Dave Sabol

After the catastrophe of day that I had yesterday, today was a relative walk in the park. I arrived at the PHL airport a little more than 3-hours ahead of my departure, got through ticketing and security screening very smoothly and now find myself trying to kill time as I wait for my flight.

I had a pretty interesting interaction today as I settled in for my wait. The airport is really quiet so I thought I’d try to get some work done. I was able to find a spot with a strong WiFi signal and a conveniently located power outlet, which met my needs perfectly. As I got myself situated, I kept hearing the chirping of a bird and it sounded close. It caught me off guard (when is the last time you heard a bird in a airport terminal) so I started to search out the noise-maker. I scanned my entire surroundings but came up empty, but then just looked straight ahead and noticed that there was a little bird (I think it is a Song Sparrow) sitting a few seats away from me.

The interaction was great and I was able to snap a few pictures largely because the little bird was pretty uninterested in me. Now, however, as I think about it, it does raise a number of questions largely regarding what he was doing here. Was he an affluent bfird waiting for a flight south? Was he, perhaps a new pilot for U.S. Air? Or are the financial conditions of the airlines that bad that this is the newest member of their fleet? It was a pretty fun experience and one that immediately put a humorous twist on the day and hopefully sets the tone for the trip (chance and interesting encounters).

Now as I sit here and watch the flight board and listen to the departure announcements, I am a bit concerned about the flight out only because the weather here in Philly is less than ideal.

While the picture above isn’t that telling, it gives a flavor for the type of day it is. Last night (Sunday) we had a mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain (affectionately called a wintery mix here in the mid-Atlantic). It made the roads pretty treacherous (especially early) and as a result traffic was moving pretty slow at times on the major roads. As I took the shuttle from the parking lot to the terminal here at the airport I noticed that the airport had the snow removal equipment going, presumably removing the slush and treating the runways, so I am sure it could have somewhat of an impact on my (and many others) travel plans.

Overall, the day seems like how I envisioned starting off my trip yesterday. I guess I just had to wait a day. Regardless, now that I am sitting in the airport closing in on my flight trip, the trip seems like it is more real than ever…at least a lot more than it did 24 hours ago. Until later…

As of 5:40 pm last night, I should have been on a flight destined for San Francisco where I would make a connecting flight to Hong Kong. Somewhere in the process something didn’t go as planned. I made it to the airport a little more than 2 hours before I was supposed to depart and normally that is plenty of time to check-in, clear security and make it to the terminal with time to spare. However, for one reason or another, it wasn’t enough time at least that is what I was told by U.S. Airways.

Since I did have a checked bag, I decided to take advantage of the skycap service to check my bag in curbside, so I didn’t have to deal with it at the check-in counter. Normally that eliminates a lot of hassle and speeds things along considerably. I gave my bag to the gentleman there and he generated my baggage tag and ticket, but then things started to get a bit funky. Once the tag printed he took a look at it, showed it to his colleague, laughed and came over to me. I knew something was up right away. He told me that I would have to go inside to the check-in counter and take care of everything there. No explanation, no apology, just that statement. He was nice enough to take me to where I needed to be, and despite the confusion, I was still in good spirits. That was until I saw he was throwing me into a queue with approximately other 20 people.

As I stood in line I watched the clock tick away the minutes and my hopes quickly began to fade. The clock seemed to be moving in fast-forward and by the time I reached the front of the line, I knew that my chances for making the flight were slim-to-none as I only had approximately 45 minutes before my flight left. Now, I am a relative newcomer to international travel, but no stranger to domestic flying so what happened next really shocked me. I approached the U.S. Airways ticket counter where I was greeted by a pleasant ticket agent by the name of Latisha. She asked for my name which she typed into her computer. Here is how the transaction went:

Latisha: You missed your flight!

Me: No kidding, I wouldn’t have if I wasn’t stuck in this line.

Latisha: Yes, we are quite busy today.

Me: Ok, I need to get to SFO to make a connecting flight to Hong Kong.

Latisha: (furiously typing into her terminal) It doesn’t look good. I am trying a bunch of options but everything is booked.

Me: What are my options?

Latisha: None for tonight. Let me get my manager.

This whole process took 20 minutes, so whatever small chance I had to make my existing flight were gone. The scene was surreal, and a lot of folks around me who looked like they were in a similar situation appeared to be getting frustrated. To complicate matters, because I checked my bag curbside the computer system continued to say that my luggage was already on the flight and wouldn’t allow Latisha to cancel it out. She had me try to find the skycap while she continued to look for flights. It took a few minutes of running around the terminal (inside and out) but I finally found the gentleman I checked-in with and also had my baggage tags. He swore he never saw me before. I was astounded! Sure, I bet he checked in a ton of other people in the hour plus that elapsed, but given my situation I figured he would have remembered a messed up situation like mine.

Another ten minutes later after, I make it back to the ticket counter where Latisha is still struggling with the booking computer, thankfully her manager, Fidelis, shows up.

Fidelis: What happened?

Me: Well, I’m not really sure, but I do know I missed my flight.

Fidelis: Ok, lets see what we can do.

Me: I really need to be in San Francisco tonight to meet my party and continue on to Hong Kong.

Fidelis: (furiously typing into the terminal). I’ll do my best, but it honestly doesn’t look promising.

Me: Ok, well then I need to get out on the next available flight tomorrow.

Fidelis: Ok, There is a 2:00 flight out of here (PHL) that puts you into San Francisco a little after five-o-clock. Then I think we can try to get you on the same Singapore Air (SA) flight you were supposed to be on tonight, just one day later.

Me: Well, it isn’t ideal, but it’s better than no flight at all.

Fidelis: Ok, I was able to get you on rebooked on our flight, but I cannot get the SA computer to confirm your reservation. Let me call them.

So he calls them and they give him some further instructions. As he hangs up the phone, he tells them he will be calling back. In the meantime, another ticket agent comes to Fidelis in a panic. Fidelis decides that his attention is needed there and he disappears. Fifteen minutes later he comes back and apologizes. He calls SA once again and is able to get me tentatively booked. He then proceeds to write out an explanation for me that I need to give to the agent in San Francisco telling me: “you might need this”. I don’t want to paint Fidelis to be the bad guy here. He was really great! As I walked away from the counter he said to me: “Your flight is at 2:00 PM, you should be here by at least 11:00 AM, if not earlier.”

The net-net of the whole situation is the fact that I am leaving a day later and will arrive a day later, not a big deal in the grand scheme of things as I had booked everything with some downtime built into my schedule. I will have more of a layover in SFO than I really wanted (7 hours), but that was what I had to deal with to get into Hong Kong close to when I had hoped.

