[Jerseygirl]

My husband is taking a job in Shenzhen. We are moving from the US in a couple of months. I wear gas permeable (hard) contact lenses. Considering the air quality there, can I expect problems with eye irritation? Any problems for asthma sufferers?

This is our first experience as expats and a first for his company. I don't know what to expect. Any words of wisdom regarding the move are appreciated.

Thanks.

[Saminchina]

Do you know what part of the city he'll be working in? The Shekou area has some cleaner-air areas, and so does the area far east of the city center. Those with sensitive eyes will probably have some problems on "inversion" days, when the cruddy air just hangs there and gets thicker. Don't know about asthma, but I wouldn't be surprised if it's aggravated by the air.

Good luck,
Sam
http://www.shenzhenpeople.com
.

[Lammarite]

For HKD18,000 you can get laser-eye surgery and not worry about it. I know a few people here in HK who have had it done and their lives have changed as a result. Add up all your expenses related to your contacts and see how long it would be before you reach 18k- and then add how much value you put on not having to take them out every night, carrying glasses, swimming etc, etc.

[Jerseygirl]

Thanks for your replies!

[Keith Budd]

My wife and I moved to ShenZhen in October and from what I have been told it is the worst time of year for pollution. Although the pollution is bad we have not had any problems. My wife wears contacts and I suffer from Asthma. We live in Shekou but I work in the city. If I can be of any help let me know. I was also the first Expat for my company and it was a challenge but things do smooth out with time. Shekou is where most Expats live and it has many European and American restaurants and stores. We have been able to find everything we need here in China. I would be happy to communicate further with you if you would like.

Enjoy the Adventure,
Keith