Pros and Cons of Moving to Hong Kong

Moving to Hong Kong can be stressful, but it can also be exciting. The great thing about Hong Kong is that although it is distinctly Chinese in its traditions and culture, it is a former British colony; therefore, it has much of the Western infrastructure and amenities needed to help ease expat transition from West to East.

Advantages

• HK is very lively and full of energy. It is a city that never sleeps.
• It is so close to all the Asian destinations like Thailand – all just a plane ride away.
• There is an abundance of opportunity in Hong Kong - many people move to HK to do one thing and end up doing something completely different.
• HK is a very popular expat destination. It is very easy to find large, medium and small expat communities from most nations.
• There is so much to see and do, no matter what your interests are. There are many bars, restaurants and clubs, and also amazing outdoor opportunities like, hiking, trails, triathlons, sporting groups and clubs.
• There is the option to hire live-in help, or six-day-a-week help to cook, clean and look after your children - if you have any. (HK doesn't have childcare outside school hours for non locals so this is the best option for your children).
• HK is safe – you can walk down the street or catch a taxi any time of the day or night without being scared.
• The array of food choices on offer is amazing.
• The locals are friendly.
• There is a Disneyland!
• All your family and friends want to visit you when you live there.
• HK airport is arguably the most efficient airport in the world.

Disadvantages

• The accommodation in HK will take some getting used to. Newer apartments are small, some of the older ones are larger, but if you are used to having a house with a large garden then this may take some getting used to.
• The cost of living in HK is high, but salaries for expats are generally managed appropriately - rent is usually a large portion of your monthly costs
• The pollution is an ongoing issue with some days you cannot see across the harbor. The optimist would argue that it makes the days with clear blue skies that much more special.
• The heat – the summer season can get very hot while humidity is above 90% for 6-8 months of the year.