What are the Pros and Cons of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region?

With a population of over 7 million people and an area of 1,104 km², Hong Kong is considered one of the most densely populated and exotic cities on Earth. It is a Special Administrative Region (SAR) of China, operating with a high degree of autonomy from the rest of the nation. It has been described as “one country, two systems’, allowing it to maintain certain sub-national freedoms. But what are the pros and cons of having the Special Administrative Region status?

Pros

• High level of autonomy: Hong Kong is able to make its own laws in many areas including finance, security, civil service, international trade, customs, and tourism.
• Free market and low taxes: Businesses in Hong Kong can enjoy free trade with no tariffs due to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), as well as low corporate tax rates.
• Strong security: The city has one of the highest police-to-population ratios in the world and consistently ranks above average in terms of safety.
• High quality of life: According to Mercer’s Quality of Living Index, HK ranks highly in terms of quality of life, healthcare, personal safety, education, and infrastructure.
• International exposure: Many international companies have established a presence in HK in order to access the Chinese market, bringing with them exposure to different cultures and languages.

Cons

• High cost of living: Property in HK is notoriously expensive, partly due to rampant speculation and a lack of space due to its small size.
• Lack of natural resources: The small size of the country means that it lacks diverse natural resources and must rely on imports.
• High pollution levels: Pollution levels are very high, particularly given its dense population and reliance on coal for energy. It also has low air quality due to emissions from nearby factories/ports.
• Political unrest: Protests have been ongoing in HK since 2014 over various issues from political freedom to human rights.
• High population density: The city is one of the world’s most densely populated places with an overall population density of 6,700 people per km2.

In conclusion, the pros and cons of having the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region status depend largely on one’s individual views. On the one hand, it has a high level of autonomy, low taxes and strong security which are beneficial for business and personal security. On the other hand, there are high costs of living, pollution levels and population density which can make life challenging. Ultimately it is up to each individual to decide whether the pros outweigh the cons or vice versa. For more information about the Hong Kong SAR you can visit the Hong Kong Government website.

An Insider’s Guide to Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a bustling city known for its vibrant culture, rich history, awe-inspiring skyline, and delicious cuisine. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or have been to Hong Kong before, there are always new and exciting experiences to discover. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore the must-see attractions, top dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions for your visit to Hong Kong.

Must-See Attractions

Victoria Peak – A popular attraction and home to the highest point on Hong Kong Island. It offers breathtaking views of the city and the harbor and is the perfect spot for sunset watching.

The iconic Star Ferry – Take a ride on the historic Star Ferry for panoramic views of the Hong Kong skyline. This iconic mode of transportation has been operating since 1888 and remains a beloved symbol of the city.

The Big Buddha – Located on Lantau Island, the Big Buddha is a massive bronze statue sitting atop a hill. Visitors can climb the stairs to reach its base and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area.

Hong Kong Disneyland – A fun escape for families and fans of Disney. Located in Lantau Island, it offers a range of attractions, shows, and entertainment.

Top Dining Spots

Tim Ho Wan – Known for its Michelin-starred dim sum, Tim Ho Wan has several locations in the city and is a must-visit for any foodie.

Lin Heung Tea House – A charming tea house in Central Hong Kong. They specialize in dim sum and traditional Chinese tea.

Mak’s Noodles – Known for their wonton noodles soup, Mak’s Noodles has several locations throughout the city.

Ming Court – For an elevated dining experience, head to Ming Court. The Michelin-starred restaurant offers innovative and traditional Cantonese cuisine.

Cultural Experiences

Symphony of Lights – Every night at 8 pm, buildings across the Hong Kong skyline light up for a spectacular show of music and lights.

Man Mo Temple – A historic temple built in 1847. Offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

Hong Kong Museum of History – Learn about Hong Kong’s rich history and culture at this comprehensive museum.

Wong Tai Sin Temple – A Taoist temple known for its vibrant colors and ornate decorations.

Local History

Walled City Park – The site of a former walled city, this park offers a glimpse of Hong Kong’s fascinating past.

Hong Kong Museum of Coastal Defence – The museum is housed in a former British fort and offers a wealth of information about Hong Kong’s coastal history.

Central-Mid-Levels Escalator – The world’s longest outdoor covered escalator system. It allows visitors to easily explore Hong Kong’s steep hills and the surrounding area.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Tai O Fishing Village – Located on the western side of Lantau Island, Tai O is a charming fishing village known for its stilt houses and seafood markets.

Dragon’s Back Hike – A scenic, easy-to-moderate hike with stunning views of the Hong Kong skyline and surrounding islands.

Temple Street Night Market – A bustling night market filled with street food, trinkets, and souvenirs.

Tian Tan Buddha Sunrise – For an unforgettable sunrise experience, head to the Big Buddha on Lantau Island.

With so much to offer, it’s easy to see why Hong Kong is a popular destination for travelers. Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, culture or cuisine, Hong Kong has something for everyone.