Would Japan, Hong Kong or Singapore be a good fit for me? (Please help)
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I understand. Best of luck to you! I can completely understand your situation.
If I were you, you 100% MUST visit, as only at that time, would you really truly know if it is worth it for you.
On paper/internet, there are tons of places I've thought were this way or that way, only to spend some actual time there, and suddenly have a completely different image/experience/reality of that place, sometimes for the much better, sometimes for the much worse.
You'll never really know if Japan is that connection, until you walk in its land, order food in its restaurants, and all the rest.
I adore Hong Kong, because it's easier.
It really depends on one's personality. If you are an adventurous person you would find Hong Kong a heaven comparing to Singapore. But if you are a person who likes orders and discipline, Singapore is your sweat home. i don't have any idea of Japan.
1) the economy and job market is horrible. Very little room for young people to go ahead, not to mention someone from aboard.
2) Japan is an insular country. You won't value your American degree as much as a one from a third tier degree local school.
3) Japan is one of the most homogeneous countries in the world. As a black man (or white for that matter), you will never be able to "get in".
4) Cost of living is very high while wage not so much. Plus, the workaholic culture (unless it is your thing).
Westerners tend to idolize/romanticize Japan. Don't. The reality can be quite different.
HK is probably a better choice but I am not sure how many cars HK make... plus, HK is going down hill rapidly.
Cost of living in Tokyo or Osaka is about the same compared with major US cities in USD.
HK is cheaper than Japan in cost except renting and buying a home.
What the Japanese do in their cultures have nothing to do with a non East Asian looking foreigners. The Japanese do not expect foreigners to behave the same as them, or expect foreigners to integrate into their society.
HK, China and South Korea are not better choices as generally they think all Black people come directly from Sub Saharan Africa and do not want any relation with dark skin foreigners. There are many scammers, robbers, drug traffickers and fake refugees from developing countries in recent years, people now just avoid anyone who don't speak the local language.
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