All the information you need from locals in Hong Kong.
If you live in Hong Kong, you’ve probably heard of Sai Kung’s seafood, hiking trails, and sleepy bays. But every year, this coastal district transforms with the sound of gongs, the scent of incense, and the dazzling costumes of Cantonese opera performers. These aren’t just performances — they are...
Hong Kong's stamp duty regime for property acquisition has seen major simplification since 2024, shifting from heavy cooling measures to a more buyer-friendly system. Key Reforms Since 2024In February 2024, the government scrapped Special Stamp Duty (SSD) and Buyer's Stamp Duty (BSD) entirely....
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Ice skating… in Hong Kong? Absolutely. Despite the subtropical climate, Hong Kong boasts several world-class indoor ice rinks that host everything from casual public sessions to international championships.For newcomers to the city, ice skating is a surprisingly accessible and popular...
HONG KONG — In a city better known for soaring rents, neon-lit streets, and relentless pace, a handful of second-hand bookshops are fighting for a different kind of rhythm — one measured in worn spines, pencilled margin notes, and the quiet rustle of paper.From a mid-levels hideaway to a Sai Kung...
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International Booker Prize 2026: A Decade of Dreams, Dictators, and the Dark ArtsTen years into its current incarnation, the International Booker Prize has settled into a distinct critical rhythm. No longer merely a discovery engine for Anglophone readers, it has become a tastemaker of a specific...
Your domestic helper should only reside at the employer's residence. This fundamental requirement is clearly stated on page 1, No. 3 of the standard employment contract. Serious penalties apply to both the helper and employer should the government discover the helper is living out. Understanding...
We have asked our Domestic Help team to pass along questions that are frequently asked about hiring a domestic helper -- we will be sharing them on this forum on a regular basis to help employers navigate their responsibilities and ensure compliance with Hong Kong employment regulations.The...
While at work, we trust the care of our infants and children to our domestic helpers. Is your helper capable of handling an emergency or an accident? If not, then you need to enrol your DH in a first aid course to ensure he or she is capable and confident of dealing with a medical emergency....
This is another very popular question from employers that is asked of Thessa and Nareena, and for good reason. Understanding your domestic helper's annual leave entitlements is not just a legal requirement—it's an essential part of maintaining a fair and respectful employment relationship.The...
And yet another area of uncertainty amongst employers who are hiring a domestic helper in Hong Kong relates to whether or not a helper must live in the employer's residence. This question arises frequently, particularly among first-time employers or those living in smaller apartments where space...
The Overview of Working HoursWhen employing a domestic helper, it is essential to understand the legal and ethical guidelines surrounding working hours and rest days. According to the Domestic Helper (DH) Team, there is no specific number of hours that a helper must work each day. This...
Essentially, domestic helpers in Hong Kong have limited rights when it comes to employment protection. Under current Hong Kong labor laws, employers can terminate their employment without providing a specific reason, as long as proper notice or payment in lieu of notice is given. This creates a...
This is another concern that expats raise with our domestic help team, and it's one that requires careful handling due to the legal implications involved.It is illegal for a domestic helper in Hong Kong to accept part-time work if the helper is on a DH visa. The Immigration Department is clear on...
Hiring a domestic helper in Hong Kong comes with specific financial obligations that employers must understand before bringing someone into their household. The city has established clear guidelines to ensure fair treatment and compensation for domestic workers, making it essential for...
Expat parents find it hard to navigate and adjust to another country’s education system. Their children usually encounter challenges like different curricula, language barriers, and unfamiliar academic expectations. With that, expat parents realize the vital help of private tuition in addressing...
Long stay apartments provide expats with flexible short-term leasing options on fully-furnished, serviced flats and hotel suites. We have compiled a comprehensive directory of long stay accommodation options in Hong Kong organizing them from highest to lowest rental prices. Please contact the...
There’s nothing that compares with mounting your high-powered motorcycle, putting on your helmet, getting your motor running and heading out onto the highway. Motorcycle afficionados in Hong Kong are spoiled for choices in terms of wide-open highway rides. Where to Ride in HK? The HK Motorcycle...
Finding a reliable domestic helper in Hong Kong requires time and effort, much like hiring any good employee. The first step is deciding whether a full-time live-in helper or a part-time assistant best suits household needs. For expats, understanding the process, costs, and cultural aspects can...