Questions about schools, and specifics on everyday life

[heyimjason]

Hello. I'm considering giving teaching in China a shot, due to a few friends who went and loved every minute of it.

First things first, the schools. I was considering this one, first of all:

http://www.omeida.org/# It's in Yangshuo, Guilin, Guangxi Province. That means absolutely nothing to me, as I hadn't even heard of those places until looking into this school. But that's the school my friends taught at, and they had nothing but great things to say about the owner, the school, and the students.

Aside from the stunningly beautiful scenery around there, can anyone tell me how far the closest "big" city is? I'll explain what I'm looking for in the next section.

I was also looking into this place:

http://www.bucklandgroup.org/index.htm It seems legit, but does anyone here have any experience with this company??

A brief summary of me. I'm 27, white, raised in the U.S. High school graduate, no college (yet). I don't speak any other languages yet, though I'm certainly willing to learn, after I get to China. I was told that wouldn't be a problem, as the students at the first school are already intermediate. I'm very dependable, and a good natured person, and very social. If you can think of anything else pertinent, just ask.

Now, onto the million yuan questions, in no particular order.

1. How tough/corrupt/nice are the police there? It varies greatly across the U.S., and I'd assume it would vary in China as well. Am I going to have to worry about being messed with for no reason, other than a cop trying to solicit a bribe?

2. Are there many dangerous creatures (bugs, snakes, etc) around China, that I'd have to be vigilant about?

3. With all of the news hype about lead products and diseases and such in China, is it relatively safe to buy most products in stores (such as food, toothpaste, etc), or eat at local restaurants?

4. How is the medical care in China? Do they have all of the training and technology that the U.S. would? I just had an appendectomy a couple of weeks ago and realized that could have been needed if I'd taken the job months ago - and wondered what would have become of me. I mean, I'm sure people in China have emergencies, allergic reactions, strokes, heart attacks, and other misfortunes - are they readily prepared to handle these?

5. How easy (and affordable) is it to obtain electronic devices - in English? I'll obviously want to buy a computer once I'm there, and probably a TV, definitely a cell phone, and so on.

6. How does China fare as far as crime? Should I constantly worry about being pickpocketed, drugged, randomly assaulted, or anything else?

7. Are there any "big" cities around Yangshou? I'm sure I'll want to check out big bars or clubs once in a while, as well as do some shopping with a bigger variety.

8. I've heard a lot about gray areas with foreigners and the law. If I were to get very drunk, and try to stumble home, are there any public intoxication laws? What if I wanted to do something like look up nude women on the internet - will I have to worry about police kicking in my door and arresting me? Otherwise, are there any other things that someone from the U.S. may take for granted, but need to be wary of in China? Obviously, if I'm willing to be a guest in their country, I will try to abide by all of their laws.

9. What are some common things that westerners do that may be considered rude in China?

10. Are the banks trustworthy? I've heard it's fairly easy to get an account there, now.

11. Is it easy to get into other countries from China? For example, if I wanted to visit Japan or Korea on a holiday, is it fairly easy to do?

12. What are a few things that one should absolutely never bring up in conversation in China? I've heard it's illegal to tell Chinese about religion. I've also heard that it's fairly risky to bring up politics and government.

13. How much do the basics in life cost over there? A cheap, small TV, for example? Toiletries such as toothpaste, deodorant, etc.? How about a cell phone bill? A computer? Etc.?

14. Are Chinese fairly open people, or do they mostly stick to themselves (I mean individually, AND ALSO as a group)?

I had a friend that went to Japan, where apparently everyone minds their own business to an amazing point. Some woman was being violently groped, and nobody was even looking, though she was crying. So he punched the guy in the head. Still, nobody looked. The woman thanked him, then hurried off. The guy that got hit didn't even retaliate. That's just taking "minding your own business" to a whole new level, in my opinion.

But on that same note - are the Chinese, as a group of people, also "to themselves?" I know another guy who teaches in South Korea, and he says that Koreans can be friendly, though it's very hard to make it into a circle or Korean friends.

15. What do Chinese typically expect from a friend? Is it the same as here? Random phone calls, going out drinking, talking about personal matters and opinions, etc?

16. Are the cultures too different to consider it being worth the time to pursue a romantic (or physical) relationship? Obviously, a year is a long time to not have any affection.

17. What are some general pitfalls, disappointments, irritations, or general concerns that I should expect or watch out for?

18. On the opposite, what are some great things about China?

19. Any other random tips, hints, advice, suggestions, or opinions?

oh - 20. How do you survive the plane ride? I'm terrified of flying. I hate it. Every minute of it.

