Essential info for Hong Kong
Electricity: Hong Kong has an electrical current that is 220 volts, 50 Hz. The most common plug type is the three-pin rectangular blade plug, yet another remnant of the former British rule.
Language: English and Chinese are the official languages in Hong Kong; Cantonese is the local dialect of Chinese spoken. For the most part English is widely used in the legal, business, and government sectors, though it has suffered a small decline in recent years. Mandarin usage is on the rise; however, it is not widely known.
Health: While expats won’t need any vaccinations to enter Hong Kong, it is recommended to consider the Hepatitis A vaccine.
Food and water are mostly safe, though the Hepatitis E virus has been known to be transmitted through contaminated products. Hong Kong's health facilities are some of the best in the world, and many of its health professionals have western training. That said, both private and public hospitals can be very expensive and charge non-residents higher fees. Medical insurance is advised and can usually be organised through your sponsor/employer.
Cases of bird flu have been reported though the risk of contraction is extremely low.
Air pollution is ever present in Hong Kong, and exceeds levels appointed by the World Health Organisation by 200 percent. Expats with asthma, allergies and cardiac problems may experience discomfort.
Safety: Expats relocating to Hong Kong need not be overly concerned with the issue of safety. Hong Kong has a lower crime rate than even most European countries; though, pickpockets do take advantage of those that look distinctly foreign.
Though the city centre is heavily patrolled, reports of robberies in local parks are increasing and drink spiking is also on the rise. Otherwise, be wary of flooding and landslides during typhoon season (July to September).
Local customs: Hong Kong society functions on a system heavily reliant on honour and respect. The concept of ‘Face’ – a quality that reflects a person’s dignity, reputation and prestige, often directs actions and influences perceptions. Expats should choose words carefully to avoid publicly insulting someone or contradicting them in the presence of others.
Spitting and littering are punishable by fine in Hong Kong.
As a result of Confucianism and associated principles, the Chinese have great respect for hierarchical relationships.
Business: Business in Hong Kong is conducted formally and efficiently. Great importance is attached to punctuality, thus expats should allow for sufficient travel time to take care and arrive on time for meetings.
Suits are normal business attire for both men and women, and the exchange of business cards and a handshake are customary acts that commence a meeting.
Use both hands to give and receive business cards – the Cantonese side facing the person who will be receiving. In line with the hierarchal nature of society, in the professional world it is expected that you greet the senior or elder person first.
Business entertainment is usually a lunch or dinner organised and paid for by the hosting company.
It is not unusual to exchange gifts, but they are opened at the meeting. Business hours are typically from 9am to 5pm, though hard work is valued in Hong Kong and thus hours can run later depending on each profession and firm.
Communications: The international access code for Hong Kong is +852. The outgoing code depends on what network is used: 001 for PCCW, 0080 for Hutchinson and 009 for New World. City codes within Hong Kong are not required. The local mobile phone operators use GSM networks and have roaming agreements with most international operators. Mobile phones can also be rented on arrival at the international airport. Internet cafes are widely available, and access is free at many coffee shops, shopping malls, MRT stations and public libraries in town.
