What do expats find most challenging?

We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Hong Kong. They wrote...

"Expats in Hong Kong often find the local culture to be quite different from their own, which can be challenging to adjust to. The fast-paced lifestyle and the high cost of living can be difficult to get used to. Additionally, the language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken in Hong Kong. Furthermore, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to understand, as they are quite different from those of other countries. Finally, the lack of personal space and the crowded public transportation can be overwhelming for expats," commented one expat who made the move to Hong Kong.

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"I am not overly fond of cantonese food (except dim sum), but there are so many eating options here it is not a problem. The lack of environmental awareness amongst most Hong Kongers is worrying. The obsession with conspicuous wealth, big shiny cars, designer brands etc is a bit much for someone like me who lives in shorts and thongs (flip flops), and owns one handbag of unknown brand! Local kids are hard to make friends with as they seem to always be at tutoring of some sort. The local education system is fundamentally flawed and very stressful I imagine," remarked another expat in Hong Kong, Hong Kong.

What do expats find most challenging?

If you live in Hong Kong, newcomers to Hong Kong would love to hear your answer to this question.

About the Author

Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.