We are not yet in the UK but still in HK, my wife worked here for 9 years and has her own savings, she does send some money home but is very particular that there is a genuine need and some real return, like nursing diploma, degree etc for her siblings. I always get things for her mum, mainly time saving appliances etc, but Ligaya says she does not want the entire family thinking we will be their meal ticket, she left home at 19 to work and she wants to instill a good work ethic. I do love getting the nephews and nieces stuff and it is not a hardship for us to bear, we are fortunate to able to afford it but I have seen many many horror stories in hong Kong of domestic helpers working years here sending nearly all their money home and it being squandered on drink, mobiles, gambling, kids, kids of kids, husbands of kids etc etc. I feel for these ladies and for all you Filipinas in the UK with unrealistic burdens from ungrateful families. I think we have the balance right and we certainly do not get much pressure. I think UK husbands shoudl have researched the remiittance/dependancy culture and been aware that in many cases you marry the family. As for remitting here in HK because there are over 100 000 of these brave ladies the banks and other providers are pretty switched on even now providing cash via your mobile.
Scott
