Living In China Info

Link: http://english.cri.cn/index.htm

Here's another great resource for teachers and students of English - China Radio International English website

It's easy for expats in China to feel a little disconnected from the rest of the world while living in China. CRI helps to alleviate this problem with their great nationwide network of English-language radio stations and also with their English language website. Lots of good news and resources there for current affairs, general information about China, as well as tools and resources studying English or Chinese.

Have a look for yourself.

Link: http://www.livemocha.com/

I've recently discovered a great site for learning and practicing a new language - Livemocha.com.

This is an on-line community offering some great resources to learn, practice, share and teach languages. It's easy to navigate, easy to use, easy to join and it's totally FREE!

I've been using it to improve my Mandarin Chinese language skills (which, after nearly 4 years here and a Chinese wife, are woeful!) and after wading through the first on-line lesson and practice I can see that this is going to be a very useful language tool.

The community aspect is also very encouraging and easy to use.

Check it out for yourself and if you like it spread the word!

You should expect to have access only to Chinese language TV programs. Very occasionally programs are broadcast in English or with English sub-titles.

The Chinese TV network has one English language channel - CCTV9 - which has a lot of very "vanilla" programming, suitable mostly for English students and the very bored foreigner. CCTV 9 is not always included in the usual program package, so don't expect it.

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Clothing is widely and easily available all over China. Locally produced clothes can be very reasonably priced. You may experience some difficulties if you require larger sizes as most Chinese tend to be smaller sized than many Europeans. Take note of quality and cost when purchasing name brands - you will generally get what you pay for!

Having clothes tailor made can also be a great option with many tailors and dressmakers around the markets. A wide variety of fabrics is usually available and the prices should be a pleasant surprise. Different regions may have particularly interesting and unique fabrics and products available.

We also suggest using your common sense and being aware of local customs of dress and appearance. Don't just assume that what you would wear at home will be appropriate in China. Smaller towns tend towards the conservative. You will see an interesting display of fashion wherever you go!

China's vast size covers almost every possible climate type. You can get specific climate and weather information form the city and province guide above. In areas that experience extremes in temperature we ensure that your accommodation provides suitable heating/cooling for the conditions. Make sure you take weather and climate conditions into considerations when deciding where you want to work in China.

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