TOP 6 CREDIT CARDS FOR EXPATS IN HONG KONG

Hong Kong in its hustle and bustle absorbs hundreds of expatriates from similar culture but different countries. From getting to know to living and spending, the expats have a mind full of worries that they go through while adjusting at the new place. Out of which, the financial worry is one of the biggest.

If you’re searching for somebody to guide you in applying for the credit card, you first got to know what’s best for you. Do so, by analyzing your spending and saving needs.

Following are top 6 credit card choices for expats to apply for while living in Hong Kong.

1. Public Bank Hong Kong Credit Card suits Overseas Spending Expatriates

Public Bank gives out the credit cards to people with a minimum income of HK$ 250,000. While spending through a credit card might get you in huge costs, this card waives the amount charged as transfer fees in currency exchange. With this, Public Bank HK also allows a cashback of up to 0.6% of your spendings.

2. CitiBank American Express suits those who want Cashback

Any spender wanting a cashback policy would choose this card for its offer of 1% cashback rebate on total spendings. Plus, if the spending was an eat out trip, then the card offers a 2% rebate. The service is assigned a 24hr active hotline, the Global Assist that guides you about anything and everything you need to know like Language courses, medical assistance, legal assistance and a lot more. American Express cards waive the first year’s annual fee too and if that’s not enough, the redeemed amount is credited directly to your account.

3. CCB Eye Credit Card suits Online Spending Expatriates

This card is offered to people with minimum income of HK$ 150,000 and love for online shopping. The amazing news is, Eye Credit Cards do not charge an annual fee and encourages online spendings. For every online purchase, value points equating 2% of your spendings are transferred to your account in the shape of coupons.

4. ICBC Xplore Visa Signature Card suits those who Love their Pets

ICBC Xplore involves a comprehensive set of pet services like pet training and grooming, pet products, photography and even pet entertainments. This card is offered to individuals with a minimum income of HK$ 250,000. The card is loaded with amazing deals and discounts throughout the year. Moreover, it also gives a warm welcome with free pet travel and consultation service.

5. Citibank Premier Miles Credit Card suits travelers

They understand the love of travelling and you’ll know it when I’ll tell you about the benefits offered on this card. To own this one, you need to earn a minimum of HK$ 480,000. It starts with getting admission to the Wellness Spa or Plaza Premium in Hong Kong airport, not once or twice but four times a year. There’s free access to the airport lounges, free annual travel insurance and Asia Miles. The insurance amount worth HK$ 1,500. Putting a cherry on the top, the cardholders can avail a bunch of offers. To name some, welcome offer up to 8000 miles.

6. Standard Chartered WorldMiles Credit Card for Asia Miles

Standard chartered world miles credit card is available in two options. One is for people with a minimum income of about HK$ 60,000. The platinum card is offered to those with a minimum income of HK$ 150,000. The virtues of this card include a massive mile in shape of 15 points for every HK$ 5 spent. This makes it one of the top earners of the cards available.

Ensure that you know your spending needs well and choose your card wisely. To know more about what to choose, start off with comparing a list of choices. To do so, click here.

Sha Tin Plaza, The Shopper’s Delight – An Added Value to the Long Journey

By wesley | Activities and Events, Explore, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Living, Kids Activities, living in Hong Kong, Local Cultures, Neighbourhoods, Shopping

One of the eighteen beautiful districts of Hong Kong, Sha Tin District is a marvelous cultural center, a recreational and gourmet hub and an amusing sight to beat. The place serves best as a shopping spree, has its own IKEA, and is a good spot to get an airport bus A41 or to reach destinations like Sai Kung. The fabulous part is that it’s renowned for the central parks, horseracing, shopping areas, awesome restaurant delicacies and dessert houses. Another main tourist attractions are the 10,000 Buddha statues which can be seen on the ride from Sha Tin metro and bus terminal.

Sha Tin Plaza and How to Get There?

