Banks, Locations & Furniture!

hi all,


I'm sure these questions have been posed before but I've had a look through the forums and so far haven't found a satisfactory answer, so please bear with me.


i'm moving to HK at the end of the month, from Ireland, though I'm from UK. I will be working on a local contract, so will be paid locally in HKD, and will have no housing allowance.


I am trying to decide on a whole host of things, the main ones are:


Bank: what bank should I join when I move? I am torn between HSBC (I've seen a lot of people complain about their service), standard chartered or any other suggestions? I've accounts in UK and IE so will need some easy and cheap facility to transfer money between those countries, at least UK


Locations: I'm 34 year old single guy, so I've decided it's best to live on the island. Any suggestions on where? I've been told to focus on Mid levels central. My budget is MAX HKD30k per month, and would prefer a high floor modern 2 bed apartment


Furniture: I am trying to decide whether to move my furniture over, or to get rid of it and either get a furnished apartment, or buy furniture when I'm there. I've got chunky furniture (and a very old & heavy 63-inch plasma TV!) so unsure if I'll get an apartment big enough


Would be very grateful for your thoughts on the above.


Thanks!!

I'd go with HSBC... they have the most ATMs and service is good.


With regards to location... I'd suggest you take a serviced apartment for a month or two before committing to a long term lease... this will let you get your bearings so you can then decide where to live full time - you can get a month in some apartments within your budget http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/property/serviced.asp


Expats come and go so there are lots of great deals on furniture here http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/classifieds/


HK is an awesome city for a single guy - enjoy your stay!

Thanks Ed!


I missed out one piece of information, which is that I'm getting 2 months in a serviced apartment, so will probably have time to have a proper look around. My main concern is around what to do with my furniture - do i get rid of it, or bring it over? Also, shipping of my furniture is not an issue, if that's what I decide to do.

If your company is paying for furniture to be shipped I'd certainly consider taking advantage of that...


However keep in mind - HK apartments are small... but I guess if you can't fit it all in you can sell it on here...