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Pros and Cons of Living in Guilin, China | Expat Exchange
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Pros and Cons of Living in Guilin

SJB Global
SJB Global
SJB Global
SJB Global

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on May 05, 2025

Summary: The pros of living in Guilin, China include its stunning natural beauty, with its lush green mountains and winding rivers, as well as its rich cultural heritage. The city is also known for its excellent food, with a variety of local dishes to try. Additionally, the cost of living in Guilin is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. The cons of living in Guilin include the fact that the city is quite small and can be quite crowded, especially during peak tourist season. Additionally, the air quality in Guilin can be quite poor, and the city is prone to flooding during the rainy season. Finally, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Mandarin.

What are the pros and cons of living in Guilin?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Guilin responded:

"Expats and digital nomads living in Guilin often appreciate the city's stunning natural beauty, with its lush green mountains, winding rivers, and picturesque karst formations. They also enjoy the city's vibrant culture, with its many temples, markets, and festivals. Additionally, the cost of living in Guilin is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier and lack of English-speaking locals to be a challenge. Additionally, the city's air pollution can be a source of frustration for those who are sensitive to it," explained one expat living in Guilin.

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The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.

The TEFL Institute of IrelandThe TEFL Institute of Ireland

The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.
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What do expats in Guilin appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expatriates in Guilin often appreciate the friendly, hospitable locals and the close sense of community that exists in the city. They also appreciate the great outdoors, with its stunning scenery and outdoor activities such as hiking, rafting and cycling. People living in Guilin enjoy the local traditional cuisines and the vibrant street food culture. They are also impressed by the cultural attractions and monuments that can be found in the city, as well as the various local festivals and temple fairs. In addition, expats appreciate the general low cost of living compared to other major cities in China," remarked one in Guilin, China.

The TEFL Institute of Ireland

The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.

Learn More

The TEFL Institute of Ireland

The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online. Teach English Online In Less Than 3 Weeks - Ditch the 9-5 job and start living life on your terms by teaching English online. Whether you want to travel the world or crave the flexibility of working from home, teaching online gives you the freedom you need.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"Many expats in Guilin have difficulty adjusting to the language barrier and limited English-speaking environment. Additionally, the traditional customs and attitudes of the locals can be difficult to understand and differentiate from the expat culture. Furthermore, the hectic atmosphere of the city can be overwhelming to those coming from more relaxed backgrounds. Furthermore, Guilin locals place a strong emphasis on family values, which can also be challenging for expats from different backgrounds. Finally, the Chinese health care system is often a source of confusion for expatriates," remarked one expat in Guilin, China.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

The TEFL Institute of Ireland
The TEFL Institute of Ireland

Ranked The No. 1 TEFL Provider in Ireland. The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online.
Learn More

The TEFL Institute of IrelandThe TEFL Institute of Ireland

Ranked The No. 1 TEFL Provider in Ireland. The TEFL Institute of Ireland operates under European standards of education, which are renowned and respected worldwide. Once you complete the course, you will receive a globally recognised certificate, which is a passport to teaching English worldwide and online.
Learn More

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