Navigating Hong Kong: A First-Timer’s Handbook
Hong Kong is a vibrant and dynamic city, blending Eastern and Western cultures, making it an exciting place for expats. Navigating Hong Kong when you first arrive can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, you'll quickly feel at home. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you settle in.
1. Arrival and Immigration
Visa Requirements
Ensure you have the correct visa for your stay, whether it’s a work, study, or dependent visa.
If you’re arriving on a tourist visa but plan to work, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa before starting employment.
Airport to City
Airport Express: The fastest way to reach the city, with stops at Tsing Yi, Kowloon, and Hong Kong Station.
Buses: Cheaper option with multiple routes connecting the airport to different parts of Hong Kong.
Taxis: Convenient but pricier. Color-coded taxis serve different areas:
Red: Urban areas.
Green: New Territories.
Blue: Lantau Island.
2. Accommodation
Short-Term Options: Serviced apartments like Ovolo or Airbnb can be convenient while house-hunting.
Long-Term Housing: Popular expat areas include:
Central & Mid-Levels: Close to business districts, upscale living.
Discovery Bay: Family-friendly with green spaces.
Sai Kung: Coastal area, great for nature lovers.
Kowloon: Affordable apartments with a bustling vibe.
Key Tips:
Work with a real estate agent.
Check if your lease includes management fees and utilities.
3. Transportation
Octopus Card
Essential for public transport, convenience stores, and even dining. Get one at the airport or any MTR station.
Public Transport
MTR (Subway): Fast, clean, and efficient. The backbone of Hong Kong’s transport system.
Buses & Mini-Buses: Great for areas not covered by the MTR. Mini-buses have fixed routes but require a basic understanding of Cantonese or route numbers.
Trams ("Ding Dings"): Iconic and budget-friendly for travel on Hong Kong Island.
Ferries: Essential for reaching outlying islands like Lantau or Lamma.
Taxis: Affordable compared to many global cities; cash or Octopus accepted.
4. Setting Up Essentials
Mobile and Internet
Major providers: SmarTone, CSL, 3HK, and China Mobile.
Prepaid SIM cards are readily available, or sign up for postpaid plans with proof of ID and address.
Banking
Popular banks: HSBC, Standard Chartered, Hang Seng, and Citibank.
Documents needed: Passport, proof of address, and employment contract (sometimes).
Many expats prefer multi-currency accounts for easy international transactions.
Healthcare
Hong Kong has a high-quality healthcare system.
Public Hospitals: Affordable but long wait times.
Private Clinics: Faster service but pricier.
Insurance: Many expats are covered by employer-provided private health insurance.
5. Everyday Living
Groceries
Local Markets: Affordable fresh produce, seafood, and meat.
Supermarkets: Wellcome, ParknShop, and CitySuper for international products.
Specialty Stores: GREAT Food Hall and Oliver’s for imported goods.
Dining
Local Cuisine: Try dim sum, wonton noodles, and roasted meats.
Street Food: Egg waffles, curry fish balls, and pineapple buns are must-haves.
Expat Favorites: Soho and Lan Kwai Fong (Central) are hubs for international cuisine and nightlife.
Language
While Cantonese is the primary language, English is widely spoken, especially in business settings.
Learning basic Cantonese phrases can be helpful for daily interactions.
6. Socializing and Networking
Expat Communities
Join online forums or groups like Internations, AsiaXpat, or Facebook expat groups to meet people and get local advice.
Co-working spaces like WeWork and The Hive often host networking events.
Clubs and Activities
Sports: Join clubs for hiking, rugby, or dragon boat racing.
Arts: Explore classes at community centers or visit Hong Kong’s numerous galleries and theaters.
Volunteering: Opportunities with organizations like HandsOn Hong Kong or Crossroads Foundation.
7. Cultural Etiquette
Greetings: A simple handshake is standard.
Business Cards: Always exchange with both hands and take a moment to read the card.
Respect for Elders: A core value in Chinese culture.
Dining: Avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, as it symbolizes offerings to the dead.
8. Exploring the City
Must-See Attractions
Victoria Peak: Stunning views of the city.
Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade: Iconic skyline views.
Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery: Cultural and scenic landmark.
Lan Kwai Fong: Nightlife central.
Outdoor Activities
Explore the Dragon’s Back trail or the beaches of Repulse Bay and Shek O.
Visit the outlying islands like Cheung Chau for a day trip.
9. Dealing with Challenges
Cost of Living
Rent is the biggest expense. Consider sharing accommodation to reduce costs.
Dining at local eateries is affordable compared to international restaurants.
Weather
Summers are hot and humid, while winters are mild.
Be prepared for typhoon season (June to October).
Cultural Adjustment
Crowded spaces and fast-paced living can take time to get used to.
Embrace the mix of tradition and modernity for a rewarding experience.
10. Useful Apps
Citymapper: For public transport directions.
Deliveroo/Foodpanda: Food delivery.
Flowersby.com: Flower delivery.
HKTaxi: To book taxis easily.
PayMe/AlipayHK: For cashless payments.
Hong Kong’s energy, culture, and opportunities make it a fantastic place to live. With its efficient infrastructure and welcoming expat community, settling in is easier than it seems. Embrace the adventure and enjoy all that this unique city has to offer!