What really frustrates me is the fact that I never received an explanation why all of this happened! I want to know why I got thrown into airport limbo. I suspect that the flight was well overbooked, as a number of folks that I talked to during my wait were also on the same flight. In a similar vein, if I screwed up, I want to know that too so I don’t repeat the same mistake in the future. Regardless, I don’t think I will ever know.

I know the airline business got thrown into a tailspin due to all of the changes that needed to be made post-9/11, but the fact that they can get away without even an explanation blows my mind. Additionally, in this day and age, I refuse to believe that there isn’t a more efficient networked system connecting all airlines together so that adjustments can be made. If I can order a built-to-order computer from Dell and receive it in a few days or order a slew of books from Amazon and literally have them at my doorstep the next day, why can’t adjustments be made without phone calls and tons of creativity by the airline employees.

I know the airlines are in business to make money and compete with each other, but there has to be a greater level of cooperation. I am not professing to have all of the answers, but I think a wholesale overhaul of the entire airline system is well overdue.

You definitely learn a lot from your mistakes and when you travel, in this situation I think you could say I learned a lot and nothing at the same time. Today is a new day and hopefully I can get this trip underway. If all goes well, the next time I write will be from the terminal in San Francisco.

Well, today is the day that I leave for my trip. As I have explained, I am excited and a bit apprehensive, but overall I am sure things will be great. The part I am dreading the most is trying to pack 9 days of clothing into a suitcase. Not that packing is so difficult, but when you are trying to play for a variety of situations and essentially be ready for anything the size of your suitcase and the weight limits enforced by the airline become serious constraints.

Not sure how I am going to do it, but I did just check Accuweather.com, my favorite and trusted source for weather information to see what I would be facing when I am finally on the ground in Hong Kong. Here is what their forecast showed for 21 January 2007 through 29 January 2007, the duration of my trip:

The image is linked to the actual forecast page for anyone interested in seeing how the forecast compares to reality. It is also worth noting that the image is © 2007 Accuweather.

Suffice it to say, I won’t need to pack cold weather gear as the temperatures there are considerably higher than they are in Pennsylvania (as I write this, the temperature outside is a balmy 20°F). Even so, the nighttime temperatures do look a bit on the cool side, so some provisions have to be made for that. At least I don’t have to factor in rain gear as most of time will be spent in-doors and the time I plan to be outside looks as though it will be pretty nice, so that is an added bonus.

Hopefully, I can figure it all out soon as I am t-minus 4 hours and counting until I need to be on the road for the Philadelphia International Airport, and I still haven’t finished packing.

As I am getting ready for my trip to Hong Kong, I thought it would be fun to publish some videos / vlogs documenting my trip. I have all of the hardware (Logitech QuickCam Fusion webcam and my Panasonic Lumix FZ30) / software (Camtasia Studio) to make it happen, but I needed an easy way to include it on my site.

A quick search of the wordpress.org site led me to a pretty elegant solution. It leverages the feature-rich Flash Video Player created by Jeroen Wijering and a really slick Flash Video Plugin for Wordpress that integrates Jeroen’s player to simplify the process of adding a flash video to a WordPress post. The plugin was created by Joshua Eldridge @ mac-dev.net. Josh has a pretty cool photo gallery plugin igallery that looks pretty sweet as well and something I may try out.

If I installed everything correctly, you should be able to see the flash video player below. To play the included video click the play button or more simply just click the video player screen.

Get the Flash Player to see this player.

Look for more videos from me as I try to document my adventure to Hong Kong in words, pictures and videos.

Top Things To See

• See the country’s oldest Chinese temple, Man Mo Temple on Hong Kong Island, which honours the gods of literature (Man) and war (Mo).
• View the incredible density and scale of the city from Victoria Peak. The view here has been further enhanced by the Peak Tower, a seven-story, futuristic-looking building, incorporating a viewing area, restaurant and entertainment centre. Reached by the Peak Tram, that rises 386m (1266ft) up the mountainside within eight minutes, the summit offers an exceptional panorama, whether by day or night. In the New Territories, the Waterfront Park in Tai Po has a futuristic Lookout Tower that provides breathtaking views across Tolo Harbour.
• Observe glimpses of Hong Kong’s colonial past, such as Government House, the residence of 25 British Governors from 1855 until Hong Kong’s handover to China in 1997. Other vestiges are seen in St John’s Cathedral, thought to be the oldest Christian church in the Far East.
• Go to the Flagstaff House Museum of Tea Ware, located in Hong Kong Park; the museum is an imposing colonial-style building housing ancient Chinese artefacts used in tea-making.
• See Hong Kong’s tallest building, the impressive 78-storey Central Plaza. Visitors can view the city from the Sky Lobby on its 46th floor. After 1800 each day, neon lights upon the building’s rooftop change colour every hour to denote the time of evening.
• Visit the pristine beach of Repulse Bay , overlooked by the Tin Hau Temple. Lantau Island has the white sandy beach, Cheung Sha, and the amazing Shek Pik Reservoir Dam. Day trips to Lantau and tours can be arranged from Hong Kong Island.
• In Kowloon, look at the time at the old Clock Tower near to the star ferry pier, the remaining piece from the Kowloon-Canton railway station that was re-located to Hung Hom in 1975.
• For a more spiritual retreat, visit either the Chi Lin Nunnery, a spectacular Tang Dynasty-style complex, or Wong Tai Sin Temple, built in honour of a shepherd who earned immortality. Many fortune-tellers congregate here.
• Mingle with the crowds at Mong Kok, thought to be the world’s most densely populated urban area, which heaves with selling and buying. Exotic fish and amphibians are sold at the Goldfish Market, and near the Yuen Po Street Bird Garden, intricate bamboo birdcages and songbirds can be purchased.
• Venture up to the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery in the New Territories, situated in the hills above Sha Tin, which actually houses around 13,000 small Buddha statues, and is well worth visiting.
• Whilst in the New Territories, amble around a beautifully designed complex, located in Tuen Mun, which features pavilions, bonsai trees, lotus ponds and a Taoist temple that contains lanterns from Beijing’s Imperial Palace.
• See Hong Kong’s only historic pagoda, the Tsui Shing Lau Pagoda built in 1486 in the Yuen Lang district.
• On the border with China is the fantastic Fung Ying Seen Koon Temple, built in the traditional Taoist style with a double-tiered roof of orange tiles.
• On the Outlying Islands, Lantau Island is famed for its Giant Buddha that sits upon Ngong Ping Plateau at the Po Lin Monastery. At 26m high and weighing in at 202 tons of bronze, it is the world’s largest seated outdoor Buddha. Ngong Ping 360 (opened in early 2006) is a 5.7km (3.5-mile) cable car ride to the Giant Buddha.

