This past November, I returned to Hong Kong for the first time in nearly three years since I left. The experience was a mix of emotions—happiness, nostalgia and a deep sense of familiarity. It offered me a chance to briefly relive one of the most memorable periods of my life in a city unlike any other.
Hong Kong came to my life quite unexpectedly. It was never part of a grand plan or personal goal I had envisioned. Yet somehow, I found myself embracing this challenge, one that I never imagined possible, and it all felt right. Reaching to this point, however, required me to take several detours and change directions multiple times. Life, after all, rarely follows a straight path.
Up until 2012, I have steered my life around experiences, adventure, travel, and fulfilling my dreams, while also earning a living. Having achieved these goals, I began to feel unfulfilled and started considering the idea of pursuing a more rewarding and challenging corporate career. It felt like the right moment to pivot and begin a new chapter.
What began as a three-month assignment eventually turned into a five-year permanent relocation. Hong Kong became my new home. I would often hear similar stories from other expats, sharing how they ended up in the city. Some credited chance or timing, while many others deliberately sought the move, drawn by Hong Kong’s economic opportunities and vibrant lifestyle.
The economic opportunities are remarkable. Corporate and Personal income tax are in average around 16%. There are zero taxes on capital gains, dividends, interests or royalties. There is no VAT. Most of the taxation system has remained unchanged for longtime. These conditions are unparalleled for individuals to generate wealth.
Hong Kong is one of the most developed economies in the world, ranked as the third-largest global financial centre1. With a market capitalization of $7.6 trillion and 2,621 listed companies2, it possess the seventh-largest stock market in the world. All within a territory smaller than Greater London.
Hong Kong’s economy and business-friendly environment reflect its unique character as a city of dynamism, vibrancy, and boundless energy. Where everything is within reach and easily accessible. A place with high inclusivity and diversity where one can feel a sense of belonging from the very first moment.
However, while the economic conditions can be matched by other countries, few realize that Hong Kong is much more than a financial hub. Beyond its impressive skyscrapers, the city offers incredible outdoor activities, nightlife and amazing entertainment experiences. There is an immense cultural melange between Western and Eastern worlds. What surprised me the most was to find out the numerous hiking trails and the extensive beaches, all reached within few minutes by foot or taxi.
Hong Kong radiates an unmatched energy. Its prosperity and wealth are tangible everywhere. Conversations often revolve around money, there is a keen interest in the stock market. I remember spotting taxi drivers with three or four mobile phones mounted on their dashboards, one of which always displayed the stock market real-time. On several occasions, I noticed the elderly tea lady at work scrolling intensely through her phone, murmuring to herself. When I approached her, she would smile and say, “I like Chinese stocks”.
During my leisure time, I enjoyed immersing myself into all different activities Hong Kong has to offer. Wednesday nights were the perfect excuse to break the week at the Happy Valley Racecourse, watching the horse racing and trying to pick a winner while having a beer under a lively crowd. I enjoyed early or late runs along Bowen Road, playing football in Southorn, Victoria Park, or Happy Valley despite the intense humidity. On weekends, I would catch a ferry to Lantau, Lamma or Cheung Chau islands for a hike, lunch or a relaxing beach day. I would take on the popular and exhausting ‘Twin Peaks’ hike across Tai Tam Reservoir and finishing with a beer at Repulse Bay. Running from The Peak through Pok Fu Lam or exploring Aberdeen Country Park and Black’s Link offered a perfect workout and break away from work. I would also enjoy trips to the remote Sai Kung district for long hikes, kayaking, camping or beach outings. Whenever looking for an easy run, there was the Victoria Harbour waterfront, and I would go from Wan Chai all the way to Sai Ying Pun.
The benefits were significant, though they came at a cost. In a city heavily dependent on its service sector and striving constantly to uphold its status as a global financial capital, the pace is relentless and the competition to succeed is intense. Working hours are long and demanding, especially working for an American financial company, due to the time-zone difference. There were frequent days when I started at 8:30 a.m. and didn’t finish until 11:00 p.m., due to late-night calls and meetings with colleagues in New York. Strategy meetings with senior leaders were no exception. On one occasion, we stayed in the office (pre-pandemic) for a video conference from 11:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m.
There is also the challenge of living in a compact space. In a densely populated city like Hong Kong, where housing supply is deliberately limited, the perception of what constitutes a “normal” living space quickly shifts. Fortunately, I was aware of this before moving to Hong Kong, so I managed my expectations which made the adjustment smoother. To give you an idea, my first rental was a 28-square-meter flat on the 22nd floor of a modern residential building in Say Ying Pun. It was smartly designed to accommodate a double bed, a two-door closet, a small kitchen and all essential appliances strategically arranged to maximize space. Later, when my girlfriend and I moved in together, we decided for an upgrade. We relocated to a 52-square-meter flat on the 12th floor of an older building located in the famous Star Street area. Remarkably, we managed to fit all our belongings. Calling it an “upgrade” would be excessive, though we did gain the luxury of a living room!
Walking through the city brings me immense joy. Despite the bustling crowds, there are always quiet spots where I can pause and absorb the essence of Hong Kong. Looking across the harbour and admiring at the skyline, I have never felt as fulfilled as I do here. I enjoy every single moment and have never taken any of it for granted. Living in Hong Kong has been transformative, life-changing experience. It has made me grow as a person and professional.
As in any journey there is the inevitable ending. Unlike my unexpected arrival the departure was well planned ahead. Despite feeling quite settled and content about my life in the city, there was always an inner voice telling me I have to leave at some point. We decided it is time to take on a new challenge in a different scenery. I feel fortunate to have had the experience of living in the heart of Asia in a place like Hong Kong.
Thank you Hong Kong and until next time 多謝香港，等下次先
