First let me start by saying, relocating to HK wasn’t easy. Now I’ve been here a while (almost 5 months) already, everything has become second nature. Adapting to the local life style, building a new group of friends was the easiest part and understanding Guangdonghua, well, needs a little more work but I can understand approximately 60-70% of what people say. Since being here I started to learn other languages, mainly Deutsch and Putonghua.
Living standards are slightly lower (not as low as the mainland) but it’s well balanced with the cost of living, in my opinion it’s fairly cheap, it’s not like England where everything is plus tax! Or have 17.5% tax included. Rent isn’t something I have to worry about, just building maintenance. I don’t know, maybe you people live either in Kowloon or HK Island. I believe it’s about 2-3 times higher there and apartment space is more limited. Suppose I’m luck some respects, as HK has always been my second home, now my first.
Since returning, I’ve visited the mainland several times; kind a helps if you have a China travel permit otherwise boarder crossing is $80 a pass. The only downside I have is the extensive amount of time wasted on traveling but at least I get to see the whole of China not just HK.
Air-pollution isn’t something I worry about, ha-ha! It’s clearer here than the Mainland of course. Every morning I wake up to the spectacular views of Tai Po Waterfront. On a clear day, I can see for miles, which is fantastic. Areas for recreation is provided, me, I’m a runner; the further, the better! Catch me if you can! If, given the opportunity I’d stay here forever!