Are you thinking about relocating to Shanghai? It’s possible you’ve already arrived in Shanghai and are curious about expat life in a city that matches the likes of New York and Paris in terms of modernism, while also incorporating elements of Western and Chinese cultures in its cultural and historical features. This comprehensive handbook for new and soon-to-be Shanghai expatriates offers useful information and tools. Even if you’ve been in Shanghai for some time, you may still discover the advantages and disadvantages of being an expat in Shanghai. There will also be additional information about Shanghai expat life.
how Is it good to work in Shanghai?
The majority of Western expats in China are there for employment, and many foreigners are sent to China on an expat assignment for a short period of time, such as a few months or a year. Some people come looking for employment, while others come on their own. When it comes to companies with global ambitions, China is only the starting point. In many cases, expatriates have a trailing spouse/partner, as well as children, or children and their parents.
Moreover, just a tiny percentage of them have previous experience dealing with individuals from China or with Chinese businesses.
I lived and worked in Shanghai for a year and a half. Because this was my first time living abroad, I had no prior knowledge of the process. A prominent software firm employed me as a front-end developer in Shanghai. This was my first foreign relocation, and Shanghai was an amazing place to be my new home.
There are limitless possibilities in this metropolis due to its size as one of China’s most populated cities.
During my time in China, I’ve discovered that Shanghai has numerous sides. After a series of day excursions from Shanghai, I began to see that other cities, like those in Europe, might be very distinct from one another. Contrary to common perception in the West, relocating to China is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Visitors will find that it is a very varied nation, with every city and its inhabitants offering something different to those who come.
PROS OF LIVING IN SHANGHAI
IN THE CITY, UNIQUE EXPERIENCES ABOUND
Shanghai offers a wide range of exciting activities. Shanghai is a city full of events, from art exhibits to music festivals. As an expat in Shanghai, you will have the opportunity to get to know the city better. Take a stroll down Nanjing Road or in the vicinity of the French Quarter. In the evening, I suggest taking a walk along the Bund Promenade for stunning views of the Huangpu River, as well as visiting the affluent Xintiandi area, which is home to many fine dining establishments and nightlife. These are especially well-liked by expatriates and young people.
DIFFERENCE IN RELIGION AND CULTURE
When it comes to Shanghai’s culture, there’s no better place to go than the Bund. A city where traditional Jiangnan culture (also called as Haipai culture) coexists peacefully with modernity and Eastern customs. There are just too many possibilities in Shanghai to turn everyone away.
Shanghai’s growing expat community is clear to see as the city expands. Few locations in China allow outsiders to mingle with locals, hear a variety of dialects and languages, and eat food from all over the world in the same area. Living in Shanghai as an expat is a great opportunity to see the world, meet new people, and learn about different cultures.
SECURITY OF PERSONAL INFORMATION
As an expat, Shanghai is a fairly secure city to call home. Because of its low crime rate, it was named one of China’s safest cities. Pick-pocketing and petty thefts on public transportation are the most common crimes, although expats are urged to stay in well-lit parts of the city after dark.
Shanghai is a really secure city to live in, at least from my perspective. Late at night in Puxi, Pudong, and Jing’an, I’ve had no problems wandering the streets. Shanghai’s police are constantly on the lookout for criminals, especially among the city’s large expat population. Even so, you should always zip up your luggage, keep your cash secure, and keep a look out for suspicious characters.
PARADISE FOR FOODIE CONSULTANTS
If you’re a foodie, Shanghai is a must-visit destination. The cuisine is inexpensive, delicious, and quick to make, yet it has a whole distinct flavor profile from anything you’d get in the West. Whether it’s steamed buns, Shanghai-style fried noodles, or tasty soup dumplings (xiao long bao), you won’t go hungry in Shanghai.
When it comes to cuisine, this vast metropolis has it everything covered. Everyone who can afford it may dine at three-star Michelin-rated establishments, while expats on a budget can find cheap yet delectable street cuisine in the city. The food booths along Xiangyang Road and the street vendors on South Yunnan Road provide unique eating experiences. Most street corners sell Hong shan yu (baked sweet potatoes), or you can prepare noodles in a million different ways, as in the Chai Pan wonton soup ().
TGI Friday’s and Hooters are popular brands among expatriates in Shanghai, but the city also has a plethora of foreign eateries. Shanghai has a wide variety of cuisines to choose from, including Japanese, Korean, Italian, Lebanese, and more. A Bavarian tavern with dark wood tables and chairs is one of my favorite hangouts here. Schnitzel, roast pork, and currywurst are some of their specialties.
SERVICES IN THE HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY
Many newcomers to Shanghai are concerned about their health after relocating there. When it comes to medical treatment, foreigners prefer to stay away from public hospitals and clinics in favor of private ones. If you need medical care in Thailand, there are a number of facilities with separate wings just for international patients.
Shanghai East International Medical Clinic, Shanghai United Family Hospital, and World Link are the main healthcare providers, although others exist.
Shanghai is a safe city for families with children to relocate to. Before going to China, make sure you have enough medical insurance via your work or purchase international health insurance. Expat health insurance policies cover a wide range of foreign medical expenses, from basic to comprehensive. It is critical that expats never have to be concerned about medical expenses again and can always access the finest treatment options available in a particular region. Private medical expenses are also among the world’s most costly, and in Shanghai, they’re frequently on par with those in Hong Kong or the United States.
Despite its reputation as an expat-friendly city, Shanghai still has a long way to go when it comes to ensuring the safety of its drinking water. Even if you live in a nicer section of town, don’t drink the tap water since it’s tainted. Make sure to thoroughly wash every produce in pure water before eating it.