Living in China is a remarkable experience, though it may not suit everyone. Choosing to work and reside there will change your life in unimaginable ways.
Living in China has its pros and cons. Some are predictable, while others might surprise you. After living as a foreigner in China for over three years, I’m still discovering new facets of this diverse country. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks.
Firstly, China is home to some of the world’s top tourist spots, like the Great Wall, the Terracotta Army in Xi’an, and bustling cities such as Beijing and Shanghai. As a resident, you can explore these places at your leisure without cramming them into a single trip.
Moreover, China’s booming economy offers ample job opportunities for foreigners. Although the hiring and visa processes are complex, they lead to competitive salaries and numerous benefits. The cost of living varies, but many can save money while living and working here. Besides teaching English, there are jobs in fields like editing, copywriting, modeling, and acting.
China is also very safe. You can walk around at night and leave your apartment unlocked without concern. However, this security comes with constant surveillance, a major downside.
Chinese people are generally very kind and willing to help and befriend foreigners, offering an enriching cultural exchange. Learning Chinese is challenging but fascinating. While I’m still not fluent after three years, living in China provides endless opportunities for practice.
When it comes to food, China offers much more than the Westernized versions we’re used to. The country boasts eight major cuisines, featuring a diverse range of dishes. In major cities, you can find excellent international food, and online shopping makes it easy to get any foreign delicacies you miss.
The convenience of life in China is greatly enhanced by various apps. From shopping to food delivery and transportation, everything can be done through your phone. WeChat is particularly popular, combining functions of WhatsApp, Facebook, PayPal, and more. Internet access is easy and cheap, with cell phone plans costing as little as $5 to $10 a month.
Despite these benefits, there are significant disadvantages. For instance, obtaining a work visa is difficult and costly, requiring extensive documentation and medical exams. There’s also the constant attention you receive as a foreigner, which can be overwhelming and, due to COVID, sometimes hostile.
Overcrowding is another challenge, along with a lack of personal space. Apartments are often small, and bathrooms can be particularly cramped. Surveillance is ubiquitous, which some might find intrusive.
The language barrier is significant. Even if you learn basic phrases, people might not understand you due to the tonal nature of Chinese. Apps like Google Translate can be lifesavers.
In summary, living in China has many positives: safety, job opportunities, and diverse cultural experiences. However, it also requires patience and an open mind to navigate the complexities and cultural differences. Hopefully, this gives you a clearer picture of what life in China is like. Feel free to share your thoughts or questions.