What do expats find most challenging?

We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Beijing. They wrote...

"One challenge expats in Beijing may encounter is language barriers, as most Chinese people do not speak English fluently. Additionally, the local cultural etiquette can be confusing to many expats as there are numerous traditional customs which must be followed. This can make it difficult for expats to connect with locals and become part of the community. Additionally, the dense traffi c and air pollution can be an obstacle to those used to less populated areas. Finally, the extreme weather conditions, with long winters and hot summers, can be hard to adjust to," said another expat in Beijing, China, China.

"There is no transparency and consistency in how things are done in China. We cannot make any sense in how they operate in the university (we work in the university), government (the Chinese call this the "Black Box" since no one understands how officials are selected), banks (answers differ based on who you talk to). It all depends on your relationships (otherwise called "Guanxi". The stronger the relationship you have to someone that have strong connections, the better you have in getting things done. This certainly builds inequality, sometimes it helps us," wrote a member who made the move to Beijing, China.

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What do expats find most challenging?

If you live in Beijing, newcomers to Beijing would love to hear your answer to this question.