Photo by Kate Bezzubets
The Hong Kong Book Fair is one of the largest book-related events in the world; it is certainly the largest in Asia, with almost a million attendees on average every year. So, with that in mind, especially if you’re free to participate, there’s a lot to think about and plan out!
Book fairs are a lot like adventures or going on a vacation. You have to decide what your goal is, and you have to learn what is going to happen when you get there. This is especially so when you are going to another country to attend a book fair.
If you want to know more about the event, check out the Hong Kong Book Fair 2023 Event Guide and get to know what you can do and see come July 19-25.
Behaving in Hong Kong
If it’s your first time attending the 2023 Hong Book Fair, you should really be aware of how to behave in the city.
As one of the economic centers of the world, Hong Kong is highly cosmopolitan, bridging the gap between East and West. Hong Kongers are some of the most educated and motivated people in the world, with a particular lean toward the West. This means that Hong Kong is much more familiar to Westerners than other Chinese cities. Most Hong Kongers can speak English, making communication quite easier.
In Hong Kong, you shake hands with everyone, men, women, or children. Take note that they shake hands more loosely there. Also, take note that there is a hierarchy to engagement, the oldest coming first and then going down according to age. It is also very polite to ask about one’s health when you greet them.
Although Hong Kongers are much more Westernized than the rest of China, they still bear their fellow countrymen’s apprehension with close body contact–save for handshakes–so no hugging, kissing, or touching someone without their express permission.
Be careful of winking at acquaintances or strangers since that is seen as a very rude gesture, and don’t use your index finger to point. The index finger is used only for animals, so point with your whole hand open.
On the matter of making compliments, it is normal for Hong Kongers to respond with a denial. This is because straightforwardly accepting compliments is seen as blase and uncouth. If someone is complimenting you, act humbly and never say thank you.
What to Bring During Book Fairs
During travels, it is always best to bring things that will either help you or make things easier. So, when you are going to a book fair, these are essential things you need to bring:
- A bag, which can either be a tote bag or a backpack. Storage is important when you’re going to a book fair. That is because there’ll be a lot of stuff you’re going to buy, and you’re gonna want a place to stuff them in.
- A list, which is full of books that you are thinking or are planning on buying. If you’re unsure of which books to prioritize, it might be good to include prices, review scores, and your own score for the book.
- A lot of cash, which is extremely important. Not all kiosks and exhibitors might be able to use a card, so having enough money on hand is really beneficial. It also helps to curb your spending when your capital is in physical form.
- A pair of shoes that should be comfortable enough to wear for long periods of time. If you’re in a book fair, you’ll be doing a lot of standing and walking, and you need a pair of footwear that keeps your feet snug and warm.
- A roll of tissue or a box of wipes. When you’re going someplace where there will be a lot of people, it’s important to keep in mind your hygiene to better protect yourself from infectious spread.
Readersmagnet joins this year’s Hong Kong Book Fair for the first time! Come and join us at our booth and take a long at our great reads!
