Living in Hong Kong

"Try and get out and meet people as soon as you can. I think that makes a big difference in your settling into any country. I would also recommend taking a positive attitude. The crowds, pollution and lifestyle can wear you down over time. Look at it as an adventure and a life time experience and it will be! Here is a list of potential items to bring: PERSONAL H&B PRODUCTS: Allergenic soap substitutes (for people with eczema etc) Bug spray is available but expensive Cosmetics – most imported cosmetics are double here. Some brands that you will recognize are actually formulated differently for the Asian completion. Deodorant /anti perspiring – epically non-fragrance ones Razors for men and women Sanitary pads Suntan lotion Tampons Vitamin E Cream Vitamins/supplements MEDICAL: Advil or Ibuprofen Anti-bacterial cream, antacid, etc. Cold / flu medicines First Aid equipment -like savlon spray or cream, sulpha powder, dressings etc Prescription drugs. CLOTHING: Athletic socks Diapers (disposable ones) are very expensive. Cloth ones not available. Panty-hose Pictures of clothes styles that you as tailors are quite reasonable Shoes – casual, dress, and sport Sports clothes Swimwear Underwear (ladies’ and men’s) STATIONARY – PAPER: Art supplies (i.e. construction paper, glitter, Popsicle sticks, and pipe cleaners) Books Christmas cards Dictionaries Lots of "busy" work – jigsaw puzzles, games Photos of loved ones School supplies Stamps from your country (if you send things through company mail) KITCHEN PRODUCTS/TOOLS: Blender, food processor, mixer. Chicken stock (local product has MSG) Cocoa powder - very expensive Coffee or Coffee Beans and grinder! (Starbuck’s due June 2000) Comfort food (i.e. cereal, pasta, spices, fruit roll ups, etc.) Fondue pot/equipment Garbage bags for kitchen made of plastic net (as in Japan) Coffee machine Pans for baking cakes or cookie sheets/tins, and muffin tins Poppy Seeds Raclette machine Seeds to grow one's own basil or other herbs Sesame seeds Some kitchenware like peeler, spatulas, thermometers and whisks Packet mix for casseroles and dips, etc Vegetable shortening for baking is available here but quite expensive. Weber Grill CD ROMs Printer cartridges Full Size bath towels Nice sheets/linen," said one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

"Before retiring in Hong Kong, expats should be aware of the cost of living, which is generally higher than in other parts of the world. It is important to research the different types of visas available and the associated requirements for each. Expats should also be aware of the language barrier, as English is not widely spoken in Hong Kong. Additionally, expats should familiarize themselves with the local culture and customs, as well as the local laws and regulations. Finally, expats should consider the availability of healthcare services and the quality of healthcare in Hong Kong," explained one expat living in Hong Kong.

"Expats in Hong Kong often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people through networking events, online forums, and social media groups. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join local churches, volunteer organizations, and professional associations. These activities provide a great way to meet people and build relationships in the local community," commented one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

"Lives seem to revolve around work and money. People are here to work hard and earn as much money as they can," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

"Living in Hong Kong as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is a vibrant and cosmopolitan hub, with a diverse range of cultures and cuisines. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many attractions, from its world-class shopping and dining to its stunning skyline and stunning beaches. The city also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury apartments to budget-friendly hostels. The cost of living in Hong Kong is relatively high, but the city's excellent public transport system makes it easy to get around. Expats and digital nomads can also benefit from the city's excellent healthcare system and its strong economy," said one expat in Hong Kong.

"Hong Kong is generally considered to be a safe city, with low levels of crime. However, there have been reports of pickpocketing, burglary, and other petty crimes in certain areas. The Hong Kong Police Force works hard to ensure the safety of citizens and visitors alike," remarked one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

"Hong Kong is a diverse city with a population made up of people from many different backgrounds. People from all over the world, including mainland China, India, the Philippines, and other countries, have made Hong Kong their home. The city is also home to a variety of religions, including Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam. In general, people in Hong Kong are accepting of differences and are tolerant of different cultures and beliefs," said one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

"Most of the people living here are Chinese- something like 97%. We have found it hard to get into the local scene here. However the expat scene is very tight. All expats we have met have been very accepting of differences and open to new people. Language can be a barrier to getting to know local people. You can get around very easy just knowing English but you will have a harder time getting yourself in the local culture without knowing the language," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

"Yew Chung is a good choice if you are Christian, as they have a moral education division and their own pastor. However, they welcome all faiths. They emphasise social responsibility as well as academic performance. It is a good school if you want your children to learn the culture and language without the pressure of the local Chinese schools, but expat children may feel a little isolated by the language barrier with the other children - note, though, that use of English in the classroom is strictly enforced and use of English during play time is often rewarded. It is also a good school for balancing academic achievement with the joy of learning. Children are taught independent learning and responsibility for their own performance. My daughter loves it there. However, the school is very expensive and could only be considered if you have a good income or package. They do run scolarship programmes and if more than one child is enrolled the price for the second and third child drops," commented one expat when asked about Yew Chung International in Kowloon.

