Hong Kong taxi question
 

How much would it cost to take a taxi from near the Star Ferry to the Stanley market ? Can 4 people fit in a HK taxi ?

Don't know exact cost, but I'd expect about HK$150 (US$20) from the Star Ferry in Central. The taxi rate in Hong Kong is HK$15 for the first 2km, and then $1.4 for each 0.2km thereafter. The whole trip is about 16km, so that's about HK$120. However, the meter also runs when the cab is stopped, and if you take the Aberdeen Tunnel, that's another toll of HK$5. [You can also go over Wong Nai Chung Gap and avoid the tunnel. Distance is about the same either way.] That's why I say about $150. 4 people can fit in a taxi.

Having said that, the bus doesn't take too much longer, and cost a fraction (~HK$8-10 each). You can also get a better view from the upper deck of a bus, while it's pretty cramped in a taxi for such a trip.

Hey the bus sounds like more fun. Can we get the right one somewhere near the Star Ferry in Central ? Does one bus go all the way there ?

There are 4 bus lines that go from Central to Stanley - 6, 6A, 6X, 260. All 4 leave from the bus terminus underneath Exchange Square. As you get off the Star Ferry in Central, turn right, walk past the Central Post Office, and you're there.

[All 4 buses also make another stop in front of the City Hall - about the same walking distance. This time you bear left after getting off the ferry, and then walk south towards Connaught Road along side the City Hall. I think it's better to get on at the Exchange Square terminus as you can walk up to the upper level, and choose your seat, before the bus start moving at the terminus. Some people find it difficult to walk or climb the stairs once the bus get moving, like if you're getting on in front the city hall.]

All 4 buses will get you to Stanley Market. Main differences are:

6 goes over Wong Nai Chung Gap instead of using the Aberdeen Tunnel. Takes about the same time, more curvy roads, and you don't go by Deep Water Bay like the other 3 buses do.

260 cost a little more, and take Gloucester Road through Wan Chai instead of the slower Queen's Road East. So it's a little faster, though not by much.

6A and 6X ends at different place after Stanley Market.

Usually, people (myself included) just get on whichever leaves the bus terminal first. Doesn't really matter which one of the 4.

After looking more closely at www.citybus.com.hk I'll make two clarifications:

1. Underneath the Exchange Square terminus, 6/6A/6X leave from the same pier, while 260 is likely to leave from an adjacent one.

2. 260 makes another stop right in front of the Star Ferry, before the stop in front of the Cityhall. The other three don't. However, 260 often uses a single-decker, so you don't get the fun of riding the upper level through the very narrow roads; and it costs about HK$2 more (no big deal). And you're likely to have to wait a little longer, as you won't get to ride the other three.

My recommendation is to walk over to Exchange Square and take a double decker, regardless of bus number.

RKKWAN fantastic information on buses. I'll print out your message and take it to HK with me ! Thanks for your help.

Hello and Merry Christmas!
I personally prefer the 6A and 6X as it offers a much better view going through deepwater bay. The scenic route always reminds me of the Mediterranean coast/ French Riviera. A small detail, on the top of the bus, make sure you sit on the right side of the bus (facing forwards, you are on the right of the aisle) as all the scenery takes place on the right hand side on the trip to Stanley!