Hong Kong Q & A

Q: When is the best time to visit Hong Kong?
A: Hong Kong is an all-year-round destination. It enjoys a mild climate from the middle of September to the end of February, while the weather from May to mid-September is rather warm and humid. Eighty per cent of Hong Kong’s precipitation occurs between May and September, with August registering the highest rainfall. For a detailed weather forecast, please visit Hong Kong Observatory website.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Hong Kong?
A: Visitors from most countries can enter Hong Kong without a visa for periods of seven days to six months, depending on nationality. Check with any Chinese embassy or consulate for the latest status.

Q: Where is the best area to stay?
A: Hong Kong is compact, so visitors are never too far from shopping and major sights. Hong Kong also has an excellent transportation system so visitors can easily reach other areas, no matter where they stay. Most hotels are located in the heart of the city, in Central, Wan Chai and Causeway Bay on Hong Kong Island and in Tsim Sha Tsui and Tsim Sha Tsui East in Kowloon. There are also a growing number of resort-style hotels in the New Territories that offer relaxing alternatives.

Q: Is local transportation easily accessible?
A: Public transportation via bus, ferry or train is efficient, relatively inexpensive and user-friendly. The system covers extension areas of Hong Kong with signs in English and Chinese.

Q: Will I be expected to pay tips?
A: Most restaurants will levy a 10 per cent service charge but waiters will expect to be given some loose change. Restaurants that don’t add a service charge will expect a 10 per cent tip. However, tipping is left to your discretion. Bellboys, porters, restroom attendants and taxi drivers will happily accept loose change.

Q: Will I be able to use my electrical equipment in Hong Kong?
A: The standard electrical voltage in HK is 220 volts AC, 50HZ, so you will need an adaptor for your 100-volt appliances and electrical equipment.The majority of electrical outlets in Hong Kong take a three-pronged plug. You can buy an inexpensive adaptor for your equipment when you arrive in Hong Kong.

Q: Where can I get Internet Access in Hong Kong?
A: Most hotels have Internet access. You can also access the Internet for free at many coffee shops, large shopping malls, major MTR stations and public libraries in town. For people bringing their laptops to Hong Kong, Wireless Broadband service is common at major shopping malls and coffee shops. If you use a modem, note that the BT system using in Hong Kong will gradually be replaced by the RJ system. If you are still using the BT plug, you can buy a BT–RJ adaptor in Hong Kong to solve the connection problem.

Q: Is Hong Kong safe for the visitor?
A: Yes, Hong Kong is one of the safest cities in the world even at night, when people may walk alone with confidence.

Q: Is English widely spoken?
A: Very widely spoken. There will be no problems in communicating with people in most hotels, restaurants and even some taxis.

Source: Hong Kong Tourism Board in the USA

Business Hours

Normal office hours are 9am-5pm on weekdays, and 9am-1pm on Saturdays. Major banks are open 9am-4:30pm on weekdays, and 9am-12:30pm on Saturdays. Closed Sundays and public holidays.

English and Chinese are the official languages The vast majority of shops are open every day throughout the year, some only closing during the Chinese New Year holiday. Generally, opening hours are 10am-7pm. However, many stores in busy retail areas like Causeway Bay and Tsim Sha Tsui stay open until 9:30pm or even later, particularly on weekends. Shops in Central close as early as 7pm.

With effect from 1 July 2006, the HKSAR Government is adopting a five-day work week for civil servants. Operating standards are being maintained through extended hours for certain weekday counter services and use of alternative means of government dealings. Emergency and essential services are not affected.

Travel and Business Information

The U.S. Department of State’s Consular Information Program provides Consular Information Sheets, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements. Consular Information Sheets exist for all countries and include information on entry requirements, currency regulations, health conditions, areas of instability, crime and security, political disturbances, and the addresses of the U.S. posts in the country. Travel Warnings are issued when the State Department recommends that Americans avoid travel to a certain country.

Public Announcements are issued as a means to disseminate information quickly about terrorist threats and other relatively short-term conditions overseas that pose significant risks to the security of American travelers. Free copies of this information are available by calling the Bureau of Consular Affairs at 202-647-5225 or via the fax-on-demand system: 202-647-3000. Consular Information Sheets and Travel Warnings also are available on the Consular Affairs Internet home page: http://travel.state.gov. Consular Affairs Tips for Travelers publication series, which contain information on obtaining passports and planning a safe trip abroad, are available on the Internet and hard copies can be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, telephone: 202-512-1800; fax 202-512-2250.

Emergency information concerning Americans traveling abroad may be obtained from the Office of Overseas Citizens Services at (202) 647-5225. For after-hours emergencies, Sundays and holidays, call 202-647-4000.

The National Passport Information Center (NPIC) is the U.S. Department of State’s single, centralized public contact center for U.S. passport information. Telephone: 1-877-4USA-PPT (1-877-487-2778). Customer service representatives and operators for TDD/TTY are available Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Time, excluding federal holidays.

Travelers can check the latest health information with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia. A hotline at 877-FYI-TRIP (877-394-8747) and a web site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/index.htm give the most recent health advisories, immunization recommendations or requirements, and advice on food and drinking water safety for regions and countries. A booklet entitled Health Information for International Travel (HHS publication number CDC-95-8280) is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, tel. (202) 512-1800.

Information on travel conditions, visa requirements, currency and customs regulations, legal holidays, and other items of interest to travelers also may be obtained before your departure from a country’s embassy and/or consulates in the U.S. (for this country, see “Principal Government Officials” listing in this publication).

U.S. citizens who are long-term visitors or traveling in dangerous areas are encouraged to register their travel via the State Department’s travel registration web site at https://travelregistration.state.gov or at the Consular section of the U.S. embassy upon arrival in a country by filling out a short form and sending in a copy of their passports. This may help family members contact you in case of an emergency.

References / Links

Department of State Web Site. Available on the Internet at the Department of State web site provides timely, global access to official U.S. foreign policy information, including Background Notes and daily press briefings along with the directory of key officers of Foreign Service posts and more.

Export.gov provides a portal to all export-related assistance and market information offered by the federal government and provides trade leads, free export counseling, help with the export process, and more.

STAT-USA/Internet, a service of the U.S. Department of Commerce, provides authoritative economic, business, and international trade information from the Federal government. The site includes current and historical trade-related releases, international market research, trade opportunities, and country analysis and provides access to the National Trade Data Bank.

Lonely Planet Guide to Hong Kong

Hong Kong Tourism Board
115 East 54th Street, Second Floor,
New York, NY 10022-4512, USA
Tel: (212) 421 3382.

