Hey there, fellow China enthusiasts! It’s your girl, back with another deep dive into the Middle Kingdom.
Today, we’re strapping on our metaphorical walking shoes and exploring the ins and outs of Beijing life.
As you guys know, I’ve been bouncing around China for years now, and Beijing holds a special place in my heart – and sometimes, tests my patience!
Is Beijing a good place to live?
That’s a question I get asked all the time. Well, settle in, grab a cup of Chinese tea (or maybe some baijiu if you’re feeling adventurous!), and let’s unpack what it’s really like to live in this vibrant, historical, and sometimes challenging city. From the delectable street food to the, ahem, unique cultural quirks, we’re covering it all. Before you even think about it, here is some info on how long does it take to get to China, as well as how to pack for a trip to Beijing.
The Allure of the Capital: What Makes Beijing Life So Special?
A Cultural Feast
Beijing is, without a doubt, a treasure trove of Chinese culture. You can visit tourist places in Beijing, such as the Forbidden City, the Templo del Cielo, the Summer Palace… the list goes on and on! You could spend years exploring these historical sites and still not see everything. Even after all these years, I still find myself in awe of the sheer historical weight of this city. The entrance to the Forbidden City is something you won’t forget!
The Culinary Scene is Unbeatable
Forget sticking to just one province – in Beijing, you can sample all of China’s diverse regional cuisines without ever leaving the city. From the most high-end Peking duck restaurants to hole-in-the-wall dumpling shops, your taste buds will never be bored. And the best part? Eating out can be incredibly affordable, especially if you embrace the local street food scene. I’m talking jianbing for breakfast, chuanr (grilled skewers) for a late-night snack… oh man, I’m getting hungry just thinking about it! Don’t forget to try some Beijing barbecue! Also, you will need to know what to serve with Peking duck.
Easy to Get Around
Public transportation is one of Beijing’s strong suits. The subway system is extensive, efficient, and cheap. Plus, buses reach almost every corner of the city, and taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive (just make sure your driver uses the meter and gives you a fapiao, or receipt). While some might prefer a company car with a driver, especially in the beginning, the subway is a great way to navigate the city.
Meeting Amazing People
Beijing life attracts a diverse mix of people from all over the world. I’ve made some incredible friends here, both Chinese and expats. It’s a great place to connect with like-minded people and expand your horizons. I’ve found that InterNations and other similar groups can be super helpful in connecting with the expat community, and joining in on events is a great way to meet new people. Looking for connections? Try finding a WeChat group in China.
Safety First
I’ve always felt remarkably safe walking around Beijing, even alone at night. Of course, common sense and caution are always important, but compared to many other major cities, Beijing is relatively safe.
Affordable Living (Sometimes)
While imported goods can be pricey, the overall cost of living in Beijing is generally lower than in many Western countries. Groceries (especially local produce), transportation, and eating out at local restaurants are all quite affordable.
The Not-So-Glamorous Side of Beijing Life: Challenges and Considerations
Air Pollution (The Big One)
Let’s address the elephant in the room – or rather, the smog in the air. Air pollution can be a serious concern in Beijing, especially during the winter months. While the government has made efforts to improve air quality, it can still be a factor that impacts your health and quality of life. Investing in a good air purifier for your home and wearing a mask on heavily polluted days is pretty much essential. You can check the daily air quality with the US Embassy’s data to stay informed.
The Great Firewall
Internet access in China can be… frustrating, to say the least. Many popular websites and apps are blocked, and even accessing sites that are available can be slow. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a must-have for any expat. Don’t forget to get a sim card or figure out China wireless internet before arriving!
Cultural Differences
Navigating cultural differences is part of the adventure of living abroad, but some can be… interesting. Things like smoking in public places, a lack of personal space, and certain social customs can take some getting used to.
Being a Laowai
As a foreigner (or laowai, as the locals call us), you’re likely to stand out, especially if you have features that are less common in China. While most people are friendly and curious, the constant staring and occasional pointing can get a little tiring after a while.
