[Sibarita]

Hi all:

I´ve been offered a position in HK (moving out from Madrid) as Business Development Manager for a Multinational High Tech Comapny and thnking seriously of making the move.

Married with a 6 months child.

I´ve never been in HK (plan to go there soon to check around) but think that making such a move (leaving home for few years) has to give somthing in return.

I believe that asking how much $ is needed to have a great life there is dumb (I won´t dirve a Porsche, will travel a lot), but would like to get advice of how much is needed for a good life for the family and being able to save something. This info will help:

- Nice / big 3+ bedroom appartment (real 1200sqf+) with all ammenities in the most multicultural residential areas in HK given my job would be in North Point area. Upon landing, I would be going to a Serviced Appartment which I found out to be the best choice. Am I right? Can I consider areas like Discovery Bay as an option to live? Remember I will travel a lot so access to the airport is important.

- Mine would be a full ex pat package, including intl removal, rellocation agent, working permit, a couple of tickets back home per year, company car, medical insurance and some other minor stuff. Anything else I should take in consideration that worths metining? Any heavy expense I should consider? Still discussing the package, but want to put relevant costs in the table asap.

- Taxes: I know there is a complete forum about this and will go through it soon. Any special comment?

- Spanish speaking community: is there any? We have no friends living in HK and -as you may imagine- we spanish need socializing more than air itself (tapas, bares, etc). By the way, we are in our mid 30´s. My wife and I agreed she would be unemployed for a few years taking care of the baby and I know this will create trouble in the long run ..... advices are welcome.

- Holidays: here in Spain 20 working days a year is normal + public holidays ....... quite a lot, I know, but is it realistic there??

Thanks in advance for your advice.