Xi'an, China

"Before retiring in Xi'an, it is important for expats to get familiar with the local language, Mandarin, as well as the cultural norms of the country. Expats should also make sure to consider the local climate and adjust to the weather accordingly. Additionally, it is important to understand the local healthcare system, and consider purchasing health insurance to ease the burden of any necessary medical treatment. Furthermore, finding an apartment or house that meets the needs of the expat and their family is essential as many rental properties cater to locals. Finally, it is beneficial for expats to find other expats to create a support system and make the settling process easier," commented one expat who made the move to Xi'an, China.

"Before moving to Xi'an, expats should be aware that most people in the city speak Mandarin. It is best to learn some basic Mandarin phrases before arriving. It is also important to keep in mind that health care in the city is not as advanced as what is found in some other countries. Expats should consider purchasing international health insurance to cover any medical needs. Transportation is mostly by bus, with no subway system in place. Best to make sure to have maps to get around or learning how to use the bus system. Because of the hot-humid summers and dry-cold winters, it is important bring appropriate clothing. Also, many restaurants as well as supermarkets are cash-only so expats should always make sure to have enough cash on hand. Additionally, finding pet-friendly accommodation in Xi'an may be a challenge, so it is recommended that expats inquire with the landlord or property manager beforehand," said one expat in Xi'an, China.

"When looking for a place to live in Xi'an, there are multiple avenues to explore. Finding a good agent in the city who is familiar with the different neighbourhoods is an ideal way to start. Searching online on rental platforms such as Airbnb and Chinese rental platform like Ziroom and DankeApartments, can also give an indication of the type of accommodation, price range and availability. Once you have a shortlist of potential places to live, it is worth discussing directly with the landlords, or agents, for further details about the accommodation. Additionally, Xi'an is filled with plenty of communal housing options such as college dorms, shared apartments, or expatriate complexes. It is worth looking into these types of accommodations as well," said one expat who made the move to Xi'an, China.

"Expat homes and apartments in Xi'an typically offer modern, comfortable living in an international setting. Expat residences are usually spacious and well-equipped with quality furniture and appliances. Security is often an important feature, with gated compounds offering shared amenities such as pools, tennis courts, and children's play areas. For those who may be relocating from western countries, there are high-speed internet networks and quality home maintenance services that make the whole process of settling in simpler and efficient," said one expat who made the move to Xi'an, China.

"The cost of housing in Xi'an can vary depending on the area and type of accommodation. Overall, the cost of renting or buying a property in Xi'an is generally considered to be quite reasonable compared to other large cities in China. Typical rent costs range from 2,000 to 6,000 RMB per month, while purchase prices are typically between 8,000 and 17,000 RMB per square meter," wrote a member in Xi'an, China.

"Expats in Xi'an have a range of activities and clubs to join to meet other people in their host city. Popular activities include networking groups targeted towards expats, language exchanges, hiking groups, food and drinking events, as well as cultural activities such as learning to make traditional Chinese art and music. Additionally, a range of sports and fitness activities are available for expats to join, such as running clubs, soccer teams, ultimate frisbee and martial art classes. Expats in Xi'an can also meet people in their local area by attending live music shows, theatres, museums, festivals and other cultural events. Joining meetup groups, using online forums and apps are also good ways to meet people when living in Xi'an," wrote one member in Xi'an, China.

"It is important to ensure you are well prepared when moving to Xi'an. Depending on the climate, you should consider bringing appropriate seasonal clothing; if you plan on staying for a longer period of time it is wise to be mindful of culture-specific clothing. Cold weather items such as a hat and scarf should also be considered. Waterproof clothing, umbrellas and walking shoes are important for the frequent rainy days. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat will also help protect against the strong sunlight. Adaptors and converters are essential items for electronics and other appliances. Lastly, prove a copy of your passport and any other important documents to keep you safe," remarked one expat who made the move to Xi'an, China.

