Moving to HK in 2025? The Ultimate Expat Survivor Guide

SHORTCUTS: PRE-MOVE CHECKLIST · ARRIVAL · HOUSING · MEDICAL · SCHOOLS · JOBS AND MONEY · NIGHTLIFE · EVERYTHING ELSE · TL;DR

Important Phone Numbers:

  • Police / Fire / Ambulance: 999
  • Police Hotline: 2527 7177
  • Hong Kong Airport: 2181 8888
  • Suicide hotline: 2896 0000
  • International dial code: +852

Pre-Move Checklist

To Do:

  • Forward your mail: Set up forwarding for important accounts back home. Pro tip: get a Virtual Mailbox with scanning for key docs. Ask your old landlord to grab leftover mail.
  • Vaccinate: Hong Kong’s health standards are stellar, but PHAC recommends Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, Rabies (animal exposure), and Polio boosters.
  • Renew your driver’s license: Even if you’re car-free in HK, it’s handy for rentals in Asia.
  • Unlock your smartphone: So you can connect with any HK carrier—no surprises!
  • Bringing a pet? Plan way ahead! Get ALL paperwork completed and approved by the AFCD before your move—or Fido could face months in quarantine. Handle all immunizations before arrival.  Read the official AFCD procedure here.

Don’t forget to bring:

  • Credit/debit cards: Preferably no-foreign transaction fee cards. Even better? Cards that refund your ATM fees. Americans: Charles Schwab is a favorite.
  • Cash: Just in case your ATM card flakes out on Day 1. Any major currency is fine; exchange rates are good in HK (see the “Money” section).
  • Important docs: Birth/marriage certificates, medical records, academic achievements—the essentials.
  • Skincare stash: Bring a backup supply of favorites so you’re not searching stores during your first month.
  • Universal travel adapter: Same plugs as the UK! For everyone else, a compact adapter will save your gadgets. Airport shops will have them too.
  • Optional: Proof of home address (bank statements, utility bills), government-issued photo ID. You might open a bank account faster with these plus an employer letter, but you’ll soon get an HKID, a local address, and an employer letter anyway.

Packing tips:

  • Travel light! Hong Kong has almost everything you’ll need—including IKEA.
  • Sell or donate your old furniture and re-outfit in HK to avoid shipping headaches.
  • Exception: If you need extra-large shoes (Men’s US 14+ or EU52+) or clothing, bring them—they’re tricky to find locally.

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Arrival

  • Take it easy on Day 1—jet lag is real!
  • Octopus Card: Absolute essential. Available at the airport and every MTR station. Works for all public transport, many restaurants, 711s—you name it. Bonus: Just tap your wallet on the reader; no need to fumble for the card.
  • Prepaid SIM card: Grab one in the Arrivals Hall right after Customs. HKD85 gets you 30 days and 80GB data. You can switch to a real plan later (China Mobile = best bang for your buck).

Useful mobile apps to install

  • WhatsApp: Standard for personal and business chats.
  • Eatigo: Snag restaurant deals (up to 50% off).
  • HKTaxi: Order reliable, local cabs (Uber is hit-or-miss here and taxis are usually cheaper!).
  • TakeTaxi / Hong Kong Taxi Cards: Easy taxi communication tools, especially if you don’t speak Cantonese. Taxi Cards covers 9,000+ addresses (US$1.99).
  • Citymapper: Master the public transit maze—works in HK and other big cities.
  • Food Panda: Get meals delivered or for takeout with ease.
  • Hong Kong Weather: Official updates from HK Observatory; super useful for Typhoons!
  • Google Maps: Your best friend for navigation in the city.
  • Price.com.hk: Find the cheapest electronics around town.
  • Klook: Score travel discounts (including Airport Express deals!).
  • PayMe (by HSBC): Instantly send/receive money—HK’s answer to Venmo.
  • HK Immigration Department app: Handy info on visas and real-time update on Land Boundary Control Points.

