Sticking in Hong Kong through thick and thin

Over the recent past, many have thrown in the towel and left Hong Kong. And who can blame them really?? Chaos and confusion have been all around us. The last two years have taken Hong Kong through quite a rocky ride. First the protests, then Corona virus and then the basic law coming into vigor. Each of us, whether an immigrant or local, has our reasons for staying in HK. It's a fine balance of positives- the things that work for us and the negatives - the things that don't. While we believe that the positives outweigh the negatives we stay. When we start feeling that the negatives are getting heavier we think of leaving.

But what are the reasons those people who have decided to stay in Hong Kong are doing so. We decided to ask some LocalHood Team members the question...

Winnie:

"I consider myself a global citizen. Hong Kong is an international city which has much to offer when you know your way around while having its fair share of issues yet to be resolved. Having lived overseas and in Hong Kong, I find that the grass is only greener on the other side when you've never lived there. Once you have lived there for some years, you will find that every city has its fair share of issues. It's how you adapt and choose to contribute to it that makes all the difference. Hong Kong has much going for it--low taxes, international cuisine, high accessibility by walking or public transport, good business and employment opportunities. Admittedly, housing is a major issue in Hong Kong but there are projects under way in the private and public sectors like co-living spaces. I live in a cozy flat with my family and since getting on the tiny home and Marie Kondo bandwagon, I found that there are advantages to living in a cozy flat- a major pro is that the money stress is lower and it frees up resources on personal/ family pursuits.

Min Hui:

The unique history has made HK a colourful, diverse and welcoming place for everyone.. We are spoiled for choice and yet still see new ideas everywhere everyday. That’s inspiring!!

Sze Yeen:

I would love to say I'm still in HK because I LOVE every moment being here despite my pigeon hole home but I'd risk growing a long nose.

I came here as a trailing spouse. After 18 years I'm still here because I'm still happily married to the same guy who still enjoys the work he is doing with Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra. Just last week, HKCO had a successful full-house performance. HKCO has kept my hubby very busy throughout the pandemic. When public performances was not possible, they recorded a series of MV incl this Dragon Boat!! https://youtu.be/9iXPjLWBgtI

Shobana:

I moved to Hong Kong bang in the middle of the pandemic, in September 2020. After having lived three months in a state of curfew like lockdown in my previous country, I was pleasantly surprised to come to a place with very manageable restrictions. Hong Kong was a learning experience, it taught my kids how to use public transportation, how to be independent, how to be safe, how to mange under any circumstances, any weather. Hong Kong has toughened us up, relaxed up, given us various avenues to explore, helped make us fitter, helped make us healthy, reunited us with friends and family, been there for us.

Anna:

We are still in Hong Kong because we really like living here, as simple as that. I am sure it is a much different experience to live in Hong Kong during the time of pandemic but in spite of that we still enjoy it. The silver lining of the pandemic is that we got the chance to discover Hong Kong better. To be honest, the more we get to know it, the more we like it. The city and its nice people welcomed us very warmly and we acclimatized quite quickly. I guess a part of the success is that we were lucky to meet lovely, genuine friends here and we felt the sense of belonging and community. Also, it is an awesome place for raising kids. Hong Kong is very safe, kids-friendly and the weather allows to go to the beach or a swimming pool almost all year round. I always joke that the only disadvantage of Hong Kong is that is so far from Europe where our families live. Otherwise, it would be an absolutely perfect place haha😉: Ana P

Fiona.:

Work that gives decent pay No harsh winter on any given day Hiking trails that're within reach And never too far from the beach An amazing community of mums

Lastly and importantly - milk tea that's yums!

Alex:

HK is my home and always has been. Even though I studied my tertiary studies in Australia I always knew something was missing. After graduation I came back to HK for a holiday before supposedly going back to look for a job, but just ended up never leaving HK as I am sure is a similar story to many. I still have faith that HK will remain great and will stay great no matter what. It will transform into a new city, just like life this city can't stay the same. I'm excited and scared at the same time but I feel it's always much more fun to look at the exciting part of life.