The Sheer Size of the City
Beijing is huge. Getting from one side of the city to the other can easily take an hour or more, so it’s important to choose your neighborhood wisely based on where you work and what you like to do.
Crowds, Crowds, Crowds
Beijing is a densely populated city, and you’ll encounter crowds pretty much everywhere you go, especially during rush hour on the subway. It’s just something you have to accept as part of Beijing life.
Making it Work: Tips for Thriving in Beijing
Despite its challenges, Beijing life can be incredibly rewarding. Here are a few tips for making the most of your experience.
- Learn Some Mandarin: While it’s possible to get by in Beijing with just English, learning even basic Mandarin will make your life so much easier. It will help you navigate daily life, connect with locals, and deepen your understanding of the culture. And answering the question – Is Beijing English friendly? Yes to a degree, but being able to speak the language will take you further. Plus you can learn days of the week in China.
- Embrace the Culture: Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try new things. Explore the hutong peking road (traditional alleyways), visit local markets like the pearl market Beijing or xiushui market, and learn about Chinese history and traditions. Before you go to the pearl market Beijing in Chinese, brush up on your numbers!
- Find Your Community: Connecting with other expats and locals can help you feel more at home in Beijing. Join social groups, take classes, or volunteer to meet new people.
- Be Patient and Flexible: Things don’t always go as planned in China, so it’s important to be patient, flexible, and adaptable. Learn to go with the flow and embrace the unexpected.
- Take Care of Yourself: Living in a big, polluted city can take a toll on your health, so it’s important to prioritize self-care. Get enough sleep, eat healthy foods, exercise regularly, and take breaks from the city when you can.
The Cost of Beijing Life: Can an American Live Comfortably in China?
The cost of Beijing life can vary depending on your lifestyle and spending habits. Rent in expat-friendly areas can be quite high, but overall, the cost of living is generally lower than in major American cities. Yes, an American can live comfortably in China. Here’s a breakdown:
| Accommodation | Expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000+ per month for a decent apartment in a popular expat area. |
|---|---|
| Food | Eating out at local restaurants is very affordable, but imported groceries can be expensive. Budget around $300-$600 per month for food, depending on your preferences. You may also want to try to buy Peking duck online. |
| Transportation | Public transportation is cheap, but taxis and ride-sharing services can add up. |
| Entertainment | Entertainment costs will depend on your lifestyle, but you can find plenty of affordable options, such as visiting parks, museums, and temples. |
| Schooling | If you have children, international school fees can be very expensive, ranging from $20,000 to $40,000+ per year per child. |
Beijing vs. Shanghai: Which City is Right for You?
Ah, the age-old question! Beijing and Shanghai are often compared as the two major expat hubs in China. So, which one is better? It really depends on your personal preferences.
- Choose Beijing if: You’re interested in Chinese history and culture, you prefer a more traditional atmosphere, and you don’t mind a bit of grit and pollution. Thinking of visiting the Tiananmen Square? Be sure to get Tiananmen Square tickets!
- Choose Shanghai if: You prefer a more modern and international environment, you’re focused on career opportunities in business and finance, and you want a wider range of Western amenities.
Final Thoughts: Is Beijing Life For You?
So, is Beijing life right for you? It’s a tough question, and the answer will depend on your individual circumstances and preferences. Beijing is a city of extremes, with both incredible opportunities and significant challenges. If you’re open-minded, adventurous, and willing to embrace the unexpected, then Beijing can be an amazing place to live.
Ultimately, deciding whether to embrace Beijing life is a personal choice. Weigh the pros and cons, do your research, and trust your gut. And if you do decide to take the plunge, get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Also, remember to find best souvenirs from China when you leave.
What are your thoughts on Beijing? Have you lived there, or are you considering a move? Let me know in the comments below! And as always, thanks for reading! Zaijian!
