Is 46k/month Enough for a Family in Hong Kong?



ORIGINAL POST
Posted by chefluke 14 yrs ago
Hello everybody, I am moving from France to HK this year and I am in the process of negotiating my salary with a 5 star hotel in their flag ship restaurant. The guy I am replacing was paid 46000hkd p.m. So I am basing my question on this.

I have little knowledge about the price of living and the rent prices that I have seen are incredible!!!

I will be working in central.

We do not need to live in a 5 star serviced appart or need a cleaner, eat in fine dining restos and drink french wine every night etc. get my point!

We are looking to integrate the locals

1. How much will I need to count for a furnished appartment 2 bedroom close to central?

(Are furnished apparts commen in HK?)

2. Are there some good areas that are easy to commute to central and at all hours of the night?

(keeping in mind that I do not necessarily need to live in an expat area) could someone please give me a list of areas and a roundabout price range.

3. Is the public transport in Hk good and is it 24 hours? Are taxis cheap? What is the price for a weekly or a monthly ticket?Is there a site with public transport info?

4. Are there good beaches in HK, Is the water clean and are there good waves?

Can wife and baby sunbake and swim without worrys and can I surf without the worry of polluted waters and or sharks? What are some good sports in hong kong? are their good places for hikes and mountain bike riding?

5. Can I get by just with english?

6. Where are the best food markets I am not talking about supermarkets I am talking about street markets with good local produce. Is the fish good in hong kong?

7. what is the pollution like? is the tap water good?

8. Are their areas to avoid?

9. Are household fees like shopping and electricity, clothing around the same price range as say paris or england or australia?

10. Last but not least is 46000 HKD p.m. enough to be able to pay all of my bills live a comfortable life and still save money?

I thank all in advance who can take the time and give me a few pointers.

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COMMENTS
Milty 14 yrs ago
To be honest, I don't think 46K per month is enough for you and your family. Yes, a lot of locals live on that (and much less) however, I don't think it's enough.

If you want to live close to Central you will probably need to pay about 20-25K for a 2 bedroom which would probably be about 700 sq feet. YOu could consider living further away which could bring the price down.


1. search for apartments on www.squarefoot.com.hk try happy valley, wan chai, midlevels west, pokfulam, sheung wan

2. public transport here is excellent and cheap. taxi's are cheap too.

4. I stay away from HK beaches. Small and packed and dirty (and I don't trust what's in the water)

5. yes

6. buying at the markets is cheap, I also find the supermarkets cheap with local produce. (it's definitely cheaper buying fruit and veg here than in Australia) Markets are all around HK, in Central, Causeway Bay etc.

7. I don't drink tap water. I filter it or buy bottled water. Pollution is worst during the winter. It can be bad for those with allergies.

8. HK is very safe.

9. I pay less for amenities here than in Australia. Clothing can be cheaper or more. Depends if you want designer labels!!

10. I would ask for more from the employer. Also, I am assuming your child is not school aged. If not, then be prepared to pay a lot of international schools!


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chefluke 14 yrs ago
hey thanks for the reply and tips. I made a typing error the proposed pay was 36k and not 46k. So I am guessing that it's far from enough!

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Milty 14 yrs ago
Yes, then I don't think that's enough. It's not impossible to live on that, I just don't think you'd have the quality of life you'd want. You should also look at your salary in France and convert it to Hong Kong dollars then see if you can live off that. Rent is the killer in HK!

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jlgebhardt 14 yrs ago
Luke - much of moving here, and being able to adjust, is mindset. No matter if you think it will be fine, or if it will be difficult to survive - you're right. If you look to find a way to enjoy this experience, you'll be fine. Probably the biggest thing you'll face is that the living space will be small. If this is okay - you'll be okay. Maybe look in Kennedy Town or Sheung Wan. Beaches are fine, as is the water. Is it the same as in Europe? No, but it's fine. Big Wave Bay beach (South side of the Island, near Shek Ois wonderful - and you can surf. Again, keep the expectations reasonable - but there is surf. You can look for an apartment there for the family). Sunbake is an interesting word. HK is at 22 or so degrees latitude - so they'll bake pretty quickly. Put a filter on your water tap, and buy a water filter jug - you'll be fine. Locals will boil their water. Wet markets (where you buy fresh food) are great. Let the kid go to a local school and start to learn Cantonese....give it try, and remember - taxes are part of the formula, and they're relatively low here.

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
Thanks for the tips everyone!

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vespasian 14 yrs ago
HI, If you work in Central, you can live on the outlying island of Lamma island. Rents are good value there, you can get a 700 sqft apartment with a rooftop terrace for around 8000 HKD. Plus there are nice beaches, hiking trails and no cars on the island. The ferry from Yung Shue Wan to Central is a 25 minutes commute. If you leave on the outlying islands, you can save a lot of money on rent. With 36K you can live here, no problem.


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cowleyp 14 yrs ago
Hi, it’s apples for apples. 32K is not enough to lead an affluent western lifestyle but more than enough for a family to live on. The wealth gap in HK is crazy; a bus driver's basic salary for example is around 8K. Rent as everyone has pointed out is the single biggest factor.

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Quince 14 yrs ago
"tap water is ONLY drinkable after fully boiled"


Absolute rubbish. The drinking water in HK is as clean as anywhere else in the first world! Unless I want sparkling I always specify tap water in restaurants and drink unboiled water straight from my tap at home. I've never been sick from the water here.


The air on the other hand, is a completely different matter...


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funbobby 14 yrs ago
IMHO, you can live here if your frugal, don't go out too much (with a baby on board that is more than likely the case.) If your wife wants to work, factor in at least 5k plus another bedroom for live-in help (day care for expats is basically non-existant).


If you can get your accoms paid, as has been said, you will be more than alright...

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FKKC 14 yrs ago
Not everyone has a rare/strong stomach as Quince (extreme comment)...at least use a filter! No need to take any risk.

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madam x 14 yrs ago
im with quince, the water here is perfectly safe! even the government says so-- http://www.gov.hk/en/residents/environment/water/drinkingwater.htm

if you are worried about the pipes in your building contaminating the water, that is a completely different story, but as stated on the website, newer buildings pipes muct be up to code. just because your mothers mothers brother boiled their water twenty years ago does not mean it is necessary today. i have never used a filter or boiled water. i do not have a rare or strong stomach. my stomach was off when i first got to hong kong because of the change in diet, not from drinking water out of the tap. seriously. get your facts straight. i have no issue with people using filters or boiling water but you do not need to strike fear in people unncessarily.

