IT USED to be enough just to work as 'public relations' executives, usually in karaoke bars, or to wait for a call from the escort service. But even the world's most unacknowledged male profession has to change with the times.
Some men are now strapping on sweatbands, lacing up their Reeboks and heading for physical fitness centres. These men are big, they're buffed, and they're laughing all the way to the bank.
'I don't want to divide my money with anyone, I am my own boss,' said Mark (not his real name), who has been going to health spas to pick up women for the past eight months. The American-Chinese prefers gyms for pick-ups as it allows him more freedom than working for an escort service or at a karaoke bar, and there is less chance of being caught by police. Mark, who is in his mid-20s, has been a gigolo for almost three years.
He came to Hong Kong five years ago from Los Angeles to pursue a fine arts career, but found job opportunities limited. 'I couldn't find anything in fine arts so I worked in foreign exchange, real estate and for my uncle in his trading company,' he said.
'But those jobs didn't pay very well. I didn't make enough money to finance the lifestyle I was used to. I know money can't buy happiness - but it can definitely buy comfort.' 'I want to be in a situation where I can generate money even when I'm asleep.' Mark began by responding to a newspaper advertisement for PR karaoke waiters. He worked at the bar for two years before going solo.
'I learned the tricks of the trade and now I'm working freelance,' he said.
