FAQ - What should we move?

What should we bring over when we move to Shanghai

Furniture wise, most rental accomodation for expats is usually pretty decked out in a very minimalistic style, that is to say, cheap and spartan. If you're lucky, some pretty good furniture will come with the apartment, namely all the big stuff. That is, things like tables, chairs, living room set, TV, beds, etc. Ask your landlord if he'll throw in some extras such as a washer/drier if they don't come included. If your move is limited then just take the personal things that make a house a home, and things that are tough to find over here, like books, pictures, spices and some clothes.

Kitchens usually only come with a stove top, though small ovens are starting to become available. They look like slightly larger versions of toaster ovens. Try the appliance stores if you need one.

Most expat apartments have phone hookups and most have the phone already turned on. The phone comes with the apartment, not with the tenant.

When it comes to tap water, buy a Britta or a Pur filterer and lots of extra filters. Drinking straight tap water is not one of the actions of a sane individual. If that's too much hassle, then bottled water is available everywhere and it's not too expensive. Nong Fu bottled water (with a maroon label) comes highly recommended.

The best is Nong Fu ( maroon label). I have started to see small ovens - like slightly larger versions of toaster ovens. Most kitchens do not come with ovens but things are changing.