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
thanks everyone, Vespesian that's a great tip for lamma island I hear the islands are nice. The thing is I am working in a restaurant and will finish late at night. By the way what is the average dinner time for HK? Therefore would I have troubles getting a ferry across at midnight or even later? Do water taxis exist?

When looked at apparts on the site that was mentioned here (great sight thanks) the 2 bedrooms seemed to be one bedroom and one living room. Is that the way it works? Also next to the price there is the price of the 20 year mortage which is often cheaper than the rent. Is worth signing up a mortage and when leaving reselling the place to get back the money I put in? Or do you get screwed with the taxes and agent fees?

Can anyone reccomend some areas worth buying in if it is the case. Is lamma island worth thinking about.

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Ed 14 yrs ago
I think the Lamma ferry finishes at 1230...


Water http://hongkong.asiaxpat.com/forums/environmental-issues/threads/120781/hong-kong-water:-safe-to-drink?/

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funbobby 14 yrs ago
lamma will be tough if you work past 12....you'll def. be running for the ferry...

http://www.hkkf.com.hk/index.php?op=timetable&page=yungshuewan&view=screen&style=en


disco bay si a bit more doable, but infrequent overnight

http://www.hkri.com/icms2/template?series=101&article=3421


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RICKYHK 14 yrs ago
HI, THERE,


RENT IS SURELY A KILLER HERE, BUT IF U TAKE TIME TO LOOK AROUND U MAY PICK UP A DEAL, TRY TSING YI "TIERRA VERDE" IT IS A PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT JUST 2 MINS FROM TRAIN STATION, TAKES ABOUT 12 MINS TO TRAVEL TO CENTRAL, VERY CONVENIENT. U GET A 600 SQ FEET FLAT FOR AROUND, 13000, THEY HAVE A INTERNATIONAL KINDERGARTEN WITHIN THE ESTATE,

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jaysonmcjayson 14 yrs ago
Hi chefluke,


I suggest you negotiate your salary from 36k to 46k, 10k is a big difference. Of course you can live in Hong Kong with the first offer. If you work in Central and riding a boat doesn't bother you, Lamma Island is your first option. The rent is cheap, family friendly, beach & Mmmnnn the seafood....! Try also Discovery Bay, you can also get a good deal there in rent and the ferry schedule is better than Lamma Island. When you are looking for an apartment the best way to do it, is to go to a local real estate agent. Be candid about your budget and rough idea or size you want. If you don't want to use the ferry try Sheung Wan, North Point or Chai Wan. In terms of clothing, food & electricity the price is okay here. Anyway, good luck!

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madam x 14 yrs ago
umm, peggy wong, you stated 'tap water is ONLY drinkable after fully boiled' and went on to say 'it is recommended by our government'. for both instances you are wrong. you are striking fear with no basis. i am sure that your intent is good but you have NOTHING to base it on. NOTHING. the op says nothing about renting or buying or staying in an old building. there is no NEED for a filter or boiling. it is simply YOUR personal preference. as for the child, i had two small children when i moved here years ago. we lived and continue to live on lamma. our house is an old village house. never boiled never filtered. none of us have ever been sick from the water from our house, our friends house, the restaurants or the pubs.


if you are now saying that HK water is now cleaner than years back, why boil or filter? maybe because those around you have and it is what you have been told to do. reality is, it is not really necessay.

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
Good advice I am very impressed with the amount of people ready to share so thanks all et merçi à tous aussi!

The water issue there are two sides to the story thanks for the opinions and or facts so let's leave it at that. No need to get fired up on a tuesday ;-)

"TIERRA VERDE" I will check it out

As for dining hours what time does one eat dinner in HK roundabouts?

Is the 20 year mortage worth signing up as it is often cheaper than rent or do you get nailed with taxes and fees?

Chefluke


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Danza 14 yrs ago
HIKING- fantastic. you'll be spoilt for choices. You can hike all year round, and most of the time you would believe you are in Hong Kong.


BEACHs- Hong Kong island beaches are very average, but you get use to them, just try not to take a gulp of sea water. I live out in Sai Kung, N.T. and the beaches are unbelievable. The water is clean and clear, and yes it is possible to get the odd day of swell crashing in. But the surf beaches are not easily accessible. You need to hike into them, but atleast it keeps the masses away.


LIVING- i personally get a housing allowance so I'm not the best person to ask about where to live. Just remember Happy Wife= Happy Life. If she's not happy, and can't socialise with ppl then you'll probably be packing your bags rather quickly. Unfortunately the MTR doesn't run 24 hours, last train is usually around 1am. For me to catch a taxi to Sai Kung costs around (HK$200-no traffic)

There isn't a weekly or monthly travel card. We have the Octopus card which is same as the British Oyster card, basically pay as you go. But super cheap. for me a 20 min bus trip costs me $8.5 (.85Euro cents) A 25 minute train trip costs approx HK$12 (Euro1.2) So transport isn't a major cost over here, unless you plan to buy a car.


I just speak English and have very little problem with taxis, but I am learning to say basics like "next stop, turn left/right"


Plenty of markets around the place to buy groceries, and all good. However I don't buy meat/fish from them, just a personal choice.


GOOD LUCK with the decision.


BTW I use to boil my water, now I have a filter on my tap - just in case. But I'm sure the water is ok without.

Have you thought about living with Pollution? The air pollution over here is absolutely disgusting, and sometime 300X above WHO standards!




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saikungsam 14 yrs ago
As a chef I'm amazed you would consider shopping at Hong Kong wet markets. When you find out how their produce is grown you might change your mind! Just google food safety china before you cook up your first family meal of chinese produce.


Unfortunately, if you don't like heavy metals, pesticide or human sewage, you'll be paying a hefty premium in HK for the safe (i.e imported) food.

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sassycutie 14 yrs ago
my bf (now hubby) stayed at this serviced apartment next to hung hom station and for a fully furnished apartment right on the waterfront with 2 bedrooms & full harbour view you'd pay less than 15k. big swimming pool & other facilities are quite good i think. free shuttle bus to/from tsim sha tsui mtr & it's takes a few minutes to get there. so convenient enough.


http://www.horizonhotels.com.hk/index_en.html

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
Danza and sassycutie thanks a lot for your great tips!!

