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New Kid on the Block- what should I know?

 
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ExPat1234



Joined: 18 Jul 2006
Posts: 4

PostPosted: Wed Jul 19, 2006 6:32 am    Post subject: New Kid on the Block- what should I know? Reply with quote

So, I'm arriving in about 1 week and I wanted to know what are the issues that I'll potentially face seeing how I am an Asian (that does not know Mandirin) but am an American citizen. What's the social scene like? Any good running places around the city/Tian Mu? Should I be worried about little things like where to get groceries, etc.? Any general advice on how to survive?

I wish I had more specific questions, but I'm sure I'll come up with some soon enough.
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BigWally



Joined: 07 Jun 2006
Posts: 765
Location: Ottawa, CAN (prev. Kaohsiung "the Dirty South")

PostPosted: Wed Jul 19, 2006 3:43 pm    Post subject: Re: New Kid on the Block- what should I know? Reply with quote

ExPat1234 wrote:
Any general advice on how to survive?


I know where you're coming from, because it seems intimidating to be moving to a new country. I'm only 3 1/2 weeks away from moving myself. My best advice is to start reading forums here, and on other sites like www.forumosa.com . I've found so much valuable information on here, and answers to questions I never would have thought of. If you're looking for something specific, or have a specific question, try the search function too, I've found that quite helpful!

cheers Surprised
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ExPat1234



Joined: 18 Jul 2006
Posts: 4

PostPosted: Wed Jul 19, 2006 6:19 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

I tried that website, but there's so much crap there just to find regular information. I tried a search like running in Taipei and found way too many off-topic threads and remarks. Plus, I couldn't find my answer there... The Dating section there is just like any other dating section on the web...

I like Dave's better for information- people that actually stick with the topic and tackle social issues.

So, here's my specific questions:

1) Where do expats go to meet people (for dating, hanging out, etc.)?
2) I've been reading a lot about how Taiwanese treat foreigners... problem is that I don't look like a foreigner but grew up in US. What problems will I face?
3) That running question again- where are good places to run in Taipei/Tien Mu?
4) Five things the US has that Taiwan doesn't have (perhaps I can better prepare myself mentally this way).

Man, I'm such a Green horn- never lived abroad before.
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Aristotle



Joined: 16 Jan 2003
Posts: 1388
Location: Taiwan

PostPosted: Wed Jul 26, 2006 5:38 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

For teaching English,

Please read this,10 Steps to Success on Taiwan!

For socializing!

For things Taiwan has that the US doesn't.
Beautiful, Chinese speaking, friendly young ladies that want to date you.
What else could you want?
Good luck!
A.
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twinkletoes



Joined: 05 Jan 2005
Posts: 76

PostPosted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 2:04 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

You will meet and interact other ABC's and let them guide you. Sure, you face some issues us caucasoids don't, but sometimes I'm really envious of ABC's - You can be relatively anonymous, and you can avoid foreigners when you wish to. People won't stare at you and all.

Also, one of my students told me that the women here all want to marry ABC's. So you'll probably find youself a smashing success with the local ladies.

Good luck.
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Pop Fly



Joined: 15 Feb 2003
Posts: 429

PostPosted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 5:21 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

Aristotle wrote:
For teaching English,

Please read this,10 Steps to Success on Taiwan!

For socializing!

For things Taiwan has that the US doesn't.
Beautiful, Chinese speaking, friendly young ladies that want to date you.
What else could you want?
Good luck!
A.


Ignore the Aristotle Bot. Many reasons why. Just do a quick search of my posts containing its name and you'll see more than enough evidence of its crackpoticy.
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ExPat1234



Joined: 18 Jul 2006
Posts: 4

PostPosted: Sat Aug 05, 2006 8:28 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

twinkletoes wrote:
You will meet and interact other ABC's and let them guide you. Sure, you face some issues us caucasoids don't, but sometimes I'm really envious of ABC's - You can be relatively anonymous, and you can avoid foreigners when you wish to. People won't stare at you and all.

Also, one of my students told me that the women here all want to marry ABC's. So you'll probably find youself a smashing success with the local ladies.

Good luck.


I think it's hilarious how people are so concerned with the ladies when, right now, I'm just trying to make ends meat. I figured, relationships come in time... hopefully, the language barrier will not interfere with casual conversation.

Us ABCs (or anybody in similar situations) are sort of lucky... but a lot of times, people just expect you to know the language and give you a funny look when you tell them that you don't understand Mandirin. Sometimes, they even make fun of you to their friends (you can always tell when someone is doing that).

Thanks for the tips guys. Keep them coming- they really do help.
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