When one thinks of Hong Kong, images of densely populated high-rise apartments and rapid changes due to China’s influence may come to mind. However, for Botherway, the only overwhelming aspect of Hong Kong is the summer heat and humidity.
Surprisingly, Hong Kong is incredibly green and boasts a very pleasant climate for most of the year, allowing for plenty of outdoor activities. The city is not only clean and safe but also has a raw and authentic feel, unlike the sanitized environment of Singapore.
Botherway and her husband have been fortunate to reside in Deep Water Bay, known as the wealthiest neighborhood in the world. However, they have also explored other parts of Hong Kong, including its numerous islands, which offer great weekend getaways.
The public transportation system in Hong Kong is excellent and eliminates the need for a car, with a variety of options like mini-buses, double-deckers, taxis, Uber, trams, underground rail, and ferries.
The couple has found Hong Kong to be a convenient starting point for traveling to countries like China, Nepal, India, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. They have observed a striking contrast between the old traditional villages and the new wealth in the city.
Botherway notes the diverse range of restaurants in Hong Kong, with a significant expat community contributing to the culinary scene. The absence of taxes on wine makes dining out more affordable compared to other countries.
The city has experienced a significant exodus of expats due to China’s national security law and Covid restrictions, with many relocating to Britain. However, mainland Chinese have filled the gap, drawn to Hong Kong for its relative freedom.
Despite concerns about the potential decline of Cantonese in favor of Mandarin, Botherway believes that Hong Kong will maintain its unique identity as a vital commercial hub in the region.
Overall, Botherway finds Hong Kong to be a vibrant and dynamic city that offers a mix of tradition and modernity, making it a compelling place to live and explore.
