Hong Kong: Do’s And Don'ts | The Beat
STAYCATIONS

Hong Kong: Do’s And Don'ts

Just like in any part of the world, there are certain things you need to consider when moving in or traveling to other countries. Being an expat can sometimes get confusing when it comes to local customs and etiquette. Adapting to a different culture and setup is a challenge but isn’t the joy of going into a different place?

This might not be the best of times to think about traveling outside of your country, but when things get better, and the borders have started to ease when it comes to tourists. It’s better to be equipped with knowledge. If you’re thinking about a visit or moving in, we’ve listed out a guide of dos and don’ts in Hong Kong.



Dining: Do’s and Don’ts

  • Use communal chopsticks to grab food from the serving plate. Don’t use your chopsticks. If you are in a restaurant, and they aren’t provided, you can always request a communal chopstick.
  • Mind your chopstick manners and don’t use them to point something or to someone.
  • Wait until another person finished taking food before you start grabbing yours. It’s also not respectful to put your hand below or above someone else’s hand while getting food from the serving plate.
  • To show that you’re satisfied with the plate of food served to you, do leave a few bits of food behind. Don’t leave your plate empty or the host might think that you didn’t get enough food.
  • Wait for the elders or seniors to take the first sip of tea before you take yours, that shows respect.
  • If you want your teapot refilled, remove the lid to indicate your request and a member will fill it up for you.

Social Setting: Do’s and Don’ts

  • In a business setting, always greet the senior member first before everyone else. In a social setting, it is respectful to greet the oldest person first going down to the youngest.
  • Don’t express your opinions freely with a stranger, as they might see it as being rude.
  • When visiting, give your host a notice of your arrival even if you are invited.
  • Don’t forget to bring an edible gift for your host (e.g., fruits, tea, or any sweets).




Gift Giving: Do’s and Don’ts

Gifts can symbolize your appreciation, gratitude, or favors. When choosing your gift, be mindful of their purpose, either for personal or as a professional gesture.

  • When bringing multiple gifts, prepare it in three (comparable to “life”), eight (comparable to “prosperity”), or nine (comparable to “eternity”). Don’t present gifts in four, as it is similar to “death” in Cantonese.
  • When giving or receiving gifts, be sure to give or take them with both hands.
  • Wrap your gifts in red or gold because they see it as a lucky color. Don’t wrap it in white or black because it’s considered unlucky.
  • Shoes as a gift are considered bad luck in Cantonese. Giving a clock sounds like attending a funeral in Cantonese.

Public Transportation: Do’s and Don’ts

  • Avoid public display of affection or any obstructive behavior. Be mindful of other passengers and be considerate at all times.
  • Offer your seat to the elderly, pregnant women, persons with disabilities, or families with kids. This manner doesn’t only apply to Hong Kong, it’s a common courtesy in any part of the world.
  • Don’t smoke, drink, or eat inside the public transportations and don’t litter.
  • Allow commuters to walk on the left side of stairs or escalators and stand on the right side.
  • Let other passengers get off before entering the MTR carriage. Don’t block the entry or exit.
  • Pull your legs in so there would be no accidentally tripping other passengers.

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