"Hong Kong is home to some of the best international and bilingual schools in the world. The International School of Hong Kong (ISHK) is a leading international school in the city, offering a comprehensive curriculum from pre-school to secondary school. It is accredited by the Council of International Schools and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, and offers a range of international qualifications, including the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Another top international school in Hong Kong is the French International School, which offers a bilingual education in French and English. It is accredited by the French Ministry of Education and the Council of International Schools, and offers the French Baccalaureate and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The German Swiss International School is another top international school in Hong Kong, offering a bilingual education in German and English. It is accredited by the German Ministry of Education and the Council of International Schools, and offers the German Abitur and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. Finally, the Chinese International School is a top bilingual school in Hong Kong, offering a bilingual education in Chinese and English. It is accredited by the Hong Kong Education Bureau and the Council of International Schools, and offers the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme," explained one expat in Hong Kong with kids at .

"If they are young enough I would chose a chinese school any day over a western school. The number one consideration is learning the language. There is no easy way to learn the characters so they are rote learnt. The drawback to this is the schools apply this to everything else so people grow up only able to rote learn rather than accumulate knowledge. It is quite obvious when you see them driving here. They are subject also to greater levels of discipline than is seen in the west and local parents are a tad overzealous in making their children the "Best" .," wrote an expat living in Ningbo with children attending Qin Lin Wan School.

"Beware. I cannot recommend this school unless you are an orthodox Jew who wants your children to be cut off from the vibrancy and diversity of Hong Kong. The teachers are poorly compensated and the school prefers local hires instead of traditional recruiting. This school was the worst mistake I have made on my family's behalf and I am not alone in this sentiment. Of course this is my opinion, I encourage you to examine the school and make your own decision. Keep the inconsistent class sizes in mind as well as the teacher turnover," said one commented one expat when asked about Carmel School in Hong Kong.

"The cost of living in Hong Kong is generally high, with rent and food prices being particularly expensive. Transportation is relatively affordable, however, and there are plenty of options for entertainment and leisure activities. Overall, the cost of living in Hong Kong is higher than in many other cities around the world," commented one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

"The cost of living in Hong Kong is generally high, with prices for goods and services being higher than in other parts of the country. Areas such as Central, Causeway Bay, and Tsim Sha Tsui are particularly expensive, with rental prices for a nice 1 bedroom apartment ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 USD per month, and a nice 2 bedroom apartment ranging from $3,000 to $4,500 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Hong Kong can cost around $20 USD per person," remarked one expat living in Hong Kong.

"Residents of Hong Kong enjoy a wide variety of recreational facilities, including public parks, beaches, and sports facilities. There are also numerous cultural and entertainment venues, such as museums, art galleries, cinemas, and theatres. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are plenty of hiking trails, cycling paths, and other outdoor activities. For those who prefer to stay indoors, there are plenty of shopping malls, restaurants, and other leisure activities. Hong Kong also has a vibrant nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues," commented one expat living in Hong Kong.

"The weather in Hong Kong is usually warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit throughout the year. The city experiences a subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. Rainfall is common throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and June," said one expat living in Hong Kong.

"One of the most popular restaurants in Hong Kong is the Michelin-starred Yan Toh Heen. Located in the InterContinental Hong Kong, this Cantonese restaurant offers exquisite dim sum and seafood dishes. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a stunning view of Victoria Harbour. Another popular restaurant is the two-Michelin-starred Lung King Heen. Located in the Four Seasons Hotel, this Cantonese restaurant is renowned for its dim sum and seafood dishes. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a stunning view of Victoria Harbour. The three-Michelin-starred Bo Innovation is another popular restaurant in Hong Kong. Located in the Jardine's Lookout area, this restaurant offers a unique take on traditional Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a stunning view of Victoria Harbour. The two-Michelin-starred Sushi Shikon is another popular restaurant in Hong Kong. Located in the Landmark Mandarin Oriental, this sushi restaurant offers an exquisite selection of sushi and sashimi. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a stunning view of Victoria Harbour. Finally, the two-Michelin-starred Amber is another popular restaurant in Hong Kong. Located in the Landmark Mandarin Oriental, this French restaurant offers an exquisite selection of French cuisine. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a stunning view of Victoria Harbour," commented one expat living in Hong Kong.

"People living in Hong Kong typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, wet markets, convenience stores, and department stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are many specialty stores and boutiques throughout the city that offer unique items," remarked one expat in Hong Kong.

"In order to visit Hong Kong, visitors must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, and other supporting documents such as proof of financial means and a return ticket. In order to obtain residency in Hong Kong, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, proof of financial means, and other supporting documents such as a police clearance certificate. The application process also requires applicants to attend an interview with the Immigration Department. After the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residence permit," said one expat living in Hong Kong.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Hong Kong can be expensive. Private healthcare is generally more expensive than public healthcare, and health insurance premiums can be high. The cost of medical treatment can also be high, especially for more complex treatments. Additionally, the cost of medication can be expensive, and many people opt to purchase medication from overseas to save money," said an expat in Hong Kong.