U.S. Department of State Background Note – Hong Kong

Language, Introductions and Business Cards

• The prevailing language is Cantonese followed closely by English. Many locals also understand and use Putonghua. Business cards are essential. Use both hands when presenting cards and be sure the writing faces the person to whom you are presenting your card. It is polite to receive the card with both hands and read it before putting the card in a pocket or bag.
• Although the traditional Chinese way of greeting is the bow, as a foreigner you would not really be expected to do so. A simple handshake would suffice, possibly combined with a slight bow. Strong handshakes are not really the norm and many an American or European has commented on the limpness of the Chinese handshake.
• If greeting a group it is important to greet the most senior member first. As a hierarchical society it is important to constantly recognise seniority.
• Most people you meet should be addressed with their title and surname. If you do know of a professional title (President, Doctor, Engineer, etc) simply use Mr or Mrs followed by the surname. It is always a good idea to try and find out if a title is used.
• You will soon notice that many Hong Kong Chinese who do business with foreigners will use a “western” name that is easier for them to remember and pronounce.
• Shake hands with everyone — men, women and children — upon meeting and leaving. Note that Hong Kong Chinese handshakes may be less firm than a Western handshake.
• Higher-ranking persons are introduced before those of lower rank. An older person comes before a younger person, and a woman before a man. Family members are greeted in order of age, oldest first and youngest last.
• It is polite to inquire about a person’s health or activities upon greeting.

Names and Titles

• Use family names and appropriate titles until specifically invited by your host or colleagues to use their first names.
• Address the Chinese with Mr., Mrs., Miss or professional title plus family name. Example: Lau Gan Lei would be Mr. Lau or Doctor Lau or Professor Lau.
• Chinese names have two parts: family name and given name. The family name comes first.

Body Language

• Hong Kong Chinese may stand close when talking, however, they are reserved and uncomfortable with body contact. Do not hug, kiss or pat people on the back.
• Winking at someone is considered a very rude gesture.
• Request your bill by making a writing motion with your hand.
• To beckon someone, extend your arm, palm down, and make a scratching motion with your fingers.
• Never point with your index finger. This is used only for animals. Point with your hand open.

Business and Corporate Culture

Many Hong Kong businesspeople have been educated in Western schools and are well-heeled, well-traveled and possess an international perspective. The business climate in Hong Kong is “wide open,” with a free market and limited government involvement. Hong Kong business activities are competitive, honest and quick. Making money is the main goal. The style of business is similar to that of the United States.

• Punctuality is expected and respected; be on time for all appointments. Allow “courtesy time” (30 minutes) if someone is late for an appointment with you.
• Tea is served at meetings. Do not drink until your host takes the first sip. A host leaving tea untouched signals the end of the meeting.
• Bring business cards printed in English on one side and Chinese on the other side. Make sure that the Chinese side uses “classical” characters, the written form of Chinese used in Hong Kong, and not “simplified” characters, which are used in the People’s Republic of China. Upon introduction, present your business card with both hands and with the Chinese side up.
• Be sure to look at a business card upon receiving it. Do not write on a business card in front of the person who gave it to you.
• Lawyers are not included in negotiations until contracts are drawn up and signed.
• Banking contacts are very important. Use a bank to set up your meetings.
• “Yes” may not mean agreement; it often means “I hear you.” “No” is generally not said. Instead, you may hear “I will have to wait,” or “This may be very difficult.”
• Make appointments for business meetings a month before arrival.

Meetings and Negotiating

• Westerners will encounter both Chinese and Hong Kong Chinese as their business counterparts. While the latter can move to the heart of a matter rather quickly, be ready to build personal relationships, as guanxi, or mutual obligations between contacts, is the oil that keeps business going.
• Business cards should be exchanged when you first meet. Exchanges can be done quickly, although you must treat the cards respectfully. Wait to be introduced to people before introducing yourself.
• The most important person on a Hong Kong business team generally sits in the middle of the negotiating table. Do not seat yourself — you should wait to be seated. You will typically be placed opposite your perceived peer.
• Avoid discussing politics, your personal opinions or other offensive topics. Opening conversations should be short. Hong Kong Chinese are impressed by status and rank, so it may be important to give the appearance of wealth and position. Formal business attire is the standard.
• Meetings in Hong Kong follow the same common sense business standards as those used in North America however it is worth noting that the protocol in China is more formal.
• Appointments in Hong Kong should be made well in advance. Times of the year to avoid are around Christmas, Easter and Chinese New Year. Business trips are best scheduled for October, November and March to June. Most offices usually work from 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday.
• When meeting with a group of business associates always ensure to greet the most senior member first and then the next senior, working your way down the ranks. Ensure you bring plenty of business cards with you. These should be presented when meeting. It is a good idea to have one side of the business card translated into Chinese. Using red and gold is considered auspicious. Present and accept business cards with two hands and always inspect and comment upon cards.
• Make sure you come prepared with materials and presentations as these will be expected. Facts and figures are crucial as supporting evidence but will not be the be all and end all. Remember to always keep calm, patient and modest in all your behaviour. Avoid confrontation or aggression as this will lead to you losing face and causing a loss of face. Use language diplomatically at all times. Similarly try to avoid directly saying no to anyone, try and use alternative expressions such as, “I will see”, “I will try” or “It may be difficult.”
• Negotiations may be slow and detailed, but very efficient. This is normal and rather than trying to add pressure see if more details would be useful. Send senior people with technical and commercial expertise prepared to function as a team and make decisions on the spot. Be aware that during negotiations a senior member of the company may attend but simply as a ceremonial attendee. It is usually the lower ranking attendees who will do the negotiations with you so pay most attention to them.
• Business deals may be sealed with a handshake alone. Be prepared to compromise. Take time to build relationships. It may take several meetings to accomplish goals. Do business face to face. Courtesy calls and personal selling are vital to success. Conversely, while negotiating can take a significant amount of time, once the details are agreed upon the pace of business can be very fast. Hong Kong Chinese are quick to assure you that they can take care of things. Values like risk-taking and efficiency are important.

Dining and Entertainment

Entertaining is a critical part of doing business in Hong Kong. Restaurants and banquet halls are usually where one will encounter an eight course meal over which a new alliance is built or a business deal celebrated. In fact, a meal can also be considered a gift so should be reciprocated. Hong Kong’s banquets are legendary, and you will most likely be invited to one. They typically start in the early evening and can go on into the night. You will enjoy an almost endless parade of many different Chinese dishes — most of them reflecting the area’s Cantonese cuisine — typically beginning with some sweet and savory appetizers, moving on to a main dish of steamed grouper or large fish, through vegetables, pickles and meat.

