Amanda Roberts's Blog, page 8

Guest Post: Moving All Your Belongings to China from America

If you’re planning an upcoming move to China from the U.S., you’ll likely be importing a good portion of your household items (including your car). You may not know where to start, and what regulations, forms, taxes and duties are involved. Educating yourself on the process is important, as Chinese customs is quite strict and you’ll need to have all of your paperwork in place. If you fail to do so – high penalties, fines, added fees and even demurrage may be levied.

Documentation and Paperwork.

Acquiring an Import Permit.

Having the appropriate paperwork submitted to the proper authorities is vital, and you aren’t even allowed to import your items until you obtain an Import Permit. In order to do so, you’ll first have to apply for a visa at the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C. This visa will allow you to enter China (not as a tourist), and once inside the country you can apply for the required Health Certificate. Once you receive your Health Certificate, you then need to apply for a Work Permit from the Department of Labor in China.

With your Work Permit in hand, you must then apply for a Resident Permit from the Foreign Affairs Office. Once your Resident Permit is approved, you can then submit your application for an Import Permit to the customs office. Attempting to bring in your household goods without this Import Permit is not allowed, and will result in your shipment being impounded by customs (1).

Additional Regulations.

Chinese customs requires that you are already present when your shipment arrives, and you’re only allowed a maximum of one ocean and one air shipment per Residence Permit. Be aware that air shipment duty rates are usually 30% more than for ocean shipments – so a single ocean shipment is the most economical option. Also, if your Work and Residence Permits are shorter than 12 months in duration, you won’t receive any duty exemptions on your shipments (2).

In addition, you must provide packing and inventory lists – and it’s vital that these documents match. Otherwise, your shipment will take significantly more time to clear customs, and you may be hit with considerable fees. It’s even possible that your shipment will be denied entry altogether, at which point it will either be returned to the origin country or even destroyed. Therefore, take extra care to ensure that your packing and inventory lists match and are fully in order. Ask an international mover if they can provide you with templates for these lists, as it will save you some time.

This is not an exhaustive list of the various forms and documents you’ll need, which can be found here.

Duties and Taxes.

Import Exemption Doesn’t Cover All Items.

While you’ll receive some relief from import duties when you have a Residence and Work Permit good for more than one year, some items will still incur duties. These include major electronics such as televisions, computers, air conditioners, refrigerators, washers and dryers, printers, stereos and so on.

All of your personal furniture is also subject to import duty, and this includes pianos. Customs requires that items which are subject to duties or have restrictions on quantity be clearly marked on your inventory list. These items must also be packed last, so they can be readily inspected by customs officials without difficulty (4).

Keep in mind that multiples of large appliances like tv’s or refrigerators, may lead the customs official to decide that your shipment contains commercial goods. You should avoid this at all costs, as this designation could make clearing customs quite challenging (5).

Duty Rates.

Though a portion of your shipment may be duty-free (items like clothing and kitchenware fall into this category), the items covered above aren’t exempted. In addition, alcohol, tobacco, motorcycles and motor vehicles, and even your personal effects are all subject to import taxes and duties.

You can expect to pay between 10 – 30% of the assessed value (determined by customs), to cover all of the import tax and duties. One source has this figure at approximately 17% for motor vehicles, though the exact percentage is subject to change (7). In addition, you’ll also need these documents when planning to import your personal motor vehicle.

As you can see, the process of moving all of your belongings to China from America is quite elaborate. Due to the complexities involved and the potentially large cost for any errors, it is highly recommended that you employ a qualified international moving company. They’ll be knowledgeable about the intricacies that come with importing shipments into China (including your personal vehicle), and can be an invaluable resource for you to rely upon.

Either way, when you take care to inform yourself about all of the steps necessary to bring your household with you – your move into China can be completed in a streamlined and problem-free manner.

The post Guest Post: Moving All Your Belongings to China from America appeared first on Two Americans in China.

Guest Post: Moving All Your Belonging to China from America

If you’re planning an upcoming move to China from the U.S., you’ll likely be importing a good portion of your household items (including your car). You may not know where to start, and what regulations, forms, taxes and duties are involved. Educating yourself on the process is important, as Chinese customs is quite strict and you’ll need to have all of your paperwork in place. If you fail to do so – high penalties, fines, added fees and even demurrage may be levied.

Documentation and Paperwork.

Acquiring an Import Permit.

Having the appropriate paperwork submitted to the proper authorities is vital, and you aren’t even allowed to import your items until you obtain an Import Permit. In order to do so, you’ll first have to apply for a visa at the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C. This visa will allow you to enter China (not as a tourist), and once inside the country you can apply for the required Health Certificate. Once you receive your Health Certificate, you then need to apply for a Work Permit from the Department of Labor in China.

