Hong Kong may be small in size, but it's a powerhouse in the global marketplace. This former colony, now part of the People's Republic of China, has undergone fascinating change in recent years. A major entrepôt to the booming Chinese coastal regions, Hong Kong begins the twenty-first century as a prosperous and highly sophisticated society.
Hong Kong is an amalgam of cultural influences, most noticeably from its colonial experience. But Hong Kong's skyscrapers and booming high-tech industries belie deeply entrenched cultural practises and nuances stemming from its Chinese heritage and East Asian location. The culture that has emerged has a level of complexity rarely found elsewhere. Hong Kong truly lies at the crossroads of East and West - historically, culturally, geographically, and economically.
No culture is static, and Hong Kong is certainly no exception. Some commentators have observed that mainland China's influence is increasing as businesses and political elites exert control over the former territory. Simultaneously, Hong Kong's traditional openness and laissez-faire economy draws it further into the global economic web.
These experiences have imbued Hong Kong with a unique atmosphere in which ultramodern and traditional customs, beliefs, and practises can flourish. Despite the changes, some traditions remain. Building relationships, developing trust and respect for age and protocol remain constant. Not sure of how to navigate the cultural nuances, CultureQuest can help.