My wife cracked up with Happy wife = Happy life!! me too

The furnished apparts look fantastic and no deposits and heaps of facalities.

My big question is on the site for the apparts there are 2 choices for us

Kwai chun there are the apparts (apex horizon)and on the google map they are close to a forest and parks. The other is the apparts harbour front or harbour view in kowloon on the water. Seeing as though we have a new born baby who is sensitive to pollution is there one of the two that is an area that is less polluted generally speaking. Wanting also a happy wife and life which of the 2 areas is more liveable?

Surf beaches that you can hike to and beaches with clear water awesome!!

Where are they??

Thanks again for the tips

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selda 14 yrs ago
the money is enough to get by, but why would you move to HK???

The air quality is terrible, and with a baby you are basically jeopardising his/her future.

If i had a good job in France, i wouldn't move to HK.


I know dozens of parents who feel guilty for exposing their kids to this horrible pollution, but unfortunately they can't go anywhere because they have built their professional life here.



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sassycutie 14 yrs ago
i'd recommend the ones in hung hom next to the hung hom station. habourfront horizon / habourview horizon. fully furnished flats (even a washer/dryer combo & other basic kitchen stuff) with a relatively short distance to central. if i were you, i'd sign up for 6 months then look around to see if there are better options. pollution in hk is pretty bad so you can't really escape it unless you move to more remote areas.

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speed88 14 yrs ago
I agree with Selda.. wtf would you want to come to a hole... pollution, arrogant people, impossible to drive anywhere.. even if there was somewhere to drive to.. $46k is ridiculous... you still need to pay income tax at 15% min. Fuel - most expensive in the world.. So live in an apartment that most civilised countries call hovels... then sure waste you life in HK.

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
wow what anger and frustration!

You don't want to talk about boiling water also?

Do you smoke?

If it's that bad maybe you should move.

Why do I want to move there? I have a good job offer. Therefore I am getting as much info on the place before I decide if I make the move or not.

I appreciae your points of view and opinions I asked for them.

But don't try and judge me or impose your beliefs.

Instead take your angry frustrated energy and try to answer some of the questions above.

I would appreciate that.

Thanks

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FKKC 14 yrs ago
cara

re: point 10.....OP will be getting $36,000 p.m., not $46,000 p.m. but maybe still manageable with your break-down. Saving doesn't apply here then.

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funbobby 14 yrs ago
look here for info on public transport:


Citybus/Firstbus:


http://www.nwstbus.com.hk/home/default.aspx?intLangID=1


Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB):


http://www.kmb.hk/en/


MTR:


http://www.mtr.com.hk/eng/homepage/cust_index.html

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
thanks a lot cara and fun bobby!

For pay I got 40000k that's the first offer

I should be able to push it up to 42500.

From what I see HOng Kong may not be the worlds best place to live especially with a baby.

But I have a good offer that will either lead to a promotion and payrise or a transfer to something better, it's also a job I am looking forward to and a new challenge. In any case it is not for 10 years.

I have to laugh a little when I see people attacking the markets etc.

When you move to a new country I say embrace the new culture. Try something different, try to eat dirty food as some may say. Have you ever seen how a big mac mcdonalds beef patty is made. Do you know what's in a sausage roll? Haha

40000k =4000euros grosso modo that's good money for france really good. But the pollution seems to be a serious issue.

Does anyone know about the harbourview or harbourfront horizon appartements in kowloon?

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saikungsam 14 yrs ago
You say your baby is sensitive to pollution, and that you're considering moving to one of the worlds most polluted cities. You'll need a strategy to deal with that, and its going to cost you a lot of money. Sorry, probably not what you want to hear but this isn't somewhere to come and play ostrich, your family's health will require much more proactive management here than other countries.


Nobody I know here who has had blood/hair toxicology analysis eats anything from wet markets any more. Food safety in China gets worse and worse every year - soaring commodity prices and domestic Chinese demand make the rewards for the rampant cheating bigger by the month.


If your employer wont pay you enough to eat from proper western supermarkets then I have no idea why you'd want to bring your baby here and eke out an existence from paycheck to paycheck, while eating toxic local food. You should be aiming to leave with a fat sack of cash not a string of new health complaints.


This isn't the most encouraging reply on the thread and probably not what you hope to hear. But you specifically said your baby is sensitive to pollution and I'm just telling it like it is, in answer to your questions.


Hong Kong is a fantastic place to live for families and has a lot going for it. But you're going to need a lot of money, dare I say it, more than 46 a month, to live here and eat healthily. The alternative is to pretend that Hong Kong has the highest longevity in the world and that the local food supply chain is just fine - your call.

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panoramama 14 yrs ago
chefluke i think you have a great attitude and if you're keen to experience a new place and a new culture and willing to adapt and be flexible then i would think that $40k is enough for your family to live on. it is not a lot and you may not have that much left for savings but if you're not planning to be here for too long and this presents a good job opportunity that may lead to better prospects down the line then it certainly makes sense.


reading some of the posts on this thread you'd think that people in hong kong need to wear toxic gas masks when outdoors and eat only imported vacuum sealed food in order to survive which is of course stupid. sure the pollution in hk is getting worse but it's still manageable - it is far worse in beijing and shanghai where loads of expats with families live. millions of hk people eat the "local toxic food" everyday and it hasn't killed them yet.



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Milty 14 yrs ago
Chefluke.....it's clear this employer is will to wait to for you as you're still deciding on whether or not to make the move. Have you negotiated the salary yet? If not, then you have to! The worst they can say is no. People always negotiate here!!!


Your subject says they offered 46K but then you mention 40K???? Which one is it?I would push for 55k then let them come down to 50K if they don't agree to 55k. 2.5K is nothing.


It's not so much a matter of what you can live off, but negotiate for as much as you can so you can save a little money too.

Good luck. Just remember, negotiate the salary!

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mycalho 14 yrs ago
i think it will be fantastic if you live in Discovery Bay ... ( I am surprised no one recommend DB but rather Lamma, DB is always the first stop for expats) ... its a boat ride away from Central where many expats live ....... its more value for your money and its 24hour boat ride operation ..... and many expats around plus beaches to mingle around ....... You will not feel crampy like in Central ..... ....... but you dont need to spend on cars .... just rental and furnitures and daily living ....... if you have kid, i believe Discovery Bay is a lot more pleasing to your wife. ....... lots of mountain climbing and Disney nearby.