I don't suppose I could take a boat to get there?? I don't care if it takes a week - I'd rather do that.

Thanks so much for the input - looking forward to your responses!!!

[Booger]

I can relay some information to you, but this information is specific to Xi'an in central China, and may not apply to where you go. I hope it may provide you some insight...

1. How tough/corrupt/nice are the police there? It varies greatly across the U.S., and I'd assume it would vary in China as well. Am I going to have to worry about being messed with for no reason, other than a cop trying to solicit a bribe?

I know from my coworkers that corruption is alive and well in China. That being said, it is hard to apply a generalization to an organization with my limited experience and exposure. If you were to encounter an officer, treat them politely and respectfully and your should have no issues.

2. Are there many dangerous creatures (bugs, snakes, etc) around China, that I'd have to be vigilant about?

Feral cats were very prevalent in my area, but no fanged/man-eating insects or reptiles, they were eaten.

3. With all of the news hype about lead products and diseases and such in China, is it relatively safe to buy most products in stores (such as food, toothpaste, etc), or eat at local restaurants?

I never experienced any issues with commercial products, but I did have several problems with restaurants. The hygiene of many restaurants can be far below western standards. Dirty floors, walls, tables and chopsticks were fairly common, but it is easy to carry your own chopsticks, and a must to carry your own tissue. Bathrooms rarely provide tissue for washing your hands or other tasks. I would advise you to be wary of street vendors with meat products, particularly during the warmer summer months. I had an interesting encounter with mystery meat-kabobs in Sichuan province, and learned my lesson well.

4. How is the medical care in China? Do they have all of the training and technology that the U.S. would? I just had an appendectomy a couple of weeks ago and realized that could have been needed if I'd taken the job months ago - and wondered what would have become of me. I mean, I'm sure people in China have emergencies, allergic reactions, strokes, heart attacks, and other misfortunes - are they readily prepared to handle these?

I worked in the health care industry in the U.S. and was curious myself when I reached China. I had my pre-employment screening done in a modern clinic in Xi'an and all of the imaging, phlebotomy, ultrasound and nursing equipment was second/third generation. Basically all of there equipment was quite new and they were well trained when using it. Also the cost of the exams was substantially lower than in the States.

5. How easy (and affordable) is it to obtain electronic devices - in English? I'll obviously want to buy a computer once I'm there, and probably a TV, definitely a cell phone, and so on.

Quite easy. I purchased a new cell phone and laptop, and installed English software on both, all purchased on the local economy. Also, cheap!

6. How does China fare as far as crime? Should I constantly worry about being pickpocketed, drugged, randomly assaulted, or anything else?

I heard of foreign targeted crime in the larger nightclubs, but beyond that I felt more safe in China than in the U.S. I walked around extensively at night in the "party" districts and had no issues. Pickpocketing does happen, but if you prepare yourself appropriately, you will minimize the risk. Wallet in front pocket, take only the cash you need, leave the rest secure. Don't wander into unknown areas, etc.

8. I've heard a lot about gray areas with foreigners and the law. If I were to get very drunk, and try to stumble home, are there any public intoxication laws? What if I wanted to do something like look up nude women on the internet - will I have to worry about police kicking in my door and arresting me? Otherwise, are there any other things that someone from the U.S. may take for granted, but need to be wary of in China? Obviously, if I'm willing to be a guest in their country, I will try to abide by all of their laws.

Remember you are a guest in their country and should conduct yourself appropriately. It is not a good idea to get so drunk that it might become an issue. I had a British colleague that was drunk, not overly so, and got into a arguement with a local. He went to jail and it caused our employer to lose face getting him out. Don't do this.

9. What are some common things that westerners do that may be considered rude in China?

Causing someone to lose face. There are many subtle things Westerners do that are rude, but the Chinese people realize we are from a different culture and are quite forgiving and willing to help educate. Don't poke your chopsticks in the food when you are finished. When toasting, make sure your glass is lower when clinking them together. When offered something, accept and be thankful. If you are happy with someone, tell them.

12. What are a few things that one should absolutely never bring up in conversation in China? I've heard it's illegal to tell Chinese about religion. I've also heard that it's fairly risky to bring up politics and government.

Religion, Politics, Taiwan and Tibet. My contract stated that I would not EVER bring up religion or politics. Both are grounds for deportation. There was a Western teacher fired for this. Offline with friends? Go for it. My associates were very curious, but also exceptioanlly closed minded.

13. How much do the basics in life cost over there? A cheap, small TV, for example? Toiletries such as toothpaste, deodorant, etc.? How about a cell phone bill? A computer? Etc.?

