Hong Kong, China Report of what it's like to live there - 03/19/12
Personal Experiences from Hong Kong, China
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
Second overseas posting, Amman Jordan.
2. What is your home city/country? How long is the trip to post from there, with what connections? How easy/difficult is it to travel to this city/country?
Central Florida. We flew from Dulles to San Francisco and then straight to Hong Kong.
3. How long have you lived here?
We have been in Hong Kong for a year, with another year to go.
4. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
Spouse of State Department employee working at U.S. Consulate.
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
There are a lot of housing options. The consulate has many people in several buildings all over HK. SoHo, the Mid-Levels, Shouson Hill, Repulse Bay, Tai Tam, the list is long. Most singles prefer to live in Central near all the bars, restaurants, etc. A lot of families love the convenience of being in the center as well. We did not want to be grouped in with all the other Americans and chose to live 30 minutes out. We have an unbelievable flat near Stanley market facing the South China Sea with full amenities.
2. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
You can find just about anything here. There are so many options: U.S. brands, French, Italian, Japanese, etc. I think the prices are fair, but some would argue that. We are not in America so don't expect Walmart prices.
3. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
Toys, larger sized clothes and shoes, but you can find it here. Toys are way overpriced. I just plan ahead and order before the holidays or birthdays.
4. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
McDonald's, Burger King, Starbucks, KFC, Subway, are here, but there is so much better to be found. Food is a little pricey, but a lot of things cost more here.
5. What kinds of organic, vegetarian and allergy-friendly foods are available, such as organic produce, gluten-free products, meat substitutes for vegetarians, etc?
The organic trend is booming in HK right now. There are organic farms in HK that will deliver to your door. They have plenty of markets with organic choices. Even supermarkets like 360 have a ton of organic options. They sell grass-fed beef here and free range everything. You can even take classes on raw foods and there are some organic restaurants. Gluten-free can be found in many places as well. This is the healthiest I have ever eaten since moving here.
6. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
We live in a well maintained high rise very close to a reservoir so there are lots of critters, but we have only seen little ants in the kitchen during the summertime. On the streets you will encounter the occassional roach and my biggest nemesis are the mosquitoes.
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
DPO, pouch, you can send packages off at the Navy's Fenwick pier and purchase stamps there as well.
2. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
I think it's cheap. We have a live-in housekeeper, who used to be a nurse. She is fantastic and we pay around $515 base, not including bonuses, food, vacation, insurance, etc. We are a single-income family as well.
3. What kinds of gyms or other sports/workout facilities are available? Are they expensive?
Yes, first class everywhere, but for a price. Some other gyms are more specific like for Muay Thai, yoga, dance, etc.
4. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
I use a lot of cash, but I use my credit card more. We usually cash a check at the Consulate.
5. What English-language religious services are available locally?
There are many options that I know of, but we do not attend any.
6. English-language newspapers and TV available? Cost?
Yes, there are English newspapers and cable programs. The prices on cable depend on what channels you select. We sling our shows from the states.
7. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
Usually none, but Cantonese is nice to know. Some speak Mandarin as well.
8. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
It can be difficult to get around because of sidewalks and all the hills. I have seen some many ramps.
Transportation:
1. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Yes. Minibuses, MTR, double decker buses, even the ferries take the Octopus card.
2. What kind of car do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car do you advise not to bring?
We do not own a car, but some do. Taxis can add up fast, but the public transportation here is cheap and clean. Gas is expensive.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
High-speed internet is awesome here and it is affordable.
2. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
I have an i-Phone. I moved here with already broken, so we went with PCCW, but there are options here.
Pets:
1. Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
Sometimes it depends on your paperwork. We had to get the vet approval and USDA stamp.
2. Quality pet care available (vets & kennels)?
We have one cat. We had to get a pet permit. We had to keep our cat in the States for 6 months, with a sitter, in a rabies-free zone so he would not be quarantined. It was pricey and a headache, but worth it. People love dogs here and there are many vets and shops.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
Yes, there are many options.
2. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
You will see it all, but most business people in Central choose black and conservative wear. Most consulate people wear business casual or a suit and tie. Others wear anything and everything.