Directly located in the heart of Sha Tin, Sha Tin Plaza is an intriguing shopper’s delight. However, it takes a bit of time to get there and you need to travel more than a bit but the whole trip proves to be worthy at the end of the day. A one-stop shopping arena in Hong Kong, Sha Tin Plaza advantageously has undergone major renovations. It now has footbridges connecting both, the plaza and center that leads to Sha Tin MTR Bus Station. The place has ample space for parking while you shop at your favorite outlets. It squares around 260,000 sq. ft. and proudly fills its two arcades with more than hundred international brand outlets that have a wide range of products to offer from the latest fashion to electronics.

The best way to head to Sha Tin Plaza is by MTR. MTR East Rail line via Exit A directly lands into the mall. However, the routes are quite better scheduled with Green Mini Buses.

Things To Do at the Plaza

Sha Tin Plaza is not only about shopping the heart out but also making the most of the trip with the amazing entertainment activities and amusing places. Here’s what you must do when roaming at this place:

Hypnotizing, Mesmerizing Sight of 10,000 Buddha

Reaching the Buddha isn’t easy but this is the ultimate place to energize the mind with its silent and peaceful environment. Also, a very good place for hikers and adventure lovers.

Snoopy World

If you’re a Snoopy fan, this is your ultimate destination. Totally free and easily accessible from the MTR, Snoopy World provides a nice and warm family time in its character themed small park and a good sight to make memories with photography and entertainment activities.

Sha Tin Park

A well maintained, peaceful and refreshing hidden gem with a mix of greens and cold breeze is a good place to sit and kill time in the fragrance of good trees, fish pond, fountain, and flowers. The park has a picturesque bike trail and a gleaming sight of locals singing and dancing.

Eateries

Sha Tin Plaza is beefed up with the traditional cuisine houses in and out. You can never ignore the aroma in the air which gets the tourists attracted towards the doors. You will find a number of famous restaurants and dessert options to satisfy hungry bellies on the trip. Some famous ones include Pizza Express, Oliver’s Super Sandwiches, and Simplylife etc.

So pick up your keys and head out this weekend to the plaza and have an amazing time. For similar blogs, click here.

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Best Tourist Attractions | To Do’s at Tuen Mun

By wesley | Activities and Events, Everyday Living, Explore, Hong Kong, Hong Kong Living, living in Hong Kong, Neighbourhoods

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT TUEN MUN

Ever fancied living in a place that’s enough to check all the boxes on your dream adventure list? An astonishing blend of rejuvenating green land, thrilling adventure sites, cozy dens, chilly beaches and the warmth in the air makes a perfect mix of a ‘dream trip come true trip.’ If you’re ready to skip the chaos and make the vacations a hit at Tuen Mun, here is what you need to know.

Heading to Tuen Mun

How to Get There and Avoid Inconvenience?

The place is huge. Travelling hours and routes totally depend on where you choose to go. Commuting from HK station to Tuen Mun station takes exactly 45 minutes. From the Central, if you want to head to the Tuen Mun Town Center, 960 is the ultimate and direct bus. However, fewer people take the route from 961 which makes the ride cleaner, more spacious and comfortable. If you’re traveling from Tai Po, the best option can be 64K KMB bus which will take you to MTR in 35 minutes. Next up is a pretty speedy train ride to the final destination.

Comfy, Cozy Stay

Choosing Between the Hotel Options

You can make your stay happier with the best hotel options at this welcoming city starting as low as 8 USD per night. Following are the top 5 hotels that will turn your time into an outstanding vacay.

1. Goal Coast

Hong Kong Goal Coast Hotel is easily accessible from the airport at a distance of about 35 minutes taxi ride. Fully equipped with up to the mark luxurious amenities, this hotel provides a remarkable experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The hotel has a relaxing ambiance with lush greens and a home-like warmth.

