Check in
• Each Tour Member is to check in individually, clear customs and progress to the departure gate where Haydn Thompson will meet you (Melbourne group departures only).
• To check in, you will require your e- ticket and a valid passport.
• Please ensure you check in at least 2 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Transfers
• If you are part of the group or have arranged airport transfers, upon clearing customs in Hong Kong, look for a guide holding a “VRC Racing Tour†sign to identify your transfer.
Visas
• Australian passport holders can enter Hong Kong without a visa for a period of up to 90 days.
• If you are not travelling on an Australian passport, call VRC Racing Tours for advice as you may require a visa to enter Hong Kong.
• Daily visas for Shenzhen (China) can be obtained on the day of travel and can be arranged once in Hong Kong
• Those joining our day trip to Macau will receive a visa stamp upon arrival in Macau after we arrive by TurboJet Super Class ferry
Passport Validity
• Please review your passport to ensure you have 3 blank pages and 6 months validity after your proposed return date.
• Should this be of concern, it is advised you replace your passport. To do so visit your local post office. The reissuing process will take 10 working days. Contact VRC Racing Tours for advice on express reissues.
Immigration and Customs
• Enhanced security measures are now in effect at all International Airports. Members are reminded not to carry any sharp objects, liquids or gels in their carry-on luggage. These items must be packed in your check in baggage.
Air Passenger Departure Tax & Surcharges – Hong Kong – Australia
• Your departure taxes and the Hong Kong International Airport security charge are included in your package cost.
Frequent Flyers
• Our Cathay Pacific economy ticket to Hong Kong is a highly discounted fare which does not earn frequent flyer points. Those electing to upgrade their airfare to premium economy or business class will be eligible to earn rewards points. Just advise your Membership number to the check in staff on the day of check in.
Travel Insurance
• The Victoria Racing Club Limited is unable to accept any passenger who is not covered by some form of comprehensive travel insurance.
• Brochures can be obtained from VRC Racing Tours; alternatively you are able to opt for your personal choice of travel insurance.
ATMs
• MasterCard, Visa and Amex cardholders will have easy access to ATMs. Savings and debit cards with a Maestro or Cirrus symbol can also withdraw money from an ATM machine.
Currencies
• Legal tender is the Hong Kong dollar (HK$).
• The exchange rate is approximately $1AUD = $5.50HK
• Notes issued by HSBC and Standard Chartered Bank have denominations of HK$10, HK$20, HK$50, HK$100, HK$500, and HK$1,000. The Bank of China issues all of the denominations except HK$10.
• Banks and money changers charge commission. Similarly, commissions are payable in hotels and major retail outlets which provide exchange facilities for their customers. As elsewhere, the rates of exchange for cash and travellers' cheques are marginally different and coins are not exchangeable.
General Climate
• The average temperature in December ranges from 16 to 24 degrees with humidity at a low 72 per cent. Therefore a light jacket for all events is recommended.
Dress Code
• Welcome to Hong Kong Party at the Langham Hotel - Smart Casual
• Hong Kong City Tour - Smart Casual
• Lunch at the Verandah – Peninsular Hotel - Smart Casual
• Longines International Jockey’s Challenge Happy Valley - Racewear (hat optional)
• Trackside Breakfast with the Stars and Barrier Draw - Smart Casual
• Carbine Club Luncheon - Racewear
• VRC Gala Dinner at Stable - Collar shirt, jacket – no tie
• Longines Hong Kong International Raceday Sha Tin - Racewear (hat optional)
Electrical Equipment
• The standard electrical voltage in HK is 220 volts AC, 50HZ, so you will need an adaptor for your 240-volt appliances and electrical equipment. The majority of electrical outlets in Hong Kong take a three-pronged plug. You can buy an inexpensive adaptor for your equipment when you arrive in Hong Kong.
Telephones
• If you wish to bring your mobile phone, you will need to enable global roaming. Please contact your service provider to arrange this.
• Local calls from public coin phones cost HK$1 for five minutes.
• International phone cards can be readily purchased for discounted international calls.
Internet Access
• Available at the Langham Hotel
• For people bringing their laptops, smart phones, tablets to Hong Kong, wireless broadband service is readily available at the Langham Hotel, major shopping malls and coffee shops.
Post
• Postage is inexpensive and the service is reliable.
• The main post offices are on Hong Kong Island, next to the "Star" Ferry in Central, and at 10 Middle Road, Tsim Sha Tsui in Kowloon. Enquiries: +852 2921 2222.
Transportation
• Public transportation via bus, ferry or train is efficient, relatively inexpensive and user-friendly. The system covers extensive areas of Hong Kong with signs both in English and Chinese.
Key Contacts
Haydn Thompson -- VRC Racing Tours +61 - 412 - 153 - 452
Langham Hotel -- 8 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon +85 - 223 - 751 - 133