Health & Safety:
1. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
Crime does occur in HK, but it is rare to involve a Westerner. I often see children in Central walking around by themselves. I have never had any problems even in some shady prostitute ridden areas like Wan Chai.
2. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
Great medical and dental care. I have had stays in two hospitals and seen many doctors and I am impressed.
3. What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
We live out in the Tai Tam area, which is 30 minutes outside of Central and the air is lovely. In Central itself, you can often see the pollution, but it does not bother my family. My son and I have asthma and we have had no problems.
4. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
Typically the summer months are hot and very humid, but around October the temperature cools and the humidity drops. You will wear a jacket it does get cold.
Schools & Children:
1. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
Many people have their children at HKIS, but they are very mainstream and closed minded in my opinion. My son attends The Harbour School which has usually a 2:15 teacher/student ratio and they are very hands on and forward-thinking. There are many options here and it is best to apply early and be prepared to put some money down for debentures.
2. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
The Harbour School may assist with special needs. They claim to not be a special needs school, but I know they have several students and do a wonderful job. There are others, but I would not look at HKIS.
3. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
Preschool prices are outrageous in most places. They want around US$12K for 15 hour weeks. I have a nanny/cook/maid that lives in for a base pay of $515.
4. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
Tons of options are available through schools, YMCA, and other clubs. Tennis, rugby, football, swimming, martial arts, are just a start.
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
Huge.
2. Morale among expats:
If you are not happy here, than you will be happy nowhere.
3. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
This city is full of entertainment and there is not enough time in our posting to see and do everything.
4. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
It's fantastic for families. There are all kinds of fun museums, parks, zoos, Ocean Park, Disneyland, dolphin sightseeing tours, ice skating rinks, rock climbing, etc. Singles here have a ball.
5. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
Definitely there are a lot of gays and lesbians and they have clubs here too. I see PDA all over the place and have never seen anyone react poorly.
6. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
There may be, but I don't see it ever. Some ethnic classes think they are better than others. I have seen all religions here and all colors. You may be called a gweilo, "white devil," just laugh.
7. What have been the highlights of your time in this country? Best trips or experiences?
Taking the bus up and crystal clear cabins down to watch the Shaolin monks perform at Ngong Ping, enjoying the multitude of karaoke bars, clubs, bars. Eating at all the wonderful restaurants (you can find anything your heart desires here). Watching the fireworks on New Year's Eve and then bringing in Chinese New Year a few weeks later with even more outstanding fireworks displays accompanied with the Dragon and Lion dances. There is always something fun to do here.
8. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
Stanley market, Ngong Ping, hiking Dragon's Back or Sai Kung, fishing villages, the Star Ferry, hire a junk boat, hop over to Macau and gamble with the best, the list is never ending here. There are many festivals celebrated here too.
9. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
There are so many markets, jade, silk, art. The list is long.
10. What are the particular advantages of living in this city?
Hong Kong is an amazing post! It is so close to so many great travel opportunites like Thailand, Vietnam, the Phillipines, and mainland China. HK itself, has so many interesting places to visit and there is something for everyone here. The city MTR is very clean and easy to get around. This is the safest city I have ever lived in. HK is quite expensive, when it comes to housing, schools, eating out, but there are some really cheap places outside of Central. The weather is hot and humid during the summer, but gradually cools down in autumn. Occasional typhoons come through and bring wind and rain. In the winter, it can get pretty chilly.
11. Can you save money?
You can, but how much fun is that?
Words of Wisdom:
1. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
I would live here forever!
2. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
Idea that HK is polluted and just a city of cement and business trades. HK is beautiful and fun.
3. But don't forget your:
Mosquito repellant, sun block, umbrella, and your wallet.
4. Do you recommend any books or movies about this city/country for those who are interested in learning more?
This is Hong Kong
5. Recommended movies/DVDs related to this city:
Try any of Lonely Planet or Anthony Bourdain's The Layover or No Reservations. Here are some fun movies:http://ohnotheydidnt.livejournal.com/67455062.html
6. Do you have any other comments?
This is a post of a lifetime!