With your Work Permit in hand, you must then apply for a Resident Permit from the Foreign Affairs Office. Once your Resident Permit is approved, you can then submit your application for an Import Permit to the customs office. Attempting to bring in your household goods without this Import Permit is not allowed, and will result in your shipment being impounded by customs (1).

Additional Regulations.

Chinese customs requires that you are already present when your shipment arrives, and you’re only allowed a maximum of one ocean and one air shipment per Residence Permit. Be aware that air shipment duty rates are usually 30% more than for ocean shipments – so a single ocean shipment is the most economical option. Also, if your Work and Residence Permits are shorter than 12 months in duration, you won’t receive any duty exemptions on your shipments (2).

In addition, you must provide packing and inventory lists – and it’s vital that these documents match. Otherwise, your shipment will take significantly more time to clear customs, and you may be hit with considerable fees. It’s even possible that your shipment will be denied entry altogether, at which point it will either be returned to the origin country or even destroyed. Therefore, take extra care to ensure that your packing and inventory lists match and are fully in order. Ask an international mover if they can provide you with templates for these lists, as it will save you some time.

This is not an exhaustive list of the various forms and documents you’ll need, which can be found here.

Duties and Taxes.

Import Exemption Doesn’t Cover All Items.

While you’ll receive some relief from import duties when you have a Residence and Work Permit good for more than one year, some items will still incur duties. These include major electronics such as televisions, computers, air conditioners, refrigerators, washers and dryers, printers, stereos and so on.

All of your personal furniture is also subject to import duty, and this includes pianos. Customs requires that items which are subject to duties or have restrictions on quantity be clearly marked on your inventory list. These items must also be packed last, so they can be readily inspected by customs officials without difficulty (4).

Keep in mind that multiples of large appliances like tv’s or refrigerators, may lead the customs official to decide that your shipment contains commercial goods. You should avoid this at all costs, as this designation could make clearing customs quite challenging (5).

Duty Rates.

Though a portion of your shipment may be duty-free (items like clothing and kitchenware fall into this category), the items covered above aren’t exempted. In addition, alcohol, tobacco, motorcycles and motor vehicles, and even your personal effects are all subject to import taxes and duties.

You can expect to pay between 10 – 30% of the assessed value (determined by customs), to cover all of the import tax and duties. One source has this figure at approximately 17% for motor vehicles, though the exact percentage is subject to change (7). In addition, you’ll also need these documents when planning to import your personal motor vehicle.

As you can see, the process of moving all of your belongings to China from America is quite elaborate. Due to the complexities involved and the potentially large cost for any errors, it is highly recommended that you employ a qualified international moving company. They’ll be knowledgeable about the intricacies that come with importing shipments into China (including your personal vehicle), and can be an invaluable resource for you to rely upon.

Either way, when you take care to inform yourself about all of the steps necessary to bring your household with you – your move into China can be completed in a streamlined and problem-free manner.

The post Guest Post: Moving All Your Belonging to China from America appeared first on Two Americans in China.

Guest Post: 7 Chinese engineering marvels you haven’t heard about

China is a home to 1.3 billion people. It is rich in resources and has become one of the leading world powers in defense and energy sector. I would be lying to everyone if I state that Chinese people just made themselves great in this century. The whole world knows this nation is destined to rule the globe one day. Chinese are known to do magic with their work. We have a present example of The Great Wall of China to back our statement. Over the Centuries, China has not only made The Great Wall, but also some other Wonders of the World; such as The Forbidden City, Terra Cotta Army, Shi Bao Zhai Temple and more. Today, China is in continuous development and if you visit this Land of Wonders, you may come across many other Modern Wonders of the World and other Engineering Marvels you haven’t heard about yet.

A structural Wonder is first developed and designed as a building with an ambition to make it special. Chinese engineers and architects are ruthless and determined to the core. Designing and building an engineering marvel is a norm for them. Tourists travel to China from all over the world, to see Chinese engineering geniuses and wonders. If you want to visit China in the near future, you can book your cheap airline tickets with UK Travel Agency flights. Although you may know many of their modern man-made wonders, you may not have heard about the following 7 Chinese Engineering Marvels. So read this article and know more about them. We recommend you to include them on your to-do list in China.

Three Gorges Dam

When we talk about Dams, the first thing comes to our mind is a huge water reservoir which we have seen in our local country and admired. But when we talk about Three Gorges Dam, nothing even comes near when we compare it with any other Dam, especially not the one you have seen; as it is in a league of its own. The Three Gorges Dam is the world’s biggest hydroelectric dam. It is also the world’s biggest concrete structure and the total cost to build it was 56 billion USD. It became fully functional in 2012 and is capable of producing 22 gigawatts of power.