2. Disney Land Hotel

Hong Kong Disney Land Hotel is 6.9 km from Tuen Mun and is famous for blessing the visitors with out of this world service. If you’re up to make the most out of the trip every passing second at the top of this world, stay here. Countless entertainment activities, luxurious amenities, and never-ending fun will satisfy your wandering feet the best.

3. Pentahotel

5-minute walk from Tuen Mun MTR Station, Pentahotel is the heart of the city. Excellent up to date facilities including a warm environment, pentahotel has a great value for money to offer. Its vibrant interior and a signature pentalounge are enough to refill the energy in you.

Tourist Attractions

A Must-Do-List on Trip to Tuen Mun

Tuen Mun Kau Hui, Tuen Mun San Hui, and Sam Shing Hui are the three best traditional style markets in the town with all of the items you could ever put on your shopping list. You may get tired listing all you want to do on your next trip, but the list won’t end. Tuen Mun Town Hall is another amazing venue for music and art lovers.

Tuen Mun Town Center, the heart of the district has an array of cultural and entertainment facilities. Tuen Mun Town Plaza, Cultural Square, Public Library and other government buildings are all located at this center. The place has amazing central parks with pools and model boats that grab the most of the family’s attraction. Town Hall features engaging cultural activities, theatres, concerts and much more fantabulous events for the art-loving guests.

Ferry Pier and Castle Bay are another fun outings that you just can’t miss for a complete harmonizing experience. Gold Coast makes the largest resort in Tuen Mun with its very own convention center, marina club, shopping mall and spectacular hotel. The well known Golden Beach is the best option located here for the perfect family vacay. More must-do activities include jockey club at the riding school, golf center offering public to learn gold at affordable rates and dragon boat racing festival.

The distance and long rides to the station might feel like a hectic task, but once you reach the destination, you will find all of it was worth it.

For more similar blogs, click here.

Top 3 Residential Apartments That Have Caught Our Eye in 2018

By wesley | Hong Kong, Hong Kong Living, Housing, living in Hong Kong, Long Term Rentals, Serviced Apartments

The serviced apartment arena in Hong Kong is growing exponentially, there are so many choices for those who are looking to rent a serviced apartment, and the quality of what is on offer is increasing all the time. With so many to choose from, it’s no wonder that you are reading this article as we have taken the time to highlight our top residential apartments which have really stood out and caught our eye for 2018.

Island Crest Hong Kong

The Island Crest development is located in the Sai Ying Pun district of Hong Kong. Offering an impressive list of facilities, it is no wonder that we are featuring this on the top of our list of serviced apartments in Hong Kong which have caught our attention this year. From a children’s playroom to a multi-purpose conference suite this place has got it all. Featuring a Sky garden, Jacuzzi, Sauna, BBQ Area, and swimming pool facilities for adults and children, it is the perfect place to get that home from home environment if you are looking for a residential apartment to rent in Hong Kong.

The overall Island Crest Hong Kong development has 488 units across two very modern 36-story tower blocks. Offering high-end premium fittings and fixtures, the interiors are just as impressive as their facilities. With a huge transport network within arms-reach, choosing Island Crest Hong Kong for your next residential apartment is a great selection.

J-Residence Hong Kong

The J-Residence development is situated close to the heart of Wanchai. The location is definitely one of the key drivers for this being number 2 on our list. It is in close proximity to the MTR with an abundance of restaurants, shops, and things to see close by and Pacific Palace is just a short stroll away. In terms of the facilities offered at the J-Residence Hong Kong serviced apartments, you can consider these to be above-premium standards. There is a conference center, along with a function room, pools room and a sensational sundeck with seating. The Rooftop garden offers astounding views across the city by day or night. In terms of well-being facilities, as you would expect from any premium serviced apartments in Hong Kong, J-Residence offers a fully equipped gymnasium and an indoor swimming pool as well.

The J-Residence Hong Kong developments have 381 units over 30 storeys, each of which is decorated and furnished to an ultra-chic standard, with all amenities and inclusions expected. All of the J-Residence serviced apartments have balconies and open-plan kitchen spaces. Popular with both young professionals and families alike, J-Residence Hong Kong has to be seen to be believed.