In DB, you will not feel the smog as much ..... but it looks pretty clear at the moment in winter with sunny weather coupled with nice cool wind .... Everyone uses a good water filter and boil your water before drinking ...... as for Food, you are the chef, so you shld have no problem looking for good and tasty outlets.


I seriously recommend DB for your budget, its the best place to start ...... then after living a few years you can consider other places as fit you.






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funbobby 14 yrs ago
DB was mentioned by jayson and myself...but the infrequent late night ferry is a bit of a downer...if taxi's are now allowed into the North Plaza, that would address that problem tho...don't kid yourself tho, the pollution is everywhere, including DB with it's smoke spewing golf carts and buses, commercial vehicles and hire-cars...it does LOOK greener than most of the rest of HK with some nice landscaping however...lots of families/moms and playgroups for the wife tho


as far as the weather now, winter is widely recognized as the WORST of the polluted months, as the comfortable cool air monsoon from China also brings the smog from the PRD with it...and not everyone boils their water lol, but that's been dealt with already hasn't it ;-)

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AnnaR 14 yrs ago
Chefluke,

I live on Park Island - its a wonderfull place,- small island, well ventilated, so air quality is more or less ok and def better then central.

Apartments are quite cheap comparing to central and DB as well... sai kung is too far honestly...you have to use the bus and drive long.

To get to central - it takes you 25 minutes by ferry, timetable is good. They stop after midnight but busses go instead for the same price (17.6hkd - DB for instance is 47 or smth like that one way!) and busses go every hour during the night. Besides you can take taxi directly to the island (for DB, Lamma - its impossible) - more expensive then public (230hkd), but still. bus is 25min ride, taxi - 20min.

there is direct bus to the airport from/to the island - every half an hour from 5.30am to 1.30am. island connected by 3 bridges to the 'rest of hk' - there are busses to other areas and one more ferry to chinese district with wonderfull and cheap local markets. even though we have good supermarket on the island.

there are no cars on the island besided one small road for busses.

when you arrive on ferry - you dont need to go uphill (like Lamma) or take another bus to get to your house (like on DB - the further you leave from the pier the cheaper appr is). everything is reachable, very quite , peacefull and simply pretty.

We have 3 club houses that you can be member of as soon as you get rent - 4 swimming pools (2 indoor, 2 outdoor and you dont need to pay yearly fee - just every time you go you pay 12hkd, kids cheaper, same for gym), 2 gyms, bowlling, 5 tennis courts (easy to book), lots of areas for bbq, childrens playrooms - generally there are lots of kids on the island (locals and expats) - its a very family friendly place with decent living conditions, not expensive and easy reachable.


all people i know on park island - they are all happy there! and once you got there you dont want to move anywhere else (unless you are single and want to party a lot - then you might have some complaints;) ).


here is a brief web - http://www.parkisland.com.hk/ - not much there, but you can get the idea.


With 42K salary - possible to live in HK.

Lest say 2bd appr is around 9k, maybe 10K - you can find furnished as well (tho mostly they rent unfurnished).

electricity/gas/water - around 1000hkd per 3 month.

ferry trips to central - 17.6hkd/one way

your tax per year will be about 44K (if you make an agreement with the co to pay rent directly to your landlord like a house allowance - will be a bit cheaper).

food - about 6000hkd per month


polution - well... its not perfect, but i cannot say its so bad that living here is a disaster. not really. i like HK and i think it is a brilliant place to live and especialy if you want to try new experience for few years - its very good! depends on what you want))) and for the kid its a good experience as well.


Good luck and if there is any more help needed - pls dont hesitate to contact me!


PS: im not a real estate agent on Park Islamd or so :) i just love the place i live and think its one of the best in HK!


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selda 14 yrs ago
http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-24/hong-kong-ends-2010-with-worst-pollution-since-readings-collected-in-1999.html


Honestly, if i had a good job in Europe, i would never come to HK.

Some people might still accept a job offer in HK if the salary is really really good, and they can save a lot before returning to their home country.


The money you will make in HK is not enough to justify the risks you take with your baby's health.

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oofy 14 yrs ago
Boil your water all you like, makes no difference, what are you trying to boil away, grit?

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
i bargained as far as they would go further and the job was no longer mine.

Can anyone tell me more about park island?

Looking at postes and forums in 2006 everyone loves the place as time went on the love was lost.

What's it like these days?

The photos on the site look great!

Does anyone know what the prices are like thesedays AnnaR mentioned places at 9k where do I find those? (I need furnished) It seems as though buying is not the best investment. Are there people who rent ttheir apparts directly without agents avoiding fees?

Like particular à particular in France.

Finally what's health insurance cost here? For someone say 30 and a baby and how is the medical system there?

Have a good day and I look forward to any replys,


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chefluke 14 yrs ago
no worrys

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funbobby 14 yrs ago
first off, DON'T rely on any promo photos of property in Hong Kong...developers here have raised falsifying appearances to an art form...it's gotten so bad that legislation was passed requiring disclaimers on property adverts...show flats are nothing like you will end up owning....all a big scam by Big Prop, who run this town...


Park Island probably started as a good idea, but overbuilding has turned it into a giant lump of concrete now...densely packed towers PLUS a sprawning new village of local houses behing it...and a fairly new, giant ark (yes, the kind that Noah built...) in front, to draw in the tour buses so that the public space can fill with gawking mainlanders...we were shopping for a flat a few years back (before Noah) and left the soulless overbuilt dump as fast as we could...


but that's just my opinion...

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
hahaha nice one funbobby!

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funbobby 14 yrs ago
to be fair, i'm sure others who live there enjoy it immensely, just not what we cared for...and certainly NOT as on the website!


as for private rentals, look in the Property section here for direct owner leases...you might find something, though it is a landlords market right now, so bargaining could be tough...


public med care is great here. we had our daughter in the public system, very affordable (nearly free) and top quality care. it helped that my wife is local so was comfortable with the (sometimes) language issues (i had no clue what was going on, just followed the finger pointing basically)...but the doctors all speak English as well as the head nurses(just the ward staff sometimes struggle with it a bit)


if you're flush with cash, there is always the private system too....shorter waiting times (a common problem in public health care worldwide) but pretty steep fees, so you'd better have private insurance if you go that route

my visiting father also had emergency care for DVT and was hospitalized for about 1 week here...excellent care, full battery of advanced scans...

