Job Discussion Forums

[jammish]

I always laugh when the Chinese tell me that China is 'very beautiful'. Sure, I have been to some very very attractive places. Dali is like what I imagine Kathmandu felt like in the 60s, Yangshuo and its environs are stunning. Have been to various other 'mountains' (hills) which have also been pleasant. Where I am now is a decent urban environment with the beach, a small mountain, a hilly park etc all nearby. Hainan Island has some v.good beaches

However, one thing China is not, is beautiful, as a whole. Chinese cities are undoubtedly the ugliest that I have seen - so lumpen and grey. Places like India have awful poverty, but also tons of colour and fascinating sites.

Despite all that ugliness, I am not that regretful about coming here. My wife and I have saved a lot of money (way more than I could have saved in Britain), we have invested in our first flat, and I have made some good friends. And of course I never would have met my wife if I hadn't come out here.

[cj750]

[Shan-Shan]

The quote from "The Great Gatsby" is on the mark.

Some months ago I read a short piece written by a Canadian reporter visiting Shanghai. The intrepid investigator spent an evening out with some members of the Canadian embassy staff as an aid to better familiarize himself with the night life of Shanghai. About two hours into their escapding, one of the embassy staff audibly sighed in the back of the taxi: "You know, Shanghai, China for that matter, is just a whorre. All lights, make-up and temptation, but really nothing in the end."

And to live in this exciting region of change and chance is so easy...


The ESL basement is open to everyone -- 18 years to 81 English (fluent or almost) speakers. While young, some played doctor, dentist or even astronaught among a myriad of real professions. In China, everyone can play English teacher in the magical ESL world. However, spending too long at it can be harmful after returning to the real world.

Interview back home:

"So, how are you qualified to teach English?"

- "I make people smile and laugh! I also have a highschool diploma which means I understand people world, too."


China is imaginary land for a lot of westerners. ESL is their means of survival. Think: all you have to do is speak in English in front of people, and smile. This ensures your tum tum is full. Simple life.

[vikdk]

[prof]

Compared to Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam and other other EFL markets, China doesn't suck at all.

It's a challenge at times. But unlike Japan you are usually allowed to actually 'teach' and live in a nice apartment. Unlike Korea, you can date a Chinese woman without worry of getting attacked. It goes on..

[baasbabelaas]

[prof]