Covid-19’s life is unique for everyone; however, this means being subject to one of the world’s most strict pandemic rules for those living in Hong Kong. A few of us were sent away to the quarantine center – Yes, in reality, I could have been among the first to try it out for the test run or been through the dreadful moments of a sudden lockdown, and all are being subject to stringent social distancing rules. Can you say bye-bye beach? If you manage an enterprise located in Hong Kong, you’re probably the most impacted of all this in the midst of all of this. In addition, you’ll have seen a clear economic decline. Still, based on the type of business you operate, it could also mean that you’re experiencing temporary or the possibility of permanent closure. The point is, it’s been tough. It’s been hot and absolutely hot. However, thanks to a group of forward-thinking and passionate Hongkongers, it’s not yet over. There are those in the park pressing dumbbells and lifting weights while away from other people as an instructor guides about the exercise via zoom. It’s still possible to work out and adhere to all rules since the determination to fight for survival is present. “There’s no greater catalyst for creativity than the need to survive,” claims Kevin Ho, the proprietor of F45 Causeway Bay. “We’ve made our indoor workouts more adaptable to give you a different outdoor workout using various techniques.”

Trending

Why Choose the Red Tea Detox Program for Weight Loss?

In the meantime, barbershops and salons are reopening, but some have had to adjust quickly to offer home services during the forced closures. “The closing of salons wasn’t surprising as most hairdressers I’ve spoken to like myself noticed that increased restrictions were coming sooner or later,” says Ilya Yurlov, the creative director of W52 Hair-Nails. “For several months before the announcement by the government of new restrictions – customers were asking about the possibility for home visits.” Support comes in a variety of ways. “Contact your hairdresser, manicurist or fitness trainer, eyelash specialist, and everybody else,” recommends Ilya. “Even if you don’t have an appointment at the moment, it’s crucial to be a part of the process and show support.”No strangers to this ongoing battle, the Hong Kong food and beverages sector could need some help. Tracy Wong, director of Sichuan restaurant Chilli Fagara and her mother chef Chan Kai-Ying recognized the demand for delivery by 2020. They also adapted to changing timeframe with the delivery-only noodle concept Hot Meen. “Delivery allows us to keep in touch with our customers beyond the closing time of 6 pm,” says Tracy. “I believe that, even while customers’ demand for delivery has increased in the past two years if the number of cases drops, the guests will dining out to get an entire Chilli Fagara meal. I am sure that we will keep serving our Sichuan delights whenever and wherever feasible, whether to takeaway, dine-in, or even delivery.”

The quick-thinking continues in other venues, including our top watering holes and bars, which were forced to close their doors since the beginning of January. This has been particularly difficult for Sandeep Hathiramani, co-founder of a brand new bar in Central Thirsty Shaker and award-winning bar The Wise King.

It is essential to stay relevant is to change the way of doing business. “We’ve been trying to be flexible as much as possible to make our experience more accessible to our customers,” explains Sandeep. “We The Wise King worked with our partners from Rex Wine & Grill and was able to take over the bar for an entire month-long pop-up. We also reintroduced our delivery of cocktails in bottles (for both bars via Instagram throughout the city. Thirsty Shaker remains open for some days from Thursday until Sunday, so do stop by and enjoy an appetizer and drink, and show your support.”The shaking of the social distancing rules is all around, including the local street stalls that sell grab-and-go food and even at the bubble tea shops. The healthy bubble tea shop Mother Pearl has also felt its effects significantly. Controller Caddie Chen says, “Our business has reduced around 70 percent of our revenue. We have closed the Causeway Bay and Quarry Bay stores, but the flagship location in Central is still open.”

“We’re making the most of these circumstances to allow our employees to take a break and recuperate for their wonderful holiday. While doing so, we’re using this time to get ready for our store’s fourth to open in May,” Caddie adds. You read it right. The brand is considering opening an additional location. If this isn’t rock-hard resiliency, it’s hard to say what else is. Even now, even when each day feels like an upward hill, you can find people who can persevere in the challenge, adjust, and eventually triumph. Caddie’s positive outlook is refreshing.