Twelve years ago, my husband and I took the plunge from London to the vibrant streets of Hong Kong, armed with little more than our British charm and a sense of adventure. From the hunt for the perfect apartment to battling the hot and humid weather that makes you question your life choices, and deciphering the colourful world of Cantonese cuss words, our journey was anything but dull! As newcomers, we faced the common expat trials: What do you do with a red envelope during Chinese New Year? How much cash should you give? Who do you give it to? What about those lavish Chinese weddings? Trust me, you don’t want to find yourself bewildered at a 10-course meal, wondering what’s on your plate! That’s why I created this Expat Survival Guide Series —not your typical travel manual, but a friendly companion, packed with checklists, quick-reference guides, must-have apps, and handy Cantonese phrase charts (complete with pronunciation tips!), to help you tackle life in this dynamic city. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to know—the good, the bad, and the downright quirky! You can dive into all three volumes for a comprehensive experience or cherry-pick chapters as you encounter the unique quirks of your new home. By the end of the series, you’ll be ready to navigate everything from typhoon season to mastering the art of gift-giving (spoiler alert: steer clear of clocks and sharp objects!). Whether you’re single, married, or juggling the chaos of family life, this light-hearted and supportive guide is relatable for all expats. So, buckle up and get ready to conquer Hong Kong together—your adventure awaits!