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8 Lessons Learned: 3 Years as an Expat in Hong Kong

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My latest column for Expat Focus…

 Accept the challenges so that you can feel the exhilaration of the victory. George S. Patton

This month I’ve chalked up three years in the mighty Kong – my third anniversary symbolizing a colorful and (often) crazy journey towards living life as a fully-fledged, ‘fair dinkum’ expat! 

A friend said to me “You should be really proud of yourself” — I hadn’t thought about it that way, but when I cast my thoughts back to those early days when I felt like a ‘fish out of water’ in Hong Kong’s fragrant harbour, to today, I am swimming with the crowds and making a few splashes…. yep! I guess I’ve come a long way!

Looking out of my lounge window in Hong Kong, I see a similar view to that which I saw from my hotel room the day I arrived — it never fails to jolt those initial feelings that fluttered frantically inside me (along with 16 week pregnancy hiccups). 

Angst, anticipation and excitement, coupled with the absolute terror of the unknown! To be honest, I didn’t think we’d stay much longer than18 months – at least that’s what I made my husband promise (in blood)! It was to be the great adventure – a stint overseas to shake things up a bit. 

Hurling me out of my comfort zone in Sydney where I was happily cruising into my tenth year at Sky News, surrounded by all the creature comforts of friends, family and familiarity (not to mention life as a fancy-free, newly-wed couple) tossing me unceremoniously into a city heaving with high-rises, humidity and high-waisted maternity clothes!  To continue reading, click here for Expat Focus>>>

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Nicole Webb

Nicole is a journalist and writer (former News Reader with Sky News Australia) who, back in 2010, took a leap of faith and embarked on a journey to the city that never sleeps, Hong Kong! Fast forward four years, and Nicole, her hotelier husband and toddler stepped things up a notch and moved to Central China, where they lived in Xi'an for 2.5 years. Back in Sydney after a whirlwind adventure, Nicole continues her musings! Check out Mint Mocha Musings for plenty of intriguing, humorous and uplifting tales from her expat life in Asia so far. You can also find her on Twitter: @nicoledwebb. and Instagram at Mint Mocha Musings.

Comments

  1. Krissa Curran says

    Just messaged you about http://www.liveitchina.com (a one-stop shop for all the Chinese learning resources you need in HK and greater China!) + another social travel site you may be interested in (http://www.foftravel.com). I also grew up as an expat (kid) here in HK from 2000 to 2006 and I gotta say HK does leave its mark on you. Hence me being involved in these projects. Let me know if you’d like to chat more 🙂 Best, – K

    • Nicole Webb says

      Thanks Krissa, I got your email and look forward to chatting further! Cheers, Nicole

  3. Fiona says

    Thank you for this article!! Made me feel much better. We are moving to HK in january for my partner’s job. I just got back from being over there for a week checking HK out. Loved it, but very hard to get around with a 6 month old. I am looking forward to moving, but know it will be very hard to adapt. You gave me hope (with this one and all previous articles!!). It’s very different from Australia!! Thanks again

    • Nicole Webb says

      Hi Fiona,
      So glad you are feeling better about it all. It’s a huge step but you will get there and hopefully immerse yourself as much as I have. It takes time but there are plenty of expats to hold your hand… let me know if you need any help. Cheers, Nicole x
      Nicole Webb recently posted…8 Lessons Learned: 3 Years as an Expat in Hong KongMy Profile

  4. Anja says

    Nice column, Nicole, and very recognizable. Minus the baby part;-). I am currently in HK, as a visitor though. Am expat in Singapore. Nice to read your posts.
    Anja recently posted…Street Art in TaipeiMy Profile

    • nicoledwebb says

      Thanks so much Anja. Lovely to get feedback. Really glad you can relate. Enjoy your time in Hong Kong. Am busting to get to Singapore! 🙂

      • Anja says

        If only the rains would stop, I will surely enjoy HK;-).

        What do you mean about Sg? You plan to visit? Yeah, I like Singapore a lot.
        Anja recently posted…Street Art in TaipeiMy Profile

      • nicoledwebb says

        Oh no! You’ve got the worst weather week here in Hong Kong. Non-stop raining! Looks like the weekend may be better! 🙂 Yes, sorry – meant I am really looking forward to getting to Singapore one of these days! 🙂