You can go there when you visit China and we guarantee you will be left in the state of awe. It is located in Yangtze region and is one of the best spots for cruise ships. We recommend you to take a Yangtze River cruise to see the full might of this dam.

Bullet Train

We have bullet trains in France, Spain, Japan and other countries but none of them compares with Chinese Grandest Bullet Train System. It is considered a modern engineering wonder of China and is about 22,000 kilometers long. This state of the art bullet train is also one of the best and cheapest way to travel in China. It is convenient and comfortable and can get you anywhere in China in a jiffy.

The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge

The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge is the world’s longest bridge. China has some longest bridges in the world and they are all high speed. This bridge is 164.8 Km long and it was completed in 2011. If you plan to visit China, you should also plan to cross this bridge once.

This bridge is a part of Beijing-Shanghai high-speed railway, and it bisects low lying terrain in the Yangtze Delta, river, lakes, and rice paddies.

The Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge

The Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge is the longest glass bridge in the world. It is also the highest glass bridge ever made. This bridge is an example of creativity and passion towards inventiveness. Don’t just plan to visit it, walk over it for an extra adrenaline rush.

The Shanghai Tower

Speaking of Chinese Engineering Marvels, one cannot ignore the second highest standing man-made structure in the world. The Shanghai Tower is a 632-meter, 128 stories mega-tall Skyscraper. It also offers the view of changing colors at the horizon from its highest observation deck. This building is equipped with the fastest elevators in the world and is one of the modern wonders of the world. Every aspect of this building is a record of some sort, so don’t miss the chance to visit it.

Qinghai-Tibet Railway

Apart from state of the art bullet trains, China is also home to the world’s highest train service which also includes the highest train station and highest railway tunnel. It is one of the greatest engineering feats in modern world’s history.

With the completion of this railway track, China has made it easy for people to travel to Tibet, which was not easy to access before.

China National Highway 314 – Karakorum Highway

China National Highway 314, or more commonly known as Karakorum highway, is one of the highest paved roads. This road connects China to Pakistan through the highland and mountains of Xinjiang Uyghur region; and is of very much strategic importance. This highway was made with amazing Chinese engineering and labor hard work. There are many tunnels and one can enjoy a comfortable car or a bus ride through it into the mountains. You can see amazing mountains that are 7000 meters high, along with Yellow River and other beautiful lakes.

My name is Kazim Raza and I am a professional blogger & work as a digital marketing expert at flights to Copenhagen travel agency. If want to work with smart minded people and their payroll doesn’t matter for them then you are capable to afford me. I love to do branding because I’ve nine-year-old affair with it.

My aim is to work with all those people who want to do business with their business names only. They have vision and they are mature enough to play smartly.

If you can do work with that mentality then dare to contact me I would convert your coffee into a mindset which you should have for your business to bring it on next level.

 

The post Guest Post: 7 Chinese engineering marvels you haven’t heard about appeared first on Two Americans in China.

Guest Post: Tips to Stay Productive While Traveling

Working as a digital nomad has become increasingly popular over the last few years, and choosing to become one has its advantages and drawbacks. Being able to travel and make money at the same time is a very appealing idea. If you think you’re disciplined enough to balance out business and pleasure on your trips, then you should definitely think about working while traveling. However, there are numerous things that could go wrong on such journeys, and here are a few tips on how to avoid them.

Always plan ahead

First of all, it’s absolutely crucial to have a detailed plan on how you’re going to organize your typical day. You’ll have to establish some routines. If you don’t do that, you might end up not being focused enough while working, while on the other hand not enjoying your free time because you know you’re behind schedule with your work.

Your plan will, naturally, depend on the type of job you do, amount of work you have, as well as what you intend to do on your trips and your general habits and routines. It’s vital that you don’t think about work during your free time and vice versa – if you don’t separate the two, you’ll get yourself into trouble and you’re not going to enjoy your stay. Also, have in mind you’ll always need a few days to adapt to a new place, especially if there’s jet lag. So try to design your plan in such a way that you don’t have to work too much in the first few days and that you don’t stay at new places for less than a week.

Break your tasks down

It’s often hard to focus when you know there’s a huge project ahead of you and you haven’t even started working on it. Just the thought of the amount of effort you need to put in might be discouraging, especially if you’re on the road. Therefore, it’s important to take baby steps. Break big tasks into little bits, and think only about completing the next stage. It will be easier for you to concentrate and start working, and the sense of accomplishment after every finished stage will continually push you through your next task.