• Pay attention to seating etiquette. Chinese tables are usually round and seat twelve people. The guest of honour will sit furthest from the entrance. The host will sit closest the entrance; this is to allow them to better deal with waiting staff.
• Tea is the customary beverage for all occasions. Your teacup will be refilled continually. Leave your cup full if you are finished. Chinese find adding sugar and cream to tea a very strange Western habit. Place teapot lid upside down (or open if attached) to signal the waiter for more tea.
• Toasting is an important part of a Chinese dinner. If you are the guest of honor and are toasted, smile, raise your glass, make eye contact, drink, raise your glass and thank the host and guests. Be prepared to make a toast. Leave your glass half full if do not want any more to drink. Never refill your own glass. Always refill your neighbor’s glass when it is less than half-empty.
• The guest of honor rises and thanks the host for everyone present at the end of dinner. Make a simple, polite, short toast to friendship, success and cooperation.
• The banquet host visits each table and makes a toast. A toast is often made in the middle of a banquet when the shark fin soup is served.
• Be sure to eat and show appreciation for shark fin soup if it is offered. This delicacy is offered only to special guests, and is very expensive.
• It is bad manners for a host not to keep a guest’s plate full, and it is even worse for a guest not to continue eating as long as the plate is full. Always leave some food on your dish after you are finished with each course. Otherwise the host will continue refilling your plate or bowl.
• Be sure to reciprocate with a banquet of equal quality. Your hotel can assist you in preparations.
• Rice is served as a filler. Most food will be served in the center of the table, allowing everyone to serve themselves. Always handle your chopsticks adeptly — never stand them straight up in your rice bowl, use them as pointers or hold them separately in two hands. Hold your rice bowl up by your chin, under the food held in your chopsticks, and whisk some rice into your mouth after you eat the food from your plate. Do not eat large amounts, which implies the host has not served enough food.
• Lay your chopsticks on your chopstick rest or neatly on the table when you are finished eating. Never stick them in a bowl of rice.
• Don’t be afraid to dirty the tablecloth. Bones, shells, etc. are put on the table; do not put them in your rice bowl. A plate may be provided for this purpose.
• Unique to Hong Kong, the way to thank a waiter for more tea or rice is to quietly tap your index and middle fingers together once or twice on the table.
• The Chinese find belching, slurping, clanging utensils and making loud noises at the dinner table acceptable, sometimes even complimentary.
• Oranges or other fruits are served to signal the end of the meal. Leave soon after the meal ends.
• Never refuse an invitation to lunch or dinner. If you can’t make the date, suggest another date.
• Spouses are usually not included in business dining. Do not bring a spouse unless invited to do so. If spouses are present, business is generally not discussed.

Dress

Hong Kong residents are very style-conscious and dress well. All types of clothing are worn in Hong Kong. However, taste and fashion look more toward Japan than Britain or the United States. Clothing should be light for summer with sweaters and jackets for winter.

• Modesty and cleanliness are very important.
• For business, men should wear conservative and lightweight Western-style suits and ties. Women should wear conservative dresses, suits or skirts and blouses.
• Wear a good watch. It will be noticed.
• The Chinese tend to dress up when going out in the evening. Most European-style hotel restaurants require a coat and tie in the evening. Women should wear cocktail dresses or evening pants.
• The color red is considered a lucky color in Hong Kong. When dressing for a business meeting select a red tie to impress your host.
• The color white is synonymous with death.

Gifts and Compliments

Gift giving is part and parcel of doing business in Hong Kong. It helps establish and maintain relationships. Gifts are always exchanged between business associates at Christmas and Chinese New Year. A common gift is known as hong boa. This is when a gift of money is given in a red envelope to children and non-governmental staff. New bills are given in even numbers and amounts. If you have gifts for all members of a team, the head of the team should get a higher quality present. Other team members should be given identical, token gifts. Typically, gifts are wrapped, presented and received with two hands, and opened after the presenter has gone. Be prepared to present a small gift at the first meeting, such as high-quality cognac, brandy, candy or pens. Unlike other Asian countries, Scotch whiskey is not special in Hong Kong.

• Gifts that are advised to avoid giving are clocks, books, blankets, anything unwrapped or wrapped in blue and green hats. When gifts are received do not open in the presence of the giver. When giving and accepting gifts use both hands. Gifts should be reciprocated. Gifts should be graciously declined when first offered. If the giver persists in offering you a gift, accept it with both hands and then put away. Similarly, compliments should be modestly accepted.
• Acceptable gifts to give include fruit and objects like coins, stamps and coffee table books that are unavailable in Hong Kong.
• Never go to a Chinese home without a gift.
• Present and receive a gift with both hands. Do not open a gift upon receiving it.
• The word for the number “3″ in Chinese sounds like the word for “life,” and the word for the number “8″ sounds like the word for “prosperity.” The Chinese word for number “9″ is a homonym for the word “eternity.” Give gifts in these numbers, if possible. Do not give gifts in a group of four; the Chinese word for “4″ sounds similar to the word for “death.”
• Avoid giving white or red flowers (white is a symbol of mourning, red is a symbol of blood); clocks are associated with death, but watches are suitable gifts.
• Every conceivable product can be purchased in Hong Kong. Try to bring something from your hometown or state.
• It is illegal to give a civil servant a gift.

Superstitions

• Cutlery is an inappropriate gift — it symbolizes the cutting of the relationship.
• Americans tend to avoid the number 13. Cantonese speakers avoid the number 4 for similar reasons. The number 3 is a homonym for life, the number 8 for prosperity, and the number 9 is similar in sound to the Cantonese word for eternity.
• The words for clock and flower, especially white flowers, are associated with funerals, so these items should not be offered as a gift, especially to those unwell.
• Red means happiness and gold means wealth and so both colours are appropriate for gift-wrapping.

Helpful Hints

• The Chinese are famous for communicating by “Saying it without saying it.” You will have to learn to read between the lines.
• Expect Hong Kong Chinese to ask personal questions.
• Compliment Hong Kong Chinese, but expect a denial. Politely deny a compliment to show humility. Do not say thank you.
• Do not speak loudly.
• You may be referred to as “Gweilo” (foreign devil). While perhaps insulting, it is generally not a personal attack.
• Hong Kong Chinese are very superstitious; mentioning failure, poverty or death offends them.
• It is common in China to show one’s surprise or dismay by sucking air in quickly and loudly through the lips and teeth. If you have been shown this gesture, it would be advisable to modify your request. Your host is obviously displeased.

Especially for Women

• Foreign businesswomen should have little trouble conducting business in Hong Kong.
• Chinese women generally do not drink alcohol. However, it is acceptable for Western women to drink alcohol in moderation.

