Moving to Guilin, China
Last updated on Jan 01, 2024
Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Guilin, China for its stunning natural beauty, with its lush green mountains, winding rivers, and dramatic limestone karsts. The city also offers a vibrant culture, with a rich history and a variety of cultural attractions. Additionally, Guilin is a great place to live for its low cost of living, excellent public transportation, and friendly locals. With its unique combination of natural beauty and modern amenities, Guilin is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home.
What do I need to know before moving to Guilin?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Guilin, they said:
"Before moving to Guilin, expats should be aware of the different visa types available and what type of visa they are required to obtain. Additionally, expats should research the local culture, language and customs in order to best assimilate into the community. Expats should also prepare for the climate by researching seasonal temperatures, rainy and dry seasons, and local weather patterns. Finally, expats should research the local transportation options and the cost of living in Guilin," remarked one expat who made the move to Guilin, China.
How do I find a place to live in Guilin?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Guilin is to search online for housing postings. Sites like 58.com, Anjuke.com, or Zhulian (???) are great options for searching, as they list comprehensive properties in all areas throughout Guilin. Additionally, you can find postings on WeChat, guilin's primary social media platform, or by seeking out advice and recommendations from other expats who live in the city. When looking for a place to live, it is important to research and compare prices as living costs vary between neighbourhoods, as well as contact a reputable property agency to help you find the best place for your needs," remarked one expat who made the move to Guilin, China.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Guilin?
"Expat homes and apartments in Guilin typically feature modern amenities with spacious rooms. Many properties offer large windows that take advantage of the surrounding natural landscape, allowing great natural light into the home. The majority of properties come fully furnished with comfortable furniture, stylish art pieces, and a range of appliances. Many homes or apartments also have access to a balcony or terrace, ideal for soaking up the beautiful views of the city and local nearby landscapes," commented one expat who made the move to Guilin, China.
What is the average cost of housing in Guilin?
If you are thinking about moving to Guilin, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in Guilin varies depending on location and type of housing, but generally it is fairly reasonable and offers good value for money. Most one-bedroom apartments, for instance, are available for rent at prices between 1,500-2,500 RMB per month (roughly 250-400 USD). Other types of housing, such as villas and townhouses, can be a little more expensive. For those looking to purchase property, the average cost of a one bedroom apartment is around 8,000-9,000 RMB per sqm (roughly 1,200-1,350 USD)," said one expat in Guilin, China.
Should I buy or rent a home in Guilin?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Guilin, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Guilin may be a worthwhile investment for those interested in living in the area for an extended period of time. There are many advantages to owning a home in the city, including increased stability and potential property value appreciation. Renting a home in Guilin may be a good option for those who are only planning to stay in the city for a short time or are still uncertain about their long-term residence plans. It can allow for a more flexible living arrangement and may provide cost savings in the short-term. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Guilin should be based on personal and financial preferences," commented one expat who made the move to Guilin, China.
What should I pack when moving to Guilin?
We asked people living in Guilin to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Guilin, it is important to be prepared for all seasons. Pack appropriate clothing for both the hot and rainy months, such as lightweight rain coats, hats, long-sleeved shirts and pants, and sun block. As Guilin is a mountainous city, bring comfortable footwear for walking and hiking, as well as an umbrella for the frequent rain. For day to day living, consider bringing basic kitchen tools and utensils, cleaning supplies, and a first aid kit. Additionally, bring books, board games, and other items for entertainment. Lastly, for a long stay consider getting a local SIM card and the necessary adapters for electronics," remarked one expat in Guilin, China, China.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Guilin?
We asked people in Guilin if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"In Guilin, it is important to be respectful of local customs and culture. It is considered impolite to refuse food or drink that is offered to you. Public displays of affection such as kissing or hugging are considered inappropriate. When entering certain religious or sacred sites, be sure to dress modestly and refrain from speaking loudly. It is also important to refrain from giving someone the "thumbs up" gesture, as it is considered to be rude. Finally, avoid talking about sensitive topics such as politics, religion, or wealth," said one expat in Guilin, China.
Why do people move to Guilin?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Guilin, they responded:
"Guilin is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with its dramatic mountain peaks surrounded by lush paddy fields and soaring limestone karsts. Expats are drawn to the city for its unique combination of modern amenities and ancient customs. The city’s vibrant nightlife and exotic culinary culture also draw many expats. Guilin is a very safe place to live and possesses a strong infrastructure, including a good transport system, excellent medical and educational facilities, and stunning scenery to explore. With its temperate climate, diverse culture, and competitive cost of living, Guilin is the perfect place for expats to live and work," commented one expat who moved to Guilin.
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How are healthcare services Guilin?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Guilin, they replied:
"Guilin offers a wide range of healthcare services, including both traditional Chinese medicine and modern Western medicine. The city has a number of hospitals and clinics that provide comprehensive medical care, including general practice, specialist care, and emergency services. Guilin also has a number of pharmacies that provide both prescription and over-the-counter medications. Additionally, the city has a number of health and wellness centers that offer a variety of treatments, such as acupuncture, massage, and herbal remedies. Finally, Guilin also has a number of medical research centers that are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and improving healthcare services," remarked one expat in Guilin.
What are medical services in Guilin like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Guilin, they replied:
"Guilin offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city has a number of hospitals and clinics that provide comprehensive medical care, including general practice, specialist care, and emergency services. Many of the hospitals and clinics are equipped with modern medical equipment and staffed by experienced medical professionals. Additionally, there are a number of pharmacies in the city that provide access to a variety of medications. For those seeking alternative treatments, there are also a number of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners in the city," said one expat living in Guilin, China.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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