Work space

One of the things you should seriously think about if you choose to work while traveling is your work space. Ideally, your hotel room or the flat you’re renting can serve as one. But if you’re the type of person that gets distracted a lot when working from home, then working from a hotel room might be even more difficult. In addition to your coy bed and cable TV, there’s a whole world of things out there to discover at this new place and it’s hard to resist to just go out and play. That’s why you should consider other options as well.

In places where there are a lot of freelancers and digital nomads, such as Australia for instance, it’s not difficult to find an inexpensive co-working space or office for rent. Serviced offices are also a reasonable option, because they are more affordable and available immediately or on a short notice. You can find them in buildings run by facility management companies that will provide you with support staff as well. It’s easy to contact them online, so if you’re traveling around places like Australia, renting a serviced office in Melbourne or Sydney is simple and quick.

Charging your devices

Sometimes, you won’t be able to plan everything ahead and you’ll have to carry your laptop around while sightseeing or exploring the city, because you have a scheduled conference call or some work that can’t be postponed. Get used to always having your chargers with you and get an external charger in case there’s no power supply. It’s necessary to carry these with you at all times, since for you they’re just as important as your wallet or documents. Getting a solar-powered charger is not a bad idea as well. It’s easy to use the lack of power supply as an excuse and you simply mustn’t do that.

Prepare for offline situations

There will be times on your trip when there’s simply no internet whatsoever, especially while on the plane or on the bus. A solution to this problem is to download everything you might need in advance, so that you can do some work while being offline as well. Copy-paste important emails, download your tasks, projects and even articles about your industry that you wanted to check out. If you planned ahead to dedicate a few hours to your work, it’s important not to waste them, no matter whether you’re online or not.

Everything said above can be summed up into four words – discipline is key. You’ll be constantly tempted to break established routines but avoid that at all costs. Once you break the deal you made with yourself for the first time, there’s a good chance it’ll be happening again and again. Being spontaneous and impulsive on your trip is appealing, but if this is how you’re going to do it, then you should just simply take some time off and travel around. If you want to work and travel at the same time, then you won’t be able to think and act like an ordinary tourist, and the sooner you realize that, the better.

Lauren Wiseman is marketing specialist, contributor to bizzmarkblog.com  and entrepreneur. She helps clients grow their personal and professional brands in a fast-changing and demanding market, strongly believing in a holistic approach to business.

The post Guest Post: Tips to Stay Productive While Traveling appeared first on Two Americans in China.

Super Advanced Sneak Peek!

Hi everyone,

I haven’t made a post in a while, and as usual, that means I’ve been deep into a new writing project. Actually, I’m working on several writing projects. I am hoping to have another Qing Dynasty Mystery out soon and finish the Touching Time series this year.

But for those of you who are fans of Threads of Silk, I am planning to release a new stand-alone historical fiction book next year! Woohoo! I don’t want to reveal too much about it right now, but I can tell you that a lot of the setting is inspired by the aesthetics of where we live in Yangshuo.

The mountains, traditional architecture, and many minority groups who live in the area have given me a new view of the country we have called home for almost eight years. The Chinese countryside is a world away from Shenzhen, where we lived for the last four years. Country living has taken some getting used to, but we really love it here. We just never get tired of that view!

As a tribute to Yangshuo, the book cover for this super-secret book will feature original photos by my cover artist, Cherith Vaughan. She recently came to Yangshuo and took a lot of gorgeous pictures she is hoping to find some way to incorporate into her vision that best represents the book.

I can’t share her pictures, but here are a few I took that day, and even my amateur images look pretty amazing. If you ever wonder why we decided to pack up and move to the middle of nowhere, just refer back to this post.

 

The post Super Advanced Sneak Peek! appeared first on Two Americans in China.

Join the #SpringIsInTheAir Blog Hop for #Prizes #Giveaways #Romance #Fiction and #Fun

Welcome to the Spring is in the Air Blog Hop

We have a great bunch of authors in this hop, and one amazing prize which will be mailed out to one lucky winner! 





Join me and the authors listed below to win a Kindle Fire!

HOW CAN YOU WIN?
 

Visit each author blog in the hop and comment on their blog hop post. You’ll receive one entry for every comment you leave. But, there’s a tiny catch. Instead of a quick drive-by “thanks for the chance” comment, we’d like to really hear from the readers and get to know their likes and dislikes. So, in order for your entry to count, you have to say one thing you like or don’t like about the author’s blog, book, or any other book related topic that directly relates to that author. Be honest, but also try to be kind. Authors genuinely appreciate what their readers have to say, and we want to hear from YOU!   

