Good post.
bugg@# about the ban question, at least you dont need to worry about that as well!
I dont know what typ you are currently on, but if its not a heavy jet go out and hire a 74classic sim and practice up the profile they will send you. know it inside and out.
The interview up in HK is pretty much a rehash of the first, lots of the same questions to check consistancy. especially the personal ones.
Cant say about the group exercise as it was after my time.
My other half is sitting over my shoulder and has said to let you know that your wife is ineligable to work up in HK on the visa she will get (dependance visa). The only way for her to work is if she gets sponsored into a full time position. My recommendation is if you get in enjoy the time as a S/O for traveling, you get the best roster, then when your upgrade comes send her to work....just been slapped from behind....
Best of luck for the 2nd, pack light clothing June is getting pretty warm up here.
FK