with occasional cold fronts followed by dry northerly winds. The temperatures may occasionally drop below 10°C in urban areas.
Food, Leisure, Transportation, and Personal Items
Exchange students should allow for HKD3,000 to HKD5,000 (USD390 to USD650) per month for living costs other than accommodation. Please note that the estimation is a point of reference for preparation purposes only.
You may wish to bring travellers cheques or your local currency to exchange for Hong Kong dollars at the airport or other foreign exchange providers. Besides, it is advisable to prepare HKD10,000 (USD1,200) – HKD20,000 (USD2,500) in cash for your first two months’ living cost in Hong Kong (for accommodation, textbooks or other additional necessities).
You are not advised to open a Hong Kong bank account just for one-semester exchange. If you really wish to open a bank account in Hong Kong, you should have at least HKD5,000 (USD650) in deposit throughout the whole exchange period. Moreover, only a few local banks will provide such a service to exchange students.