Frequently Asked Questions about China
Is it worth learning Mandarin? What about Cantonese?
Most of the general population cannot speak English making a basic Mandarin vocabulary necessary for ordering food, purchasing goods or asking for directions. Mandarin is very different from western languages making the language difficult to learn. The written characters are separate from the spoken language providing another hurdle in learning the complete language. However learning the language is hugely beneficial for both social reasons and in business settings. Knowing Mandarin, even the rudiments of the grammar, is a large bonus for employment in any company in China. Cantonese is mostly spoken in Hong Kong, Macau and the Guangdong Province.
Is there a difference for female expats in China?
There can be strong gender stereotypes in China and often it is difficult for women in managerial positions. A bad dating scene for women is usually a main topic of discussion on expat forums. Some expat groups for women are:
Chengdu International Women’s Club: www.chengduiwc.com
Dongguan Women's International Club: www.dwic.org.cn/home.html
Guangzhou Women’s International Club: www.gwic.org
Expatriate Professional Women Society: www.epws-shanghai.org
Article on woman managers in China: www.entrepreneur.com/tradejournals/article/165359566.html
Dongguan Women's International Club: www.dwic.org.cn/home.html
Guangzhou Women’s International Club: www.gwic.org
Expatriate Professional Women Society: www.epws-shanghai.org
Article on woman managers in China: www.entrepreneur.com/tradejournals/article/165359566.html
Is my internet censored?
The Chinese have successfully censored internet sites the government deems subversive. Most sites are accessible including foreign news sites although like CNN and the New York Times are often accessible for a short period of time and then blocked again. Illicit sites are often censored as well. This is an ongoing controversy and levels of enforcement and effectiveness change often.
Is China safe?
China is usually very safe in terms of violent crime. Expats usually feel safe to walk home at night in major cities although obvious risks and bad neighbourhoods should be avoided. Expats do have to be careful in crowds as they are often the victims of petty crimes such as pick-pocketing and scams. The largest danger to expats is food safety as many people suffer from disease and bacteria resulting from unclean or improperly cooked foods.
Safety information: www.travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1089.html#safety
