第5章 Preface by Christine

When two people are destined to be together the Chinese say it is fate. I had never imagined that one day I would permanently live in Hong Kong–the "fragrant harbour", speaking Cantonese and Mandarin with a detectable French accent, happily eating exotic dishes, comfortably wandering in busy streets.

I was not yet 22 years old when I left my family and my friends in France to join Yan in Hong Kong. I loved him with all my heart. I did not think about what I would be doing or what life I was going to have. I was young and determined, embarking an exciting trip of many unknowns. I gradually discovered the way of life of Hongkongers and their culture. I learnt Chinese cuisine and to appreciate the tastes, beliefs, and habits. Although the biggest hindrance living in Hong Kong has been, and still is, the language, I quickly got used to the life in the "fragrant harbour" and made the life-changing decision: this will be my home, one that I will never regret.

Almost 30 years later, I am no longer a gweimui[1] but a gweipo[2]. I have spent more years in Hong Kong than in France. Do I feel more like a Hongkonger than French? Even though I might consider myself a local, I will always be seen as a gweipo, chiefly because of the colour of my skin. Being called a gweipo no longer offends me but being treated like one does.

I thank my husband for his unwavering love and continuous support during all the past years. I also owe his family for unconditionally accepting and welcoming me as one of their own. Finally, this book is my tribute to my parents who let me go so far away from them and all my friends in Hong Kong who have showered me with generosity and warmth that I cannot find anywhere else but only here in Hong Kong.

In Hong Kong