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jaysonmcjayson 14 yrs ago
chefluke


I have never been to Park Island but a friend of ours told us that is a great place to live, thay have swimming pools, gymn, playground et.al Let me tell you something about Hong Kong base on my experiece. You can always have a good deal here in Hong Kong "IF" you know where to go to get them. 40,000 HKD is a lot of money already NOT ALL here in Hong Kong have the same salary as you do. For example in WAN CHAI there is a laxury apartment name BAMBOO GROVE and for sure your salary couldn't afford it. But around there or a bit further away my friend have an apartment for 10,000 HKD for 2 bedroom, 1 Bath, kitchen and living space. Some landlord provides the basic appliances. To furnished an apartment "IF" you are not picky at all it is very cheap! You can search here in ASIA EXPAT for 2nd hand furniture or go to IKEA or DSC at Windsor House in Causewaybay. It will roughly cost you 3 thousand hkd to furnish an apartment like my friend has. INSURANCE, there is a lot of good medical insurance here in Hong Kong. I have MANULIFE which is amazing! my daughter was confined at the private hospital for 4 nights and 5 days and it cost me 18,000 HKD but my insurance reimburse 16,500. And I only bought PLAN C which is only cost me 170.40 a month. FOR OUTPATIENT, If u get sick and you need to see a doctor you can go to a PRIVATE CLINIC in Central and it will cost you 500-700 HKD with medication or you can go to a PRIVATE HOSPITAL like Saint Paul Hospital and wait for 2 hours and it will only cost you 150 HKD with medication. You have a lot of options here. I can sense that you have a good attitude and you love adventure. Life is adventure anyway! There is a lot of opportunity here in Hong Kong in terms of business & career. I Hope my advice will help you to your decision and Good luck!

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lalib 14 yrs ago
I went to Park island first time last night. Seemed pretty organised, friendly residents, I had to ask them for directions.


But the Estate agents didn't seem interested, I asked for a one bedroom they said around 8-9K for a 460sq ft. And they said there is nothing on the market at the moment.


I live on DB and prices are quite high nowadays, even though there loads of empty apartments. Is it ok to haggle with Estate agents say 15% - is this expected?

Reason I ask is coz I hate dealing with estate agents they say all sorts of crap like "impossible" "no" etc


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Philly Cheese 14 yrs ago
You can live comfortably with $40k per month but not real extravagant. The problem here is that many expats expect to be paid more. The question I ask is why? Why do you think you deserve more? Do you think a local cannot do the same job? As a chef, you cannot expect to get IBanker salaries. I'm not sure, but many expat teachers get round the same. If your predecessor got $36k and you're getting $42.5k then I would say that is a reasonable offer. I would think asking for $50k is slightly greedy. Don't forget the tax rate is extremely low, and usually you will get a bonus on top of that. For a few years' experience, why not.


Good luck.

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lhlhlh 14 yrs ago
I am a local.


I would suggest you to consider to live in Tseung Kwan O area. There are a lot of rather new apartments there with relatively affordable rent. Most of them are close to MTR (underground) stations. Around 30-min to commute to Central. There are bus service after midnight.


I have lived in The Grandiose 2 years ago. The good thing about these new estates is that they have good swimming pools, gyms, ...etc.


I think right now a decent 600+ sq ft 2-bedroom apartment will cost $9-12k/mth.


Another good thing to live there is that you can go to beaches in Sai Kung (about 30-min) or Clear Water Bay (15-min).


Many choices for grocery shopping, supermarkets or local stores. Same for dinning out.


As there are a lot of rental supply in this area, you can shop around in the first week after you arrive in HK.


One last thingk, I would not recommend you to live on the HK Island as the rent there is unreasonably high now.


Good luck.

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lhlhlh 14 yrs ago
Another tips for you - you may ask if your employer can do some tax arrangement for you by making part of your salary as rental reimbursement. This is not uncommon in HK. It may save you some $ for a short trip to Thailand.


BTW, Sai Kung and Clear Water Bay area have some of the most beautiful hiking trials where you can see the seashore of the Eastern side of HK, which is better than the Western side. You can do mountain biking near Clear Water Bay too.

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naseerhk 14 yrs ago
i think 46K is very high salary if i compare with locals what they getting.mostly people getting 6k to 15k around and doing very good even saving .


if your job in central i recommand you to find a flat in Jordan or Sheung wan area, if you are single i think 1room,1 flat,kitchen,toilet, can rent around 3K-4k Depand on decoration of unit.


if you have family 1-2 kids,wife, you can easy rent a flat for 6-7K around 400 square feet net and if you dont consider lift ,you can rent a 700sqft net for HKD5.5K. on 2/F or 3/F,


the biggest problem in hong kong is rent,othewise food is cheaper if you cook at home. there is lots of local markets where you can purchase fresh vegetable,meat,fruit even french graps.


you can very easy survive within 10-15K including,rent,food,shopping, transportation etc.


transportation is not expensive in hong kong if you live in urban areas. water is very clean but i recommand you to boil before drinking. if no boil there is no harm.


lots of beaches around the hong kong and lots of places to take a walk and ride on cycle, many parks, garden.


if you want to save and live happy i will recommand you to live like locals,you can you can easy save 25-30K a month.


anything i can do,let me know.


thanks




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lizleung 14 yrs ago
living near central with a furnish 2 bedroom apt, that will be at last HK$60,000, in good family neighborhood up central a bit easily HK$100,000 esp with the radiculous rent now aways. otherwise everything in HK is great, grat transport, great food, safe and english friendly.

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selda 14 yrs ago
Naseerhk wrote




are you joking?

Even on Lamma island a crappy 700sqf costs HK$ 10,000.



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lalib 14 yrs ago
I like lhlhlh's post.


>>>consider to live in Tseung Kwan O area<<<


Your right, prices are cheap in TKO and Lohas Park.

In Lohas Park a brand new apt 683 sq ft 9.5K that's the asking price. I think there is a surplus of properties in the area.


Nasser - your rental estimates of Jordan, Sheung Wan are plainly wrong. Rents are way way higher than what you've mentioned.