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Housing (Temporary & Permanent)

Serviced Apartments (Temporary Housing)

  • Serviced Apartments = furnished, short-term rentals (think hotel-meets-apartment)
  • Super convenient: Little paperwork, minimal hassle—just a rental agreement, no long-term commitment
  • Stay flexible: Minimum 1-month lease, stay as long as you like; some expats never leave!
  • On-site perks vary: Housekeeping, laundry, linen changes at minimum; some add concierge, car rental, airport pickups, childcare, and more
  • Facilities (depends on property): Laundry room, gym, sometimes a pool, sauna, steam room, or restaurant
  • Highly recommended for your first 1-2 months (serviced apartment or Airbnb) so you can explore HK before committing
  • Budget alert: Expect to pay up to double the typical monthly rent (1 month’s deposit standard for serviced apartments)

Renting an Apartment in Hong Kong (Permanent Housing)

  • Brace yourself: HK rents are high. Prepare to compromise (size vs. location vs. facilities)
  • Using agents/brokers: Standard practice; most deals go through agencies (e.g. Century 21, Midland, Centaline, Ricacorp, Savills)
  • Commission: Agents charge 1 month’s rent (split 50/50 with landlord)
  • Typical lease: 2 years (breakable after 1 year, with 2 months’ notice)
  • Rent includes: Government rates and management fees—but not stamp duty (that’s 0.5% of annual rent, split 50/50 tenant/landlord)
  • Everything is up for negotiation: Push for repairs, appliances, rental discounts (don’t be shy to ask for HK$500+ off)
  • Move fast! Good units go same day. Come with passport/HKID, employment letter/contract, and deposit in hand
  • Credit score? Don’t worry—doesn’t matter here

Step-by-Step Apartment Hunt

  • Pick a neighborhood first: Agents specialize by areas, so know where you want to live
  • Find an agent: Ask around for referrals at work, or just walk into an agency in your chosen area
  • Work with multiple agents (optional): No rules against it, and it can help
  • Tour apartments: See as many as you need, ask ALL your questions (budget, size, facilities, vibes!)
  • If you like a place: Lock it in fast with a Provisional Agreement (deposit required). Caution: Landlord can back out and refund, but if you do, you lose your deposit!
  • Sign rental agreement & pay up: Have 3 months’ rent ready (1st month’s rent + 2 months’ deposit); collect your keys—congrats!

Setting Up Utilities

  • Water: Download form WW01 from Water Supplies Department, mail with HKID copy; takes ~1 week; billed quarterly
  • Gas: Register at Towngas website; billed every 2 months (eBilling available)
  • Electricity: Apply at HK Electric online (needs HKID/passport and 2-month deposit); takes ~2 weeks; billed monthly

Easy bill pay: Use Jetco terminals inside bank branches for bills and tax

Where Should You Live? Neighborhood Picks

  • HK Island = pricey, Kowloon/New Territories = better deals, more space
  • Public transport rocks: Anywhere in 30-45 mins; all neighborhoods are safe—even late at night
  • Check the area at rush hour; don’t commit sight unseen!

Popular Spots

  • Young singles: Soho, Sheung Wan, Sai Ying Pun (nightlife central)
  • Young couples: Kennedy Town, Mid-levels, Happy Valley (balance action and quiet)
  • Families with kids: Discovery Bay on Lantau Island (family haven)
  • Near international schools: South side of HK Island (Repulse Bay, Deep Water Bay, South Bay, Stanley)

Special Neighborhoods

  • Finance pros, budget in mind? Try Tung Chung (direct MTR, 35 mins to IFC)
  • Nature lovers: Lamma Island (bohemian, chill vibes) or Sai Kung (beaches, hiking, expat magnet)
  • Need roommates? Facebook groups (forget Craigslist—scam central); message posters quickly to snag good places

Finding Roomates

Your best is through Facebook groups such as this one or this one. Listings are snapped up fast, so be proactive and reach out to the poster to arrange a viewing.

Pro tip: no one really uses Craigslist here and the site gets spammed with scammers and fake listings… so be careful on there.

Internet Service Providers (ISP)

  • No big difference between them: Most use HKBN (if available); lightning-fast fiber around $200 HKD/month; you’ll be happy with most options.

Hiring Domestic Helpers (aka Maids)

  • Standard for expat families: Helpers handle cleaning, shopping, cooking, babysitting, pet and elder care
  • Part-time local helpers: 1 day/week, HK$70-120/hr
  • Full-time foreign helpers: Must live in, 2-year minimum contract (mainly from Philippines/Indonesia)
  • Salaries: Minimum HK$4,410/month (bonus expected for holidays)
  • Food: Provide free meals or food allowance (at least HK$1,053/month)
  • Extra costs: Must cover accommodation, medical insurance, and hiring costs
  • Rest day: At least 1 continuous 24-hour day off/week
  • Who can hire: Need proof of HK$15,000/month income and a HKID card
  • Best way to find: Personal referrals, or try a reputable agency (like Fair Agency)
  • Do your homework: Skills and language vary—interview several before deciding

Bottom line: hiring a helper is a big responsibility, and not something to take lightly. There are many helpers available for hire, and skill levels / language ability greatly vary.

