Why Live in Hong Kong?
There are many reasons that might be cited as to why to live in Hong Kong. Of course, the country means many different things to different people. The following should give you a taste of some of the things that make this location so very special to those who call it home.
For Those Who Want to Live in a Safe City
Considering the volatile times that we live in, safety is often way up on the list of ‘must haves’ when researching a place in which to live, and perhaps bring up a family. Hong Kong has long been considered one of the safest places in the world in which to make your home.
Last year (2015), the crime rates improved even further, dropping to a 36 year low. Violent crime is almost unheard of, thanks to a combination of excellent policing, levels of punishment for such violations committed, and the presence of many security guards citywide.
According to the Hong Kong Police Crime Comparison Report, the majority of crimes seem to be petty theft and deception. In a city that is home to so many people, the low rate of crime really is an uber-success story for our modern world.
The Super-Efficient, and Sometimes Iconic, Public Transport
Known as the MTR, Hong Kong’s public transport system is both efficient and a good value for money.
In addition to the trains and buses that you’d expect, it also consists of the wonderful Star Ferry across Victoria Harbour (named by National Geographic as ‘one of the fifty things you must do in your lifetime’, and the wonderful old trams that trundle up and down the city’s northern corridor.
Home to the Most Amazing Street Vendors
Whatever you want to buy, it’s possible to find a street seller offering exactly what you’re looking for. They do so from some of the most unlikely locations – including the tiniest of nooks and crannies secreted in a shed, or perhaps from a street cart on one of Hong Kong’s bustling thoroughfares.
Let’s Not Forget the World-Class Shopping
If you like to shop, then Hong Kong will certainly feel like paradise. From the swankiest of malls, to the best of wet-food markets, there really is something to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for the latest in designer gear, or the kitschiest of souvenirs, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Dim Sum
Some of the best dim sum in the world can be found here. Translating literally as ‘touch the heart’, dim sum is the best way to enjoy a huge variety of dishes in a single meal – plus it’s generally excellent value for money too. Embrace the hustle and bustle of dim sum eateries – it really is all part of the experience.
And of Course, the Wonderful People
Most locals have lived in Hong Kong most of their lives. As a nation, they truly have a sunny disposition and do everything they can to enjoy life.
Family is hugely important – this is most evident during festival times, such as Chinese New Year, when whole meals, hours and even days are dedicated to being with family – and also to remembering those who are no longer here.
The City’s Iconic Skyline
The skyline is one of the best in the world, a statistic echoed by most people who’ve ever set eyes on it. There’s something pretty majestic about the marvel of high rise buildings towering above, not to mention the proof that mankind has done pretty well to ensure that the use of such building work really doesn’t need to be an eyesore.
When you see the city lit up at night, it really is a breathtaking sight – and one you’ll never get tired of.
The Walking and Hiking
Many people are pleasantly surprised as to how much open space there is. Hong Kong certainly isn’t all about skyscrapers and neon – there’s some world beating walking and views to enjoy as well. Try hiking the Dragon’s Back, just minutes from the centre.
Or, visit picturesque Lantau Island for a trip back in time to the wonderful fishing village of Tai O, where traditional houses on stilts and fishermen selling their wares are still very much normal life.
An Amazing Outdoors Lifestyle
Thanks to Hong Kong’s generally warm (or hot!) climate, al fresco dining, the beach, watersports and everything outdoorsy is commonplace. This is confirmed by the many sports clubs and groups the city boasts, covering pretty much any outdoor pursuit you’d like to think of.
The Technology
This is perhaps the technology capital of the world (and if not, it definitely ranks in the top 5). Not only can you get your hands on the latest gizmo and gadget before anywhere else in the world, but also no matter where you are, you’ll always be connected to Wi-Fi.
Even if you dive into a subway, a tunnel or a shopping mall, your signal will still be super strong. Great for those of you who like to tweet or post to keep your loyal followers updated as to what you’re doing!
The Ease of Getting a Taxi
Sometimes it feels as if most of the cars on the roads in Hong Kong are taxis. What this means is that it’s easy to hail one pretty much any time of the day or night. In addition, it also does away with the need to own a car if you don’t want to. Many expats living here simply don’t bother.
As long as you live within the MTR zone, there really isn’t any need to have your own wheels.
The Ease of Getting to Anywhere Else in the World
Thanks to the excellent international airport, you can fly to pretty much anywhere in the world. From the cheap airlines that cover most of China and South East Asia, right through to transatlantic flights to the rest of the world, Hong Kong is one of the most accessible places you can think of.