Though an esteemed epicenter of finance and fashion, Hong Kong is still rich in time-honored Chinese traditions—making it one of the world’s most unique environments for expatriates to call home.
Where to Live
In the words of Lillibeth Bishop, Hong Kong is a city of superlatives. “The hallmarks of Hong Kong are the city itself, the authenticity of the Chinese culture being fused with modern traditions,” says Bishop, publicity and promotions manager for the Hong Kong Tourism Board. “It has its foot in both worlds—the ancient and the modern. It is really cutting-edge but, at the same time, it hasn’t abandoned its Chinese traditions.” These alluring extremes, as well as Hong Kong’s safety rating (it is the third safest city in the world), quality of life and tax benefits, make it a prime destination for expats.
Many expatriates are flocking to Discovery Bay, a luxury resort-style residential community where 16,000 people from more than 30 countries currently dwell, Most of its residents are in the aviation, accounting or financial services industries. Consisting of 13 phases, Discovery Bay presents an expansive variety of housing options, from European-style garden homes to high-rise residences. The offerings from the most current development, Chianti, include spa- and garden-inspired properties with views of the water and firework displays from nearby Hong Kong Disneyland. Chianti units range from $580 to about $1,600 per square foot of living space. Discovery Bay residents also have access to four clubhouses, a private beach, golf greens, nature trails and educational opportunities, among other top amenities.
When it comes to paying a visit to Hong Kong, the area certainly isn’t short of high-class hospitality brands. The recently opened W Hong Kong boasts skyline and harbor views; impossibly chic feasting spots, Kitchen and Fire; and the first Bliss Spa in Asia. Another waterfront oasis, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong is part of the International Finance Centre, a local landmark and entertainment hub housing luxury shops (i.e. Versace, Valentino and Tiffany & Company), restaurants and offices.
Though not as new as the aforementioned resorts, a recent $150 million renovation of the Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong, which originally opened in 1963, resulted in more than 500 revamped rooms. At the top of the posh totem pole are the Macau and Tamar suites with five-star features like a personal butler and nearly 1,300 square feet of space.
Apart from enjoying delicious meals, soothing spa treatments and restful sleep at Hong Kong’s first-class resorts, there is plenty to see and do in the lively locale. “You find surprises at every turn,” Bishop says. “Dining is a national pastime. [Hong Kong has] probably the best French food outside of France.” The best way to work up an appetite is taking to the area’s endless high-end shops. Outside of its Paris flagship store, the Hong Kong Louis Vuitton outpost is the largest in the world. The sightseeing is also quite spectacular, including Victoria Harbour, never-ending gardens, markets and museums, and Chinese temples, which are sometimes “juxtaposed next to high-rises,” Bishop says—another example of Hong Kong’s East-meets-West appeal.
To Learn More, visit www.workinginhongkong.com.
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