  • The best way to find a helper is to go through your personal network (referrals are key). If that’s not possible, you may elect to go through an agency to find suitable candidates—and talk to at least a few helpers before making a decision. Fair Agency is a non-profit employment agency for helpers in HK.

For more information, check out the official Labour Department page.

Furnishing Your New Home

  • Wait before you shop! Know exact room sizes and check furniture can fit in lifts, doorways, and stairs
  • Bargain options: Facebook groups & GeoExpat/AsiaXpat—expats leave awesome deals behind
  • IKEA: Multiple locations, delivery and assembly available; beware weekend crowds
  • Muji: Minimalist Japanese style, quality basics
  • Horizon Plaza: Ap Lei Chau, over 100 stores, great for high-end or unique furniture; also busy on weekends

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Medical (Health & Dental)

  • If you have health insurance:
    • Visit any of Hong Kong’s 12 private hospitals.
    • Popular expat picks: Adventist Hospital (40 Stubbs Road, 3651 8888) and Canossa Hospital (1 Old Peak Road, 2522 2181).
  • If you don’t have health insurance:
    • No worries! Hong Kong’s public hospitals are awesome: modern, professional, and cost-effective.
    • Pro tip: Private isn’t always better—public hospitals can be just as good.
    • How to get care: Book an appointment at your local out-patient clinic.
    • Find clinics: Full list by area is on the Hospital Authority website.
  • Looking for affordable dental care?
    • Check expat forums: GeoExpat, AsiaExpat for dentist tips (poke around in older threads).
    • Need extensive dental work? Get a quote from Silom Dental in Bangkok (hello, dental vacation!)

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Schools

  • Planning for school?
    • In Hong Kong, primary & secondary education is mandatory (kindergarten = optional).
    • Start early! Admissions are competitive and waitlists are long.
  • School categories in Hong Kong (by cost):
    • Government schools:
      • Free, local schools based on your residential district.
      • Instruction in Cantonese, English, and growing Mandarin.
    • Subsidized schools – DSS (Direct Subsidy Scheme):
      • Lower cost, some offer the IB curriculum.
      • Schools like St. Paul’s, YMCA, St. Margaret’s (levels of competitiveness vary).
    • Subsidized schools – ESF (English Schools Foundation):
      • 22 schools offering IGCSE & IB curriculums. Preference to non-Chinese speakers living in specified zones.
      • Fees: HK$89,200–115,600 (primary), HK$122,900–129,100 (secondary).
    • Private International schools:
      • Top-tier, highly competitive; prepare students for top universities overseas.
      • Curriculums: British, American, IB, etc.
      • Fees: Can top HK$210,900/year (Grade 12 at Hong Kong International School).
      • Most expats pick between these or ESF schools.
    • Complete lists: Check out this handy Wiki page for detailed info (curriculums, fees, districts).
  • Admissions process (especially ESF & international schools):
    • Super competitive! Start planning 1+ year ahead.
    • Step 1: Choose a curriculum
      • Pick based on university goals or personal preference (e.g., only a few do the US-style AP curriculum).
    • Step 2: Visit campuses
      • Research and attend Open Days/Info Sessions. Meet staff, parents, and get a real feel.
      • Some schools give preference based on nationality or background.
    • Step 3: Apply everywhere
      • Families usually apply to multiple schools (hence those waitlists!).
      • Be ready for in-person interviews and non-refundable application fees.
    • Step 4: Pay the deposit
      • Once accepted, you’ll pay a refundable deposit (can be up to 50% of annual tuition).
    • Pro tip: Didn’t get in? Don’t stress—switching schools is pretty common in Hong Kong!
  • What are debentures?
    • Debenture = 0% interest loan to the school (for renovations, big projects, etc.).
    • Upon admission, many schools require parents to pay a debenture.
    • Refunds: Sometimes fully, partially, or not at all refunded when your child leaves.
    • Priority points: Paying a debenture can move your child up in the admissions line—especially useful if your company foots the bill!
    • Amounts: Range from HK$25,000 (ESF) up to HK$10 million (elite international schools).

