Educating the Newbie

A recent letter to the editor asks questions that scream "Hong Kong newbie", the same questions everyone asks when they move here:

These following 10 questions certainly do not apply to all people living in Hong Kong, but do seem to be entrenched in the culture in many cases. I hope to get some insight into behaviour I simply cannot understand. The questions are: Why do so many people:

· Not pick up their litter?

This is Hong Kong; someone else will do it.

· Close the lift door when they see you coming?

They're in a hurry. You snooze, you lose, pal.

· Let the door to a room or building close on the person behind them and not hold it open?

Don't expect many social graces in a city filled with self-absorbed, Type A go-getters.

· Attempt to get on the MTR or KCR before people can exit?

It's all about getting that last open seat.

· That are young often not offer seats to the elderly on public transport?

Because from the age they're able to walk, parents make them sit while they stand. As the kids get older, they learn ways to not make eye contact with those in need. Feigning sleep is a favourite tactic.

· Leave engines running when no one is in the vehicle?

Hey, there's an air-pollution quota to meet, buster.

· Leave engines running under any circumstance?

In the height of summer, air-conditioning is a demi-god.

Not have a reusable bag for shopping to help cut down on plastic bags?

This is changing. In the meantime, quit complaining and set a good example for others by following your own advice.

· Need a plastic bag for a newspaper?

Clearly he's never handled a Hong Kong newspaper, been caught in a yellow rainstorm, or lived through a typhoon.

· Rarely catch your eye or smile?

It's called living in a bubble. Hong Kongers have this technique perfected. If you want to get a smile, you do it first.

I hope someone can provide me with some insight.

Glad I could help.

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