Survival Guide - Hong Kong: Top Sights, Local Life, Made Easy - page 378

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at www.pccwwifi.com/eng .
Dos & Don'ts
There aren't many unusual rules of etiquette to follow in Hong Kong; in general, common sense will take you as
far as you'll need to go. But on matters of identity, appearance and gift-giving, local people might see things a
little differently from you.
Clothing
Beyond the suited realm of business, smart-casual dress is acceptable even at swish restaurants. On the beach,
topless is a local turn-off and nudity a definite no-no.
Colours
Some colours hold different symbolic meaning in Chinese culture compared to Western cultures. Red means hap-
piness, good luck and health (though writing in red can convey anger or unfriendliness). White symbolises death,
so avoid giving white flowers (except at funerals).
Dining
Dining in Hong Kong is an all-in affair: everyone shares dishes and chats loudly. Wait for others to start before
digging in; if you can't manage chopsticks, don't be afraid to ask for a fork (most Chinese restaurants have them).
Don't stick chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice as they can look like incense sticks in a bowl of ashes (an offer-
ing to the dead). When someone pours you tea, tap the table lightly with your index and middle finger, rather than
try to mutter 'thanks' with a mouth full of food. Cover your mouth with your hand when using a toothpick.
Gifts
If you want to give flowers, chocolates or wine to someone (a fine idea if invited to their home), they may appear
reluctant to accept for fear of seeming greedy, but insist and they'll give in and take them.
Money
Local currency
› One Hong Kong dollar (HK$) equals 100 cents. (One Macau pataca, or MOP, equals 100
cents and comes in the same denominations.)
› Notes $10, $20, $50, $100, $500 and $1000.