Welcome to Hong Kong: Survive, Thrive, (and Love) the Expat Life! (Volume 1: Practical Living)

Welcome to the wild ride that is Hong Kong! Twelve years ago, my husband and I took the plunge from London to the vibrant streets of Hong Kong, armed with little more than our British charm and a sense of adventure. We quickly discovered that this bustling metropolis is a delightful mix of challenges and surprises. Sure, our parents are from Hong Kong, but our knowledge was mostly limited to holiday dim sum binges and the occasional family reunion.

When we moved back in 2012, we faced the common expat trials: from the hunt for the perfect apartment to battling the hot and humid weather that makes you question your life choices, and deciphering the colourful world of Cantonese cuss words, our journey was anything but dull!

While I had the advantage of language and cultural insight, I quickly realized my fellow expats were not so lucky. The fears of tackling local customs can be daunting—like the infamous red envelope during Chinese New Year. Who do you give it to? How much cash is appropriate? What if you accidentally insult someone? Navigating the world of Chinese weddings can also be a real adventure! You’ll need to know what to pay and what to expect during the extravagant 10-course meal. Trust me, you don’t want to find yourself face-to-face with shark fin soup or sea cucumber while the entire banquet table is watching your every reaction, wondering if you’ll take the plunge. In this book series, I’ll help you master the art of attending Chinese weddings, steer clear of cultural taboos, and celebrate Hong Kong festivals like a seasoned local!

I decided to put together this Expat Survival Guide Series, not your typical tourism handbook or a dry introduction to Hong Kong, but a friendly companion to help you tackle life in this dynamic city. These guides cover it all—the good, the bad, and the downright quirky!
You’ll find checklists, quick-reference guides, must-have apps, and handy Cantonese phrase charts (complete with pronunciation tips!), you need to make sense of your new life. You can dive into all three volumes for a comprehensive experience or cherry-pick chapters as you encounter the unique quirks of your new home.

By the end of the series, you’ll be equipped to navigate everything from typhoon season to mastering the art of gift-giving (spoiler alert: steer clear of clocks and sharp objects!). Whether you’re single, married, or juggling the chaos of family life, I’ve got you covered in this light-hearted and supportive guide relatable for all expats. So, buckle up and get ready to conquer Hong Kong together, your adventure awaits!

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