To move or not to move?

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fugly

Newbie

Joined: Feb 02, 2007
Posts: 5

Status: Offline

Posted: Feb 02, 2007 - 02:25 PM
Post subject: To move or not to move?

We have been offered a job in shanghai and would like some advice..

We have a 3 week old baby (would move in 2 months or so) and would like to know what healthcare is like? how easy it is to get around with a stroller etc?, is there lots to do with a baby ie baby groups etc,

We are looking at living in the Old town (think this is the area we would like) and have a budget of approx $2000 USD..What would we expect to get for this price - size wise and how easy is it to get non furnished....Are there any plus/minus points about living in this area?

how much would we expect to pay to go out for a nice dinner with wine?
Is it better to have a car or are taxis more convenient?

Sorry for all the questions but need to sort this out before we accept the offer?

hammerforlife
Fire-eater

Joined: May 24, 2004
Posts: 2701

Posted: Feb 02, 2007 - 02:44 PM

Some of the answers depend on where you are from and what sort of standards you are used to. However:

Health care for babies can be good if you are prepared to pay for it. I have a 4 month old and we are happy with the care he gets. There are several hospitals that cater for westerners. It's not always so easy to get around with a stroller - many many people, steps etc and most people use taxis which means problems, together with the fact that it is difficult to use a baby car seat in a taxi. However it can be done.

When you say you will be living in the Old Town I'm not quite sure what you mean. Shanghai is divided into Puxi and Pudong. Probably you mean Puxi when you say Old Town? Many different areas with different styles in Puxi. For 2,000 US you would get a good 3 bedroom apartment in a good area. I'm guessing maybe 170m3? Puxi has much more life, shops / bars / restaurants but it is more crowded and maybe more polluted.

Dinner with wine? Anything from RMB 100 to 1000+ per head. The choice of restaurants is big.

Taxis are very convenient (unless its raining) and cheap as is the underground metro if you live near one of the lines. If you have a car you need to think about having a driver too (RMB 2,000 a month). Best to come and experience the driving conditions before you decide.