Hong Kong operates vertically where other cities sprawl horizontally. The Octopus card works on everything — ferries, trams, buses, trains, convenience stores. The Star Ferry crossing costs under $1 and delivers the city's best views. Dim sum culture peaks at breakfast, not lunch; arrive when doors open. Temple Street night market entertains but Sham Shui Po serves actual value. The Peak Tram creates hour-long queues; the bus delivers identical views minus the wait. MTR efficiency means exact arrival times; plan connections accordingly. Air conditioning battles humidity everywhere — layer for indoor arctic conditions. Lan Kwai Fong nightlife targets expats and tourists; Sai Ying Pun serves locals. Hiking trails starting from MTR stations access genuine wilderness within minutes. Cantonese dominates; English serves tourists in expected areas. Cha chaan tengs deliver authentic Hong Kong meals at honest prices. Michelin-starred street food exists and costs under $10. Summer typhoons cancel flights and shut city; check forecasts. Sim cards at the airport cost little and cover everything. The city never sleeps literally — 24-hour dining abounds. Tipping remains optional except in Western establishments.