[Skyhook]

I have to say i entirely agree with JGL on this, its un-Australian to use the FOB term anywhere. Maybe its a gen y trait.

Because, my experience of living in Melbourne was fantastic, i love the richness of its ethnic communities, and i just cant relate to Deans version of events.

Maybe its the people he hung out with, who knows.

I know plenty of Australian born Chinese families that have lived in the country since the Gold Rush era, my family had only lived in Australia since the late 19th century, and the early 19th century in New Zealand.

Cultural tension is entirely a personal perception, if you think you are a victim, then chances are, you will be, and birds of a feather flock together.

As far as hong kong goes, I have probably lived in the NT 90% of the time that we have been here. We chose locations based exclusively on spaciousness, and low density construction orientation. No other parameters were considered. But it is nice to be able to blend what we have experienced living in a number of countries, HK is nothing new to us on an adaption perspective, its no different to living in Dubai, or Paris, or Wellington, or Milan... You adapt and continue your families basic routine.

We are all creatures of habit, and its very easy to adapt that routine no matter where you live.

The tension and perception issue that Dean explains is very much reminiscent of a person who is either experiencing a cultural identity crisis of sorts. Doesn't know where they stand anymore, had their blanky pulled...

Theres quiet a few of us on this forum who have lived in Asia for 8 plus years and longer, extensively travelled abroad to have learnt adaptive living, no matter how extreme or different the environment.

It's a good test of character if you can thrive or just toss in the towel.

And yes, the FOB topic is largely a meaningless term, as i am upfront to anybody that I am first and foremost, Australian, what i have learnt abroad has just nourished my mind that the world is far from flat, and always fascinating. You cannot take ones identity away, the location we chose to live today is of little importance.

People like Dean aren't happy unless there is some kind of fault to be found in society, or victim view point to expose.

You need to open your horizons and see that your cup is indeed half full Deano, there is a big beautiful world out there, if you allow yourself to see it, warts and all.