Social Etiquette

When visiting Hong Kong, it's important to observe local customs, they include: 

1. Chopstick Etiquette: Do not leave your chopsticks sticking upright in your bowl, as it resembles incense sticks used in funerals. Instead, place them horizontally across your bowl.

2. Greetings: When meeting someone for the first time, a simple handshake is appropriate. In more formal settings, a slight bow is also acceptable. During a chat, people stand near to one another but avoid touching. Never give someone a hug, kiss, or pat on the back, especially if they are elderly or in a position of power.

3. Queuing: Hong Kongers place a high value on queuing and waiting in line. It is important to respect the queue and wait your turn. In addition to queuing in line for public transportation, Hong Kong residents generally line up for giveaways, restrooms, restaurants, ticketing counters, and the newest merchandise.

4. Dining Etiquette: Wait for the host to tell you where to sit before taking a seat. It is polite to wait for the host to start eating before you begin. Food is presented on a rotating platform. Try a little bit of everything. Never finish the final item on the serving tray. Remember that when dining out with a Hong Konger, it's normal for them to begin capturing pictures of their food with their phone even before they've had a chance to eat. To them, this is not regarded as impolite.

5. Language: While English is widely spoken in Hong Kong, it is polite to learn a few basic Cantonese phrases, such as "hello" (nei hou) and "thank you" (m̀h'gōi).

6. Public behaviour: It is normal to let people off before you enter when using public transportation. Locals allow individuals in a hurry pass on the left and stand on the right when using escalators.

7. Eating: Consuming food or beverages is forbidden in many public places, such as museums, historical monuments, and MTR, bus and tram lines. It is regarded as disrespectful in some indoor environments. Follow the warnings provided.

8. Trespassing: It's not always easy to distinguish between public and private properties/residents in a city the size of Hong Kong. While you explore the city, please try your best not to trespass by accident.