TIPS: 

You’ll increase your chances of winning by the more blogs you visit and comment on. So, don’t hesitate to visit them all! 
Please remember to leave an email address with your comment in case you are the lucky winner! 

Amazon | Barnes&Noble | iBooks | Kobo | Google

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Nicole Morgan https://nicolemorganauthor.blogspot.com/
Krista Ames http://apassionforromance.blogspot.com
Sensuous Promos http://sensuouspromos.blogspot.com
The Book Pub https://thebookpub.blogspot.com/
Viviana MacKade   http://www.viviana-mackade.blog
D. Anne Paris  http://www.danneparis.com/winchester-mansion  
Amanda Roberts  http://www.twoamericansinchina.com
Leigh Anderson  http://leighandersonromance.com/blog
Zoey Gong  http://zoeygong.com/blog/
Nic’s Book Nook https://nicsbooknook.blogspot.com/
Taylor Brooks https://authortaylorbrooks.blogspot.com/
Seeing Stars https://nickiday.blogspot.com/

 
 

                         Happy Hopping…. 

The post Join the #SpringIsInTheAir Blog Hop for #Prizes #Giveaways #Romance #Fiction and #Fun appeared first on Two Americans in China.

Guest Post – The 5 Best “Secret” Beaches in China

China. It’s a country rich in humanity, culture, and natural wonders. When we think of China, so many incredible images come to mind, but beaches aren’t usually among them.

China, though, has splendid beaches for enjoyment. The country has about 18,000 kilometers (over 11,000 miles) of coastline. While not every inch is part of a usable beach, China boasts hundreds of beaches.

If you live in any of China’s metropolitan areas, a beach getaway offers you the opportunity to slip away from the intensity of city life. If you are visiting, a trip to one of the serene beaches is a great way to unwind while experiencing yet another of China’s diverse riches.

So many beautiful beaches grace the coastline: Xiamen, Beidahe, Beihai, Puto Island, and many, many more. These are well-known so are crowded.

For those among us who prefer a secluded beach getaway, we’ve compiled a list of the five best “secret” beaches in China. These beaches are public beaches that can be openly enjoyed, but they aren’t so well-known that they attract daily crowds. In no particular order, we present peaceful, beautiful beaches.

1. Sanya

The city of Sanya on Hainan Island in southern China has several popular beaches. This is by far the best beach area in all of China. The region is known as the Hawaii of China because of its beaches.

The beaches are pristine and the waters a beautiful blue. If you love being active on the beach and engaging in water sports like snorkeling, SCUBA diving, jet-skiing, or riding in a glass-bottomed boat to take in underwater wonders, then one of Sanya’s beaches might be for you.

Expect crowds at many of these beaches. The “secretive” part of these beaches comes when you stay in one of the beach resorts. Most resorts have their own private stretch of beach available only to their guests. You get all the perks of these energetic beaches without the crowds.

2. Houhai Beach

Houhai Beach is another of Hainan Island’s many beaches. This South China Sea island has a plethora of sand, surf, and sun for all types of people.

If you want a secluded experience, head to Houhai Beach. The drive or bus ride from Sanya is about two hours, and the trip is well worth it.

This beach is little more than a stretch of sand and shoreline, but it is gorgeous. Nearly unspoiled by human presence, it is clean, clear, and surrounded by natural beauty.

The secret is beginning to leak out, however, and it’s increasingly frequented by surfers. The conditions are outstanding for surfing and for splashing and causally playing in the water as well. Be sure to bring snorkeling gear, for the snorkeling is excellent here.

A handful of small restaurants serve beachgoers. Vendors at fruit stands sell delicious, fresh local produce.

Enjoy hiking on surrounding trails if you want to venture off the beach, and then return to swim or just relax.

3. Coconut Island (Dongjiao Yelin)

In the northeast part of Hainan Island, Coconut Island is barely touched by human hands. Its natural beauty is breathtaking in its wild, largely underdeveloped state.

It’s developed enough that public transportation is available. A two-hour bus ride from the city of Haikou in the northeast part of Hainan Island will get you here.

Once you’ve arrived at the beaches of Coconut Island, you can settle in, stretch out, and enjoy peace and quite on the beach. Stroll up and down the sand without weaving around people and their belongings. The beach won’t be deserted, of course, but it will be sparsely populated.

You just might have the opportunity to gather coconuts, as Coconut Island is so named for it’s plethora of coconut trees. Even if you don’t, the coconut trees enhance the tropical feel of your beach day.

If you desire a break from the sand, you can enjoy the nearby Xinglong Tropical Botanical Garden. Stroll through this beautiful city garden and enjoy the colors and fragrances before heading back to the shore.