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$$ Money $$

Finding a Job in Hong Kong

  • Job market reality: Be prepared—employers expect a laundry list of skills, HR can be unreliable, recruiters are hard to find, and jobs can go to the lowest bidder. Chin up—you’ve got this!
  • Top job sites (general): JobsDB.com, Indeed.hk, LinkedIn
  • Industry-specific job sites: angel.co & whub.io (tech startups), efinancialcareers.hk (finance)
  • Referrals rule: Many roles are filled even before they’re posted—internal referrals are huge.
  • Job hunt strategy by experience level:
    • New/recent grads: Hong Kong is tough for newcomers. Expect stiff competition and low pay (local grads often live with parents and work for less). Get experience elsewhere if possible, or network hard! American/British/Canadian Chamber of Commerce events are gold—no membership needed.
    • Some experience: Network directly with recruiters on LinkedIn—add them with a personal note. Recruiters are usually open to chatting. But, your eventual salary will likely be within a pre-agreed range. Apply directly to companies too, but don’t spend too long on each.
    • Senior level: Rely on your professional network or search for executive headhunters. Post on LinkedIn that you’re “open to new opportunities”—you may be surprised who gets in touch!
  • Local tip: Always give/receive business cards with both hands. It matters!

Opening a Bank Account

  • Pro tip: Beat the crowds—arrive right when the branch opens.
  • Documents you need:
    • Passport
    • Another photo ID: (e.g., UK driver’s license or HKID—not expired)
    • Proof of address: HK utility bill is best, but foreign ones can work. No proof? Bring an Employer Letter (use template if needed).
    • HK$1,000: Minimum opening deposit (can vary by bank).
  • Process time: Expect 30-45 minutes (not counting the wait). Debit/ATM card arrives by mail in about a week.
  • Credit cards: Visa, MasterCard, and Amex are available, but perks aren’t as flashy as in the US. HSBC likes to see 3+ months of income history; others are more relaxed—just show HKID + proof of address.
  • Cool feature: Set up auto-refill on your Octopus card via credit card (2-3 weeks setup, see Octopus card website).
  • Americans: Head straight for Citibank (thanks to AML/KYC/FATCA rules). Always state your US citizenship upfront to find a staff member familiar with the process.
  • Other nationalities: Popular banks—HSBC, Standard Chartered, Hang Seng, Citibank, BOC, and rising star DBS. HSBC and Hang Seng have the most ATMs. Need special services? Research first!
  • Customer service alert: None of the local banks are famous for stellar service.

Registering a Company

  • Friendly disclaimer: This isn’t legal/financial advice—consult a professional!
  • Sole Proprietorship: Super simple! Go to Revenue Tower in Wan Chai with your HKID and HK$2,250 (1 year; HK$5,950 for 3 years). Takes about an hour. Taxed at 15% of profits. Tax notice arrives after 18 months. You can use your personal account, but you’re liable for everything.
  • Limited Company: The go-to for most. Costs about HK$8,000-$12,000 with company formation services, plus HK$15,000/year for accounting and mandatory audit. Prices vary by provider and services. Opening a business bank account is tricky—always check if your company setup service has good bank relationships. Info: Inland Revenue Department website.

Moving Money to Hong Kong

  • ATM method: Get a debit card with no forex fees and ATM fee refunds, then withdraw cash in HK as needed. Fine for small sums, sloooow for larger ones.
  • Peer-to-peer transfers: Wise.com and similar services—fast (1-2 days), low fees, popular with expats.
  • Bank wire: Reliable, but beware of outgoing wire fees and poor FX rates—open a multi-currency account to dodge the FX trap.
  • HSBC Advance/Citi Gold: Link your accounts for instant transfers. Easy, but requires opening/qualifying for these accounts.

Money Exchange

  • Berlin Money Exchange: Enter from Pottinger St, up to 17th floor. Best rates in town, no ID needed.
  • Chungking Mansions (Kowloon side): Surprisingly good rates. Don’t pick the first shop—head 20-30 meters in and look left. Watch your wallet; enjoy some tasty Halal food while you’re at it!

Dependant Visa Work Rights

  • Good news! Your spouse can work, but must apply for a Dependant Visa first. See the government site for how-tos and requirements.

