Moving to Hong Kong

"As I said before, just think about your priorities. Make a list. For example, is a spacious apartment more important than having Starbuck's outside your door? Do you want to be near the beach or would you rather have a shorter commute to work? Each area in HK has it's own flavor and, like any other city, it's plusses and negatives. Just think about what's most important to you, discuss with your family (if applicable) and your real estate agent. There's such a variety here, you'll be likely to find something that will meet (most) of your needs. Once you are here, get involved with local expat organizations, the YWCA, etc. And there are also lots of charities that welcome volunteers. These are great ways to meet people and stay active," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

"Before moving to Hong Kong, expats should be aware of the high cost of living. It is important to research the different neighborhoods and find one that best suits their needs. 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 laws and regulations of the city. Finally, expats should make sure to obtain the necessary visas and permits before moving to Hong Kong," said one expat in Hong Kong.

"We used a relocation company/agent to help us find our first neighborhood and apartment. It was great - but full of other expats. We wish we would have lived in an area with more local culture. Newcomers will want to think about that - do they want more local culture or comforts from home?," said one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

"Finding a place to live in Hong Kong can be a daunting task. It is important to research the different neighborhoods and districts to find the best fit for your lifestyle. You can start by looking at online listings such as Craigslist, Expat.com, and AsiaXPAT. Additionally, you can look for rental agencies that specialize in Hong Kong properties. These agencies can provide you with a list of available properties and help you find the best fit for your needs. Additionally, you can look for local newspapers and magazines that list rental properties. Finally, you can also ask friends and family who live in Hong Kong for advice and recommendations," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

"Our first apartment was a very nice, large (for HK) apartment in an expat neighborhood (MidLevels). Yes, I think most expats live in this area. The apartments in this area are generally Westernized (for example, they have ovens - many HK apartments do not!). I'd recommend the area to newcomers, then they can assess if they want a more walkable area with local culture (as we did). But we are happy that we started in MidLevels," remarked one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

"Expat homes and apartments in Hong Kong are typically modern and luxurious, with high-end appliances and furnishings. Many expat homes and apartments have spectacular views of the city skyline, and some even have access to private outdoor spaces. Expat homes and apartments often come with amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and concierge services. Expats in Hong Kong also have access to a wide range of international schools, shopping malls, and restaurants," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

"Housing costs are astronomically higher in HK than in the USA. I can't really say what the average cost is, as there is a large range depending on the neighborhood and size of the apartment. But it is much higher even than, for example, NYC. Most companies will subsidize housing, at least partially, even if you are a local hire," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

"Buying a home in Hong Kong can be a great investment, as property prices in the city are generally high and have been steadily increasing over the years. However, it is important to consider the cost of living in Hong Kong, which is also high, and the availability of housing, which can be limited. Renting a home in Hong Kong can be a more affordable option, and it can also provide more flexibility if you are not sure how long you will be staying in the city. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Hong Kong will depend on your individual circumstances and budget," said one expat in Hong Kong.

"We had friends living here who advised us well on what to bring. We did bring way too much furniture though. HK apartments are generally smaller than apartments/houses in the USA and you won't need as much furniture. Plus, it's fun to have furniture custom-made here, so you will want to be able to have room for that! DO bring your beds and bed linens, though. Leave all of your appliances in the USA - you'll need a transformer to work them and it's not worth it," remarked one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

"When moving to Hong Kong, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and lifestyle. Bring comfortable clothing that is suitable for the hot and humid weather, such as light, breathable fabrics. Pack a few items of warm clothing for the cooler months. Bring a good pair of walking shoes, as Hong Kong is a very walkable city. Don’t forget to bring your passport, visa, and other important documents. It is also a good idea to bring a few items from home to make your new place feel more like home. Finally, make sure to bring any necessary medications and toiletries," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

"We actually brought our suitcases and rented furniture. It was easy, everything was new, and we even got to select fabrics and colors and sizes. Better, we were able to rent curtains (homes do not have them), televisions, and light fixtures (another bizarre element). There are 2 companies that rent - Indigo and Home Essentials. We chose Home Essentials as they were more flexible and lower priced for the same stuff," said one expat in Hong Kong.

"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Hong Kong. It is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to gesture with your whole hand. It is also important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to eating. For example, it is considered polite to wait for the oldest person at the table to start eating before you begin. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices. For example, it is considered disrespectful to take photos of people praying in temples. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly in public," said one expat in Hong Kong.

"probably! But can't recall them - I am not easily embarrassed. I tend to assume the best intentions in others, and so I guess i expect people to reciprocate and overlook any unintentional blunders. A smile, and a few cantonese words works wonders," remarked one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

"Hong Kong is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, excellent infrastructure, and low taxes. The city is a major financial hub and offers a wide range of job opportunities. Additionally, the city is home to a diverse population, making it a great place to meet people from all over the world. The city also offers a high quality of life, with excellent public transportation, world-class healthcare, and a wide range of leisure activities. Finally, Hong Kong is a safe and secure city, making it an ideal place to live and work," replied one expat when asked about moving to Hong Kong.

"Healthcare services in Hong Kong are known for their high quality and efficiency, with a well-developed public and private healthcare system. The public healthcare system is heavily subsidized by the government, providing affordable and comprehensive medical services to residents. Public hospitals and clinics are widely accessible, offering a range of services including primary care, specialist consultations, and emergency care. The private healthcare sector in Hong Kong is also well-established, offering a more personalized and prompt service to patients who can afford it. Private hospitals and clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and internationally trained medical professionals, catering to both local and expatriate communities. In addition to Western medicine, traditional Chinese medicine is also widely practiced and integrated into the healthcare system, with many residents seeking alternative treatments and therapies. Pharmacies are easily accessible, and most medications can be obtained over the counter without a prescription. Overall, Hong Kong's healthcare services are highly regarded for their quality, accessibility, and efficiency, ensuring that residents have access to top-notch medical care," wrote one expat living in Hong Kong.

"Medical services in Hong Kong are known for their high quality and efficiency. The city has a well-developed healthcare system, which includes both public and private sectors. Public hospitals and clinics are managed by the Hospital Authority, providing affordable and comprehensive services to residents. These facilities are equipped with modern technology and staffed by highly trained medical professionals. In addition to public healthcare, Hong Kong also has a thriving private healthcare sector, with numerous private hospitals and clinics offering a wide range of medical services. These private facilities often cater to patients seeking specialized treatments, shorter waiting times, and more personalized care. Many medical professionals in Hong Kong have received training from prestigious institutions around the world, ensuring a high standard of care. Hong Kong's healthcare system also includes traditional Chinese medicine, which is integrated into the overall medical services. This allows patients to choose between Western and traditional Chinese treatments, or even combine both approaches for a more holistic approach to healthcare. Pharmacies are widely available throughout the city, providing easy access to prescription and over-the-counter medications. In case of emergencies, Hong Kong has a well-coordinated ambulance service and emergency departments in public hospitals that are open 24/7. Overall, medical services in Hong Kong are reliable, efficient, and easily accessible, ensuring that residents and visitors can receive the care they need when they need it," offered one expat living in Hong Kong.