Small resorts are just beginning to spring up. Coconut Island won’t be a secret beach area for long.

4. Clear Water Bay Beach #1

If you live or are vacationing in Hong Kong, head to the Sai Kung area on the island. Hong Kong has numerous beaches; Sai Kung’s are the least known among them. This means, of course, that the beaches of Sai Kung are less busy and crowded than elsewhere around Hong Kong.

Of the beaches of Sai Kung, the best-kept secret is Clear Water Bay Beach #1. This secluded beach is smaller and quieter than its sister beach, Clear Water Bay Beach #2.

Perhaps one reason it’s so peaceful and almost deserted is that it can be challenging to access. To access it from the road, one must walk down a long flight of stairs. It’s about a five-minute walk from top to bottom. If you can complete the walk, it’s well worth it.

On almost all weekdays and some weekends, there’s a calming hush about this beach that is instantly stress-relieving. This beach offers no flash in the form of jet ski- or other equipment rentals. It’s made for quiet relaxation activities such as reading, napping, meditating, and meandering.

When you get hungry, take advantage of a large barbeque area. Enjoy a picnic of freshly barbequed food as part of your relaxing day at the beach.

5. Kwun Yam Beach

Find Kwun Yam Beach on Cheung Chau Island, just off Hong Kong Island. Take a ferry (an approximate 40-60-minute ride, depending on whether you take the standard or fast ferry), and then walk for about half an hour to this beach. The fairly long trek deters some beachgoers, making the beach less crowded than it otherwise might be.

If you enjoy watersports, especially surfing, windsurfing, and canoeing, Kwun Yam Beach is the one for you. Rent equipment from the Cheung Chau Windsurfing Centre, and enjoy an active day.

While playing on the water, be sure to spot the unique costal rock formations found in the area as well as the Mini Great Wall, the granite railings along the Cheung Chau Family Trail.

China’s richness extends to its beaches, and its “secret” beaches offer an escape from crowds. Citizens and foreigners alike flock to these beaches for a warm, fun, and restorative break.

Luke runs a beach and travel blog, where he helps his readers prepare for upcoming getaways through in-depth product reviews, and beach guides. You can check out more of his content at BeachRated.

 

The post Guest Post – The 5 Best “Secret” Beaches in China appeared first on Two Americans in China.

Guest Post – 8 Best Careers for Foreigners in China

For a long time, the main avenue open to foreigners in China had been teaching English. However, times have changed.

As a result of significant economic growth and the push for globalization, foreigners are finding more opportunities to work in China, within a variety of different fields including sales, marketing, engineering and more. Most of these jobs come from international companies run or invested in by foreigners, but even some Chinese firms are beginning to hire foreigners and expatriates.

Working in China offers not only the opportunity to participate in the fastest growing economy in the world, but also will allow you to experience a new rich and varied culture.

Education

Teaching remains the most common job offered to foreigners in China, though it’s slightly on the decline. A wide range of teaching jobs are available at nearly every level of the Chinese education system, from high school to college, as well as private language schools.

In order to qualify as an English teacher in China, you’ll likely need a Bachelor’s degree and TEFL or TESOL certifications; experience is also very welcome. Teaching is a potential chance for young college graduates with good English skills and little professional experience to work in China.

IT and Engineering

China’s IT industry has been expanding rapidly, and that expansion brings with it a desire to target international markets. As such, Chinese software and tech companies are looking for computer scientists and software developers who understand international standards and languages other than Chinese.

The need for software engineers who are able to bridge the gap between China and other countries is growing, especially in small to mid-sized tech companies. These opportunities are especially concentrated in Southern coastal cities like Shanghai and Shenzhen, which are granted flexible governmental measures regarding free trade due to their status as Special Economic Zones.

Further, the Chinese government is heavily pushing expansion in the IT and tech industries, which is leading to an overall demand for qualified engineers. Newer, specialized fields like clean energy, gas and oil, and the automotive industry especially tend to outsource, as Chinese universities find it difficult to train qualified IT professionals in those fields.

Marketing and Advertising

Just like with IT and engineering, Chinese companies are turning their gaze to the international markets, and are looking for qualified professionals who can help them engage those markets. This opens up opportunities in the fields of marketing and advertising.

Advertising and marketing in China are very different from how products and companies are marketed in other cultures, and Chinese firms looking to launch global campaigns are looking for marketers who understand other cultures.

Large Chinese companies, such as electronics and software giant Xiaomi and e-commerce kingpin Alibaba, have already begun to hire significant numbers of foreign ad and marketing professionals to help with global campaigns, and this trend looks to continue to increase over time.

