Neighborhood for couple? Happy Valley, Sheung Wan?

Hi all,

I've seen many threads on this topic, of course, but thought everyone might like another chance to give apartment advice! : ) My husband and I are American, moving to HK this fall from Brooklyn for his job transfer. We'd like a 2BR place (no kids yet, but hoping to) in a HK neighborhood near transit. He'll work in Central, not sure yet where I will.


I'm 34, he's 39. We don't care to be smack in the middle of crazy singles nightlife, but would like good restaurants, bars, parks?, and some expat community. I've heard good things about Happy Valley and Sheung Wan. Other thoughts? We're looking to pay 13,600 HKD - 17,600 HKD per month. Possible?


Also, is a terrace too much to ask? : ) I hear HK housing is impossibly small and expensive, but then then I see good options in our price range on squarefoot.com.hk. Will I find out they are misleading?


Thank you!!

Hi, My wife and I are from the UK - we can a year ago....staying antoher 4 years.


I originally wanted to stay in Stanley, beautiful place but just so busy...especially at weekends.


We now live in a beautiful apartment in Happy Valley...Its such a nice place....nothing like it anywhere on the island...a real community feel to it. Absolutley everything you could want on your doorstep...They have American supply food store that only stocks products from the good ol' US of A.


Supermarkets, travel agents, Starbucks, pacific coffee..bars, restraunts....you name it.....We find it fabulous!! There is the famous Happy vally race track...great for jogging etc....Pleanty of little secluded areas for relaxing away from the hustle and bustle of HK....


For two of you you may well struggle to get anything for 13,600 but Im sure if you haggle you will find somewhere nice for around 17-18K no problem.


Oh and you can get thr tram into central about 15 mins and $2.30 yes thats a fixed charge and you can go anywhere....You really dont need a car on the Island, as public transport has to be the best anywhere.....


If you would like more info, send message me a Skpye name and I'll call you...too much to inform you about by messaging...


.Hope this helps & good luck with your . Kind Regards

I lived in HV for several years and think it is past its best now - every other shop is an estate agent and rents have gone through the roof. Still preferable to mid-levels and other typical `expat' areas but I prefer living out of the city.


15 mins on a tram to Central is a bit of a stretch of the truth - try 45 mins. 25 mins on a bus and 15 mins in a cab if you can get one in the morning.