The Lily

Located in the very heart of Repulse Bay, The Lily Hong Kong is one of the most iconic developments of the century. Just a few minutes away from the city, and surrounded in some of the most beautifully stunning natural sights the area has to offer, it is one of the most sought-after locations for serviced apartments in Hong Kong. The Lily is an award-winning serviced apartment that looks out across the ocean, onto the beach with a backdrop undulating hills behind. The club at The Lily offers residents premium amenities and state of the art services that ensure the ultimate comfort and enjoyment of guests. With an indoor pool, jacuzzi, and a fully equipped gymnasium. There is also a separate pool with a lifeguard present at all times and outdoor play area for the children.

Choosing to stay in a serviced apartment in Hong Kong is surely the best way to get luxurious living at a price you can afford. With serviced apartments available in every district across the city, wherever you are looking to rent a serviced apartment in Hong Kong, we can guarantee you will be spoilt for choice.

MetroResidences.com offers an array of corporate serviced apartments for business travelers in Hong Kong, Japan, and Singapore. We make corporate serviced apartment stays more affordable, more enjoyable, and take the stress out of finding the right place at the right place.

BEST 3 AGENTS FOR YOUR NEXT HOUSE FOR RENT IN HONG KONG

By wesley | Hong Kong, Hong Kong Living, Housing, living in Hong Kong, Long Term Rentals, Use these 3 property agencies when renting a house in Hong Kong

All of us know the hassle in the crazy process of renting a house or getting a house for rent in Hong Kong. Brush off the fears of losing your investments for nothing and hush away the stress that comes with the thought of bustle with these 3 property agents working for your better future.

1. Treasure Land Property Consultants

Wan ChaiRoom 1505-06, Harcourt House, 39 Gloucester Road‎ [+852 2866 3363]

Treasure land is the Hong Kong’s leading property agent. If you’re planning to look for a house for rent in Hong Kong or invest your savings the better way, treasure land provides you the service never compromised on quality and efficiency. The agency takes you on board in a flash with their updated digital outlook that makes them the fastest growing agency coming head to head with the pace of the society. Hands-on information, quick and trustworthy services and a pool of well-trained enthusiasts from the universities make it the best option for your needs. The agency offers a wide pool of residential and commercial sites separately making your work easier and paving the way to more ideas about how you can effectively utilize your investment.

2. Engel & Volkers Hong Kong

Shop A, Ground Floor, 95 Caine Road, Mid Levels, Central, Hong Kong [+852 2561 3616]

Engel & Volkers are the listed real estate agency serving with the qualified and well-trained staff to the people looking out mostly for luxurious hatch-in place, a royal house for rent in Hong Kong.

The agents work on the agenda of providing best customer service and their service-oriented attitude has made them acquire business internationally. Having 700 worldwide caters, you can be a part or have a part of the agency sitting anywhere anytime according to your needs. The staff is trained globally creating a sense of security and trust among every step that steps in.

The local experts have the access to global distribution. The experts will fully understand your needs and act accordingly. Their constant feedback is additional perk creating the sense of trust and attachment between the client and agent. E&V is proven for the best outcome in the worth of your money whether you’re the buyer or the seller leaving you delighted with your decision. Among the huge list of properties for sale, some important ones include: Repulse Bay, Clear Water Bay, Causeway Bay such as Happy Valley, Wan Chai, Aberdeen, The Peak, in around the Western District Area such as Pok Fu Lam, Mid-Levels, Sai Ying Pun in Central and Kennedy Town in Sheung Wan.

3. Home Net

Rm 56, 2/F Eton Tower 8 Hysan Avenue, Causeway Bay [+852 2910 7832]

Very simple and easy going home net have the what you call the best at being user-friendly. Simple in format and huge multilingual staff experts assist in making the most out of your efforts. Home net sets you free of the burdens by generously making it simple and easy and within your budget, whether you’re a buyer or an investor. The agency lets you spend a nice chunk of your time and effort without wasting any, and the rest is on them. Life made just that easy!