Electronics are quite cheap and easy to find. Wal-Mart is alive and well in China. You can find toiletries everywhere for low prices. Deodorant does not exist in China, bring enough to last. You can find brand name items for reasonable prices and black market items of comparable quality for substantial savings. Counterfeit goods are a fact of life and are accepted. There is a market referred to as Xiao Zhai (sp?) that is basically the black market.

14. Are Chinese fairly open people, or do they mostly stick to themselves (I mean individually, AND ALSO as a group)?

The Chinese are the most hospitable people I have ever met and also the most racist. They are very friendly, welcoming and willing to help and give freely. As I became close with them I learned more of the racism and distrust of foreigners but left the subject alone as I was a guest. Conduct yourself with kindness and humility and you will do well.

17. What are some general pitfalls, disappointments, irritations, or general concerns that I should expect or watch out for?

Personal space does not exist. There are a lot of Chinese folks and being jostled, bumped and stepped on is a fact. Also I have had my cell phone grabbed and examined by curious passers-by due to intent game playing. I have had a child thrown into my lap for pictures as well as having children flee from my proximity. I have experienced curiosity, open hostility and have been spit at on several occasions.

18. On the opposite, what are some great things about China?

The food is amazing! There are so many different styles and flavors, that you will eat something new and wonderful every day. The people. They Chinese people are very hard working and caring, but enjoy silliness and being included in a joke or fun things. Share yourself, your humor and experience.

Hope this helps, I am of course providing information based on my experience and the area I lived in. Overall my experience there was amazing, so much so that I am intending on returning to attend university. I did have some hard times but in retrospect the hard times were the most educational and interesting.

I hope your travels are enjoyable.... Regards!

[johnk]

Hi,

An interesting range of questions.

I have been to Guilin / yangshuo. It is a beautiful area. But I was only there for 3 days so I can't provide meaningful answers.

I to look forward to seeing some of the replies though.

[heyimjason]

Wow, thanks for that reply, Booger. Definitely informative. Keep 'em coming, folks! lol

[kdavid]

Hi heyimjason,

The answers to your questions will vary by city. Below are my answers based on my experience in China over the last four years. I've been living in Harbin, but have traveled a bit throughout the country as well.

1. You will likely have very little interaction with law enforcement. If a corrupt cop wants to use you as a means of extorting money, they'll likely harass you indirectly by snooping around where you live and talking to your landlord, or making sure the school you work for has the correct papers on file to legally hire foreigners. In general, as long as you're not going out and looking for trouble, you won't be messed with.

2. I think this depends where you live. In tropical climates you'll have more creatures. Here in the NE we don't have much. I don't think I've seen a snake once in four years.

3. Yes, it's safe to buy local products and eat in restaurants. You'd do yourself a favor by not listening to the western media when it comes to many issues, including China. Most "news stations" have a pre-determined narrative that they follow to further their agenda. In some cases, this includes making China look bad. You'll find the Chinese media generally takes the same attitude toward the West.

4. Again, this depends where you are. You'll get decent care here, and if there's an accident I'm confident they can keep you from dying. However, long stays in the hospital will be uncomfortable and you're likely to receive nonsense "real" medical advice. For example, I've been told by several "experts" that eating ice cream if the outside temperature is under 30 degrees Celsius will lead to chronic diarrhea. I was also told by one of the first doctors I visited that because I could speak Chinese, my pulse was "the same as a Chinese person's", and my skin was slightly yellow, that I was starting to become Chinese. Chinese-made medicine is also generally sub-par to western medicine.

5. As long as you're buying a new model phone, there should be an option to switch it to English--Chinese will be the default. As for a computer, make sure the place you're buying it from has an English version of both Windows and Microsoft office.

6. Violent crime is very, very low. Again, this is a matter of playing it smart. Don't walk alone down poorly lit streets at night, avoid bad areas, don't keep valuables in your back pockets, etc.

7. Never been to Yangshuo.

8. There aren't any open container laws here--at least not in Harbin. I don't think you'll have a problem getting drunk in public as the Chinese do it themselves all the time. However, being overly intoxicated is inviting disaster. As I said above, play it smart. As for pornography, China's great firewall recently allowed access to a couple big porn sites, so I don't think you'll be getting in trouble for that. Just don't print out and distribute the pictures you do download.

9. This is a completely different topic and would take forever to cover here. Our cultures are radically different, and most foreigners new to China make mistakes. I strongly recommend you keep your head down in the beginning and observe. You won't change the Chinese or their way of thinking. The best advice I can give you regarding this is to learn to think like a dragon and avoid thinking like a cowboy--you're more likely to making meaningful relationships this way.

