For all its modernity and restless energy, expats moving to Hong Kong will find a destination that remains distinctly Chinese, with deep traditions settled firmly amongst its towering skyscrapers and bright neon lights.

Many have asserted that the city (Hong Kong Island) and its surrounds (Kowloon, the New Territories and over 200 outlying islands) seamlessly combine Western and Eastern influence, but don’t be fooled by this statement. The cultures haven’t diffused into each other as much as they’ve found a way to exist alongside each other, so though you may find a fair amount of familiarity in this Chinese special administrative region, do prepare for a densely populated land still governed by the teachings of Confucius and a potent Cantonese past.

Hong Kong is often pegged as the “Pearl of the Orient”, and if nothing else, it’s an indication of this bustling metropolis’s devotion to wealth and quality. The former British colony is one of the world’s leading capitalist economies, is an Asian financial hub and an established expat region for high income earners looking to further their career.

That said, expats moving to Hong Kong should note that lucrative employment packages are becoming a thing of the past, even as the cost of living in the destination continues to climb. Ostentatious luxury is certainly a party of the city’s psyche, but is becoming far less attainable for anyone other than senior level employees.

Accommodation, in particular, is marked by sky-high price tags and disproportionately small space. Try your best to finagle a housing allowance, otherwise, explore rental costs carefully before signing a contract.

On the whole though, foreigners find Hong Kong easily liveable, with a modern infrastructure and plenty of western amenities. An advanced healthcare system, an elevated standard of schooling and an exemplary public transportation system ease the burden of transition significantly.

Furthermore, many find that once the wrinkles of relocation have been smoothed out, the natural island surroundings, the active nightlife scene and the high level of safety make Hong Kong tempting for even a more permanent relocation.

Hong Kong is not without its challenges though. Over seven million people are packed into the archipelago, and elbow room comes at a premium as members of the population whizz past at their fabled frenetic pace. Additionally, air pollution has unceremoniously drifted down from the factories of Southern China, and has come to settle over and around the upward reaching skyline.

Both factors can be overwhelming and unattractive to expats accustomed to fresh air and open space, but both do exist in Hong Kong, it’s just necessary to move out of the popular expat-friendly Central area.

You see, Hong Kong has many layers, and expats will find that just as they’ve finished pulling back the first, five more have formed and taken shape. Whether you feel more comfortable ingratiating yourself into the insular, yet comfortable, expat scene, or whether you’d prefer to explore the etiquette, superstitions and religion of this age old port city, you’re guaranteed an invigorating and exciting experience.