What do I need to know before retiring 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," explained one expat living in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

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"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," said another expat in Hong Kong.