IT'S GOOD TO BE A COMMUTER IN HONG KONG

Let me tell you why getting around, in and out of Hong Kong is super easy.

1) THE SIGNS
When crossing the road, there are signs (especially in the expat neighborhoods) which tell you which way you should look first to avoid moving vehicles. I spent a semester in Italy and never learned which way to look when crossing the road! Now, I just look read the signs on the road:)

2) THE OCTOPUS CARD
You commute using an Octopus card, Hong Kong's MTR pass. And you don't even need to remove it from your purse or wallet when going into the subway station or getting on a bus. Just get the card close enough to the sensor and you're good to go.

The Octopus card also acts as a debit card practically everywhere. Forget to bring cash to your local coffee shop? No problem! Just pay for your coffee using your Octopus card.

3) INTERNET & PHONE SERVICE - EVERYWHERE!
Phone and internet service is available while riding the underground subway. Yes, you heard me correctly. It works underground! Now, I can catch up with my mom, check for Facebook updates and respond to emails during my commute to work.

4) THE AIRPORT EXPRESS
The Airport Express train departs from 2 stations in Hong Kong - from the Hong Kong station on Hong Kong Island near the Central stop and from the Kowloon station. For $100 HKD (about US $12, round-trip is cheaper), you can take a quick 25 minute ride to the airport from the city, which saves you time and money. The trains depart each station every 10 minutes.

Even better, you can check in for your flight and check your luggage at the Airport Express stations in the city. This allows you a hassle-free, luggage-free commute to the airport!

5) YOUR HONG KONG ID CARD
I saved the best for last. The greatest benefit of being a commuter in Hong Kong (especially if you travel as much as we do) is access to a Hong Kong ID card. Anyone living in Hong Kong for more than 180 days must have a Hong Kong ID card, which is similar to a drivers license in the States. The Hong Kong ID card allows you to skip the long customs lines and go immediately to a kiosk where you are prompted to insert your card and place your thumb on a sensor that reads your finger print. If everything reads correctly, the door opens and you are on your way! It literally takes me 10 minutes to check into my flight, get through security and customs. More airport shopping time for me!