Digital Nomad Life in Sai Kung, Hong Kong

"Finding a place to live in Sai Kung involves several steps. First, you need to determine your budget. This will help you narrow down your options and make your search more efficient. Next, you should research the different neighborhoods in Sai Kung. Some areas may be more residential, while others may be closer to shops and restaurants. Consider your lifestyle and preferences when choosing a neighborhood. Once you have a general idea of where you want to live, you can start looking for available properties. There are several online real estate platforms that you can use, such as 99.co, Squarefoot, and Spacious. These websites allow you to filter properties based on location, price, size, and other features. You can also hire a real estate agent to help you with your search. An agent can provide you with insider knowledge about the market, negotiate prices on your behalf, and handle paperwork. Make sure to choose an agent who is familiar with Sai Kung and has a good reputation. When you find a property that you're interested in, arrange a viewing. This will give you a chance to inspect the property in person and ask any questions you may have. If you're satisfied with the property, you can make an offer. In Hong Kong, it's common to negotiate the price, so don't be afraid to haggle. Once your offer is accepted, you'll need to sign a tenancy agreement and pay a deposit. The deposit is usually equivalent to two months' rent. Finally, before you move in, you should arrange for utilities to be connected, such as electricity, water, and internet. You may also need to arrange for a moving company to transport your belongings. Remember, finding a place to live can take time, so be patient and don't rush the process," remarked one member in Sai Kung.

"Expats in Sai Kung often appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local community. They enjoy the vibrant mix of traditional and modern culture that is evident in the local festivals, food, and architecture. The laid-back lifestyle and slower pace of life in Sai Kung compared to the bustling city center of Hong Kong is also a major draw for many expats. They also appreciate the natural beauty of the area, with its stunning beaches, hiking trails, and outdoor activities. The local seafood market and dining scene are also highly appreciated for their freshness and variety. The ease of getting around, with efficient public transportation and walkability, is another aspect of Sai Kung life that expats value. Lastly, the safety and cleanliness of the area are also highly valued by the expat community," said one person in Sai Kung.

"Expats in Sai Kung 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 speaks English. The high cost of living can also be a significant challenge, particularly when it comes to housing. The fast-paced lifestyle and work culture in Hong Kong can be overwhelming for some expats, as can the high population density and lack of personal space. The local food can also be a challenge for some, as it is very different from Western cuisine. Additionally, understanding and navigating the local customs and etiquette can be difficult for those unfamiliar with Chinese culture. Lastly, the humid subtropical climate of Hong Kong can be uncomfortable for those used to cooler, drier climates," said one person in Sai Kung.

"If you are planning to stay in Sai Kung 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 plan 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. For studying, you will need a student visa. The applicant must have been accepted into a recognized full-time education program in Hong Kong. If you are planning to invest or start a business, you will need an Investment Visa. This is part of the Capital Investment Entrant Scheme, which is for foreign entrepreneurs who plan to invest in Hong Kong businesses. For those who wish to stay with family, a Dependant Visa is needed. This is for the spouse or unmarried dependent children under the age of 18 of a person who is a Hong Kong resident. In all cases, you will need a valid passport. The processing time for visa applications can vary, so it is recommended to apply well in advance of your planned arrival in Hong Kong," said one expat who made the move to Sai Kung.

"In Sai Kung, it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics, especially issues related to China and Hong Kong's relationship. It's considered rude to point with your index finger, so use your whole hand instead. When using chopsticks, don't stick them vertically into your bowl of rice as it's associated with funerals. Also, don't tap your chopsticks on the edge of your bowl, as it's seen as a sign of begging. Avoid touching people's heads as it's considered disrespectful, the head is seen as the most sacred part of the body. When giving or receiving gifts or business cards, use both hands as it's seen as a sign of respect. Also, it's customary to inspect a business card carefully before putting it away, as a sign of respect towards the person who gave it to you. Avoid wearing white or black to weddings as these colors are associated with funerals. Red is considered a lucky color and is often worn at celebrations. Lastly, remember to respect personal space and avoid excessive physical contact, especially with people you've just met," said one expat in Sai Kung.