4 Important Things To Look Out For When Relocating To Shanghai
Moving internationally will always be a significant challenge for most employees, but when your destination is the bustle and smog of Shanghai, things can seem especially intimidating. Not only is Shanghai one of the world’s most dynamic and varied cities, offering the gamut of metropolitan experiences; it also brings its own range of special challenges found nowhere else, whether stemming from the world-record population, strict government policies, or insular local custom. Such a challenge demands preparation, so here is a short guide on what you should do to prepare yourself for a successful Shanghai move:
Expect The Culture Shock
A universal if impossible to explain sentiment from experienced Shanghai expats to new arrivals here is: “things are just like that”. Local customs are very different from those common in the outside world, especially the more Western ideas. These differences come across most prominently in public etiquette – you’ll just have to get used to people spitting in the streets, honking car horns constantly, and refusing to queue “properly” – but is also present in the often-confusing bureaucracy underlying all official activities. Try to get used to things as fast as you can.
Be A Part Of The System
I’m not saying you need to join the public service, but you will make your life much easier if you make the minimum effort needed to satisfy China’s extensive government. This starts within 48 hours of settling in; take your ID and housing documents down to the police station and officially register your details. Remember to have your passport with you as close to 100% of the time as you can manage, or at least have a copy of it available in your phone or wallet. The government is not out to get you, but you will find life here harder if you aren’t playing by the rules.
Secure Your Internet Connection Before You Leave
Considering the state of the Great Firewall and the importance of internet access to most expatriates, you can add a VPN to the usual list of personal concerns you need to firm up before making the move. A Virtual Private Network (of which there are many, with plenty of literature available to help you choose) will allow you to sneak past the extensive restrictions placed on locals’ internet access – essential if you want to stay connected through social media while you’re here. Remember to test it thoroughly before you leave.
Be Smart About Pollution
One unfortunate reality of living in the world’s largest city is the rampant pollution, which is absolutely as bad as any foreign stereotype would have it. Air, water, noise and every other kind of pollution will impact your stay in Shanghai at various times, and you should be protective of your health if you want to avoid the worst effects. Don’t drink the tap water, don’t breathe the air outside more than you have to, don’t eat local produce without washing it (and by extension be extremely leery of street food). Be mindful and set up good habits when you arrive and you’ll be able to focus on the many positives of the city instead.
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