Single Expats in Hong Kong: Meet New People and Make Friends
As an Aussie expat in Hong Kong, it’s easy to find yourself caught in the whirlwind of the city’s hustle and bustle. Amidst the majestic skyscrapers, exotic cuisine, and the intricate blend of Eastern and Western cultures, making new friends and building a social network can be a daunting task.
This article aims to guide single Australian expats in Hong Kong on how to meet new people, develop friendships, and make the most out of their expat life.
1. Engage in Community Events
The Aussie expat community in Hong Kong is thriving and incredibly welcoming. Community events are regular fixtures on the calendar and are perfect opportunities to socialise and network.
Check out organisations like the Australian Association of Hong Kong and the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. These groups host various events ranging from casual BBQs and pub nights to more formal networking events and Australian cultural celebrations.
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2. Connect Online
Living in the digital age has made connecting with like-minded people easier. Numerous online platforms and forums cater specifically to expats in Hong Kong, like GeoExpat and Asiaxpat.
Social media groups on platforms like Facebook also host numerous expat groups, including ‘Aussies in Hong Kong’. These online communities can be invaluable resources for advice, support, and even friendship.
3. Take Part in Sports and Recreation Activities
Australians are known for their love for sports, and joining a local sports club can be a great way to connect with fellow Aussies and other expats.
Whether you’re into rugby, football, or cricket, there’s a good chance you’ll find a club in Hong Kong. Consider joining the Hong Kong Dragons AFL team or the Hong Kong Cricket Club, which have a significant Aussie presence.
4. Explore Local Cuisine with Food Tours
Hong Kong is a culinary paradise. Participating in food tours can be an enjoyable way to meet fellow expats, learn about local cuisine, and explore the city.
Companies like Hong Kong Foodie Tours and Little Adventures offer excellent guided tours that promise gastronomic adventures, often leading to great conversations and the forming of new friendships.
5. Enrol in Language Classes
Enrolling in a Cantonese or Mandarin language class can open doors to understanding the local culture better, improving communication, and meeting people with similar interests.
Schools like the Hong Kong Language Learning Centre offer flexible courses that cater to all levels.
6. Volunteering
Volunteering is a rewarding way to give back to the community while making friends. There are numerous NGOs in Hong Kong in need of volunteers. HandsOn Hong Kong is one such organisation that offers a wide range of volunteering opportunities.
Embracing life as a single Aussie expat in Hong Kong may come with its challenges, but it’s also filled with opportunities for personal growth, new experiences, and meeting people from all walks of life. By engaging with the community, taking advantage of digital resources, and stepping out of your comfort zone, you can make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
Remember, friendships take time to develop, so don’t be discouraged if connections don’t form immediately. Keep an open mind, stay positive, and before you know it, you’ll have a new network of friends in your Hong Kong home.
10 Ways To Meet New People in Hong Kong as an Expat
With the right approach and an open mind, you can easily navigate this bustling metropolis and connect with a broad spectrum of individuals.
Here are ten practical ways for you to meet new people and form friendships as an expat in Hong Kong.
- Community Events: Attend events organised by expat community groups like the Australian Association of Hong Kong or the Australian Chamber of Commerce.
- Online Platforms: Utilise online forums and social media groups tailored to expats in Hong Kong, like GeoExpat, Asiaxpat, or ‘Aussies in Hong Kong’ on Facebook.
- Sports Clubs: Join local sports clubs popular among expats, such as the Hong Kong Dragons AFL team or the Hong Kong Cricket Club.
- Food Tours: Sign up for food tours with companies like Hong Kong Foodie Tours or Little Adventures to enjoy local cuisine while meeting new people.
- Language Classes: Enrol in Cantonese or Mandarin classes at institutions like the Hong Kong Language Learning Centre.
- Volunteering: Participate in local volunteering opportunities through NGOs like HandsOn Hong Kong.
- Workplace Connections: Attend networking events, workshops, or seminars relevant to your profession to connect with fellow expats in your field.
- Hobbies and Interests: Join hobby clubs or take classes catering to your interests (art, cooking, hiking, etc.) to meet people with similar passions.
- Local Festivals and Celebrations: Participate in local festivals and celebrations to experience the local culture and meet a diverse group of people.
- Co-working Spaces: If you work remotely or are a freelancer, co-working spaces can be a great place to interact and network with other expats.
Wrapping Up
While the journey of being a single Aussie expat in Hong Kong can seem daunting initially, it can also be immensely rewarding and rich with opportunities to create new connections, friendships, and unforgettable experiences.
So, head out, dive in, and start building your unique Hong Kong story.
Can you Secure a Home Loan in Australia from Hong Kong?
Yes, you can secure a home loan in Australia with Odin Mortgage if you are an expat living in Hong Kong.
Odin Mortgage is a mortgage broker that specialises in helping expats get home loans in Australia. We have a team of experienced mortgage brokers who can help you understand the different types of home loans available to expats, and they can help you find the best loan for your individual circumstances.
Contact Odin Mortgage. We can help you make the process as smooth and easy as possible.
Get a free Australian mortgage assessment today.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I meet expats in HK?
Expats in Hong Kong can be found in various social settings such as community events, sports clubs, and language classes.
Online platforms like GeoExpat and Asiaxpat, or social media groups like ‘Aussies in Hong Kong’ on Facebook, are also excellent resources. Additionally, co-working spaces and professional networking events are common places where expats can connect.
How do I meet more people in Hong Kong?
Meeting new people in Hong Kong can be as simple as participating in community events or taking up a new hobby or class.
You can also explore volunteering opportunities or attend local festivals and celebrations to mingle with locals and expats alike. Don’t forget to make use of online resources and social media to find upcoming events and communities.
How can I make international friends for free?
Making international friends doesn’t need to be expensive. Many free resources can facilitate these connections, such as social media platforms or language exchange apps.
Free community events, public sports facilities, or even exploring popular local spots can also lead to new friendships. Volunteering for local NGOs is another cost-free way to meet people from diverse backgrounds.
How do I find new single friends?
Finding new single friends involves putting yourself out there in social situations where you can meet like-minded individuals.
Attend singles events, join social clubs or hobby groups, participate in sports activities, or engage in online forums and communities for singles. In Hong Kong, there are several groups and events targeting single expats, providing ample opportunities to make new single friends.
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