Moving country is never an easy decision, especially when it means leaving behind familiarity, family and a fast-paced city life. For Debbie (38) and her husband Eric (40), relocating from Hong Kong to the United Kingdom (UK) was driven by one overwhelming priority: giving their son Ayden the healthiest, happiest start in life possible.
As parents, they found themselves thinking beyond the present, considering not just where they lived, but how their surroundings would shape their son’s wellbeing, education and everyday childhood experiences. After travelling more than 6,000 miles, the family are now happily settled at Berkeley's Hartland Village, embracing a calmer pace of life, a close-knit community and the space for their son to grow, learn and thrive.
Debbie and Eric had lived in Hong Kong their entire lives, but becoming parents in 2020 naturally changed how they viewed city living. Busy streets, high-rise apartments and limited access to outdoor space prompted deeper conversations about the kind of childhood they wanted for Ayden, one with room to play, fresh air to breathe and a balanced education.
Debbie explains:
The decision brought reassurance that they were planning not just for today, but for Ayden’s long-term happiness and development.
Hartland Village in Fleet, Hampshire, surrounded by landscaped green spaces and waterways.
Hampshire quickly stood out as the perfect balance between countryside calm and everyday convenience. For the family, it wasn’t just about location, it was about choosing a place where their son could enjoy the outdoors daily, attend excellent local schools and grow up in a safe, welcoming environment.
Hartland Village, located in Fleet, offered everything they were searching for: green open spaces, thoughtful design and a community built with families in mind. Since moving in April 2025, the family have embraced their new surroundings, with Hartland Country Park right on their doorstep and Fleet Pond just a short walk away, places that have become part of their everyday routine.
Adjusting to life at Hartland Village has felt natural and rewarding for the family, offering a sense of ease they hadn’t experienced before.
Debbie and Eric share how life at Hartland Village has supported their family’s new chapter:
For Debbie and Eric, watching their son settle happily into school and enjoy the outdoors has been one of the most reassuring signs that they made the right decision.
Making such a big move from overseas came with its challenges, particularly when it came to finding the right home. However, with support from family already based in the UK and guidance from Berkeley’s sales team, the process felt both personal and reassuring.
Debbie explains:
Knowing they were choosing a home designed with families in mind gave them confidence, even from thousands of miles away.
Landscaped green spaces and contemporary homes at Hartland Village, Fleet, Hampshire.
The family had a clear vision for their new home, one that supported everyday family life, moments together and simple joys.
Even during winter, the home feels bright and welcoming, a place where family time naturally takes centre stage.
Beyond the home itself, it was the sense of belonging that truly made Hartland Village feel special.
For a family starting a new chapter in a new country, these connections have been invaluable.
As they settle into their first year at Hartland Village, Debbie and Eric are looking forward to creating family traditions and watching their son grow in a safe, welcoming environment, supported by green open spaces and a strong sense of community.
Debbie concludes:
Discover more about our development at Hartland Village. Book a viewing today or explore our stunning show homes and find your perfect place.