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Hong Kong is a global business hub and is active around the clock. While Cantonese is the first language of most Chinese people in Hong Kong, daily activities can usually be conducted in English. Fluency varies from highly effective in major businesses, shops, public and government organisations to just enough to get the transaction sorted out, as in markets or taxis. Local and international English-language television and newspapers are readily available and there are numerous international societies, Chinese and western-style restaurants, and nightlife areas comprising pubs and sophisticated clubs. Hong Kong is also a major shopping destination and has an enormous range of items on offer, from the latest electronic items, mobile phones and computer games to clothes and Chinese arts and crafts. Most are available to suit every budget, ranging from street market wares to top designer shops. The city has a western public and private healthcare system and has become increasingly health-conscious in recent years. A city-wide ban on smoking in indoor public and working areas and many outdoor public areas was introduced in January 2007.
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