Hello...let me first say, what a great forum! thanks to all for sharing your insights...
I am a Chinese American currently working/living in Shenzhen as a Design Manager for a trading company that exports giftware for US Market.
Currently I make net USD3500/mo, rent is USD250 mo/utilities & wkly housecleaner included, for a decent 450sq ft apt (w/doorman, A/C, hot water, modern electric/gas set up). Company pays for all my meals and travel. I am able to save 2/3 of my income, because life in China is pretty cheap. I live quite comfortably, with a middle class American lifestyle.
Okay, here are my questions:
1) What would the equivalent salary be in HK, taking into account the living expenses here?
2) For similar apt set-up in HK, what would cost of living expenses be if I lived in areas like Wanchai, Causeway Bay or Sheungwan?
3) If I wanted to live in a more rural but conveniently located neighborhood in New Territories, with easy access to KCR, how much less is living expenses, and which areas would you suggest for an open-minded expat leaning towards American tastes (but with fairly high threshold of tolerance)?
4) What kind of compensation package should I expect to receive from this sort of company? Housing/food/relocation/other?
I know that the glory days of expat packages are over, but as I am pretty ignorant about what I should ask for. Any advice would be much appreciated!