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Sale1025 14 yrs ago
Check out Park Island flats on Ma Wan Island. It's a great environment for children and rent for two bedrm flat ranges from HKD 10k to 13k. There are three clubhouses all with swimming pools and sports facilities. Transport by ferry or shuttle bus to Central, Tsuen Wan, Tsing Yi and Kwai Fong. No privatre cars allowed, only delivery trucks-seven days a week, 10am to 4pm. Very safe, lots of children and young families.

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mooncakebaby 14 yrs ago
The tap water is absolutely fine. It doesn't need boiling. It is top quality certified by World Health. Transport is very cheap and clothes and food too. If you are a family man you probably won't be hitting the bars and that's good because it is very costly.

You could try Lamma Island. Lots of expats live there and commute by ferry. Rents are really low and the place is perfect for children, as there are no vehicles allowed. Clean air and nice beaches and a village atmosphere. Peng Chau is also said to be nice. Only 6000 a month will get you a three bed flat. On Hong Kong side that will run to 30000.

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cbc 14 yrs ago
Don't forget to check out South Lantau, Mui Wo, pui o, tong fuk etc etc you can get cheap rent nice apartment 700 sq with private roof top approx $4,000 - $8,000 ferry runs to central every 40 mins takes 35 mins to central. last ferry 3a.m, nice beaches, restaurants, hiking, everyone rides bike here on South Lantau. 2 supermarkets. Nice local people and expats, not crowded.

$46,000 NICE...........no problem living here.

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KAT8 14 yrs ago
cbc, I have been looking in Lantau for 2 weeks and there is nothing available for 700sq foot 3 bed for 8k.


There are flats or houses going for 14k up though.


Do you know of any available flats? Can you send me a PM if you have know of any.


Thanks.


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cbc 14 yrs ago
Have you been over to Mui Wo and looking in the agents ? there are 4 agents in Mui Wo town.

Also get chatting to expat people in the Pubs/restaurants they may know of some or put you in contact with some landlords direct.

What are you looking for and what village and I will ask about.

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KAT8 14 yrs ago
Yes, I have looked and asked the agents. I have been calling them constantly.

I need 3 bed around 8K. Nearer Mui Wo would be best but I will consider any village as long as it's not too far as have to commute to Central every day.


Thanks very much.

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cbc 14 yrs ago
Calling no good, even if you were buying they have this layed back style, South Lantau property agents are so layed back and have a can't be bothered attitude, same as the Blue taxi's here, I will ask about and let you know whats for rent.

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KAT8 14 yrs ago
Yes, they are not the friendliest bunch. Guess they must be so loaded they don't want the small comission from 8k flats.


Anyway, really appreciate your help. Will be looking again this weekend.



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jackthejiver 14 yrs ago
Am surprised that no one has suggested Tung Chung yet. Few good reasons:


1. Cheaper rent than most other modern areas in HK.

2. Train to central only takes 30 minutes.

3. Quite a few night buses going into Tung Chung throughout the night.

4. Better air quality than most other part of HK (though I know some people will dispute this as Tung Chung is next to the airport) - but it has a lot less traffic compared to the rest of HK, which is where most of the pollution come from.

5. It has a large expat community here.

6. Access to local wet market as well as good "western" supermarket

7. Good access to countryside.


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cbc 14 yrs ago
finley leung mui wo advertise on the window $5,500 3 bed room middle floor flat, flat in Wang Tong coming up end March.

It seems like in South Lantau like Lamma you need to know who's moving on to jump the flat to get the good prices.

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
Yeah thanks for the ideas for the different areas to live. Nice point of view mbbcat.

Woody mentioned a houseboat and the cheap rents I checked out buying one.

15000HKD PM rent 4 years in Hk = 720000HKD rent that's a lot of money

I saw houseboats and good ones for sale on the south side of the island for 1 mil

Does anyone know anything about houseboats? the agent I emailed never wrote back lazy bastard. I saw some postes about

"South Lantau, Mui Wo, pui o, tong fuk etc etc you can get cheap rent nice apartment 700 sq with private roof top approx $4,000 - $8,000"

where do I find those? As I am not in HK till june would it be best to wait until I am there and see directly with agents?

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mycalho 14 yrs ago
Dear Chefluke,


Your idea of 700sqft for 4000-8000 hkd will not get you anywhere much .... Mui Wo is a small town that everyone probably knows each other by first name ....... Definitely not for a first timer into HK ......... If you cant stand the sight of old housings alongside, I suggest Tung Chung or DB where the landscape is beautiful. I would prefer TC as its easy on home marketing, variety of restaurants and plenty of outdoors.


Best thing to do really is to check out HK for yourself before you decide.


Another thing abt houseboats, usually you need to pay for the club membership too ...... As far as I know, only bankers and pilots buy them.







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cbc 14 yrs ago
You would have to look for something when you arrive in Hong Kong in South Lantau as the agents would not take you on from abroad, they are bad enough when you just telephone them from Hong Kong side.

Mui Wo and South Lantau is very different from Tung Chung and DB, Tung Chung is high risers if you don't mind being on floor 39 up up, and DB is full of ex pats lots of high risers which on your budjet you would be in, all property in South Lantau is max 3 high it does have a village feel, lots of ex pats more local Chinese but everyone does know each other and on your salary you will fit in and be comfortable.

Where ever you go Hong Kong is a great place, totally safe and very International.

Good Luck

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
Mui Wo and south lantau look great but for my case it's not possible.

I start work at 8 in the morning and I finish at midnight or later so if you need to add 45 minutes in a bus on top of that you don't sleep much at night!!!

I am looking for easy transfers to central by ferry is great. Clean air and greenery and not huge rents. A lot to ask I know.

Is renting a fully furnished an option or would it be easier to go and buy everything at ikea is there and Ikea In Hk?

HK pollution is it due more to cars or factories?

DB are there late night ferries?

Where do I check out apparts on the net? Or should I wait until I am there?

I have seen posts of great prices but where are they? On the net there isn't much!

thanks for the posts!

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
haha thanks Cara for all of your replys. Yeah the hours are rough so you see what I mean about travel time. 1and a half hours travel time per day is cut from my already short sleep.

I have a 15000 budget for rent. For me on the other side of the world park island looks pretty good ignoring their stupid thème park. Green enough cheap enough and direct ferries. Any other areas to suggest to check out for when I arrive?

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Milty 14 yrs ago
For those working hours, 46K per month is just silly. even for HK. Unless it's a 4 day week?


