In general, it’s very easy to get/change money in Hong Kong since their financial system is extremely sophisticated and globally integrated with the major ATM and financial networks. As to the best way to get cash, it depends on the actual commissions and amounts that you’re either withdrawing from an ATM or exchanging. As expected, the airport currency exchange desks offer the worst rates. Either exchange a small amount to take the train into town, or use an airport ATM. As with most ATMs used outside of your home country, you’ll typically pay a service charge by the foreign bank as well as your own bank. Personally, I increase my daily ATM withdrawal limit before traveling, although I’m often limited by the maximum amount allowed by the foreign bank (for example, in China, ATMs usually have a Y2500 maximum). Except some smaller local banks, HK banks are integrated into international systems like, Cirrus, Maestro, Plus and Visa Electron. I always go with the biggest one: HSBC (although Hang Seng and Standard Chartered ATMs will work fine as well). On the other hand, if you’re exchanging money, avoid HSBC since they charge a heft HK$100 commission fee. You’re better off with the other two, where they only charge HK$50 for non-account holders. Hotels offer better exchange rates than the airport, but not as good as the banks. Another option is to use a licensed money changers, such as Chequepoint, which you can find in touristy areas, such as Tsim Sha Tsui. Apparently the money changers in TST, in Chungking and Mirador Mansions, can be a good deal too. Although they don’t charge a commission, their rates are higher (equivalent to a 5% commission). You’ll get a better exchange rate when you exchange larger amounts of currency. For example, the long-running Wing Hoi Money Exchange in the Mirador Mansion can change a wide range of currencies and travelers checks (2723 5948; Ground fl, shop No 9B, 58 Nathan Rd, Tsim Sha Tsui. 8.30am-8.30pm Mon-Sat, 8.30am-7pm Sun). Finally, avoid changing money when banks are closed since they’ll usually have non-competitive rates.