Translation and Proofreading

Another great way to put English skills to use for bilingual job seekers are the fields of translation and proofreading. Many companies are looking to bring their content into English, and to do so are seeking native speakers of English.

If you are able to demonstrate your advanced levels of both English and Chinese proficiency, you’ll likely be in-demand as a translator. An advanced degree isn’t necessary in order to demonstrate your ability in Chinese, as you can acquire credentials by passing the HSK test.

In addition to a need for translators, the demand for proofreaders is also growing. Chinese students and young professionals are often times required to demonstrate English proficiency, and they’re looking for proofreaders to edit their resumes and other material.

Journalism and Editing

If you’re not fluent in Chinese but have strong English skills, editing is possibly a niche you can fit into. In many cases, Chinese news syndicates will have stories already written in English and are looking for native English speakers with a strong command of the language to perfect these articles. These company even hire telecommute copy editors that can work from anywhere.

Beyond editing, journalism as a whole can be a good field, especially as an area which English teachers can move into over time. It should be noted that many journalism positions involve working non-standard hours, as a number of news syndicates are delivering news all over the world. Beijing, in particular, has a number of state-run TV channels and other media sources putting out content in English at all times.

Sales and Import/Export

If you possess a strong understanding of the way Chinese do business, a job in sales or facilitating imports and exports can be a lucrative start to a career in China. Many Chinese manufacturers are extremely motivated to find foreign connections who can help them move their products to global markets.

This isn’t a position where everyone can succeed – You’ll need to have strong sales skills, the ability to put Chinese firms into contact with foreign distributors and buyers, as well as an understanding of the way Chinese businesses transact.

But if you do possess these attributes, this is probably the best area for you to succeed in. Most opportunities will be located where most of the factories are, with means in Guangzhou or Shenzhen, or else in smaller cities.

Finance

Although Hong Kong dominates finances within the Chinese sphere, the financial system in mainland China has also begun expanding. As a result, this is a market where foreigners with expertise can make inroads.

Banks are looking for senior financial executives, and companies of all types are seeking Chief Financial Controllers in particular. In order to fill these types of roles, you’ll likely need experience with both Chinese and Western finances, in addition to strong financial fundamentals.

Hospitality

China has more and more become a tourism juggernaut, and this trend doesn’t show any sign of slowing. As China welcomes increasing numbers of foreign tourists, its demand for hospitality workers at the front end is also growing, and those positions are the ones in which foreign job seekers have a natural advantage.

This is especially true when it comes to premium hospitality services at places like luxury hotels. VIP type clients expect a certain level of accommodation, which includes interacting with workers who are able to communicate fluently and in a familiar manner. Foreign chefs have also been able to thrive in China in recent years.

Native Chinese students are learning English at significantly increased rates, which means that simply speaking English is no longer enough to guarantee employment in China. To give yourself a leg up, proficiency in Chinese (or at least showing the desire to learn it) is a must in conveying to recruiters that you’re someone who is committed to working in China long-term.

Working in China has its challenges, but it’s also a life-changing experience, one that will give you real-world skills and develop your character significantly.

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Jen McKenzie is a self-employed author hailing from New York, NY. She writes extensively on business, education and human resource topics. When Jennifer is not at her desk working, you can usually find her hiking or taking a road trip with her two dogs. You can reach Jennifer @jenmcknzie

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Guest Post – How To Pack Your Life Into a Carry-on

The Numerous Suitcases

Many people are convinced they require at least three suitcases to take a weekend trip. They worry about having the perfect ensemble, shoes, toiletries, jackets for all seasons, etc. These individuals can overcomplicate the process of packing to such an extreme they begin to panic. It is possible to be extremely well prepared for any trip with just one carry-on. The secret is in the planning, and knowing exactly what to pack, and what should be left behind. There are some excellent tips below that should enable anyone to go from three or four suitcases to one carry-on. 

The Necessities Come First

The first step in packing a carry-on is to include the necessities first. These are items it would be impossible to live without including money, travel documents, medication, foreign power adapters, cell phone and undergarments. There may be variations for different people, but basics are basics. Nobody needs to pack a dozen pairs of shoes for a vacation.

Making the Most of the Basics

A classic pair of jeans and a T-shirt will work well for numerous occasions. They can be dressed up or down, and have numerous different looks. A pair of basic flat shoes, dress shoes and boots are all anyone really requires. Packing a neutral wardrobe will make it much easier to mix and match the different pieces. Anything outlandish should be left at home. Keeping the wardrobe basic will greatly reduce the amount of clothing necessary.

