As of July 2003 there were 210,000 foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong (130,000 from the Philippines). If you have children or just work long hours, it is one of the major advantages of living in Hong Kong and probably the hardest thing to leave behind when you leave.

Until your maid starts working, keep this number close at hand for baby sitting. RENT-A-MUM on 2523-4868. They provide temporary British nannies. Their fees begin at HK$95 per hour and they come highly recommended.

The minimum wage for maids or “amahs” is HK$3,580 per month, recently reduced to pay for the $400 monthly Employees Retraining Levy paid by employers to the government. However, most expatriate families pay slightly above this, say $4,500 to $5,000 per month. In addition, you also have to provide the following:

• Accommodation: most apartments have maids' quarters by the kitchen, often with a separate entrance.
• Provide for their food or an additional HK$740 for food allowance per month.
• Annual airfare home.
• Medical and insurance cover.
• Contracts are generally 2 years specifying the job description, holidays, days off, employer’s responsibilities and other details.

For the latest government information on employing domestic helpers please go to www.immd.gov.hk/ehtml/hkvisas_5.5.asp