A gap year in Hong Kong
Gap years in Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s story is rich and glitzy – martial arts stars and sushi-eating entrepreneurs perform against a high-rise backdrop. Under British rule until 1997, this city-state arose from dominion in real style. Colonial architecture jostles with glossy skyscrapers and superstores, all reflected in the harbour. Hong Kong is definitely a place for drama, so if you want a Gap year full of suspense and excitement, it could be for you. What story waits for you there?
Gap Year Opportunities
Hong Kong isn’t cheap, so consider taking a paid placement – teaching English if you’re an undergraduate, or a professional placement if you’re a graduate.
Hong Kong is one of the best places for TEFL-qualified teachers: you’ll get a good wage and you might even get extra perks like a free visa.
| There are currently no vacancies available. |
If you can’t find the right kind of position but you’re keen to go, you could always spend some time exploring Hong Kong after a stint in China or Thailand. You could teach in a summer camp in Beijing, help conserve the endangered panda in Xi’an, or teach English in a rural Chinese school. Don’t forget you’ll need a visa to work in Hong Kong.
About Hong Kong
Hong Kong gained true independence in 1997, when Britain relinquished its power and the city became a Special Administrative Region for China. But you’ll see the footprint of British culture everywhere, from ‘Mind the Gap’ signs to the very British trams and airport.
Hong Kong is one of the world’s most famous super-cities. It’s comparable to Asian capitals like Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, with the same skyscrapers, high-gloss finish and orderly sense of chaos. Chain stores and world brands collide with old-world tradition – you’ll see ancient colonial architecture, peaceful green parks and Tai-Chi practitioners around the city.
Hong Kong is an island, with a busy harbour and a thriving coastal nightlife. That’s just one reason backpackers love it: you can shop and sightsee hard one day, and retreat to a serene park or desolated cove the next.
Getting around
Seeing Hong Kong sometimes feels like a bit of a hike, so make like locals and take the world’s biggest covered escalator – it runs from Queen’s Road to the Mid-Levels, and is completely free. Or take in the sights from the top floor of a colonial tram trundling along the North coast. When you’ve finished with the city, head out to one of the relaxing islands, and stay in a B&B for about £20/night.
What’s to see in Hong Kong?
For a panoramic introduction to the city there’s nowhere better than Victoria Peak, where you can climb on top of the shopping mall and enjoy breathtaking views. At night walk to the Harbour, where you can view Victoria’s light and sound show. For a spot of Sunday sunbathing, follow locals to Repulse Bay on the southern side of the island, and take lunch at one of the floating seafood restaurants.
Hong Kong’s all about modernity, and that means mega-sized, contemporary tourist attractions: Disneyland, Ocean Park Wet ‘n’ Wild (with two panda cubs), and a giant Wetland Park for birdwatching. It’s worth seeking out the old-world attractions, though – like the giant Buddha (34m) on Lantau Island (prepare yourself for the steps) and the Chinese junks (fishing boats) in Aberdeen Harbour.
Finally, don’t forget to pick up some bargains – good-value electronics, Chinese gourmet foods, and herbal medicine – from Central Market and Ko Shing Street – the city is packed with great buys. Just watch out for the skinned snake.