Moving to Shanghai

"Living in Shanghai can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Before making the move, expats should educate themselves about the local culture, language, and customs. They should also be aware of the local climate and weather patterns, so that they can come prepared for the sudden shifts in temperature. Expats should also gain an understanding of the public transportation system, which can be a great way to get around the city. Knowing a few key phrases of the local language can prove to be very helpful, as many locals in Shanghai may not be able to speak English. Finally, expats should also research the local housing market and the cost of living to find a suitable living situation," replied a member in Shanghai, China.

"Look at many places and use a checklist to make sure that everything works BEFORE signing any lease. Landlords move slowly after they have your deposit," commented one expat who made the move to Shanghai.

"We lived in Shanghai before and wanted to start living in a familiar place, so we picked a neighborhood that we used to go to a lot," said one expat in Shanghai.

"If you are looking for a place to live in Shanghai, there are many options available. You could look for a place to rent through a real estate agent or apartment-finding websites such as Danke Apartment, Sango, and 5i5j. You could also search for a shared accommodation through sites such as Shanghai Furnished Apartment, Spare Room, and Airbnb. Alternatively, you could look for serviced apartments with facilities like on site gym and swimming pool, which can be viewed online on the sites of SuperBrand Mall, Shanghai City Apartment, and Oakwood Asia. You can also consider staying in hostels or hotels for short-term stays," remarked one expat who made the move to Shanghai, China.

"Apartment in Chinese apartment building that is 6 floors tall. Yes, there are many embassies in this neighborhood so there are many expats and geopats here," said one expat who made the move to Shanghai.

"Expat homes and apartments in Shanghai are typically modern, luxurious and spacious. Most expats experience a high quality of life with amenities ranging from swimming pools, spas and gyms to international restaurants, supermarkets and shopping malls. Expat apartments are typically well-furnished and feature a variety of modern appliances and fixtures, as well as convenient access to public transportation and popular city attractions. Many of the apartments also feature outstanding views of the city skyline or surrounding greenery," explained one expat living in Shanghai, China, China.

"The average cost of housing in Shanghai is typically higher than in other parts of the country, due to the city's popularity and the resulting high demand. Average rental prices vary significantly based on location, age, and quality of the home, but generally range from medium-priced apartments to luxury villas," remarked one expat who made the move to Shanghai, China.

"Higher with less quality BUT the wages are much, much higher than the same job back home. One bedroom apartments can range from 5-14, 000 rmb per month, depending on location, type of building, furnishings, etc," explained one expat living in Shanghai, China.

"When considering whether to buy or rent a home in Shanghai, it is important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both options. Buying a home in Shanghai can provide an owner with stability and long term asset appreciation. However, there will be large upfront costs for a downpayment and closing costs. Furthermore, there will be ongoing maintenance and utilities costs associated with ownership. Renting a home in Shanghai, on the other hand, can provide flexibility and convenience. Tenants may only have to put down a security deposit, but they may also have to have a co-signer. The biggest disadvantage associated with renting is that tenants will not have asset appreciation in the long term. Ultimately, it is important to assess one’s financial goals and situation in order to determine the best option of whether to buy or rent a home in Shanghai, China," remarked one expat in Shanghai, China, China.

"Packing for a move to Shanghai should include several items to best prepare for all seasons. In the warmer months, items to bring should include lightweight clothing, a hat, and sunscreen. In the cooler months, heavier clothing such as sweaters and coats, along with scarves, hats, and gloves are recommended. For protection against the rain and humidity, an umbrella and a raincoat are ideal. As for footwear, a variety of both casual and dressy shoes should be brought. Other items that may be beneficial to bring include a coat hanger, an adapter for electronics, and a water filter," commented one expat who made the move to Shanghai, China.

"I would have brought more walking shoes, more over the counter medicines and more winter socks," remarked one expat in Shanghai, China.

"When travelling to Shanghai, it is important to be aware of certain cultural norms that should be observed in order to avoid offending locals. One common cultural faux pas to steer clear of is failing to use both hands when receiving or giving something, as this is considered to be disrespectful. Additionally, it is important to avoid talking loudly or using harsh language in public as this can come off as rude. Lastly, it is important to dress modestly, as clothing such as shorts and tank tops can be seen as inappropriate," commented one expat who made the move to Shanghai, China.

"Shanghai is an attractive destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, modern infrastructure, and diverse job opportunities. The city is home to a wide range of international businesses, making it an ideal place for those looking to further their career. Additionally, Shanghai offers a low cost of living, excellent public transportation, and a wide variety of entertainment and leisure activities. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and friendly locals, Shanghai is an exciting and welcoming place to live," stated one expat who made the move to Shanghai.

"Shanghai offers a wide range of healthcare services, including both public and private hospitals. The public hospitals are generally well-equipped and offer a range of services, including general medical care, specialist care, and emergency services. Private hospitals are also available and offer a range of services, including general medical care, specialist care, and cosmetic surgery. In addition, there are a number of clinics and medical centers that provide a range of services, including general medical care, specialist care, and alternative medicine. Shanghai also has a number of pharmacies that provide a range of medications and other health-related products," replied one expat when asked about moving to Shanghai.

"Shanghai offers a wide range of medical services, including both traditional Chinese medicine and modern Western medicine. The city is home to a number of well-equipped hospitals and clinics, staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. Many of these facilities offer a range of services, from general check-ups and consultations to more specialized treatments. In addition, Shanghai also has a number of international hospitals that provide medical care to expatriates and visitors from abroad," stated one expat who made the move to Shanghai.