Most Chinese in Hong Kong speak Cantonese. While technically a dialect, it is really quite a different spoken language than Mandarin, the official language spoken in Beijing. Even the architecture and scenery vary — the Victorian waterfront gives way to ancient Chinese temples and traditions.

A common phrase suggests that the world is “getting smaller”. Although this may be true in that it is easier to travel to and communicate with the rest if the world, it is hard to argue that this has led to greater synergy in how to do business globally. Cross cultural differences in the way we meet, greet, communicate, negotiate and build relationships still exist.

Socializing

It is difficult to overestimate the importance of food / eating in the Chinese culture. Many important relationships are developed at Chinese banquets. Traditionally, large dishes are shared from the centre of a circular table. The host orders these dishes, and serves the guests. It is polite to sample every dish served. Drinking alone at the table is considered impolite, therefore toasts are usually offered to the people sitting nearby or to the whole table. When not in use, chopsticks should be placed on the rest or horizontally at the side of a dish, not on top of the bowl and never standing up in the rice as this symbolises death.

Conversation Topics

There are no firm rules regarding conversation. But don’t be surprised if your host asks your age, marital status, about your children or your family status. They are simply trying to find common ground. Depending on the closeness of the relationship, business may or may not be discussed.

The major influence on the business (and social) environment is the fact that Hong Kong is overwhelmingly populated by Chinese. The Chinese population are primarily drawn upon the five major groups of Southern China:

1. The Cantonese
2. The Fukkien
3. Hainan
4. The Chui Chow
5. The Hakka

Cantonese and English are the two languages of use on the island.

Cultural Notes

You may see members of the sex holding hands. This signifies friendship but would not be seen between members of the same sex. Women can cross their legs when seated but men should try and keep their feet on the floor. Physical contact is rare so avoid patting people on the back or holding someone’s shoulder.

The People

Hong Kong is very sophisticated and cosmopolitan, blending the cultures of Asia and Europe. Its people are highly educated, very motivated and westernized. Hong Kong is 98% Chinese (Cantonese), but the people view themselves as different from other Chinese. Cantonese habits and customs are dominant. An individual’s actions, prestige, education, wealth and reputation reflect positively or negatively on the entire family.

Doing Business in Hong Kong

Hong Kong businesspeople can be characterised as wealthy risk takers who understand the need for both parties to succeed. Business is conducted at international standards; however for Americans doing business in Hong Kong, being sensitive to local customs can improve the chances of success.

The above cultural information about Hong Kong are but a few examples of some of the topics a educated traveller needs to consider before visiting Hong Kong. It is important to bear in mind that these topics are simply generalizations of culture and business in Hong Kong. They in no way are presented as hard and fast rules that are applicable all of the time. People differ from country to country and also within countries, so do not expect all Hong Kong Chinese to act, think or behave in the same way. For more tips on doing business and cultural norms read the next entry in this series: Business Tips and Etiquette.

In the first part of this series, I explained that I am again travelling for business. This time I am heading to Hong Kong. I then provided some basic historical and statistical information about Hong Kong. In this entry, I continue to share information that I came across during my research on the Government, Domestic and Foreign Relations and the Economy.

Government

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) is headed by Chief Executive Donald Tsang, who officially took office on June 21, 2005 after China’s State Council announced its approval. Former Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa tendered his resignation on March 12, 2005, citing ill health. Mr. Tung has since been confirmed as a vice-chairman of the National People’s Political Consultative Conference. The selection process for a new Chief Executive concluded on June 15, 2005 when Tsang garnered 710 of the 800 nomination votes from the Election Committee, preventing any other candidate from garnering the minimum 100 votes needed to become an official candidate. Although pro-democratic groups argued for a full five-year term for the new Chief Executive, as outlined in the Basic Law, Mr. Tsang will simply complete the remaining two years in Mr. Tung’s term. Mr. Tung was the first Chief Executive of Hong Kong and began his second five-year term on July 1, 2002, after his nomination by a selection committee established by the Basic Law. The selection committee is made up of 800 Hong Kong residents from four constituency groups: commercial, industrial, and financial interests; professionals; labor, social services, and religious interests; and the legislature, the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and the P.R.C. National People’s Congress.

The 2004 Legislative Council elections were seen as generally free, open, and widely contested, though there were allegations of voter intimidation. The Hong Kong Government and the Legislative Council are currently engaged in a public consultation process intended to lead to changes in the mechanism for choosing the Chief Executive and forming the Legislative Council and move toward the “ultimate aim” of universal suffrage as prescribed by the Basic Law. In April 2004, the P.R.C. National People’s Congress Standing Committee issued a decision on the scope and pace of constitutional reform, which laid out certain conditions for the process of democratic development. This decision precluded major changes to the electoral systems for the 2007 Chief Executive and 2008 Legislative Council elections. In December 2005 the Legislative Council rejected a Hong Kong Government-proposed package of incremental reforms to the mechanisms for choosing the Chief Executive in 2007 and forming the Legislative Council in 2008. The Hong Kong Government also implemented the Principal Officials Accountability System in July 2002, which was designed to make the government more responsive to public concerns. Eleven political appointees, directly responsible to the Chief Executive, to run the 11 policy bureaus were added. Three other senior civil service positions–the Chief Secretary, Financial Secretary, and Justice Secretary–also were converted to political appointments, although without a change in personnel.

Principal Government Officials

• Chief Executive: Donald Tsang
• Chief Secretary: Rafael Hui
• Financial Secretary: Henry Tang
• Secretary for Justice: Wong Yan-long
• Secretary for Security: Ambrose Lee
• Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology: Joseph Wong
• Secretary for Housing, Planning and Lands: Michael Suen
• Secretary for Education and Manpower: Arthur Li
• Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food: Dr. York Chow
• Secretary for the Civil Service: Denise Yue
• Secretary for Home Affairs: Patrick Ho
• Secretary for Economic Development and Labor: Stephen Ip
• Secretary for the Environment, Transport and Works: Sarah Liao
• Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury: Frederick Ma
• Secretary for Constitutional Affairs: Stephen Lam

Political Conditions

On July 1, 1997, China resumed the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong, ending more than 150 years of British colonial rule. Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China with a high degree of autonomy in all matters except foreign and defense affairs. According to the Sino-British Joint Declaration (1984) and the Basic Law, Hong Kong will retain its political, economic, and judicial systems and unique way of life for 50 years after reversion and will continue to participate in international agreements and organizations under the name, “Hong Kong, China.” In the past year and a half, China has taken on a more active role in overseeing the Hong Kong Government’s management of political developments in the Special Administrative Region. While Hong Kong remains a free and open society where human rights are respected, courts are independent, and there is well-established respect for the rule of law, Hong Kong groups have alleged manipulation or pressure in connection with the September 12, 2004 Legislative Council election. The Hong Kong Government has promised to investigate thoroughly all such allegations. On June 21, 2005, Chief Executive Donald Tsang was sworn in to complete the remaining two years of former Chief Executive Tung Chee Hwa’s term. Tsang won 710 of the 800 nomination votes from the Election Committee. As a result, no other candidate was able to garner the minimum 100 votes needed to become eligible to run for Chief Executive.

