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Moving to Shekou, China | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Moving to Shekou, China

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Nov 03, 2024

Summary: Expatriates move to Shekou, China for a variety of reasons, including its convenient location near Hong Kong, its modern infrastructure, its vibrant international community, and its wide range of job opportunities. Shekou is also known for its excellent schools, its low cost of living, and its proximity to some of China's most beautiful beaches. Additionally, Shekou is a great place to experience Chinese culture and explore the country's unique history.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

What do I need to know before moving to Shekou?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Shekou, they said:

"It is important to research Chinese visa requirements before beginning the moving process to Shekou. While cost of living in the area is relatively low, understanding how much money can be spent and what expenses to expect can be helpful. Shekou is close to the main cities of Shenzhen and Hong Kong and has convenient transport links for exploring the surrounding area. The weather in Shekou is quite hot and humid during the summer months, so expats should be prepared for this. Finally, knowing basic Mandarin language skills can help expats make the most of their stay in Shekou," replied a member in Shekou, China.

How do I find a place to live in Shekou?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Shekou, can be done through a variety of avenues. The most direct way is to use the services of local real estate agents. Most agents are familiar with the area and can help you find properties that meet your needs. Additionally, there are many online sites like RentFaster, 5i5j and SouFun that list available homes in Shekou. Additionally, there are many WeChat and other social groups dedicated to helping people find housing in Shekou. Lastly, you can use classified websites, such as 58 and Ganji, to search for and contact landlords who are renting properties in Shekou," remarked one expat in Shekou, China, China.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Shekou?

"Expat homes and apartments in Shekou, typically feature large living spaces, comfortable bedrooms, and well-appointed kitchens. Most have balconies that offer sweeping views of the city, soothing hillside scenery, or a rainbow of brightly-colored kites skimming across the sky. Amenities commonly found in these residences include air-conditioning, modern appliances, and the latest in technology. Security and safety features such as video intercoms, CCTV cameras, and secure doors ensure a secure living environment for its occupants. The close proximity to many leading international schools and superb transportation links makes it a popular destination for expatriates living in the area," commented one expat who made the move to Shekou, China.

What is the average cost of housing in Shekou?

If you are thinking about moving to Shekou, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Shekou varies depending on the area and type of property. Generally, apartments and houses can range from moderately-priced to luxurious, with most average-priced options being on the high end. Prices of single-family homes can range from 10,000 Yuan per square metre to more than 25,000 Yuan per square metre," explained one expat living in Shekou, China, China.

Should I buy or rent a home in Shekou?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Shekou, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"When considering whether to buy or rent a home in Shekou, it is important to consider your long-term plans. Purchasing a home in Shekou is a good option for those who plan on staying in the area for several years. Buying a home also offers the potential for a financial gain in the future if the value of the property increases. However, renting may be more cost-effective in the short-term, and allows more flexibility and freedom since tenants can choose to move at the end of their lease. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent should depend on an individual's own budget, timeline and goals," replied a member in Shekou, China.

What should I pack when moving to Shekou?

We asked people living in Shekou to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Shekou, it is recommended to pack items such as comfortable clothing, necessary toiletries and medications, sunscreen, an umbrella for the hot and humid summers, workout clothes and shoes for exploring the city, a laptop or tablet with a charger, a transformer for electricity, and any important documents. Additionally, bring items to make the place feel like home, such as books, mementos, decorative items, and cooking utensils," commented one expat who made the move to Shekou, China.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Shekou?

We asked people in Shekou 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!:

"It is important to remember that while Shekou is a modern port city, it is still located in mainland China, and it is important to be mindful of the local traditions. Avoid loud and disrespectful behaviour, particularly in public spaces such as parks. Take the time to research Chinese customs and avoid any behaviours that may considered offensive or disrespectful, including gesturing or pointing with the index finger or touching another person on the head; these manners are considered impolite in Chinese culture. Additionally, it is important to remove any shoes or slippers when visiting temples and other religious sites; this is a sign of respect. Lastly, when giving gifts, try to give items of practical use that do not hold any religious symbolism," remarked one expat who made the move to Shekou, China.

Why do people move to Shekou?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Shekou, they responded:

"Shekou is an attractive destination for expats due to its convenient location near Hong Kong, its modern infrastructure, and its vibrant international community. The city offers a wide range of amenities, including excellent schools, shopping malls, and recreational facilities. Additionally, Shekou is home to a number of multinational companies, making it an ideal place for expats to find employment. The city also boasts a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. Finally, Shekou is known for its friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to settle down and start a new life," said one expat living in Shekou, China.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers
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Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.

AGS Worldwide MoversAGS Worldwide Movers

Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
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How are healthcare services Shekou?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Shekou, they replied:

"Shekou offers a wide range of healthcare services to its residents. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide general medical care, as well as specialized services such as pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and mental health. Additionally, there are several pharmacies and medical supply stores in the area. Shekou also has a number of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, as well as a few alternative medicine practitioners. The city also has a number of health and wellness centers, offering services such as massage, acupuncture, and yoga. Finally, Shekou has a number of medical research centers, which are dedicated to researching and developing new treatments and technologies," stated one expat who made the move to Shekou.

What are medical services in Shekou like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Shekou, they replied:

"Shekou offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and expatriates. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide comprehensive medical care, including general practice, specialist care, and emergency services. Shekou also has a number of pharmacies that offer both over-the-counter and prescription medications. Additionally, the city has a number of medical centers that offer a variety of services, such as physical therapy, acupuncture, and traditional Chinese medicine. Shekou also has a number of international medical centers that provide medical services to expatriates," said one expat living in Shekou, China.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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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