Digital Nomad Life in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Summary: Digital nomads and expats talk about what it is like to live in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong. Get tips from others living in Causeway Bay about where to live, how to find a place to live, pros and cons of living in Causeway Bay and more.
Where should I live in Causeway Bay?
We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Finding a place to live in Causeway Bay involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget. This will help you narrow down your options as the cost of living in Causeway Bay can be quite high. Next, you should decide on the type of accommodation you want. This could be an apartment, a serviced apartment, or a shared house. If you're planning to stay for a long time, renting an apartment might be the best option. However, if you're only staying for a short period, a serviced apartment or a shared house might be more suitable. Once you've decided on your budget and the type of accommodation, you can start your search. There are several online platforms where you can find listings for rental properties in Causeway Bay. These include websites like 99.co, Squarefoot, and Spacious. You can also use a real estate agent to help you find a place. They can provide you with options that match your criteria and arrange viewings for you. However, keep in mind that you'll need to pay a commission if you choose to use an agent. When you find a place you like, make sure to visit it in person before making a decision. This will allow you to check the condition of the property and the surrounding area. Once you've found a place you're happy with, you'll need to negotiate the terms of the lease with the landlord. This will include the rent, the length of the lease, and any other conditions. Finally, once you've agreed on the terms, you'll need to sign the lease and pay the deposit and the first month's rent. Make sure to read the lease carefully before signing it to ensure you understand all the terms and conditions. Remember, finding a place to live in Causeway Bay can take time, so it's best to start your search well in advance of when you plan to move," said one expat who made the move to Causeway Bay.
What do people appreciate most about the culture in Causeway Bay?
"Expats in Causeway Bay often appreciate the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of the area, which is filled with a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. They also value the local culture's emphasis on family and community, which is evident in the many festivals and events that take place throughout the year. The local food culture, with its diverse range of cuisines and street food, is another aspect that expats enjoy. They also appreciate the efficient public transportation system, which makes it easy to explore the city and its surroundings. The blend of Eastern and Western influences in Causeway Bay, from architecture to lifestyle, is another aspect that expats find appealing. Lastly, the locals' respect for tradition and their welcoming attitude towards foreigners is something that expats in Causeway Bay truly appreciate," said one person in Causeway Bay.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What do people find most challenging about the culture in Causeway Bay?
"Expats in Causeway Bay often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. While English is widely spoken in the business world, it is less common in everyday life, making simple tasks like grocery shopping or asking for directions more difficult. Another challenge is the high cost of living, particularly in terms of housing. Hong Kong is one of the most expensive cities in the world, and this can be a shock for expats who are not prepared for it. The fast-paced lifestyle can also be a challenge for expats. Hong Kong is a bustling city with a work culture that often involves long hours and high levels of stress. This can be a significant adjustment for those used to a more laid-back lifestyle. Additionally, the dense population and lack of personal space can be overwhelming for some expats. Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated places in the world, and this can lead to feelings of claustrophobia or discomfort, especially for those used to more spacious living conditions. Finally, adapting to the local food can also be a challenge for some expats. While Hong Kong offers a wide variety of international cuisine, the local food is predominantly Cantonese and may be very different from what expats are used to," remarked one member in Causeway Bay.
What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Causeway Bay for a while?
"If you are planning to stay in Causeway Bay for a while, the type of visa or residency document you need will depend on your purpose of stay and your nationality. If you are visiting as a tourist, many nationalities can enter Hong Kong without a visa for a period ranging from 7 to 180 days, depending on the nationality. However, if your country is not on the visa-exemption list, you will need to apply for a tourist visa. If you are planning to work or study in Hong Kong, you will need to apply for a work or student visa respectively. The work visa requires a job offer from a Hong Kong company, while the student visa requires an acceptance letter from a Hong Kong educational institution. If you are planning to stay in Hong Kong for a longer period, you may consider applying for a residency visa. This can be done through the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, which is points-based and favors individuals with professional skills and experience. In all cases, you should apply for the necessary visa or permit before you arrive in Hong Kong. The application can be done online or at the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate. You will need to provide various documents, such as your passport, proof of financial support, and proof of accommodation. Please note that the visa requirements can change, so it's always a good idea to check the latest information from the Hong Kong Immigration Department or your local Chinese embassy or consulate," explained one expat living in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.
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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Causeway Bay?
We asked people in Causeway Bay if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:
"In Causeway Bay, it is considered impolite to point with your index finger, instead, use your whole hand. Avoid discussing politics, especially the relationship between Hong Kong and China, as it can be a sensitive topic. Do not take photos of people without their permission, as it is seen as an invasion of privacy. When using chopsticks, do not stick them vertically into your bowl of rice as it is associated with funerals. Also, avoid tapping your chopsticks on the edge of your bowl, as it is considered rude. In public transportation, give up your seat for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with disabilities. Do not talk loudly on your phone or play music without headphones. When visiting temples, dress modestly and avoid taking pictures inside unless it's allowed. Also, do not touch any religious artifacts or statues. Tipping is not a common practice in Hong Kong, and it can sometimes be seen as insulting. However, in some high-end restaurants, a service charge may be added to your bill. Lastly, remember to respect personal space. Hong Kong is a densely populated city, but locals value their personal space. Avoid unnecessary physical contact, such as hugging or touching someone's arm during a conversation," explained one expat living in Causeway Bay, Hong Kong.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad 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.
Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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