Top 10 Frugal Living Tips for HK

  1. Don’t move to Hong Kong (Just kidding… or am I?)
  2. Cheaper rent: This is your biggest expense—spend time hunting for deals, negotiate, and try living outside expat hotspots.
  3. Secondhand furniture: Snag it (or get it free) from departing expats. Check Geoexpat and Facebook groups.
  4. Club 7/11: Why shell out for pricey beer in LKF? Grab one for HK$15 at 7/11—Staunton Street has a famously social locale.
  5. Smart shopping: Buy produce at wet markets, not supermarkets like Wellcome.
  6. Used car: If you must drive, buy used—deals abound! But honestly…
  7. Don’t drive: Public transit is world-class and affordable—skip the car if you can.
  8. Medical tourism: Need healthcare? Flights to Bangkok for checkups, dental, or more serious procedures can save big.
  9. Marry a local: Adopt those true HK saving habits from the best—the locals.
  10. Marry a wealthy local: Instantly upgrade your life—all other tips are now optional!

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Hong Kong Nightlife

Where to Party: The 6 Main Expat Nightlife Areas

  • Lan Kwai Fong (LKF): The main hotspot for nightlife in HK—expect a zoo after midnight, especially on weekends.
    • Classic Plan: Start with rooftop drinks at Ce La Vi, round 2 at Tazmania Ballroom, then Volar or OMA after 1 AM.
  • Soho: For those who’ve “graduated” from LKF’s madness—brewpubs, cool restaurants.
    • Easy Barhop: Staunton St for Bobby’s Rabble, de België, Brooklyn Bar & Grill, Quinary. Sweet treat at Emack & Bolio’s (before 11 PM). End with a nightcap and live jazz at Peel Fresco Music Lounge.
  • Wanchai: Grittier and cheaper. A go-to after Happy Valley Races.
    • Rough Plan: The Pawn for classy drinks, quick visit to Joe Bananas, live music at The Wanch, optional karaoke at Red MR.
  • Knutsford Terrace (in Kowloon!): Chill, friendly for both locals and tourists.
    • TST Adventure: Try TST cuisine, live music at All Night Long, beer pong at Arena Bar, cocktails at Dada Bar + Lounge. First-timers: try the Flaming Lamborghini!
  • Sheung Wan / Sai Ying Pun: Hipster zone; places are scattered—easter egg hunt vibes.
    • Explore: Yakitori at Yardbird, craft brews at CRAFTISSIMO, drinks from Wine Rack, finish at Music Room (Potato Head) or Ping Pong 129 Gintonería.
  • Kennedy Town: For a laid-back night. West Island, great for food & chill drinks.
    • Start with food: Beeger2 (burgers), 42nd Davis (Italian), Shoreditch (British). Drinks at Winstons Coffee or Little Creatures. End at Farmar Bar.
  • Pro Tip: Watch your drinks—spiked drink incidents are reported (yes, guys too).

Most Popular Dating Apps

  • Tinder: The #1 app—hugely popular and highly entertaining. Heads Up (for guys): Watch for scammers and “business” accounts (avoid those with WeChat IDs).
  • Want Options? Try Happn, Bumble, Hinge, Coffee Meets Bagel. Same concept, minor quirks.

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Misc. (Everything Else)

Food recommendations:

As a general rule, there is no tipping in Hong Kong (a 10% service charge will usually be on the bill).

  • No tipping in HK! A 10% service charge is usually on your bill already.
  • Craving Mexican? 11 Westside for top tacos, Taco Chaca for Tex-Mex.
  • Best burger: Electric Ave in Sai Ying Pun.
  • Dim Sum: Skip Tim Ho Wan lines and Lin Heung chaos. Sun Hing in Kennedy Town = win.
  • Ramen? Give Ichiran in TST a go.
  • Local eats: See this handy “HK Must Eat Guide” for local favorites.
  • Russian food: Dacha is best—don’t miss the homemade infused vodkas!
  • Restaurant reviews: Use OpenRice, not Yelp. But don’t take the scores too seriously—some reviews are paid for.

Tailoring: Get Custom Suits/Shirts

  • Ignore “street suit” sellers—especially in TST.
  • Be detailed: Tell tailors exactly what you want (button type, lapels, pockets, etc.). Bring your best-fitting suit/shirt if possible!
  • Dress for fittings: Wear proper attire (including dress shoes).
  • Multiple fittings are a must for bespoke suits—pick up in person to make final adjustments.
  • You get what you pay for with HK tailoring.
    • Dress shirts: Graly (budget: $450/shirt), Ascot Chang (premium: $1200/shirt, 3-shirt minimum on first order).
    • Ready-made suits: Suitsupply for fast, quality.
    • Affordable custom: 852 Tailor House in Causeway Bay.
    • Best custom: W. W. Chan (expect HK$15,000+—but pure quality).

