Hi all. It's looking quite likely that I'll be moving with work to HK in the next few months. I've had a good hunt through posts but there are a few questions I have - and be great if anybody could shed some light for me.
1) Beaches. I appreciate HK isn't a surfing mecca, but is it possible to live anywhere on the east coast of the island (around big wave bay) and work in central - or is this just getting too awkward? I like a bit of space at times but would a single guy get too bored out there?
2) My employer seems keen to send me as a local (i.e. just taking my GBP salary, converting it to USD or HKD and that being my rate). I have no preconceptions as to whether this is best vs. the 'expat' position of being paid overseas as such.
Could anyone explain any pros/cons of both as I'm pretty confused?
3) Housing allowance. As far as I can see, so long as 10%+ of salary is spent on housing, incorporating this into salary package seems to be a winner for employees. My firm isn't keen (just lazy I think) but are there any tax advantages for them to go down this route that may help me persuade them?
4) This whole expat experience will be new for me - and feels quite exciting. Does anybody have some rough monthly expenditure figures for a single guy (utilities, phone, mobile, internet, transport food etc) so I can begin to really assess costs. I found some in old posts but they were from 2005 so possibly out of date now?
5) In terms of discussions with my firm, are there any other perks I could bring up as part of the move? I've thought of one/two return flights p.a., laptop/mobile, rental provision for first month or two while looking around but would really appreciate if anybody could suggest others (without completely taking the p!ss, as I realise that the days of the real expat packages are over for most).
6) Salary is likely to be around HK$820 all in (at this stage - exc 'perks', bonus) - in case that helps at all with assessment.
7) I understand public transport os very good, but is it possible to cycle to work easily from around different spots on HK Island.
I have loads more questions, but will leave it at that. If you have a couple of mins to spare me with advice that'd be great.
Thanks