If you have always been interested in China, you may want to consider visiting Hong Kong. This great city is located on China’s southern coast, in Mandarin, this name means “fragrant harbor”. Hong Kong boasts the reputation of having one of the most beautiful skylines in the world and one trip there will confirm that. A visit to any large city presents the opportunity to enjoy a variety of activities from museum visits to night clubbing but remember that you will need a passport to accomplish international travel.

If you decide to travel to Hong Kong, the dates of your travel should be arranged to coincide with one of the many Chinese festivals available to enjoy. These festivals create a unique opportunity to really experience the Chinese people and culture. Some of the best known events include the Chinese New Year, the Man Literary Festival, the Hong Kong Arts Festival and the Hong Kong International Film Festival.

A visit to Hong Kong provides an unlimited list of things to do and see. One very unusual experience can be had by visiting Dialogue in the Dark. At this attraction, visitors are treated to the diverse environments of Hong Kong in complete darkness. Rather than using your eyes, you put the rest of your senses into action for a very unique experience. Another wonderful place to visit is the Hong Kong Museum of Art. Here you are treated to an experience with Chinese art in a building resembling a Chinese temple while providing a breathtaking view of Hong Kong.

The culture and spiritual heritage of China come alive in a visit to the Temple of Ten Thousand Buddhas. This location immerses the visitor into the religion of a great number of Chinese people. The grounds are filled with foliage and trees that host a large number of monkeys. There is also the opportunity to sample delicious Chinese delicacies. A visit to a traditional Chinese fishing village will also provide a glimpse into how the people of that area really exist.

When you think of Hong Kong, you might have the misconception that it is totally built up but there is actually 70% of this metropolis that remains undeveloped. Because of this, tourists are treated to beautiful natural landscapes and scenery. Numerous parks as well as the number of islands off the Hong Kong coast provide a great get away from the hustle and bustle of city life if that is what you seek. While camping, hiking or fishing can be enjoyed, if you visit Lantau Island, you will also be able to see the Chinese White Dolphin, a rare and beautiful animal.

Hong Kong business culture is a rare balance of Western capitalist thinking and the East’s belief system. The British influence that has left the Hong Kong more than a decade ago remains evident today in the way business is conducted in the country. Chinese people are particularly conscious of punctuality. Superstitious Chinese practices like putting bagua mirrors to deflect evil spirits are important among business establishments. The eastern concept of energy flow like the Feng Shui are definitely taken seriously because businesses spend a lot of money consulting experts just to ensure that construction projects are positively oriented towards that which attracts most luck. Do not be surprised also if floor numbers in buildings lack the number 4 because in the Chinese language, it is similar to the word “die” which has negative connotation for them. As a busy business center, Hong Kong cuisine is also a mixture of eastern and western characteristics.

It is important to learn the Hong Kong business culture before doing any business in the country because it will definitely affect your relations with them. Know that Chinese culture is the dominant business and social influence in the environment. The pace of life in the country is hectic and its residents are highly entrepreneurial with strong commercial instincts. Chinese are also hardworking and very competitive. They are also very conscious of their face or image that is why they highly value their education which according to them will ensure one’s social and economic mobility. Families are hierarchical and members are committed to upholding the family’s honor through loyalty, respect and obligations. Introductions and connections are not essential in Hong Kong although they help in establishing credibility for business. Hiring a local representative to initially develop the business is advisable.

It is good to learn how to do the proper Chinese way of greeting so as to show respect for the culture and establish a good impression on them. Bowing is their way of greeting and when a handshake is made be gentle because they are not used to close and intimate interactions with foreigners or strangers for that matter. Because they recognize seniority, be conscious of greeting the most senior member first.

Hong Kong Business Culture may also be described as results or role-oriented rather than that of the Western values of personal and social growth. Avoid confrontation and aggression. Remember to use language diplomatically. Refrain from directly refusing anyone by saying “I will try” or “I will see.” Be modest in all you behavior and also keep you calm.

Gift giving is also a part of doing business in Hong Kong. It helps establish or maintain relationships. Avoid giving clocks, books, green hats and anything unwrapped or wrapped in blue. Gift money in a red envelope is known as hong boa. Accept gifts with both hands and remember that gifts are to be reciprocated. A meal could also be a form of gift for the Chinese.

Be punctual and courteous in meetings. Do not set appointments on Chinese New Year because they look forward to this time for vacation.