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street vendors. There are several terrestrial English-
language television channels, and satellite and cable
TV are available in many areas and most hotels.
Electricity
The current is 220 volts. Shaver adapter points,
generally with multi-fittings, are available in most hotel
bathrooms. Adapters for other electrical appliances can
be requested from housekeeping.
Weights and Measures
Hong Kong is officially metric, though several forms
of traditional Chinese and some imperial weights and
measures are still used. In street markets, products may
be sold by the catty (about 1.33 pounds or 605 grams).
Gold is sold by the tael (about 37.4 grams or 1.2 troy
ounces).
Safety and Security
Hong Kong is generally a very safe city by both night
and day. As everywhere, however, visitors should
protect themselves from pickpockets and carry as little
cash and as few valuables as possible; use traveller’s
cheques or credit cards instead. The Hong Kong Police
Force has numerous stations and reporting centres
where officers are accustomed to helping visitors.