I think you have been given enough info on this site. Seems you like detail so I would suggest moving to a small serviced apartment for the first month or so, go and see places for yourself and then decide.


And before you ask. Look in the property section on asiaxpat under serviced apartments.



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chefluke 14 yrs ago
yeah thanks pal your right. Yes I have already found a serviced appart.

So thankyou everyone for all of the tips.

I will take all into consideration.

That's about it.

Ohh by the way do you need to boil the water?



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Ona 14 yrs ago
Hi Chefluke,


In my humble opinion, if I were you I would try Sheung Wan. I have been in HK over six years, I have a 3 and 1 year old. The 3 years old just started to go to a cantonese local school, and after the 1st few days of crying (and heartbreaking!) now she is totally fine, and already picking up some Cantonese, I pay $2,300pm and I am going to apply for the voucher next year. The old Sheung Wan area is very nice in my opinion, it is like living in a town, lots of little parks for the kids to play, very quiet, and now getting trendy. It is 10 minutes walk to Soho where you have all the rest. and bars, 15 min walk to Central, or HK$18 taxi drive. Close by (10/15 min walking distance from where I live there is the Western Park, with harbor views, and big grass area to play, they are now finishing a new public swimming pool, etc....

I have a mortgage, living in a 680sq gross (so around 500net) the 4 of us. Yes it is small, but we all got used to and we are happy. It is a good area for socializing as well, there are quite a lot of expats and of course Soho is around the corner. Rents are high, my friend is renting similar flat as our (newly renovated) for hk$18,000, just on hollywood road (sheung wan). I think getting used to the small space for your wife and you will be a bit hard, not for your baby as he/she won't notice anyway, and believe me, it gets messy but in two minutes it is all tidy up! hehehehe, all the best!

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mumof2boys 14 yrs ago
Hey for my two cents worth --

You can absolutely live on $45000 per month, we live on around $25 - $30000 very happily only work around 20 hours per week bewteen my husband and I, managed to won property and run our own business in HK and live the whole packaged lifestyle we dreamed of.....

Mostly possible because we live in a village house in Ma On Shan, The New Territories....where the beaches are clean, the parks big, and the hiking trails on your back doorstep. And there is a direct all night bus the 681 that takes 45 mins to get to central.....or the train 1 hour commute.

We work 5 mins away from our house so not a problem for us.

And YES we drink the tap water......

And NO we're not worried about safety living in a village rather than a fortified tower ( lived 2 years in Bogota, Colombia, I have what some might call perspective!)


Your biggest expense if you have school age kids will be schooling!! That is a major factor here and your biggest expense outside of housing.

We pay around $7000 - $20000 to live in a village house in this area, depending on the size.

So anyways, cheers! it's all about perspective and I hope you guys give it a go!!

( oh and village houses are huge in comparison to flats cause their square footage includes your general lift area, recepetion area, shared portions of playrooms etc when you rent a flat in an apartment.) check out gohome.com for the affordable options!

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
Ona and mum thanks for sharing your storys it's nice to talk to people with a positive outlook on life and a good sense of humor!

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Sammy2011 14 yrs ago
Hi ChefLuke,


Maybe your partner is also willing to work in Hong Kong, double income = better/ easier life.

Hong Kong is expensive, however I think that if you decide to make the move, you will love it here. Yes, there is pollution; yes, some tap-water tastes funny; yes, traffic is sometimes extremely busy. However, there are so many nice things to do! Food is really cheap, and safe to eat as well! Your wife (and children) will love it too!

Whatever you do, this will be a life changing experience! Have fun and let us know what you think of Hong Kong once you have arrived!


All the best to you and your family!

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
I will do!

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luke_jay77 14 yrs ago
Hi ChefLuke,


My wife and I live on one income of roughly $46,000 p/m. We have a 6 month old daughter and have managed to buy an apartment back in Oz in the 2.5 years we've been here. We had nothing saved before arriving as we've both been traveling and surfing gypsies for the past 10-12 years. I'm was a chef, but have decided to change professions and am now a full-time student/home-hubby and father.However, I did work for the first year. Hong Kong's not for everyone, but I've met plenty of people who prefer it to where they've come from. We live in Discovery Bay, and there's a local "organic" (I don't think anything would be certified organic by overseas standards because of pollution, but the principles are the same) farm in the village to the south. Plus, the supermarkets supply veggies from other local "organic growers" at relatively cheap prices, and you can buy relatively cheap imported produce in the supermarkets too. We had our daughter back in Oz and spent 4 months back there, and I found myself wanting the variety of products available in Hong Kong. Mind you, we were mainly in Wollongong. I haven't read all the comments because there's a lot. But, I think a furnished apartment at first is a good idea. That way you can get the lay of the land and see for yourself where might suit the family best. DB is quiet and fairly peaceful. I find the trip to Central and back easy, even in the wee hours of the morning. That said, it's not to everyone's liking. We also lived in Ma On Shan, but the bus ride to central is a long one. There's been much debate on the water quality, do some research yourself and make up your own mind. We use a basic counter-top filter mainly for the taste. When we're out we happily drink tap water. I think the air quality is of far greater concern than the water quality, and this is one of a number of reasons why we'll be leaving in 4 months time. Another reason (the main one) is that both my wife and I miss surfing regularly. Surprisingly Tai Long Wan in Sai Kung gets waves fairly regularly during winter. It's not Indo, but hey! I grew up surfing Bondi and you can get some decent little rip-banks at high tide, and there's never too many out because it requires effort to get there. Be prepared for clean beaches in Hong Kong to still be littered with rubbish even the ones in the New Territories, but they're still worth visiting. It's refreshing sitting down at a dai pai dong after a surf having a beer and eating a bowl of two minute noodles. With a young child you should have no problems meeting people, I find our daughter to be the ultimate ice-breaker and find myself at times wishing I could fly under the radar for a day. Oh! another thing, there is a tax deduction for spouses who don't work. It's over $200,000 per year and there's also one for your child, but I can't recall how much it is. I'm sure most of the other commentators have covered the basic. Good luck with getting on with living in HK. It'll be what you make it.

Luke

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
hey Luke thanks for the great reply mate! I am aussie also and surf. Thanks for sharing your story.

I just put in the water question as a joke as there were a few people getting all fired up about it.

DB sounds good my boss is living there and I will check it out when I arrive. That's reassuring to hear about you with your daughter and the fact that you and mrs saved enough to buy an appart in sydney.