"Retiring in Xi'an can be a great destination, offering an interesting mix of modern amenities and traditional Chinese culture. Before retiring in Xi'an, it is important for expats to familiarize themselves with the local laws and regulations to ensure a smooth transition. Expats should also consider the language barrier when living in Xi'an, and may want to consider taking Chinese language classes before making the move. Expats should also be mindful of local customs in China and should take the time to understand cultural etiquette while they live in Xi'an. Expats should also consider the medical care options available to them, including any health insurance and access to medical facilities. Lastly, expats should familiarize themselves with the various accommodation options and types of transportation available when living in Xi'an," said one expat who made the move to Xi'an, China.

"Foreigners often have jobs in the tourism and hospitality industry in Xi'an, such as tour guides and hotel concierges. Other common jobs for foreigners in Xi'an include English teachers and translators. Foreigners also have opportunities to work in the IT field and for international companies located in the city. Additionally, some may find work in research or international relationships at local universities," remarked one expat who made the move to Xi'an, China.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Xi'an is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of attractions to explore. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The city is also well-connected, with good public transportation and plenty of international flights. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and there are plenty of expat-friendly bars, restaurants, and cafes to explore. Overall, Xi'an is a great place for expats and digital nomads to live and work," explained one expat living in Xi'an, China.

"Expatriates in Xi'an appreciate its rich history, vibrant culture and fascinating sites. The ancient city walls are a source of fascination to many and the restored Bell Tower is breathtaking. Expats also love the unique local cuisine of the region; from Xi'an's dense noodles to dumplings, there's something to suit everyone's taste. Additionally, exploring the vibrant markets and bazaars, festivals and special seasonal events is a great way to get to know the culture and traditions of Xi'an. People in Xi'an also have a love for haggling and bargaining, so expats can expect to find great deals as well as get to practice their bargaining skills," wrote a member in Xi'an, China.

"One of the most challenging aspects of the local culture for expats in Xi'an is navigating the language barrier. Even with some level of Chinese language proficiency, obtaining everyday services and ordering food can be incredibly difficult. Additionally, Xi'an's culture is quite conservative and many of the locals may not be exposed to foreign cultures. As such, expats may encounter difficulty communicating with locals or having their values and beliefs accepted within the community. Finally, given the size of the city, navigating its public transportation network without an understanding of the language can be overwhelming and stressful," remarked one expat who made the move to Xi'an, China.

"Xi'an is a large city in China, and like most large urban areas in the world, it is not immune to crime. In recent years, there have been reports of petty theft, burglary, muggings, and other minor offenses in the city. There have also been cases of more serious crimes, such as fraud and drug trafficking, but these appear to be relatively rare in comparison to other large cities in China. The Xi'an police department has stepped up its efforts to combat crime in the city and has been successful in keeping crime rates down overall," said one expat in Xi'an, China.

"In spite of numerous warnings and concern for my safety by my Chinese in laws, I actually feel safe here than I do at home in the US. Many people walk at night as families, couples and groups and individuals. I consider it risky behavior where I come from in USA. Madera and Fresno California and most any city in US as far as that goes. A lot of crime here? Not that I'm aware of, but you must use common sense. Be aware of your surroundings, be very cautious of overly friendly strangers even if fellow expats. having said that, I've seen ten yr. old girls, women with babies and singly walking down dimly lit streets late at night. Still lots of people walking around and some sidewalk shops still open late. I always take a sideways glance and look behind me as I pass anyone on the street late at night just to make sure I don't get blindsided and I never travel alone and always carry a walking cane as an emergency defensive device," said one expat who made the move to Xi'an.

"Xi'an is home to many different nationalities, religions, and languages, illustrating the diversity that it offers. The city has various historical sites, cultures, and languages all living side by side, ensuring that a wide variety of cultures and nationalities are represented. People in Xi'an are also very welcoming to visitors from all over the world, creating an atmosphere of acceptance and diversity," said one expat in Xi'an, China.

"I would strongly advise against it. While there are several amazing teachers who somehow manage to work at this school, it is under resourced and mismanaged by a dishonest administration. More than half of the staff has left two years in a row, several of whom have decided to break contracts just to get out of the school. As always, the kids are great, but there are other, better options available in Xi'an," explained one expat living in Xi'an, China.

