I’m in utter shock to say that I’m liking and enjoying Hong Kong a lot more than I could have ever expected.

I’ve been to Hong Kong before and the workaholic lifestyle, crowds and the summer heat was not very appealing to me. I am very different from many people from my program. I did not come here because I wanted to travel Asia or that I fell in love with Hong Kong. I came here because I was looking for a unique experience and I wanted to work in a college in an Asian environment. I wanted to understand different educational systems and to work with a different demographic. I wanted to learn about the Hong Kong culture and lifestyle.

And indeed I have.

There’s an old expression that says that “It’s the people that makes a place” and this reflects my experience in the past six weeks. After going through two years of turmoil living in French territories that consisted of countless misfortunes and accidents, perhaps the third time is the charm. This is my third year living and working abroad, and I have to say: this is the best year by far.

I’m feeling a strong sense of belonging and relief in every aspect by far:

1. Work: Work brings me a lot of fulfillment because I can see the impact I am creating in the lives of my students. I work at a college and my objective is to create interactive activities for students to enjoy learning English. This includes playing games with them, hosting tutorials, teaching presentation skills, and socializing in English. There’s a few keeners and really sweet students I’ve met in the last two weeks and ones who I have built a relationship with. They come to visit me and I’ve had a couple lunch dates. They are more than just my students - but they are my friends also.
2. My Flatmates: To find people who you get along with and to be able to live with them is a blessing. I’m really happy with my living arrangements because not only do I live with two good friends, but also people who are reliable and are always there for me. We all have different personalities and skillsets, making our house unique and problem-free.
3. The People: From my amazing and friendly colleagues at work to my relatives and family in Hong Kong, I have been welcomed everywhere I go. I feel that while I’m building new relationships with people, I’m also building on old ones that have never existed. I’m meeting up with old friends who I have met elsewhere in the world, and mending these friendships in a new place. It’s all so exciting.

It’s only been a few weeks but I am hopeful for the future.

The best is yet to come.

Everyone has a story.

This is mine.