I am moving into a new flat in a few days time, but until then I am staying at my landlady’s apartment which is an MTR station away. She offered me to crash there on the interim while they do some touch-ups (paints, etc.) on our flat. I think it’s quite nice of her to offer.

My landlady has a friend, who is the actual owner of our flat. He does not speak English very well, but has been very helpful and friendly despite the fact.

She also has a young son, also very friendly, and when I first saw him it was like looking into myself! That is, when I was 12. The resemblance is uncanny. (I know: please restrain yourself from those nasty suggestions.)

The family employs a Filipino helper who hailed from Batangas City. It is always very pleasing for me to converse in native language, especially after weeks of absolute English. And as usual, fellow Filipinos are always nice.

They also just moved into this wonderful apartment, so there’s still quite some boxes and stuff everywhere. I offered to help in whatever, and was designated to check/fix some of their computers and maybe(?) try to improve the network. I’d be glad to do all those - friendly neighborhood IT guy at work!

I came here for temporary lodging, but it seems like I stumbled upon good company. Excellent stuff.

I find that Hong Kongers in general are very nice, warm and accommodating. I guess this is a big part of what attracts me to this country (er, city). In the US I always get that vibe that I am on my own - it very much feels like every man for himself, and people do not extend their help as often as I hoped they would. Of course this is coming from one who has only been a tourist. But my point is still there: here in Hong Kong, I felt right at home even during my very first months.

And did I mention that the food is great? Pick a mall - any mall - then pick a restaurant - any restaurant (cheap or expensive, doesn’t matter). Chances are, you are in for a marvelous/unforgettable treat. Hong Kong is gastronomic heaven.