Hipster Essentials

  • Speakeasies: Foxglove for jazz & cocktails (cube root of 729 = code for back room); or Ping Pong (Gin & Tonic heaven).
  • Barbershops: Try Fox and The Barber or BASE.
  • Vegan: Sassy Hong Kong’s vegan café list has you covered.

Groceries: Where to Shop

  • Grocery shopping is an adventure! You might need to hit 2-3 places to find all you want.
  • Cheapest: Local wet markets—authentic, busy, unbeatable prices.
  • Affordable chains: Wellcome, U Select (look for wine deals at Wellcome).
  • ParknShop (Fusion/International): Another major chain, broad selection.
  • Market Place by Jason’s: Good for harder-to-find imports.
  • Splurge: Citysuper—“Whole Foods” level pricing, international goodies.

Gyms—The Hong Kong Way

  • Watch for aggressive sales. Lots of “today-only” deals and high-pressure trainers. Read the contracts!
  • Affordable: Government Sports Centres (HK$20/hour or HK$180/month pass; HKID + 1-hour orientation needed). Facilities for tennis, squash, soccer, etc.
  • MMA: Fighting Arts Centre (Kowloon), Pow Muay Thai & Espada BJJ (HK Island), Hong Kong Self Defence & Krav Maga (Sheung Wan).
  • Strength: Pinnacle Performance (Wan Chai) for serious lifters.
  • Climbing: Attic V (Wong Chuk Hang).
  • Yoga: Kita Yoga, Inspire Yoga.
  • Luxury: Pure Fitness—pricey, but popular and loaded with amenities.

Mainland China Visas

  • Already in China? Kinda—Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region.
  • Business trip? See if your employer will handle the visa. If not:
    • Gather: Passport (7+ months left), HKID (or landing slip), 1 white-background photo (48x33mm), birth certificate and parents’ passports (if under 18).
    • Bring: Printed visa application, hotel confirmation (refundable is fine).
    • Go Early: China Visa Office, Capital Centre (151 Gloucester Road, 20/F); doors open 9 AM—arrive 8:30 AM.
    • Apply in person and pay fee; some visas ready next day (fees vary by citizenship).

“I have friends/family visiting! Where do I take them?!”

Don’t panic, we’ve got you covered.

  • Morning: Chi Lin Nunnery/Nan Lian Gardens (Diamond Hill MTR)—stunning temple, gardens, and crafts.
  • Evening: The Peak—taxi, bus, or hike up. Skip tram lines! Best views at sunset or on clear days (arrive 90 min before sundown).
  • Half-Day: Lamma Island. Ferry from Central Pier 4, follow Family Walk past Tin Hau Temple, Hung Shing Ye Beach, eat at Bookworm Cafe. Try local snacks! Hipster alternative: Peng Chau.
  • Half-Day: Repulse Bay & Stanley Market. Bus #6/66 from Exchange Square (avoid 6A, 6X, 260 on outbound trip). Explore Stanley Market and surroundings; optional colonial brunch at The Verandah.
  • Full Day: Lantau Island. Hike up Sunset Peak (for the fit), or take MTR + scenic cable car to Ngong Ping (pro tip: buy Klook tickets for short lines). Visit Big Buddha, Po Lin Monastery, do the Wisdom Path hike.
  • Full Day: Macau. Ferry (Shun Tak Centre, Sheung Wan MTR), ~$180/person, 55 minutes. Must-see: Ruins of St. Paul’s, Guia Lighthouse, Senado Square, Lou Lim Ieoc Garden. Eat egg tarts, bring your passport!

Cantonese – Cheat Sheet

Note: unless you’re ethnically Chinese, no one will expect you to know/speak any Cantonese. They will also most likely switch to English immediately. But hey, it’s always good to practice!

  • “Good morning”: jo-san (jóusàhn)
  • “Excuse me”: mmm-goi (m̀hgòi)
  • “Can I get the bill?” (in a restaurant): mmm-goi mai dan
  • “How are you?”: lei ho ma?
  • “Goodbye”: bāaibaai

Want to learn more phrases? Check out this useful page.

TL;DR

  • Hong Kong is “Asia on training wheels”—thousands move here every year.
  • Don’t expect it to feel like London, New York, or Singapore. Embrace HK for what it is—unique, wild, and unforgettable!

Good luck!

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