Thinking about moving to Tai Po? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Tai Po.
Located in the New Territories of Hong Kong, Tai Po is a district that offers a unique blend of urban and rural living. It’s a place where high-rise buildings coexist with lush greenery, and where modern amenities are just a stone’s throw away from traditional markets and temples. But like any other place, living in Tai Po comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Let’s delve into the pros and cons of living in this vibrant district.
Pros of Living in Tai Po
One of the biggest advantages of living in Tai Po is the abundance of natural beauty. The district is home to several country parks, including the Tai Po Kau Nature Reserve and the Pat Sin Leng Country Park. These parks offer a plethora of hiking trails, picnic spots, and bird-watching opportunities. For instance, the Tai Po Waterfront Park, with its spiral lookout tower, offers panoramic views of Tolo Harbour and is a popular spot for kite flying and cycling.
Another advantage of living in Tai Po is the availability of spacious and affordable housing. Unlike the cramped apartments in Hong Kong Island, Tai Po offers larger living spaces at a fraction of the cost. For example, the Tai Po Centre, a residential complex, offers apartments with three bedrooms and two bathrooms, something that is rare to find in other parts of Hong Kong.
Tai Po also boasts a rich cultural heritage. The district is home to several historical sites, such as the Man Mo Temple and the Old Tai Po Police Station, which has been converted into a heritage hotel. The Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees, where locals and tourists alike write their wishes on joss paper and throw them onto the trees, is another cultural attraction.
When it comes to food, Tai Po is a gastronomic paradise. The Tai Po Market, one of the largest wet markets in Hong Kong, offers a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies. There are also numerous restaurants and food stalls that serve everything from traditional Cantonese cuisine to international fare. For instance, the Michelin-starred restaurant, Tim Ho Wan, is known for its delicious dim sum.
Lastly, Tai Po has a strong sense of community. There are several community organizations, such as the Tai Po Community Association and the Tai Po District Council, that organize various events and activities for residents. The Tai Po Mega Mall, with its array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, is a popular gathering spot for locals.
Cons of Living in Tai Po, Hong Kong
Despite its many advantages, living in Tai Po also has its downsides. One of the biggest disadvantages is its distance from the city center. Although Tai Po is well-connected by public transport, the commute to areas like Central and Tsim Sha Tsui can take up to an hour or more during peak hours. This can be inconvenient for those who work or study in these areas.
Another downside of living in Tai Po is the lack of nightlife. While the district has a number of restaurants and cafes, it lacks the vibrant nightlife that areas like Lan Kwai Fong and SoHo are known for. Those who enjoy a bustling nightlife may find Tai Po a bit too quiet for their liking.
While Tai Po offers larger living spaces, these often come in the form of older buildings that lack modern amenities. For instance, many apartments in Tai Po do not have facilities like a gym or a swimming pool, which are common in newer residential complexes in other parts of Hong Kong.
The language barrier can also be a challenge for non-Cantonese speakers living in Tai Po. While English is widely spoken in areas like Central and Tsim Sha Tsui, it is less commonly spoken in Tai Po. This can make everyday tasks like shopping or dining out a bit more challenging.
Lastly, while Tai Po has a number of supermarkets and convenience stores, it lacks the variety of shopping options that other districts offer. For instance, there are fewer international brands and high-end boutiques in Tai Po compared to areas like Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui. Those who enjoy shopping may find the options in Tai Po a bit limited.
