Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global Health Insurance.
Medical insurance specifically designed for expats. With Cigna, you won't have to rely on foreign public health care systems, which may not meet your needs. Cigna allows you to speak to a doctor on demand, for consultations or instant advice, wherever you are in the world. They also offer full cancer care across all levels of cover, and settle the cost of treatments directly with the provider.
Moving Internationally?
International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!
Many companies for which you might end up teaching have opportunities for their English teachers to also take Chinese lessons. They will also often do much of the inital leg work for you in regards to your visa, bank account, and housing (or they may simply send a Chinese speaker with you when you go). When negotiating with a school, make sure they will help you with these things, because they are the most difficult to figure out on your own.
As far as everyday life goes, there is a large expat community (particularly on the east side of the city), and even though most locals don't speak any English, you can do an amazing amount with a little creativity and a lot of trail and error. To get an idea of what I'm talking about, I'd highly suggest you read the Newcomer's Guide that I wrote for people in just such a situation. Basically, if you're living in a few areas that are "foreign-friendly," you can get away with just knowing some easy-to-learn phrases that will allow you to do pretty much what you need to do.
Living in Beijing as an expat is definitely an experience worth having. I hope you do decide to come and check it out. Good luck!