Soho, Central
Soho is a trendy expatriate and tourist orientated area. With the many Western themed Bars, Pubs, renowned Restaurants and Al-Fresco Dining, many expatriates choose to rent an apartment, or to buy an apartment in Soho just for these reasons.
Soho is technically not a district in Hong Kong but the popularity of the particular area is worth a section in its own right. The area is located in the Central District, originally referred to only Elgin and Staunton Street, today Soho can refer to the area South of Hollywood Rd, bordered by Old bailey St, Aberdeen St, Caine Rd, and the area alongside of the Mid-Levels Escalators to Robinson Rd.
If you are looking to rent an apartment in Soho, you can expect to pay a premium, but many are not discouraged since it is so close to the action, with Lan Kwai Fong and the Central business district just a short walk away, and so many western dining and recreation options at your door step. Soho can be described as the central hub for expatriates, and is abuzz with activity even in the weekdays.
Many expatriates and also locals buy older apartments in Soho, such as the older Chinese walk-up and renovate them to high standards looking to accommodate an expatriate tenant. So if you are looking to rent a property in Soho, you can expect many of the apartments to be very modern and well equipped, despite the façade of the building it’s situated in.
The success of the area can be contributed to the Central Mid-Levels Escalators which was built in 1993, before the existence or the escalators the area mainly accommodated elderly locals, small warehouses/shops and retail specializing in Chinese Porcelain.
Today Soho presents an interesting contrast of modernity and westernisation versus traditional Chinese way of life and culture. You can enjoy a pint in an English pub, then walk a few blocks down and find yourself in a rowdy Chinese street market with fresh fish and produce on display.