Where are the the good surf spots and what is the water temp like and where can I meet some locals who know the good spots?

Luke

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luke_jay77 14 yrs ago
No worries! The spot that seems to get the best surf is Tai Long Wan (Big Wave Bay) in the country park in Sai Kung. From DB it's a mission. Depending on whether you walk in or take a boat, it can take 2-3 hours. It's a beachy and when you're wave starved it's decent enough to wet the appetite. The best season for this break is Autumn through Winter when the winds are from the north/north east. It gets cold here in winter, and at times the water can get pretty frigid, but doesn't stay that way for too long. I've got by in a 3/2. There's a couple of other spots up Sai Kung way, a left that runs down an Island and a right-hand reef break, but I've not surfed them and I don't know how often they break. I met a couple of South African surfers who invested in a boat to get out to the right and they say it's okay. On HK Island there's another Big Wave Bay, it's a small beach that gets small waves and can get crowded too. I haven't surfed this one either, but a friend who lives here in DB heads there regularly. On Lantau Island, southern side, there's a few beaches that pick up a south swell (summer months, tropical warm water.) from any lows or typhoons that swing into their swell window. I've surfed Pui O and Cheung Sha, the waves were really weak but fun enough. Good for long boarding. I came across another beach a few weeks back further west than Cheung Sha, just after Tung Fuk Village that was picking up a bit of swell. Nice beach and definitely worth a camping trip. Sorry, don't know it's name. As for meeting locals, just go to the beaches when there's surf and you'll bump into peeps. We've met a variety of expats and locals. In November there's a surf comp held at Big Wave bay in Sai Kung. It gets a good turn out and you'll probably meet/see most of the people who surf in HK. Also, the Philippines and Indo are always close if you crave some decent waves. Oh, another thing the water seems to be cleaner out in the country park in Sai Kung. It gets pretty putrid in the water on southern Lantau, but hey I grew up surfing Bondi when they were pumping raw sewage out in to ocean from the cliff under the golf coarse. It was pretty common for people to catch everything and anything, so I'm not too concerned, although if it's blowing on-shore you'll likely get some kind of oil/tar like substance in the water. Not good! That said, I've been out when the water's clear and the bottoms visible. When do you arrive? If your here before mid July drop me a message.

Luke

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
thanks for the spots Luke.

We will be arriving at the end of may or early june depending on the visa approval.

I will definetly send you a message, i look forward to surfing with you in the near future!

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krasykat 14 yrs ago
Hi Luke


You should take a look at Park Island, its an island just 25mins from Central similar to Discovery Bay but less expats and the rents are cheaper. Take a look on here there should be some old forums on it.


My husband and I moved to HK over 3.5 years ago with our kids (then 6 and 7 years old). Initially we lived on 39k per month. Once the international school fees kicked in I did start work and am still working. but if we didn't have school age kids we could live easily on 46k per month.


Hong Kong can be as expensive or as cheap as you wish. Our rent on Park Island is only $16k per month and we have a brand new 3 bedroom apartment with 2 bathrooms and a helpers room. It's around 1000 sqft. The biggest reason we like Park Island is for the facilities. We have 3 clubhouses with various swimming pools, bowling alley, restaurants, beach (not for swimming - its a bit grubby) gyms, squash, tennis courts etc... Great environment for small kids - heaps of families with babies etc...


Anyway if you want more info just let me know.


Good luck - Hong Kong is an exciting place and it gets into your blood.

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chefluke 14 yrs ago
Hey there Krasycat,

I have had a few people suggest (and slam) park island and I like the look of it the transfers seem ok and green enough. There web site doesn't work except the photos. So yes I am looking for more info and rental prices for a 2 bedroom. Do you know of any websites or agents ir even private rentals? Any info would be great,

Thanks for your help ;-)

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Gotum 14 yrs ago
depending on your lifestyle living on the islands can be great or it can break you. I lived out there for 2 years and it was OK but I did not feel right and I despise the commute they always say 20 minutes to Central but in fact this if the ferry is waiting on you... And that is not always the case, plus late nights which hotel works demands can leave in the lurch for transport to the islands. Anyway it is cost effective to a degree factor in transport on your monthly expenses and you can live on the Island. You have to look but it can be had, I found a 3 bedroom about 850 SQ in Sheung Wan, second floor walk up and I pay 12 K. It pretty good I just signed the lease 6 months ago. I have found that I enjoy HK more living on the Island too and I have 2 kids that I thought would hate the city life but they love it as much, go figure. Anyway deals can still be found but you got look. Wish you the best of luck.


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chefluke 14 yrs ago
thanks for your story pal!

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mixeymum 13 yrs ago
Chefluke can we have an update? Where did you move to in the end? How are you finding it here?

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FKKC 13 yrs ago
mixeymum,

So many people helped chefluke by giving him advices and he doesn't even have the curtesy to reply to your question. He is so ungrateful.

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mumof2boys 13 yrs ago
Hi Cara - so o sorry took me this long to reply to you!! but yes I took my boys to socatots in Saikung years back now :-) you probably do know me :-)

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chefluke 13 yrs ago
Hi FKKC thanks for your reply. Yes I did reply to mixey mum. In a private message. Yes I did get a lot of advice some good bad and great.

For anyone in the future who does read this forum to get some advice on HK it si a cool city. The pay is a lot better than France or OZ for example. Yes you can save money here and still have fun.

There is always a cheap way to do things like shopping at the wet markets which are great! so dirty but great.

Park island is great there are nice club houses and its green has a chinese side a jungle and the new side. The boat to central is good and quick and you can eat and drink on it.

Disco bay is very expat and if you want that its perfect I think that FKKC lives in disco bay. But for me it is too expensive and too far out and I like living with the locals.

The water here is sickly. Tap wate,r and the beaches if you can call it a beach! but the beaches are packed every weekend and the locals like it. But it is drinkable the tap water but I drink filtered (please do not reply to this anyone I don't care if you like it or not I don't)

The pollution yes it is always a bit hazy and its not mountain air but its not that bad.

Half fo the people who cry about it smoke funnily enough.

Would I spend all my life here? I highly doubt it but we like it at the moment.

Thanks for all the tips everyone.

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FKKC 13 yrs ago
So you did come to HK, that's great and you gave a very decent feed-back (eventually)....better late than never!

Thanks!

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