An Expat Talks about Living in Shanghai, China
What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?
Shanghai
How long have you lived there?
3 years
What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?
American Women's Club Shanghai Shanghai Expatriates Association
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In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.
As in any expat community there are things that one can do and cannot do. This is still a communist country but Shanghai feels much more freedom.
For the most part, anything goes as long as it is not critical of the government.
What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?
The best way to come into this country is to be hired as an expat from another country.
It is difficult, but not impossible to find a job here if one moves first here hoping to find a job. One will be hired as a local though and have to live as the locals do.
Western companies will not hire one just because you are all ready living here. Be aware this country is very education conscious and degrees mean a lot. Just make sure if you do decide to come here and find a job, answer this question to yourself.."Why would a company hire you when they could get someone with a more advanced degree than you have, that speaks three other languages and the companies pay far less for these people?"
In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?
Shanghai, in some ways is a very modern city like Tokyo or New York but very interesting between the duplicity of the modern and old at one time.
Expat lives revolve around whatever they'd like it to be, whether it is school or family or sports or social clubs. One can find ones interest in some manner here.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.
See above.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Shanghai
- Cost of Living in Shanghai
- Health Care in Shanghai
- Discovering the Best of Shanghai
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in China
- Best Places to Live in China
- Real Estate in China
- Pros & Cons of Living in China
- 9 Things to Know Before Moving to China
- Pros and Cons of Living in China 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to China