British Consulate General Hong Kong

Been here on several occasions and I have to say this place is big. Reading online confirmed my suspicions– the British Consulate in Hong Kong is the biggest in the world and built into the complex is also the office for British Council which deals with educational affairs.
My first visit to the British Consulate was to renew my British passport– this was before the days when it was all done by post and online. I cold report that the staff were friendly and they did try to process my application as smoothly as possible. As with all major institutions after 911, security is extremely tight and you could tell that the front door has been made as small as possible to prevent any attacks. On the top of the escalator you will spot a coat of arms– may seem slightly familiar and you would be right as that used to be hung in one of the reception rooms at Government House.
My latest visit was also for the same purpose and I was told very quickly that I was not to come in. Not because I’m a terrorist but the fact is that all passport applications are now handled remotely and you have to submit an application online. I guess this is part of the cost cutting procedure in maintain as few personnel here as possible.
The British Council section is much more inviting (naturally) and they offer both local language courses as well as advice on higher education in the UK. I was there for an IELTs test and found the place to be really comfortable and the staff friendly. I guess its no wonder that British Council remains popular with students and shall continue to be so.