Digital Nomad Life 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," said one person in 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 person in Hong Kong.

"Lives seem to revolve around work and money. People are here to work hard and earn as much money as they can," said one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

"Choosing where to live is very personal. I used to live on a university campus where there was a great sense of community without the feeling of being in some sort of expat clique. I now live in a well-managed housing estate with excellent security and friendly staff but no sense of community. If you are an expat and want community, you may well have to accept being more separated from the local culture. It is a fact of life here that local people do not mix in the same way as back home. Do not be offended by this - it is a cultural norm, and not aimed at expats. My in-laws were truly shocked (not to mention my first next-door-neighbour, 16 years ago) when I went to the flat next door to introduce myself and invite the neighbours round for coffee. I still surprise them with my weird expat ways, but it doesn't matter - I decided long ago to be myself and to accept my neighbours as they were. It seems to work nicely all round," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Hong Kong.

"Finding a place to live in Hong Kong can be a daunting task. The best way to start is to research the different neighborhoods and districts in the city to determine which one best suits your needs. You can also look into the different types of housing available, such as apartments, condos, and houses. Once you have narrowed down your search, you can use online resources such as property listings, classifieds, and real estate agents to find a place that fits your budget and lifestyle. Additionally, you can also look into short-term rental options such as Airbnb or hostels. Finally, it is important to consider the cost of living in Hong Kong, as it is one of the most expensive cities in the world," explained one person 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," remarked one foreigner 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 person living in Hong Kong.

"Expats in Hong Kong appreciate the city's vibrant energy and the unique blend of East and West cultures. They also enjoy the city's diverse food scene, with a variety of cuisines from all over the world. Additionally, expats appreciate the city's efficient public transportation system, which makes getting around easy and convenient. Furthermore, expats enjoy the city's many outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and swimming, as well as its many cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and temples. Finally, expats appreciate the city's friendly and welcoming people, who are always willing to help out newcomers," said one person in Hong Kong.

"people are friendly and polite most of the time. Hong Kong is very clean in most respects (not the ocean or the air though), and is very safe. It has excellent public transport and english signage, and is easy to explore. I do live on Hong Kong island which is expat friendly though, and I am sure this is why it sometimes gets called "Asia lite"," remarked one foreigner who made the move 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," said one person in Hong Kong.

"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," said one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

"If you plan to stay in Hong Kong for a while, you will need to apply for a visa or residence permit. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) visa, a Hong Kong Identity Card, or a Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card. You may also need to provide proof of your financial means, health insurance, and other documents," explained one person living 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," 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 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," remarked one member in Hong Kong.

"Hong Kong has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all Hong Kong residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally high, with a wide range of medical facilities and services available. Foreign residents are also able to access the public healthcare system, although they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Hong Kong can use the public healthcare system by registering with a local clinic and paying the applicable fees. In addition, many expats opt to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," said one digital nomad in Hong Kong.

"I have lived in HK for 28 years. I've face discrimination mainly from local Hong Kong people. It is quite safe to live in HK until they started the protest in 2014 and again in 2019 which led now to passing the National Security Law. A lot of foreigners have left HK as well as local Chinese to go to the UK. Public Healthcare is almost free and very good. I have delivered two of my kids in Queen Mary Hospital and I couldn't recommend them enough for the quality of health care received from the doctors. Just don't expect compassion from the nurses and staff in the ward. They are very cold and soulless. School is terrible if you enroll in local/public school as the main language is Cantonese. The homework is overloaded and there is no sports/recreation subject. It's all very tough for young minds," said one foreigner in Hongkong.

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the vibrant energy of Hong Kong, with its bustling streets, diverse culture, and exciting nightlife. They also enjoy the convenience of the city's efficient public transportation system and the availability of international cuisine. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the high cost of living and the lack of space in the city to be a challenge. Additionally, the air pollution and humidity can be a deterrent for some," remarked one member in Hong Kong.