I am concerned some here may not have done their due diligence in actually determining the real cost of living in Hong Kong. Remember that this is one of the most expensive cities in the world to live and the standard of accommodation isn’t what you are use to in the west. A family of four in a gross 1000 ft² apartment, 870 ft² net, when you have probably been use to 4x this space can make or break a family. Remember you get to get away three times a month but your wife is trapped here in cramped living conditions with the kids. If you are single it may be just doable if you live like a hermit but if you are married with children then this is a serious issue. Remember your first year salary is only HK$33179.00 per/month.
Summary: Realistic Monthly Table of Expenses for a family of four.
HK$ (/mth).....
Tax 5,700
Rent 16,000 (minimum 3 bedroom 1000 ft²)
Utils 4,700
Public Trans 1,000
Food 13,000
Misc 4,500
Total 44,900
Cathay will make back in four years your training cost by not paying you an accommodation allowance. You unfortunately will be paying for it though for the rest of your CX career.
Current upgrades are blowing out considerably.
SO → JFO = 5 years
JFO → FO = 1 year
FO → Capt = 10 years
To be able to get a permanent base you have to be a minimum rank of FO so it will take you at least 6 years, assuming a base is available to go on one. Currently almost all bases are full from DEFO recruitment.
Lastly cadets here are trying their utmost to improve their conditions of service. The rest of us including DESO’s DEFO’s etc are struggling just to keep what we have. If you come here with the attitude some seem to have here that money isn’t important you won’t win any friends.