"Four Years on Lamma Island, Hong Kong" Lamma Island by SueMagee

I started working in HK in March 2003 and the first major decision I had to make was where to live! Surprisingly, it didn't take that long! I work mostly on HK Island and wanted a base somewhere quiet if possible. So Lamma Island seemed a good choice. Cars aren't allowed so you need to walk everywhere on the island - good exercise. Regulations don't allow the building of any house over three storeys so no high rise blocks here. The next decision is where to live on the island. You can rent a flat near Yung Shue Wan ferry pier but this means it could be in the middle of a cluster of other houses. Or you can find a flat quite a way from the ferry pier - this has the disadvantage of a longish walk to catch a ferry. It's so annoying to miss a boat by a minute or so. The ferries are regular at commute times but then settle down to about one boat every hour.

Chinese New Year on Lamma Main Street

There's a real feeling of community on the island. Many expats live here and everyone seems to know everyone else but it isn't claustrophobic at all.
On the main street there are local shops where you can find nearly everything you need - fruit, vegetables, groceries, things for your home etc. There are also some good restaurants and bars; Chinese, Indian, Italian, Turkish and organic vegetarian.
But the main reason for living on Lamma is the peace and quiet away from HK island. During the week it's wonderful without any daytrippers. My flat has great views over a valley and the beach.

Lion Dance on Lamma

Living here means you can take part in the local customs and watch what the locals get up to. There is a small Tin Hau Temple which is quite interesting to have a look around.
Chinese New Year is the most important festival and the nearly all the local shops close down then. At Mid-Autumn Festival most people walk to the beach with lanterns - looks lovely at night.