5 things NOT to do when travelling to Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s rise as an international gateway means millions of people will visit this thriving city when they step into Asia. With bi-lingual English/Cantonese signs, an abundance of international food options and a decent exchange rate, Hong Kong is an amazing place to venture around and do business in.

The city does have rules albeit and etiquette is important – so if you want to get by, here are some 5 points to consider NOT doing if you are visiting.

Chop Stick Suey>

One must never stick their chopsticks straight up in their bowl of rice. Not only is it rude, but chopsticks stuck straight up in a bowl are suggestive to incense sticks in an urn, which is a symbol only meant for funerals. To avoid the evil eye, be most careful when eating at a hosted meal with business partners. Also, never use a chopstick to point at something, especially a person. This is considered a slap to the mug. Ouch.

Do not spit. Anywhere

Spitting is not tolerated and almost taboo in China. If you’re travelling to Hong Kong, never (and I mean never) put anything on the floor that isn’t your first foot forward. According to a survey published in Reader’s Digest bad drivers annoy most people in many parts of Asia, whilst almost nine out of ten Hong Kong locals find spitting the most reviled offence.

July/August – think again

Because it’s just SOOOOO damn hot. Not to mention the humidity and the fact that it is heavy rain season. You only need to step out of the air-conditioning for a nanosecond and you start sweating bullets. Unless you must be away at this time, aim to jet set around Hong Kong in October, November and most of December for the best times. Temperatures are moderate, the skies are clear and the sun is shining. The birds may be chirping also.

Do not forget your octopus

If you’re going to be in Hong Kong for more than a day, it’s really worth investing in an Octopus card. Simple and easy to use, you can buy this baby at most stores and metro stations for about $50HK. The Octopus card can be used for any form of public transport and in convenience stores, such as 7-11, to buy snacks and travel goods, meaning upmost convenience for you. Boom!

Ticking time bomb

Gifts are a ritual in Hong Kong and often exchanged when entering a new business as a gesture. However if you are looking at buying your host or new CEO a clock – think again! Clocks of any calibre should be avoided as presents as they symbolize time is running out for the recipient and share similar synergies to a funeral. Unless you want your new venture to symbolise an end to a relationship then the stuffed koala might be the better option.

Urszula Mos

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