Economy

Hong Kong is one of the world’s most open and dynamic economies. Hong Kong per capita GDP is comparable to other developed countries. Real GDP expanded by 8.2% in 2004 year-on-year, driven by thriving exports, vibrant inbound tourism and strong pick up of consumer spending. While severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) caused the Hong Kong economy to shrink during the first half of 2003, second quarter real GDP expanded by 3.2% year-on-year. Hong Kong experienced deflation from November 1998 until July 2004, when inflation reappeared at a 0.9% rate, measured year-on-year. A slack property market has also contributed significantly to deflation. By mid-2003, property prices had fallen 66% from their late 1997 peak, but have since rebounded by about 58% from that lower base. The Hong Kong Government has generally resisted pressure for large-scale public expenditures to stimulate the economy due to growing public policy concerns with the government budget deficit. The surplus for fiscal year 2004-05 was $2.7 billion or 1.7% of GDP, attributed to the sales of government bonds and notes.

Hong Kong enjoys a number of economic strengths, including accumulated public and private wealth from decades of unprecedented growth, a sound banking system, virtually no public debt, a strong legal system, and an able and rigorously enforced anti-corruption regime. The need for economic restructuring poses difficult challenges and choices for the government. Hong Kong is endeavoring to improve its attractiveness as a commercial and trading center, especially after China’s entry into the WTO, and continues to refine its financial architecture. The government is deepening its economic interaction with the Pearl River Delta in an effort to maintain Hong Kong’s position as a gateway to China. These efforts include the conclusion of a free trade agreement with China, the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA), which applies zero tariffs to all Hong Kong-origin goods and preferential treatment in 27 service sectors. Hong Kong, along with the Macau SAR, is also participating in a new pan-Pearl River Delta trade block with nine Chinese provinces, which aims to lower trade barriers among members, standardize regulations, and improve infrastructure. U.S. companies have a generally favorable view of Hong Kong’s business environment, including its legal system and the free flow of information, low taxation, and infrastructure. The American Chamber of Commerce’s annual business confidence survey, released in December 2005, showed 98% of respondents had a “good” or “satisfactory” outlook for 2006. Survey results indicated a positive economic outlook through 2008.

On the international front, Hong Kong is a separate and active member of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, where it is an articulate and effective champion of free markets and the reduction of trade barriers. Hong Kong residents across the political spectrum supported China’s accession to the WTO, believing this would open new opportunities on the Mainland for local firms and stabilize relations between Hong Kong’s two most important trade and investment partners, the United States and China.

Foreign Relations

Hong Kong’s foreign relations and defense are the responsibility of China. Hong Kong is an independent customs territory and economic entity separate from the rest of China and is able to enter into international agreements on its own behalf in commercial and economic matters. Hong Kong, independently of China, participates as a full member of numerous international economic organizations including the World Trade Organization (WTO), the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation forum (APEC), and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF).

U.S. and Hong Kong Relations

U.S. policy toward Hong Kong, grounded in a determination to promote Hong Kong’s prosperity, autonomy, and way of life, is stated in the U.S.-Hong Kong Policy Act of 1992. The United States maintains substantial economic and political interests in Hong Kong. The United States supports Hong Kong’s autonomy by concluding and implementing bilateral agreements; promoting trade and investment; arranging high-level visits; broadening law enforcement cooperation; bolstering educational, academic, and cultural links; and supporting the large community of U.S. citizens and visitors.

Hong Kong is an active member of the global coalition against terrorism. Hong Kong has joined the Container Security Initiative and remains an important partner with regard to eliminating funding for terrorist networks and combating money laundering. Hong Kong has passed legislation designed to bring Hong Kong into compliance with applicable UN anti-terror resolutions and Financial Action Task Force recommendations.

The United States has substantial economic and social ties with Hong Kong. There are some 1,100 U.S. firms, including 868 regional operations (262 regional headquarters and 606 regional offices), and about 54,000 American residents in Hong Kong. According to U.S. Government statistics, U.S. exports to Hong Kong totaled $15.8 billion in 2004. U.S. direct investment in Hong Kong at the end of 2004 totaled about $43.7 billion, making the United States one of Hong Kong’s largest investors, along with China, Japan, and the Netherlands.

The United States and Hong Kong signed a new civil aviation agreement in October 2002, which significantly liberalized the aviation market. Hong Kong enjoys a high degree of autonomy as a separate customs territory, with no changes to borders, staffing, or technology export controls since the 1997 handover. Intellectual property rights (IPR) protection has improved substantially in recent years and the introduction of effective new legislation to control illicit production and improved enforcement has now made Hong Kong a regional model for effective IPR protection. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative and other U.S. agencies now regularly cite Hong Kong as an example for others.

Hong Kong

Official Name:

Hong Kong Special Administrative Region

Location / Map:

Latitude: 22°16′42.16″ N (Central HK)
Longitutde: 114°11′01.72″ E (Central HK)
Elevation: 43m (Central HK)

Weather / Climate

Tropical monsoon. Hong Kong has a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Typhoon season is May to November. When a typhoon is approaching, warnings are broadcast on TV and radio, and signals indicate the storm’s distance from Hong Kong.

Seasons

Spring (March to mid-May)

Temperature and humidity rising. Spring evenings can be cool so a lightweight jacket should suffice. Temperatures range from 18C to 27C with humidity around 82%.

Summer (Late May to mid-September)

Hot and humid. Temperatures range from 26C to 33C with humidity around 86%. Short sleeves and cotton are best, with a lightweight sweater for air-conditioned restaurants. An umbrella or hat can ward off the intense sunshine.

Autumn (Late September to early December)

Temperatures and humidity drop. Clear sunny days. Short sleeves and light jackets should be fine. Temperatures range from 18C to 28C with humidity around 72%.

Winter (Mid-December to February)

Cool with low humidity. Temperatures can drop to 10C. Occasional chills can make woolens and overcoats worth bringing. Temperatures range from 14C to 20C with humidity of around 72%.

Geography

Area:

1,100 sq. km.; Hong Kong comprises Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, the New Territories, and numerous small islands.

