Wan Chai, Hong Kong
Last updated on Jul 10, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees discuss what it is like to live in Wan Chai, Hong Kong: Cost of living, Finding a home, Meeting People and more.
What do I need to know before moving to Wan Chai?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Wan Chai, they said:
"Wan Chai is a bustling district in Hong Kong known for its mix of old and new, with traditional markets and modern skyscrapers. It's a popular area for expats due to its central location, vibrant nightlife, and diverse food scene. Before moving to Wan Chai, it's important to know that the cost of living is high, especially when it comes to housing. Apartments are typically small and can be quite expensive, so it's crucial to budget accordingly. The district is well-connected by public transportation, including the MTR (Mass Transit Railway), buses, and trams, making it easy to navigate the city. However, traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours, so it's often faster to walk or take the MTR for short distances. Wan Chai is known for its nightlife, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and restaurants. However, it's also a business hub, so it can be busy and noisy at all hours. If you prefer a quieter living environment, you may want to consider living in a more residential part of the district. The district is also home to a number of markets, including the Wan Chai Market, where you can buy fresh produce, meat, and seafood. It's a great place to experience local culture and cuisine. While English is widely spoken in Hong Kong, knowing some basic Cantonese phrases can be helpful, especially when interacting with local vendors or navigating public transportation. Healthcare in Hong Kong is of a high standard, but it can be expensive. It's recommended to have comprehensive health insurance to cover any medical costs. Finally, Hong Kong has a subtropical climate, with hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. It's also prone to typhoons, particularly between May and November, so it's important to be prepared for these weather conditions," said one expat in Wan Chai.
How do I find a place to live in Wan Chai?
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About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Wan Chai?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Wan Chai?
- What is the average cost of housing in Wan Chai?
- How do I meet people in Wan Chai?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Wan Chai?
- What should I pack when moving to Wan Chai?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Wan Chai?
- Will I be able to find a job in Wan Chai?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Wan Chai?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Wan Chai?
- What is the social scene like in Wan Chai?
- What advice to expats in Wan Chai have about housing?
- What are medical services in Wan Chai like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Wan Chai?
- Is the cost of living in Wan Chai high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Wan Chai?
- Why do people move to Wan Chai?