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Digital Nomad Guide to Shanghai, China | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Shanghai, China

Digital Nomad Life in Shanghai

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Digital nomads like living in Shanghai, China because it is a vibrant and modern city with a wide range of activities and attractions. Shanghai is a great place to live and work, with a low cost of living, excellent public transportation, and a wide variety of cultural and entertainment options. The city is also home to a large expat community, making it easy to make friends and find support. The approximate population of Shanghai, China is 24.2 million people. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Shanghai is approximately $1,000 to $2,000 USD. This includes rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. It costs around $1,000 to $2,000 USD to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Shanghai. The best neighborhood to live in Shanghai is the French Concession. This area is known for its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and vibrant nightlife. It is also close to many of the city's attractions and is home to a large expat community. The weather in Shanghai, China is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (10-30 Celsius). Summers are hot and humid, while winters are cold and dry.

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How do I meet people in Shanghai?

When we asked people living in Shanghai about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Shanghai can join a variety of clubs and activities to meet others who have moved to the city, such as hiking and biking groups, running clubs, history, literature, or photography circles. Expats can also join language exchange groups or online forums related to their hobbies or interests. Additionally, expats can explore the range of foreign diplomatic missions in the city to meet members of the diplomatic core, as well as organizations such as Rotary and Toastmasters that provide professional and volunteer opportunities. Other ways to meet people in Shanghai include attending professional and networking events, exploring coworking spaces, joining sports teams, and attending concerts, art exhibitions, and food festivals that cater to a global audience," said one person in Shanghai, China.

What is life like in Shanghai?

When we asked people living in Shanghai what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Living in Shanghai as an expat or digital nomad can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The city is a vibrant and modern metropolis, offering a wide range of activities and attractions. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's diverse culture, delicious cuisine, and bustling nightlife. The cost of living in Shanghai is relatively low compared to other major cities, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The city is also well-connected, with excellent public transportation and a reliable internet connection. Expats and digital nomads can easily find a comfortable place to live, with plenty of options for both short-term and long-term accommodation. With its vibrant culture, delicious food, and low cost of living, Shanghai is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," said one person in Shanghai.

"Shanghai, in some ways is a very modern city like Tokyo or New York but very interesting between the duplicity of the modern and old at one time. Expat lives revolve around whatever they'd like it to be, whether it is school or family or sports or social clubs. One can find ones interest in some manner here," said one expat who made the move to Shanghai.

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Where should I live in Shanghai?

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

"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," said one expat who made the move to Shanghai, China.

"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," explained one foreigner living in Shanghai, China.

What do I need to know before moving to Shanghai?

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

"Before retiring in Shanghai, expats should familiarize themselves with the city and its culture. They should research the cost of living, rent, and medical insurance. Additionally, expats should be aware of the visa requirements for long-term stays in China. It is also important to be aware of the language barrier and have access to some form of interpretation (whether through technology or a translator) for smooth communication. Finally, expats should consider joining a local expat community and getting to know their neighbors to help them adjust to their new life," remarked one member in Shanghai, China.

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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Shanghai?

"Many expats living in Shanghai appreciate the variety of food available in the city. From traditional Chinese dishes to international cuisine, the culinary scene in Shanghai is truly exceptional. Expats also love the vibrancy of the city, from its lively nightlife to its bustling markets and iconic skyline. Additionally, expats in Shanghai appreciate the opportunity to experience a diverse and unique culture firsthand. From festivals to temples and language classes, expats have the chance to learn and explore Shanghai and the surrounding area," said one person in Shanghai, China.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Shanghai?

"Expats in Shanghai often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of adjusting to the local culture. Additionally, the rapid pace of change within the city can make it difficult for expats to stay up to date on current local trends. Expats also often find that many cultural differences, such as expectations for appropriate attire or the focus on face and respect, can take some acclimation. Additionally, expats may struggle with the fact that many aspects of the city remain relatively inaccessible to foreigners," said one expat who made the move to Shanghai, China.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Shanghai for a while?

"If you are planning to stay in Shanghai for a while, you will need to apply for the relevant residency documents or visas from the Chinese Embassy or Consulate General. Depending on the length of stay and the purpose of your visit, this could include a long-term visa or residence permit. You should always check with the Embassy for the most up-to-date information on the types of documents and visas required," said one person in Shanghai, China.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Shanghai?

We asked people in Shanghai if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"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," said one person in Shanghai, China.

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What are healthcare services like in Shanghai?

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

"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," explained one person living in Shanghai, China.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Shanghai?

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the vibrant culture and exciting nightlife that Shanghai has to offer. The city is also known for its excellent public transportation system, making it easy to get around. Additionally, the cost of living in Shanghai is relatively low compared to other major cities, making it an attractive destination for those looking to save money. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier and cultural differences to be challenging. Additionally, the air quality in Shanghai can be poor at times, making it difficult to enjoy the city," commented a person living in Shanghai, China.

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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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