Ever booked a hotel in China, rolled in with your suitcase all excited, only to hear that dreaded line: “Sorry, we’re not qualified to accept foreigners”? Yeah… me too. Awful. It’s been repeated so often it might as well be part of the hotel’s welcome script when a foreigner walks in. And the reason they give? “According to the law…” Well,...

China can open doors, but it doesn’t promise an easy path. A lot of people arrive with expectations of instant jobs and fast money. The truth is different, and the reality hits quickly if you don’t prepare. Expectation 1: “I’ll get a monthly job quickly.” Most foreigners discover that monthly jobs aren’t as common as they imagined. Only a small number...

Chinese Learning – Class 3: Ordering Food and Drinks Food is a big part of life in China. In this class, let’s learn how to order food and drinks. 🍜 Key Phrases 我要… (wǒ yào…) – I want… 请给我菜单 (qǐng gěi wǒ càidān) – Please give me the menu 一杯水 (yì bēi shuǐ) – A glass of water 一碗米饭 (yì wǎn mǐfàn)...

Today we're continuing our journey exploring rooftops and terraces in Beijing, and after looking at ones around Sanlitun, the hutongs, and the Liangma River, we're now turning our attention to the CBD. Xun Terrace The newest place on this list, Xun Terrace only opened up earlier this year. Hidden away on the 25th floor of an office building near the Kerry Centre, here you...

Shanghai is one of China’s most exciting food cities — a melting pot where East meets West and local flavors blend with international flair. Whether you’re new in town or a longtime resident, here are some of the best places and dishes to explore when hunger hits. 🥢 Must-Try Local Dishes Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings) – Steamed buns filled with hot broth and pork,...