Digital Nomad Life in Repulse Bay, Hong Kong

"Finding a place to live in Repulse Bay involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget. This will help you narrow down your options as Repulse Bay is known for its high-end residential properties. Next, you should decide on the type of accommodation you want. Repulse Bay offers a range of options from luxury apartments to detached houses. Once you have a clear idea of what you're looking for, you can start your search. There are several online real estate platforms that list properties for rent or sale in Repulse Bay. Websites like Squarefoot, 28Hse, and Spacious are popular choices. You can filter your search based on your preferences such as the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and other amenities. It's also a good idea to engage a real estate agent who specializes in Repulse Bay properties. They can provide you with expert advice and help you navigate the local real estate market. Once you've found a potential place, arrange a viewing. This will give you a better sense of the property's condition, its proximity to amenities, and the neighborhood. If you're satisfied with the property, you can proceed to negotiate the terms and conditions of the lease or purchase. Finally, once everything is agreed upon, you can sign the contract. Make sure to read it carefully and understand all the terms before signing. Remember, moving to a new place can be a complex process, so it's important to do your research and take your time to find the right place for you," said one expat in Repulse Bay.

"Expats in Repulse Bay often appreciate the local culture's emphasis on family and community. They enjoy the vibrant and diverse food scene, which offers a wide range of cuisines from traditional Cantonese to international dishes. Many expats also appreciate the local festivals and celebrations, which provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Hong Kong. The locals' respect for nature and the environment, as seen in the well-maintained beaches and parks, is another aspect that expats admire. The blend of Eastern and Western influences in the local culture, architecture, and lifestyle is also something that expats in Repulse Bay find appealing. Lastly, the safety and cleanliness of the area, coupled with the locals' politeness and helpfulness, make living in Repulse Bay a pleasant experience for many expats," remarked one member in Repulse Bay.

"Expats in Repulse Bay often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture, as Cantonese is the primary language spoken and not everyone is fluent in English. The high cost of living can also be a significant challenge, as Hong Kong is one of the most expensive cities in the world. The fast-paced lifestyle and work culture can be overwhelming for some, with long working hours and high expectations for productivity. Additionally, the dense population and lack of personal space can be a shock for those used to more spacious living conditions. Lastly, understanding and adapting to local customs and etiquette, such as gift-giving traditions and dining manners, can also pose a challenge for expats," said one person in Repulse Bay.

"If you are planning to stay in Repulse Bay for a while, the type of visa or residency document you need will depend on your purpose of stay. If you are visiting as a tourist, you may not need a visa if you come from one of the 170 countries and territories that are granted visa-free access to Hong Kong. The duration of stay ranges from 7 to 180 days, depending on nationality. If you are planning to work, you will need a work visa. The General Employment Policy (GEP) is for individuals who possess special skills, knowledge or experience of value to and not readily available in Hong Kong. The Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals (ASMTP) is for Chinese residents of the mainland who possess special skills, knowledge or experience of value to and not readily available in Hong Kong. If you are planning to study, you will need a student visa. This is applicable for individuals who have been accepted into a recognized education institution in Hong Kong. If you are planning to establish or join in a startup, you may apply for the Start-up Visa under the Entrepreneur visa category. If you are planning to invest in a business, you may apply for an Investment Visa under the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (CIES). If you are a dependent, you may apply for a Dependent Visa. This is applicable for the spouse or unmarried dependent children under the age of 18 of a person who is a Hong Kong resident or who has been admitted into Hong Kong to take up employment or study. If you are planning to retire, you may apply for a Retirement Visa. This is applicable for individuals who are over 60 years old, financially independent and have no criminal record. Please note that all visa applications are subject to approval by the Immigration Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your planned date of arrival," explained one expat living in Repulse Bay, Hong Kong.

"In Repulse Bay, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, especially issues related to China and Hong Kong's relationship. When visiting temples or religious sites, dress modestly and refrain from taking pictures without permission. It's also considered disrespectful to point at religious statues or touch them. In restaurants, don't stick your chopsticks upright in your rice bowl as it's associated with funerals. Also, if you're not using your chopsticks, place them on the chopstick rest or across your bowl or plate, not on the table. Avoid littering as Hong Kong has strict laws about cleanliness. Also, refrain from smoking in public places as it's banned in most areas. Hong Kong people value personal space, so avoid touching people unless you know them well. This includes avoiding patting someone on the back or touching someone's arm during conversation. When giving or receiving something, use both hands. This is seen as a sign of respect. Lastly, punctuality is highly valued in Hong Kong. Being late for appointments or meetings is considered rude and disrespectful," said one expat in Repulse Bay.