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.

Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated places in the world, and this adds to its charm and colorful culture. Here you will find a dichotomous way of life – its society is largely modern and capitalistic, but its people still maintain Chinese traditions. It is indeed one of the world’s most dynamic cities, and it looks likes it will live up to this reputation for a very long time. It is one of Asia’s most popular travel spots, and it’s not surprising why. It is a small but bustling city with a night life that is comparable to the Caribbean, and a serenity that is true to its Buddhist roots. If you are going to Asia, you should definitely stop by Hong Kong.

Next only to the Philippines and India, Hong Kong is one of the best English-speaking regions in Asia. The street language is a delightful mix of English and Cantonese, so it is fairly easy to ask for directions, get a meal from restaurants, or haggle in the marketplace. Most educated Hong Kong locals are very well-versed in English, especially now that ‘English as a Second Language’ is already being taught in Hong Kong schools.

If you enjoy culinary variety, then Hong Kong is the place for you. Uniquely Chinese dishes such as special dim sum are a must-try. Other Chinese specialties include chicken lo mein, Peking duck, stuffed scallops, mouth-watering Tong Cho oysters, tofu dishes, fried whole trout, and exotic seafood plates of soft-shell crab topped with crawfish tails. If you get tired of Chinese food and miss Western food, do not worry – there are hundreds of McDonald’s outlets and several Western-style restaurants that offer American and European food.

Hong Kong is fairly expensive compared to other Asian travel destinations, but it is well worth it. To save on accommodations, you may choose to stay in dormitories. You can also eat budget meals (usually Chinese delicacies) instead of going to fancy restaurants. An allowance of about HK 250 dollars per day should be enough. But remember – Hong Kong is a shopping paradise and it can get very hard to resist the urge to buy, so hold on to your money if you do not want to overspend.