Posted by
ali shah
14 yrs ago
For all those who have lived in both places.
I applied and got a job teaching English in Shanghai but have never been to the city and was hoping for some views before I accept/decline the post.
I currently teach in HK and love it here (for the most part) but it did take a while to settle here also...so am now wondering if it will be the same in Shanghai.
What can i expect when comparing it to HK and can i expect the same living standard over there? Am not a high earner in HK and wont be in Shanghai either so not fussed about budgeting but dont want to live in a dive either.
What are the best areas to live in and which r the ones to avoid etc.
Any useful comments/tips appreciated!
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Ed
14 yrs ago
I've lived in both... I much prefer HK... it's by far a more cosmopolitan city... and I find that it has a lot more options as far as things to do (hiking, beaches etc...)
That said, Shanghai was a great experience.
The big difference you will find is that you can get decent housing for a reasonable amount of money there. Traffic and taxis can be a hassle so I suggest you live in close proximity to where you work...
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lived 6 years in SH, moved to HK once kids started walking. SH is fun for single or DINKS but otherwise stay in HK! Also I would NEVER accept a post without having seen the city.
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Thanks for the responses.
Am surprised both of u opted for HK as have been hearing good things re SH but good to know others opinions.
Agree that its a good idea to view a city before moving but to be honest came to HK on a whim and that didnt turn out so bad:)
Also, if i really hated SH then would simply complete notice period and move again. Lucky that I can do that as at moment am single again and no kids...
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rwbhk
14 yrs ago
If you go to SH make sure you have good medical insurance & know where the best clinics are - the public system is way below HK's standard. I agree the city suits singles much better than families & live close to your work - travel can be a real drag as the city is huge.
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Coming to HK on a whim is a lot easier and more comfortable than going to Shanghai on a whim. I've never met or even heard of anyone who can't deal with HK but I know plenty that can't do Shanghai. When push comes to shove, Shanghai is China, HK is not, it's a different kettle of fish altogether. From the important stuff like medical care and reliable police, to the little things like fresh milk and real bread. I love Shanghai, dont get me wrong. But as with everywhere else in China, you either love it (with a honeymoon period lasting 6-12 months), or absolutely hate it. My advice is go there for a while first. Also be careful with your English teaching contract, if it's a Chinese school then it's fairly common for them to do something dodgy like suddenly drop your wages or add some previously unknown 'tax' on your wages. That's why you shouldn't just up and go based on something like that. Go there first, see if you like the place, and know your options so you don't get ripped off.
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Great place, for a holiday. But their pollution makes HK look like the Swiss Alps. I love the Chinese culture in HK, but its a bit more 'raw' in Shanghai. Living with phlegm hoicking medieval peasants is how a friend living there described it, he was desperate to get back to HK. Definitely go and visit first, I don't think you'll be overly impressed with the places you can afford to live on a meager budget. As someone else said, don't expect your contract to be honored either, the English schools are famous houses of thieves. I also wouldn't ever catch a bus or train anywhere in the mainland, but that's just me.
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The principal is your PAL
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