Living in Hong Kong – Interview With an Expat

What’s it like to live in Hong Kong as an expat?

Hong Kong is one of the most popular expat cities in the world.

But what is this city really like? And how does it feel to move to and build a new life in Hong Kong?

In this Ask an Expat series I interview people living all over the world but outside their home country. I try to help paint an honest picture of the ups and downs of life abroad, share tips for anyone thinking about moving abroad, and information about the city, town, or country the expat now calls home.

Expat Life in Hong Kong, China

Location: Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China
Name: Kay
Home country: India

Her Story:

“I came to Hong Kong five years ago for University and ended up staying in the city after.

I grew up in four different countries, but Hong Kong was something I had never seen before.

I didn’t think I’d end up living in Hong Kong for years, since I love to wander. But I guess wandering in a city of 7 million, isn’t too bad!”

Why Did You Move to Hong Kong?

“Hong Kong appealed to me because it’s a dynamic city where language isn’t really a problem.

In addition to that, China offers good economic and travel opportunities and Hong Kong is close enough to venture in, but not close enough to need to be fluent in Mandarin.

Living in Hong Kong is a great place from where to explore Asia, to learn about the culture, and to meet a variety of people.”

What Do You Like About Living in Hong Kong?

“There is so much to do here. Hong Kong is filled with vivacity and culture which makes it hard to get bored exploring. Every inch is something new.

Hong Kong brings together people from corners of the world who wouldn’t have dreamed of meeting each other. It’s kinda like traveling across the world to be exposed to cultures through people—except it’s all in one place.

It’s the same with the food. Being a foodie, I love how I can think of any type of cuisine and I can find it in Hong Kong.

There are loads of pubs and clubs as well and drinking and going out isn’t too expensive either (especially since there are lots of ladies’ nights across the city! 😉 ).

Convenience defines expat life in Hong Kong. Everything is efficient and quick.

You don’t need a car to get around, you have the MTR (Mass Transit Railway) which goes to almost every corner of Hong Kong. Buses are just a hop skip and jump away, and taxis are cheap. It’s easy to call into the bank or do things online for any avenue of your life.”

What Do You Dislike About Living in Hong Kong?

“Relationships can get a bit shallow, given the fast pace of life. Expats in Hong Kong seldom come to stay for longer than two years which means you’re forced to be comfortable with change.

Everything needs to be scheduled well in advance, especially with local friends.

Additionally, there’s a lot of privilege given to people of certain countries, and the opposite for minorities.”

Also Read: Pros and Cons of Living in Hong Kong

Is Hong Kong Safe as a Place to Live?

”Yes, overall, Hong Kong is a very safe place to live, with low crime rates and an efficient police force.

Violent crime is rare, and even petty crimes like pickpocketing are less common than in many other major cities. That said, like any big city, it’s good to stay aware, especially in crowded areas and on public transport.

One thing to consider is Hong Kong’s political situation. Protests and demonstrations have taken place in recent years, which can occasionally lead to disruptions. However, day-to-day life for most residents continues as normal, and these events don’t typically affect expats unless they actively seek them out.

Another factor to be aware of is the city’s extreme weather. Hong Kong experiences typhoons during certain months, but the infrastructure is well-prepared, and there are clear warning systems in place.

Air pollution can also be an issue at times, particularly for those with respiratory conditions.”

What Is Your Favorite Thing to Do in Hong Kong?

“I love to sit on the rooftop of one of my favorite buildings and look at the sea (and maybe do some yoga).”

What Is Your Favorite Place to Eat in Hong Kong?

“O God, it’s so hard to come up with just one name. There are so many great places to eat here, which I think is one of the great perks of living in Hong Kong.

Let me cheat a bit and give you two: Crystal Jade and Sun Hing Restaurant in Kennedy Town.

Another, more upscale favorite is Andō, offering Japanese-Argentinian fusion dishes.”

What Is the Expat Community Like in Hong Kong?

“There are so many expats living in Hong Kong.

They range from new expats, often in their mid-twenties, to the people who decided to make Hong Kong their permanent home.

Most expats come here for stints of 2-3 years though.”

Any Resources You Found Useful During the Process of Moving to and Building a New Life in Hong Kong?

“I came here to study first so I figured most things out myself. But, Sassy HK is a pretty good source for young women moving here and Open Rice for food!

And join one (or all) of the Facebook groups for expats in Hong Kong. They are a great place to ask any questions you may have about life in Hong Kong and a good place to meet other expats.”

Also Read: Things to Know Before Moving to Hong Kong

Is There Something You Just Have to See or Do When You Are in Hong Kong?

“Yes, so much! A few recommendations:

1) Lan Kwai Fong: an area with lots of restaurants, bars, and clubs, popular among expats.

2) Sai Kung District (map), the second-largest district in Hong Kong in terms of area.

It is known as ‘Hong Kong’s back garden’ because of the beautiful hiking trails and beaches. The village of Sai Kung is also noted locally for its seafood restaurants, many of which congregate on the seafront, known as ‘Seafood Street’.

3) The Chi Lin Nunnery, a large Buddhist temple complex located in Diamond Hill.

4) A hidden gem: the Sai Wan Swimming Shed (map).

Swimming sheds were built along the seashore and provided changing rooms and wooden piers for swimmers. The Sai Wan Swimming Shed is the only shed that is still in service in Hong Kong.

5) Hike up to The Peak for a fabulous view.

Victoria Peak is a mountain in the western half of Hong Kong Island. It is also known as Mount Austin, and locally as The Peak.

6) Take the Star Ferry!”

About Hong Kong

Hong Kong is an autonomous territory, and former British colony, in southeastern China.

It is a place with multiple personalities. Its vibrant, densely populated urban center is a major port and global financial hub with a skyscraper-studded skyline.

It is easy to fly into Hong Kong as Hong Kong has become a major tourism destination for China’s increasingly affluent mainland population and it’s a major shopping destination, famed for bespoke tailors and Temple Street Night Market.

Hong Kong is a unique destination that has absorbed people and cultural influences from places as diverse as Vietnam to Vancouver and proudly proclaims itself to be Asia’s World City.

Tip: if you have limited time to explore Hong Kong, take the hop-on hop-off bus as a convenient way to explore the city.

Moving Abroad: Moving to Asia

Are you thinking about moving to Asia?

Then also read my interview with an expat living in Zhengzhou, China, an expat in Shanghai, an expat living in Vietnam, and an expat living in South Korea.

Also Read:

• Why Moving Abroad is Such a Valuable Experience
• Things to Consider Before Moving to a New Country
• Things to Do Before Moving Abroad – A Checklist

 

Like this article about an expat life in Hong Kong? Pin it!

 

This blog about life in Hong Kong contains an affiliate link. I may receive a commission for purchases made through this link, at no additional cost to you.