Some are commuting because you get more space and a better lifestyle. For the little older guys with families or starting a family, HK and the current package does not provide the equal lifestyle the expats may be accustomed to at home- especially those with previous life/work experience. Be that as it may, it's a great opportunity to bite the bullet for a while, make the most of living overseas for a few years, gain some hours on a wide-body, and before you know it, 5 years are up and you're marketable with some hours on a P1 rating. The guys and girls may have a few more choices then. Under the current circumstances, one needs to consider the alternatives in this industry which aren't vast, given the relatively low experience. It's a great stepping stone, and if you can commute in the process, all the better!