The Practical Approach

Although it may be tempting to include materials such as wools and silks, having clothing dry cleaned while away from home can be problematic. This is especially true in a foreign country. The best clothing to pack is easily washable, and does not require any ironing. The clothing should be placed on hangars as soon as the destination is reached to prevent any wrinkling. Just these first few steps should eliminate a large percentage of the wardrobe.

Do Not Pack Anything Irreplaceable

When traveling, luggage can be lost. When an individual travels from hotel to hotel, items can be lost as well. Any item considered irreplaceable should not be packed because there is a chance it will be forever lost. This includes items of sentimental as well as monetary value.

The Importance of the Weather

As obvious as it seems, many travelers fail to consider the weather. In addition to considering the expected temperature for the time of year, the traveler should always consider the possibility of rain. Packing a simple, lightweight, waterproof jacket will handle many situations. If the area is cold, and there is snowfall expected, include a pair of gloves in the case. Although it is always possible to purchase any missing items at the destination, nobody wants to have to spend money on items such as hats and gloves.

The Accessories

Accessories are small and can make the most of every outfit. Everything from inexpensive jewelry to a bandana can be packed, and requires very little room. A T-shirt takes on a whole new look when worn with a bandana, and those classic jeans come to life with just the right belt. By mixing and matching the different pieces of clothing with an assortment of accessories, a wide variety of outfits can be easily achieved. Extremely expensive jewelry should be left at home along with those irreplaceable items to ensure it remains safe.

The Toiletries

When traveling fairly close to home, bring any necessary toiletries along. For travel farther away, and especially abroad, it is much simpler to purchase basic items including shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, deodorant and lotion once arriving at the destination. The airlines have restrictions on any liquids including shampoo. It is easier, and safer to purchase the travel sized portions at a local store. For longer stays, larger bottles are readily available as well. There is also the risk of certain toiletries exploding due to the extreme change in air pressure. For any electrical items such a blow dryer or razor, remember to pack a foreign adapter to ensure the item can be used.

The Importance of the Weight

Once the individual has come to the realization that everything necessary will fit nicely into one carry-on, the weight factor must be considered. Baggage fees are incredibly expensive, and each airline has a maximum weight for a carry-on. Finding out what the weight is, and what the fees are if the weight limit is exceeded is highly advisable. This can be accomplished by simply weighing the carry-on using an average scale.

The Single Carry-On

The most important thing to remember is everything in the carry-on should be easily replaceable. If the luggage does become lost, it should not be catastrophic. It is also advisable to leave a little extra room in the bag because most people inevitable find a couple of items they want to purchase and bring home. Stay with smaller, lighter weight items and everything will fit perfectly.

Saleh Stevens has expertise in the fields of technology and travel. His skills are notable and include cryptocurrency, strategizing, blockchain, coding and investing. He makes improvements with blockchain technology in cases where the same programming has become stagnant from overuse. Saleh Stevens also considers travel as one of his favorite hobbies.

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Two Americans in China in Malaysia!

This week we took a quick little jaunt to Kuala Lumpur. We were really only there for two days, but it was a lot of fun and we look forward to going back.

Our hotel was within walking distance to the Petronas Towers, which were the tallest buildings in the world until 2004 (they are currently the 8th tallest buildings) and were the site of the climax for one of my favorite movies, Entrapment. So we were able to get lots of pictures of the buildings. I have seen many pictures of the buildings over the years, but until I saw them in person, I didn’t realize just how beautiful they are. They have a very art deco style that draws the eyes. I couldn’t stop looking at them.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We also took the obligatory Petronas Tower Selfie, which is a lot harder to do than you would think, especially with a squirmy toddler. 

Our hotel was actually a one-room apartment, and we had a fantastic view there too, but it was of the Kuala Lumpur Tower, the 7th tallest building in the world. At night, it was lit up in its own light show that our daughter loved to watch.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of course we went up into the Petronas Towers, which was really awesome. They have two observation levels. The sky bridge, which connects the two buildings, and the 84th floor. 

It was pretty crazy being up so high, but our daughter has no fear. At least we all got to mark going up in the towers off our bucket lists. I still need to show my husband Entrapment, though.

There is a lot to do around the towers, including a small aquarium, which is one of our daughter’s favorite places to go. It was cute and a good way to kill an hour or two.

We also spent a day at Sunway Lagoon, which is a multi-zone theme park with several water zones and dry ride zones. It was pretty nice, and not crowded at all since it was a Tuesday. We got to see the Paw Patrol, which has been all the rage since this is the Year of the Dog.

And that was about it. The food was amazing, and the city was so clean and efficient. We had a great time and look forward to going back when we can spend more time outside of KL.

What about you? Have you been to Malaysia? What should we put on our Must-Do List for next time?

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