Hi expats.

My man's job will take him to Shanghai next year, so i'am going too. But there are so many things i would like to know, before going.

I feel so lost...

The plan is that we are going to stay in a Servied Apartment for one year or more.
1.Are there any body who can recommed some??

2.How is it to live in Shanghai??

3.I have worked in retail for about 10 years, can i get any jobs there, when i only speak english??

I hope hear from someone.

Pernille.

1. There are a number of serviced apartments in the city. Commuting can be a pain, so knowing the approximate location of your partner's office may help people in providing some suggestions for accomidation.

2. Shanghai is a vibrant city. There is something for everyone! Not many people come here and truely despise it. Restaurants, bars, clubs, theatre, museums, shopping, etc... it can all be done here. There are of course days when the immensity of the city will get to you, but that can happen anywhere. Transportation is plentiful and inexpensive. The city center is not too large and is easy to get around.

3. Perhaps you can find a position as an English teacher (tutoring or through a school) or as an assistant to a company where Chinese is not used. Retail may be a bit more difficult without any mandarin because almost every place will have some local customers. There are a good number of people who live and work here and do not speak more than survival mandarin. Of course, you can also consider enrolling in classes and spend a few concentrated months learning the basics and take it from there.

Hi Pernille,

Some more insights for you:
1. At the Pudong (East) area of Shanghai, Season's Villas is A-OK. Big expat community there. At Puxi (West) side, Shanghai Centre would be good.

2. Shanghai looks more Western than any other Chinese city in the mainland. Living here presents challenges, especially for folks like us who barely know Mandarin. But as long as you keep an open mind and resilient spirit, then you can look at it as a learning adventure.

Btw, you may want to read a Lonely Planet book on Shanghai. It has practical tips, so you won't feel so lost when you arrive.
And if you ever feel the need to commune with other expats, you can check out any of the events hosted by this group.

One last thing, if you look anything but Chinese, be prepared to have locals staring at you often. You'll get used to it in time.