What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Hong Kong?
We asked people in Hong Kong if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"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 beginning your own meal. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of religious beliefs and practices, and to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking loudly in public," said another 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," wrote a member who made the move to Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Hong Kong?
- How do I meet people in Hong Kong?
- What is life like in Hong Kong?
- Is there a lot of crime in Hong Kong?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Hong Kong accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Hong Kong like?
- Is the cost of living in Hong Kong high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Hong Kong?
- What are healthcare services like in Hong Kong?
- Is the cost of living in Hong Kong high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Hong Kong?
- What is the weather like in Hong Kong?
- Are there good restaurants in Hong Kong?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Hong Kong?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Hong Kong?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Hong Kong?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Hong Kong?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Hong Kong?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Hong Kong?
If you live in Hong Kong, newcomers to Hong Kong would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.