Living in Hong Kong
Living in Hong Kong
Hong Kong became a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in 1997 after 156 years of British rule. China’s Basic Law for Hong Kong allows for a high degree of autonomy, from the rule of law and civil liberties to the free flow of people and information. Situated at the southeastern tip of China, Hong Kong is ideally positioned at the center of a rapidly developing part of Asia. With a total area of 1,104 square kilometers, the Hong Kong SAR includes Hong Kong Island, Kowloon Peninsula, and the New Territories bordering mainland China. Hong Kong also includes 262 outlying islands. The population, of seven and a half million is predominantly Chinese, although there are large populations of Americans, British, French, Filipinos, Indians, Portuguese and Japanese.
HKIS’s campuses are located in the more rural beach and country park area on the south side of Hong Kong Island. However, Hong Kong is very much an urban center, and it is important that teachers and their families have the ability to adjust to living overseas and city life.
Being far from friends and family, and being removed from life in America or other ‘western type’ countries requires adaptability and flexibility. Setting up a household requires patience, and family members must work together to make cultural and social adjustments. When families become involved in the culture and life of Hong Kong, their lives will be enriched and their experiences will be more rewarding.