"Xi'an is home to a number of international and bilingual schools. The top international school is Xi'an International School, Located in the south of Xi'an City, the school provides excellent and comprehensive international-style education in English. They offer a full range of subjects, including English and Maths, as well as vocational subjects such as Design, Art, IT and Science. The school also has a modern Science and Technology Centre which offers a large variety of high-tech and innovative projects. Xi'an Maple Leaf International School is an international school offering an international education to students from K-12, with courses taught in both Chinese and English. The school has a British curriculum and offers IGCSE, A Levels and the International Baccalaureate programme. The school also offers a range of extra-curricular activities such as sports and cultural activities. Xi'an World Foreign Language School is a bilingual school offering courses in both Chinese and English from nursery to Year 9. The school focusses on providing a multicultural education, with a curriculum that combines both British and Chinese elements. The school’s bilingual programme includes English, Mathematics, Music, History and Art. The school also has a variety of extra-curricular activities including sports, art and drama," said one parent with children at in Xi'an, China.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Xi'an appreciate the city's rich cultural heritage, with its ancient city walls, terracotta warriors, and vibrant night markets. They also enjoy the city's low cost of living, which allows them to stretch their budget further. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the language barrier and lack of English-speaking locals to be a challenge. Additionally, the air pollution can be a problem for those with respiratory issues," commented one expat who moved to Xi'an.

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Xi'an typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world, as well as locals, through language exchanges, meet-ups, and other social events. Expats often join local clubs and organizations, such as the Xi'an International Women's Club, which provides a great way to make friends and explore the city. Digital nomads often find a community of like-minded people through online forums and social media groups. Additionally, there are plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes in Xi'an where people can socialize and make new connections," wrote one expat living in Xi'an.

"Xi'an is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a variety of cultural activities and events. The city is home to a diverse population, so there are plenty of opportunities to meet people from all walks of life. The nightlife in Xi'an is particularly popular, with a range of bars and clubs offering a variety of music and entertainment. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as cycling, hiking, and exploring the city's many parks and gardens," mentioned an expat living in Xi'an.

"When looking for housing in Xi'an, it is important to research the area thoroughly and make sure it is safe and secure. It is also important to check the quality of the housing and make sure it is up to your standards. Additionally, it is important to negotiate the rent and make sure you are getting the best deal possible. Finally, it is important to make sure you have a good relationship with your landlord and that they are willing to help you with any issues that may arise," mentioned an expat living in Xi'an.

"Xi'an 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 technology and offer a range of services, from general check-ups to more complex treatments. Additionally, there are a number of pharmacies in the city that provide over-the-counter medications and other medical supplies," wrote one expat living in Xi'an.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Xi'an are generally considered to be affordable. The cost of medical services is lower than in many other countries, and the quality of care is generally good. Health insurance is also available at a reasonable cost, and it can help to cover the cost of medical services. In addition, the Chinese government provides subsidies for medical expenses, which can help to reduce the cost of healthcare," wrote one expat living in Xi'an.

"The cost of living in Xi'an is generally considered to be quite affordable. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Xi'an is typically around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is usually around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Xi'an typically costs around $10 USD per person," wrote one expat living in Xi'an.

"In order to visit Xi'an, visitors must obtain a visa from the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The visa application process typically requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed visa application form, a recent passport-style photograph, and proof of travel arrangements. Depending on the type of visa, additional documents may be required. To apply for residency in Xi'an, China, applicants must first obtain a residence permit from the local public security bureau. This process typically requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed application form, a recent passport-style photograph, proof of employment or study in China, and proof of financial resources. Depending on the type of residence permit, additional documents may be required," commented one expat living in Xi'an, China.

"Xi'an is an attractive destination for expats due to its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and low cost of living. The city is home to some of China's most iconic historical sites, such as the Terracotta Warriors and the City Wall, making it a great place to explore and learn about Chinese history. Additionally, Xi'an is known for its delicious cuisine, with a variety of regional specialties to try. The city also offers a wide range of entertainment options, from traditional Chinese opera to modern bars and clubs. Finally, the cost of living in Xi'an is much lower than in other major Chinese cities, making it an attractive option for expats looking to save money," mentioned an expat living in Xi'an.