10. Yes.

11. Yes.

12. Who someone is in public and who they are behind clothes door is often radically different in China. Most Chinese will be unwilling to talk about sensitive matters in public or amongst colleagues. However, after they've warmed up to you, if you go out for a meal or whatever you're more likely to get their real opinions on things. In general, avoid politics, sex and the "three T's" (Taiwan, Tiananmen and Tibet). Coming from a society where people are constantly bombarded by political opinions and are encouraged to share their own, it's a bit odd to come into a culture where people do not participate nor think about the system. Most Chinese are largely disinterested in politics and policy. You're sure to get lots of opinions like "China is too corrupt", blah blah blah, but it's very rare to come across someone who has put a lot of serious thought into problems and possible solutions.

13. A top of the line computer with monitor, etc will run you between 3 - 4,000. Cell phones vary greatly depending on what you want them to do. You can get a very basic phone for less than 1,000. Basic living essentials per month should run you less than 1,500 unless you're eating out and partying a lot.

14. There are two contradictory takes here. First, the Chinese are exceptionally nosey people from a western standpoint. You'll get asked tons of personal questions that no one back home would dare ask a complete stranger. If you're in an area where there aren't many foreigners, and you're at the supermarket, some Chinese may come up and rummage through your things to see what "a real foreigner" buys at the supermarket. If you're standing at a urinal doing your business, a Chinese guy is likely to take a long look at your hither-regions and comment accordingly.

On the other hand, the Chinese are very skeptical of one another--there isn't the same amount of public trust or philanthropy you see back in the West. As such, many Chinese may be very stand offish to foreigners as they view you only as a transient here to take, not to give--but they also take this opinion of one another. Older Chinese take their jobs very seriously and may not be willing to make friends as they fear it will interfere with job security. There are also many instances involving public conflict where the Chinese will completely ignore people fighting and/or incredible acts of injustice (e.g. a child or woman being beaten by a large man). But, there are also cases where if two men or two women are fighting a huge crowd will gather and watch. So, as you can see, this varies a lot.

15. Relationships with Chinese are a bit different than what you'd expect back home. Again, this is a huge topic which people will always be talking about, and as such it's really not possible to get into it here. In short, if you're looking for making friends, and not connections, be yourself, pay for a dinner now and then, and keep an open mind. If you're looking to make connections, you'll need to research "guanxi".

16. No girl worth dating will date you knowing that the relationship will end after one year. If you're looking for short-term relationships, I'm sure you can find someone out there willing to just have fun for a bit.

17. Again, this is a huge question that one could discuss for hours. Without you being in Harbin and holding your hand, the only thing I can say is to keep an open mind, observe, and learn from others that have been in China for awhile--just remember to take what China's "old hands" say with a grain of salt. A good rule of thumb is that if someone has been in China for longer than five years and doesn't speak a word of the language, you probably don't want to learn from him/her. Stay away from those who tend to be too jaded. In fact, I strongly recommend you try and make as many Chinese friends as possible and limit the time you spend with foreign friends/colleagues.

Also, this forum is a great source of information for everything China. You're likely to find a wealth of knowledge already here on most questions you'd have regarding this.

18. Food, culture, language, friends, saving potential, ease of travel, low working hours, high pay (relatively speaking), vacation time, etc., etc.

19. Do your research when choosing a school, get references. If you haven't completely decided on Yangshuo and that specific school yet, I'd like to take this opportunity to shameless plug my school's TESOL course. Aside from offering the 160-hour course, real teaching practice, accommodations, meals, etc., we also place a strong emphasis on teaching our new teachers about Chinese culture. Succeeding and being happy in China requires you're happy both inside and outside of the classroom. The more familiar you are with the culture, the more of the language you can speak, the more independent you will be, and the more fulfilling of an experience you will have.

20. Take a good book or magazine. I also recommend loading up your mp4 with some good movies.

[Lu]

There are a lot of answers already, I'll just add that Yangshuo has grown to be a very famous backpacker hangout in the past few years. You'll likely not need to look far to find a bar or club. (I haven't been there though.)

Afaik there is no boat to China, but if you find one, do post it here, I don't hate flying as badly as you do, but am not a fan either. If you were in Europe you could take the train, but for the US that's not an option.

As to romance, there are many, many foreign men with Chinese girlfriends or wives, so clearly the culture gap is not too wide to bridge. However, the dating scene is different. Many Chinese women date in order to get married, if you're not particularly planning on that, and just want some fun and compantionship for the time you're here, make sure your intended girlfriend knows that and is fine with it.