Experience in Hong Kong, Hong Kong (SAR) by Coco

What is it like to live in Hong Kong? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Living in Hong Kong is great. It is definitely one of the best cities that I have lived in or visited. The best part about Hong Kong is that everything is so close to each other. You could head from the dense, architecture-rich city areas of Hong Kong, and reach the country-side, areas riddled with geoparks, in 30 minutes or less. You get the best of both worlds, whether you want to wind down with a relaxing downtown atmosphere or spend an afternoon by the beach with a book.

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Hong Kong is a mixing pot of cultures, from it's early heritage as British colonial land, to it's now world renowned international finance center, to the age-old Chinese tradition that is so intricately laced in many Hong Kongers' life. Words do not do Hong Kong justice and I would recommend everyone to visit Hong Kong at least once.

What is the student lifestyle like in Hong Kong?

Student lifestyle is different from the likes of the UK or the states. Hong Kong is a city in nature, and not merely a student city in the UK. Hong Kong is a fast-paced and highly commercialised city. Student lifestyle is still nevertheless however you want it to be. This could mean capitalising on the career opportunities to work in an Asian country or exploring and traversing Asia, given the short travel times to various countries like Thailand, Korea, Japan, China, Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Nepal etc. At the same time there is a handful of different things to explore in Hong Kong. There are also a large number of expats in the city, so one will always definitely have a partner to travel with.

How much does it cost to live in Hong Kong?

Costs could be relatively more expensive depending on where you are coming from. Cost of living is among the high-end, perhaps almost on-par with places like New York and London. However, this could be mitigated with your student lifestyle, for which I am sure many students are familiar with. However, we do have some of the world's cheapest McDonalds, I believe. This may need to be altered correctly. But at least one always has the alternative of McDonalds as a back-up plan.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Hong Kong? Is there any advice you can give?

Accommodation could be a little hard – in terms of renting places on your own because (1) the landlords may not be so keen on renting short-term, (2) rent could be a little more expensive than compared to other cities, and it may not really be bang-for-buck. Hong Kong’s housing bubble does have an adverse effect for students looking to find a place on their own. However, typically, host universities should and will most probably have options for visiting students, which may be cheaper, but does come with its limitations, such as it being ridiculously small and in a rather aged buildings.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Everyone has their own favourite spot in Hong Kong. I encourage everyone visiting to find their favourite spot because it could literally be that noodle shop right around the corner of your flat. There is just too many, it is impossible to list!

Is the nightlife good in Hong Kong? Where is good to go?

Nightlife is great, albeit perhaps a little more expensive than other spots in the world. However, there are cheap and expensive ways to enjoy Hong Kong’s nightlife. Good thing is that there is no law that says your not allowed to drink in public – like in the states. Alcohol is also sold 24/7. There are a handful of places that do a brilliant brunch that allows you to continue your night into the morning.

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What advice would you give future students heading to Hong Kong?

My advice for all visiting students is to let go of everything you’ve heard about Hong Kong or people from Hong Kong and have an openmind when visiting! There are just so many cultures around that you will be sure to fit in. Although I do highly recommend to hangout with some of the locals or have a conversation with them to get their take on Hong Kong. Everyone has a different Hong Kong story!