allofasuddenpartJew

So you want to relocate to Asia Part 4: Mainland China

Do you speak or are open to learning Mandarin? Can you tolerate some pollution? Do you have thick skin? Do you have street smarts? Are you okay with constant change? Are you open-minded? Are you resilient and flexible?

If you have answered yes to most of the question above, a city in Mainland China may work for you.

I’m going to focus on mainland China overall. The country is large, vast and different. For the purpose of this exercise, I’m going to keep it as generic and high-level as I can for the length.

Best Selling Point: There may never be another China

• Once in a lifetime chance to live in the fastest growing economy in the world
• Vast amounts of business opportunities for those with gut and glory
• Incredible fast pace of life and constant change

Worst Selling Point: All the downsides of a developing economy

• Pollution is high
• Moral and character issues of ‘some people’
• Upside is high, so is the downside
• Not too sure about the government and its long-term prospects

Here is the rest: (a small selection only)

• Weather: Depends on what part of China you are in.  Here is a comprehensive guide from China Weather.
• Finances: The Big Four state-owned banks are Bank of China, China Construction Bank, Agricultural Bank of China, and Industrial and Commercial Bank of China. Shop around for the best exchange and interest rates.
• Currency:Renminbi
• Culture: Han Chinese majority with 55 recognized ethnic minority groups. Here is an article from Wikipedia.
• Recreation: The Forbidden City in Beijing, Yu Yuan and French Concession District in Shanghai, and Baiyun Mountain and Shamian Island in Guangzhou are just a few.
• Real Estate: For more information on renting or buying check out Beijing Real Estate, Shanghai Apartments, and Guangzhou Asiaxpat.
• Dining: For Chinese dining etiquette, review this.
• Shopping: About.com China Shopping Guide. Lonely Planet also does a good guide.
• Transportation: All major cities in mainland China has a metro: Shanghai Metro, Beijing Subway, Guangzhou Metro.
• VISAs: Chinese Visa Application Center provides a comprehensive guide to all Visas to China. 
• Nightlife: Important to the expatriate population. Shanghai Nightlife Guide, Beijing Nightlife Guide, and Guangzhou guide.
• Common Complaints: A lot of pollution. No-class nouveau riche. Embarrassing behavior of country folks in large cities. Government? Is China going to be stable in the future?