Job Discussion Forums

whchocolate · Joined: 16 Dec 2003 Posts: 6

What is the opinion out there on a good location? I'm leaning towards either Shanghai or Taipei---- Which is the more favorable place to live and teach? And why?

Freaky Deaky · Joined: 13 Feb 2003 Posts: 309 Location: In Jen's kitchen

Oh I really wish you posted this a couple of weeks ago....

What fun we could have had.

Laughing

Shanghai: quite easy to get work if you're not soft with the school owners. Can be cheap but can be very expensive. Easy to find your way around. Air pollution up and up. One word of advice: freelance.

Dunno about Taipei. Went there a looong time ago.

davis · Posted: Wed Dec 17, 2003 4:16 pm Post subject:

I think you might be asking for a comparison of apples to oranges. I'm sure both have distinct flavors...can you be more specific in what it is you are seeking/expecting?

whchocolate · Joined: 16 Dec 2003 Posts: 6

Thanks for replying. As you know, making the big move comes with much anxiety. I'm a little concerned about the job market. Taipei seems a bit more stable with higher wages. In other words, if someone wants to work hard and can be flexible with the challenges ahead, he or she could do reasonably well with some risk. Whereas, Shanghai has opportunities, but from what I read is more random regarding jobs and pay.

I think most would agree that as the financial capital of Asia, Shanghai is the future. But for teaching English and learning Mandarin Taipei seems to offer the better overall package?

Freaky Deaky · Joined: 13 Feb 2003 Posts: 309 Location: In Jen's kitchen

So, Shanghai's the financial capital of Asia, is it? ok.

Minhang Oz · Joined: 23 Apr 2003 Posts: 610 Location: Shanghai,ex Guilin

If you want to teach Uni then maybe Shanghai's better. I haven't been to Taiwan, but most of the jobs advertised seem to involve teaching kids. But if that's what you like.........
Also, housing goes with the majority of jobs in China, as does utilities.
I'd half agree with Freaky's earlier advice re: freelancing. I'd look at a uni/college job, 14 hours a week, housing, near a subway, maybe only 5000 a month, but then top up your income with some other work if you want/need to.