Hong Kong - Expat Clusters

If you have children you will want to take schools with vacancies into consideration and possibly look in the area that has a suitable school for your child.  Most ex-pats choose to live in the following areas:

• Mid Levels--near to Central where most people work.  You may want to choose a place near the famous outdoor escalator that will make coming home up the big hill a lot easier.  Plus, there are lots of great cafes by the escalator.  But you’ll likely end up in a small flat with a view of Hong Kong’s skyline. 
• The South side of Hong Kong Island (such as Repulse Bay, Stanley, or Tai Tam) where the air is a bit cleaner, there’s more greenery, but you’re a 45 minute bus ride from Central. (Yet if your kids go to Hong Kong International School they won’t have to commute very far.)
• The Peak --   you can have a spectacular view of Hong Kong (when you’re not enveloped by clouds) and a 20-40 minute, windy ride into Central.  The Peak is exclusive and flats are very expensive up there.
• Happy Valley—not in the middle of everything, but only a 20 minute bus ride to Central or a 30 minute bus ride to Stanley.
• Discovery Bay—an ex-pat community.  Prices are lower out there, but it’s an hour ferry ride to get to Central.  Many people love it because they feel they are away from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong.  The air may be a little cleaner.  But if you have children consider the extra time it will take them to get to school.  There are some schools for younger children on the island .
• Parkview—away from the busyness of Central.  Beautiful Views.  Has a shuttle bus into Central (about a 20 min bus ride) and a great grocery store nearby.
• Pok Fu Lam—a quick bus ride from Central.  Some older buildings, which means bigger flats at cheaper prices.