Under $100: Hong Kong

The booming metropolis that sits on the South China Sea has a tendency to be a money drain, especially for visitors. However, it’s not difficult to find alternatives to pricey hotel dinners and tourist shops. Brush up on your Cantonese and try the tips below to ensure your Hong Kong dollars go far.

© Jim Winstead | Flickr

The MTR (Hong Kong’s public underground transit network) is a cheap way to get from A to B, or in this case, from Hong Kong Island across Victoria Harbour to Tsim Sha Tsui. Single-journey tickets cost 3 HKD (0.40 cents), depending on the distance traveled, or opt for an Octopus card if you anticipate taking multiple trips during your stay. The Octopus card allows you to add a specific amount of money onto one card to use for any number of trips. To cross the city and catch the sights, hop on one of the city’s double-decker trams that wind through the streets like a trolley. Use your Octopus card or cash (trips are 2.30 HKD [0.30 cents] for adults).

Neons Signs of Kowloon © Sean Pavone | Dreamstime

Once you’ve mastered the transit system, stop for a snack at one of the street-side Dai Pai Dongs. Although the vendors might not speak English, the food will be as authentic as you can get and the prices are wallet-friendly.

Hong Kong from The Peak © Dndavis | Dreamstime

After a snack, hike or take the funicular up to the Peak for some of the best views of Hong Kong. The tram is only 40 HKD ($5.20). Atop the hill, hike through the forests and view some of the city’s largest mansions.

With more than 300 islands, Hong Kong’s beaches are inexpensive and relaxing ways to enjoy a city break. A quick bus or ferry ride sends you to some of the most beautiful coastlines. Browse the goods at Stanley Market before enjoying a beachside margarita.