Sunday, March 1, 2009

What is it like for an American to live in China

What is it like for an American to live in China?
I've had friends who vary in their experience. Some love it, others feel that China is very poor and the people are too dirty or impolite. Would it be worth it to experience China for a year? I'm ready and willing to travel abroad.
China - 6 Answers
Random Answers, Critics, Comments, Opinions :
1 :
really different
2 :
YES YOU HAVE 2 GO SEE IT. I LOVE IT.
3 :
First thing, do you want to travel or live there? cause it is different experience. Second, it depends on what you expect from China. If you are not interested in the country and its culture and people, it would be suffering.
4 :
Obviously, like you already mentioned, different people will have different impressions. But if you are open-minded and adventurous, then you will probably like it.
5 :
First go on line and learn some of the history and culture and a little basic Chinese. That way you will have a much better time. The people in general are friendly. A lot of younger people (under say 40) speak some English or are learning and many students are learning. There are a lot of US businesses there now incl junk food. It is a actually a very clean country though there are a lot of poor people, most real poor live in rural areas. In big cities there are already a lot of Americans, Canadians, western Euro people living and working there. They have magazines in English. It's also a very inexpensive country if you are willing to lower your basic US life style a little. Northern China is a bit different than southern and western China. Their food and culture vary but the people are still friendly. It's a great experience, go for it. Oh, a couple of large problems, SMOG just about everywhere. It is a Communist government so you do not want to get in even minor trouble. Keep your political opinions to yourself or only around other Americans. Even then you never know for sure if they ARE Americans and not undercover Chinese employees. Do not take photos of anything that looks like it's government or military and for closeups ask people first. Beijng and Shanghai are good as they have the most diversity but Beijing is less expensive. Be aware there are a lot of beautiful, young ladies around and especially around tourist trap areas, bars, etc. They are obvious ladies of the night. Keep a good bank account at home and have a debit card handy astherer are ATMs all over in big cities. Veryconvenientt and safe. Never exchange money except at official places, mainly banks. There are people around with great rates but there is also a lot ofcounterfeitt money around and besides it's illegal. Beijing's best area is the embassy/consulate area for foreigners. China is a good start to travel and live due to it's lower cost of living. Enjoy!
6 :
I lived in Hong Kong for almost 4 years 99' to 02' and I miss it everyday. I had the time of my life. I worked as an ex pat so I paid no taxes in the US or HK and the company payed for housing and per diem plus travel expenses. I fell in love with the city living and public transportation, the buildings the life the people aaahhhh I will go back someday