Have Your Say – Charlene Szeto

Author/ Being Neighbourly
11 October 2025

Charlene Szeto is a Year 3 student at The University of Hong Kong, studying for a Bachelor of Social Sciences with a double major in Geography and Urban Governance. She’s lived in the North West New Territories her whole life, mainly in Yuen Long.

How long have you lived where you live?

I’ve lived in Yuen Long district for approximately 20 years. It’s where I was born and raised, so it feels super familiar and comfortable to me.

Can you see yourself anywhere else?

To be honest, I haven’t really thought much about living elsewhere, but if I ever had the chance, I would love to live in Australia or New Zealand. The natural beauty and relaxed pace there really speak to me. It’s such a contrast to the crowded and fast-paced life of Hong Kong. That kind of space and tranquility is something I have always longed for, and I feel like it would help me slow down, breathe a little deeper, and truly enjoy the simple things in life.

What’s so great about your home/neighbourhood?

I grew up around Tuen Mun, Yuen Long, and Tin Shui Wai, and honestly, they kind of feel like their own little world. People even jokingly call them ‘Another country’, because they’re far from the city centre. But the distance gives them a quiet, laid-back vibe. Life feels a bit more rural out here, and people are surprisingly connected. It’s pretty normal for neighbours to say “Hi” or chat with you randomly, especially the elderly, who are super friendly and down-to-earth.

What I really like is how local everything feels. You’ve got all the essentials nearby, and the food scene is amazing. For instance, Kingswood Richly Plaza is a great place to enjoy ‘Mixian’ (米線), and Tuen Mun offers a wide variety of options. Also, we are really close to nature! There are hills like Pineapple Mountain and Tai Lam Chung Reservoir (the ‘Thousand Islands Lake’ spot), and it is not weird at all to see people riding bikes to get around. This would be hard to imagine in Kowloon or Hong Kong Island.

Best little known gems?

One spot I really love is the Tuen Mun San Tsuen Mural —a bit off the beaten path but full of character. After walking past the rainbow-coloured railings and passing the irrigation reservoir, you can turn into Lam Tei and find yourself in a maze of small village lanes. Just five minutes into the village, and, BOOM, you are surrounded by quirky graffiti art. As someone who adores cats, it is such a treat seeing all the cat-themed murals painted on the walls of local village houses.

A second favorite is SuFureWa Pancakes, a nostalgic little gem I used to visit with classmates in my childhood. It is known for its Japanese-style fluffy pancakes, waffles, and kakigori (shaved ice), all at super affordable prices. It is a cozy and cheerful place.

Best places to eat breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner?

I don’t have any particular preferences when it comes to breakfast, lunch, or dinner, as I enjoy trying different types of food and don’t stick to just one favorite. However, I really like going to Kingswood Richly Plaza because it offers a wide variety of cuisines and dishes.

Best places to drink coffee/find a drink?

I used to go to Peloton all the time, but sadly, it’s closed now.

Best other hangouts?

Nam Sang Wai is such a chill spot! It is one of those places where time sort of slows down. I love how people bring their kids and dogs to wander along the wetlands, like a mini escape from the city buzz. The large spaces make it perfect for riding bikes or letting kites dance in the sky. You’re always surrounded by that tranquil, breezy landscape, which simply makes everything feel more peaceful!

What’s true/not true about your neighbourhood?

People often misunderstand Tin Shui Wai because of how it is portrayed in media like the local film The Way We Are (天水圍的日與夜). After watching it, many people started referring to the district as ‘City of Sadness’, associating it with isolation, poverty and social problems. Some even link its reputation to the nearby Castle Peak Hospital, reinforcing stereotypes about mental health and instability. It’s true that compared to areas like Hong Kong Island, Tin Shui Wai has a higher proportion of underprivileged groups and ethnic minorities, and, I admit there are moments I feel uneasy too, but despite all this, I have a deep emotional connection to the place, which is hard to explain. The area has grown, with better infrastructure, public services and community spaces. People here are down-to-earth, and the natural surroundings provide a sense of peace. There is a kind of authenticity you will not always find elsewhere. Tin Shui Wai is not just about sadness, it is layered, alive and full of stories that deserve to be seen in a broader light.