Want to read more interesting blogs? Stay tuned!

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DISCOVERY BAY HONG KONG

By wesley | Hong Kong Living, living in Hong Kong

Are you tired of the hectic Hong Kong? Is your family crying out loud for your time? Are you so exhausted to move those knuckles and plan a trip? You know what all of this say? Discovery Bay!

Discovery Bay Hong Kong or DB, as they say, is the mind-blowing destination without the need for a passport. So save your time and extra effort, pack your bags and step out being all aware of everything you need to know about DB whether you’re on your single rebel trip or vacay with the fam or just a bunch of kitties ready to party!

Perks For The Eyes

Surrounded by the beautiful South China Sea, on the northeastern coast of Lantau Island, DB creates a royal resort lifestyle with the lush green landscape coupled with beautiful mountains. The serene oasis, breathtaking sea view and stunning sight of the Disneyland’s fireworks are enough to put sparks of happiness in your eyes and hearts overwhelmed with joy and love.

Heading Towards The Destination

Good News! Getting to your dream vacation is super easy and quick without a passport. It’s a 25-minute ferry ride from the Central. If that’s too long, the bus and shuttles from the Sunny Bay or Tung Chung MTR stations take you to DB in 15 minutes. With this, Lantau taxis also provide a ride through the Discovery Bay Tunnel.

Suggestion: Take the ferry ride if you’re up for the adventure within $37 (one way). The ferry is well equipped with WiFi so you can cherish and store the happy moments right then. The MTR rides are quick and convenient too. Want to know more about the ferry rides? Click Here.

Getting Along With the DB

Woop Woop! Reaching the main plaza, the hearts may start to thump faster. This is where the adventure has just begun. Its the hub of all the happening events that take place at the Ddeck like Hand Made Hong Kong’s Sunday Market. Never miss out on any happening event, know the schedule here. The main plaza is a short walk from the sandy sunny beach where your kids can run and play, swim and hop around while you have the first sip of relaxation or a chance to window shop or just buy a couple tops for the day. Move around in the free shuttle and if you have your luggage, hire your personal cab from the main plaza for $15 per person and keep going towards the North Plaza where there’s the Family Kingdom having the bouncing castles and music booth. The North Plaza is relatively quiet but this is where you’ll find more options to stay, shop and eat.

Let The Adventure Begin

Discovery Bay Hong Kong marvelously fashioned to fulfill your adventure needs has all the options you crave to try at least once in a lifetime.

Discovery Bay Golf Courts – Grab your Ferrari golf carts and scoot around playing the game of royalty
Waterfront Horse Carriage Rides – These are the short and sweet carriage rides for four at $200. The horsy carries around gleaming tourists for 10 minutes.
Hiking and Leisure Walks – Discovery Bay is regarded as the most favorite destination for hiking with its picturesque landscape and charming trails at the Tiger Head Mountain.
Beach Life – Experience the unforgettable sight of the Disney land’s fireworks at night or play in the sand with your kids at the children’s play area or join the speed dating event, or have a happy time at the picnic spots!
Watersports – Along the Tai Pak Beach is Lantau Boat Club putting the edge on your dream trip with thrilling dragon boat rides.

EAT, PRAY, LOVE, REPEAT

North Plaza has the Discovery Bay Hong Kong’s very own hotel, The Auberge. The hotel is fashioned with gorgie Bounty Bar, tranquilizing Spa Botanica, the aromatic Café Bord de Mer and lavish rooms. The famous shopping spots include Prince and Princess, Nomadic, Just Green and Citygate Outlets Mall having the promising brands. To make the trip complete, delicious smelling eateries are geared to satisfy rumbling bellies. Uncle Russ and Pacific Coffee offer the sips just your type.

We are soon coming with more interesting blog, so stay tuned here.