Hong Kong
What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Hong Kong. They wrote...
"Expats in Hong Kong often find the local culture to be quite different from their own, which can be challenging to adjust to. The fast-paced lifestyle and the high cost of living can be difficult to get used to. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken in Hong Kong. Furthermore, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to understand, as they are quite different from those of other countries. Finally, the lack of personal space and the crowded public transportation can be overwhelming for expats," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to Hong Kong.
"I am not overly fond of cantonese food (except dim sum), but there are so many eating options here it is not a problem. The lack of environmental awareness amongst most Hong Kongers is worrying. The obsession with conspicuous wealth, big shiny cars, designer brands etc is a bit much for someone like me who lives in shorts and thongs (flip flops), and owns one handbag of unknown brand! Local kids are hard to make friends with as they seem to always be at tutoring of some sort. The local education system is fundamentally flawed and very stressful I imagine," commented one expat who made the move to Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Hong Kong?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Hong Kong?
- Will I be able to find a job in Hong Kong?
- What is life like in Hong Kong?
- What do expats in Hong Kong appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- 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?
- What are healthcare services like in Hong Kong?
- What are medical services in Hong Kong like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Hong Kong?
- What are emergency services like in Hong Kong?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Hong Kong?
- How are local medical facilities in Hong Kong?
- As a foreigner living in Hong Kong, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
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.
