Jay Speakman
@J Speaks
American expat in China
Forum
7 posts
Contacts
4
About me
American
Lives in Dalian
Speaks English
Registration: 20 March 2013
Activity
Dealing with homesickness in China by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Being an expat in China can turn out to be a wonderful human, social or professional adventure... with potential moments of nostalgia and homesickness along the way. What are your personal tips to prevent homesickness? How ...
WeChat. This app is fantastic-not only for life in China but I also use it to stay connected with friends and family back in the States. The voice or video calls are free and the quality is amazing. I also use it to share music and photos and videos ... Read More
Customer care in China by Priscilla
Hello everyone, The way customer services are handled can greatly affect your views on certain brands, products, companies or stores. As a consumer, it is important to get familiar with local practices regarding client assistance in China and try ...
Customer care in China is awful. And not just the way foreigners are treated. I have yet to see a customer greeted or thanked after a purchase. Even at Starbucks the staff does the bare minimum. The only store I have ever encountered that gives ... Read More
Adapting to the climate in China by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Adjusting to new climatic conditions is key in any expatriation process. Moving to China is no exception. What are the climate characteristics of China? How does the local weather impact your daily life, mood or ...
Two words: oppressive humidity. Pretty much anywhere in China you will experience heat and humidity that will make you crave AC. Some good advice is get your stuff done early, beat the traffic and go home to chill or hang out in Starbucks and get ... Read More
Five year rule, Henan by barvida
I arrived in china April 2011 and Zhengzhou from 2012. Each year I apply for a new RP I have now been told as I have been here five years I would have to leave China but could return after a period of six months then I was told I would have to leave ...
It is a rule rather than a law and as such schools can abide by it or choose to ignore it. Some schools use it as an easy excuse to get rid of teachers they dont want-they can just blame the"law" and say their hands are tied. Read More
Essentials to live in China by Christine
Hi, As an expat living in China, what would you advise the ones about to pack to bring along? What are the items you can easily find in China? On the other hand, what is less common or quite expensive? Share with us what you would recommend ...
Well, I totally overpacked when I first came to China 4 years ago. My advice: the less the better. China, at least in the major and mid level cities, is a modern and increasingly Westernized country. You can certainly find all the clothing, ... Read More
Living in Dalian by expat.com
You are an expatriate living in Dalian, or you used to work and live in Dalian. Share your expat experience! How would you describe life in Dalian? Has it been complicated to settle down, to find a job, and an accomodation? Is it ...
I had no idea it would be this freaking cold and windy-the cold I can handle but what's up with the wind? Dalian has been described as "The Hong Kong of the North". I don't get it. When does Spring arrive? July? Read More