Terrain:

Hilly to mountainous, with steep slopes and natural harbor.

History

According to archaeological studies initiated in the 1920s, human activity on Hong Kong dates back over five millennia. Excavated neolithic artifacts suggest an influence from northern Chinese stone-age cultures. The territory was settled by Han Chinese during the seventh century, A.D., evidenced by the discovery of an ancient tomb at Lei Cheung Uk in Kowloon. The first major migration from northern China to Hong Kong occurred during the Sung Dynasty (960-1279). The British East India Company made the first successful sea venture to China in 1699, and Hong Kong’s trade with British merchants developed rapidly soon after. After the Chinese defeat in the First Opium War (1839-42), Hong Kong was ceded to Britain in 1842 under the Treaty of Nanking. Britain was granted a perpetual lease on the Kowloon Peninsula under the 1860 Convention of Beijing, which formally ended hostilities in the Second Opium War (1856-58). The United Kingdom, concerned that Hong Kong could not be defended unless surrounding areas also were under British control, executed a 99-year lease of the New Territories in 1898, significantly expanding the size of the Hong Kong colony.

In the late 19th century and early 20th centuries, Hong Kong developed as a warehousing and distribution center for U.K. trade with southern China. After the end of World War II and the communist takeover of Mainland China in 1949, hundreds of thousands of people fled from China to Hong Kong. Hong Kong became an economic success and a manufacturing, commercial, finance, and tourism center. High life expectancy, literacy, per capita income, and other socioeconomic measures attest to Hong Kong’s achievements over the last five decades.

Flag

The flag of Hong Kong is red with a stylized, white, five-petal bauhinia flower in the center.

People

Hong Kong’s population has increased steadily over the past decade, reaching about 6.9 million by 2004. Hong Kong is one of the most densely populated areas in the world, with an overall density of some 6,380 people per square kilometer. Cantonese, the official Chinese language in Hong Kong, is spoken by most of the population. English, also an official language, is widely understood. It is spoken by more than one-third of the population. Every major religion is practiced freely in Hong Kong. All children are required by law to be in full-time education between the ages of 6 and 15. Preschool education for most children begins at age 3. Primary school begins normally at the age of 6 and lasts for 6 years. At about age 12, children progress to a 3-year course of junior secondary education. Most stay on for a 2-year senior secondary course, while others join full-time vocational training. More than 90% of children complete upper secondary education or equivalent vocational education.

Population (2004):

6.9 million

Population growth rate (2004):

1.0%

Ethnic groups:

Chinese 95%

Other 5%.

Religions:

About 43% participate in some form of religious practice. Christian, about 9.6%.

Languages:

Cantonese (a dialect of Chinese) and English are official

Education:

Literacy–92% (95% male, 88% female)

Health (2004):

Infant mortality rate: 2.7/1,000

Life expectancy: 81.9 yrs. (overall); 79.0 yrs. males, 84.7 yrs. females.

Work force (2004):

3.5 million.

Wholesale, retail, and import/export trades and restaurants and hotels: 28.4%;

Finance, insurance, real estate, and business services: 12.7%

Manufacturing: 4.7%

Government

Type

Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, with its own constitution (the Basic Law)

Branches

Executive–Administration — Next Chief Executive Selection in March 2007

Executive Council, serving in an advisory role for the Chief Executive.

Legislative–Legislative Council elected in September 2004. Judicial–Court of Final Appeal is highest court, other lower courts.

Subdivisions:

Hong Kong

Kowloon

New Territories

Suffrage

Permanent residents, at 18 years or over, living in Hong Kong for the past 7 years are eligible to vote.

Economy (2004)

GDP (2004):

$165.5 billion

GDP real growth rate (2004):

8.2%

Per capita GDP (2004):

$24,045

Natural resources

Outstanding deepwater harbor

Industry Types:

Textiles

Clothing

Electronics

Plastics

Toys

Watches

Clocks

Trade (Exports):

$259 billion. Clothing, electronics, textiles, watches and clocks, office machinery

Trade (Imports)

$271 billion. Consumer goods, raw materials and semi-manufactures, capital goods, foodstuffs, fuels

2007 looks like it is off to a blazing start for me. It’s only the first month of the year and I already have at least four major trips on my radar screen. Two of them look like they are definite, two look pretty certain but not guaranteed and more are emerging with every passing week. Many may wonder why this is worth writing about as so many people travel for business. The explanation is quite simple, this is the first time in my career that required such extensive travel so it both new and exciting for me.

My first trip, which I will be leaving for on Sunday, is to Hong Kong. The trip I took last November to Santiago was both the first international trip I have taken and my first trip to South America. Needless to say it was a pretty daunting experience. Needless to say, it was a transformational experience and I enjoyed it tremendously, but it doesn’t lessen my excitement and apprehensiveness about this trip.

On Sunday evening, I depart Philadelphia International Airport and fly to San Francisco. Fortunately for me, I am meeting a close colleague in Philly who will be along for the entire trip, so it gives me someone to chat with. The only downside of the trip is the layover in San Fran (5 hours), otherwise, I am imagining a pretty smooth trip. In San Francisco we are meeting up with our manager and two other colleagues who will be with us for the remainder of the trip. From San Francisco we take a 14 hour flight to Hong Kong. The time zone differences and the fact that we cross the International Date Line puts us into the Airport around 7:00 AM local time.

It’s a lot of time to be flying…but I hope to use it to catch up on some long overdue reading and hopefully sleep, although I don’t sleep well on planes so that is doubtful. Regardless, I am pretty excited to head to Asia for the first time in my 32 years of life.

The purpose of this post and the next few posts in this series is to share the information I found in my research about Hong Kong. I am doing it as much for my friends and family so they can gain an appreciation for where I am heading and what I will be experiencing as I am for myself as a personal travelogue.

In Hong Kong Trip – Part 1 – Overview I will share a brief overview of the location, climate, geography, history, population, government structure and economy.

In Hong Kong Trip – Part 2 – Government and Economics I will provide a more indepth exploration of the government, including a governmental overview, the principal governmental officials and political conditions, and the economy and foreign relations.

In Hong Kong Trip – Part 3 – People and Culture I will describe some of the cultural aspects Hong Kong.

In Hong Kong Trip – Part 4 – Business Tips and Etiquette I will share numerous tips for doing business in Hong Kong including making a good first impression and describing various aspects of the business culture (negotiations and meetings, dining and entertainment, dress, gifts and compliments).

Finally, in Hong Kong Trip – Part 5 – Touring, FAQs, and Resources I will share some of the top tourist attractions and address some frequently asked questions and provide some additional resources for further research.