Would you recommend Manchester for an 18-year-old to live in?

Manchester is a lively city with all that goes with it, including crime.
Public transport is easy, but not always cheap.

What languages you speak could well be an advantage, especially if you speak English reasonably well, Cantonese and Mandarin.
I mention that because the Chinese food shops and restaurants are always on the lookout for staff that speak all three as their staff is commonly mixed mainland and HK.

The Malaysians were very popular but the immigration clampdown limited the number available, leaving a lot of places with problems.

Assuming you have the right to work legally, there goes a good option as the cash is usually fine and a room is often part of the deal.
It'll get you started if nothing else.

Sign up for skype, add a little credit and get on the phone. There's a better than average chance you'll find work before you leave HK.

https://www.yell.com/ucs/UcsSearchActio … =821528783https://www.yell.com/ucs/UcsSearchActio … =859734197

Riley - There are many scammers online and at the other end of the phone (both regarding housing and jobs). They take advantage of the fact many want to work, and live in affordable accommodation. Actually people living here themselves sometimes fall for these scams. Be very careful and don't lose your money! Otherwise you may find when you arrive that the accommodation doesn't exist, and neither does the job! Don't rush, and take your time.