This is exactly what I was looking for. Thanks for the answer.Sometimes it's easier, because I speak Cantonese. Sometimes it's a pain, because I can't read Chinese, but people look at me and assume otherwise. For instance, if I order in English, they think I'm just being an ass, lol. Or say I ask them to repeat something because I'm not familiar with more complex words; some people are cool, some are rude.
One plus for me: I have an HKID with permanent abode and got an HKSAR passport and home return permit, so I can come and go easily.
I know whites get cut slack sometimes. (My husband is white.) Like they can act goofier and it's written off. Of course, a white person has a harder time bargaining, catching a cab in the rain in some areas and such.
Shrug. It's not as if you can choose one way or another, so make the most of whichever you are.