{"id":690,"date":"2023-10-24T03:58:53","date_gmt":"2023-10-23T19:58:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/2023\/10\/24\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/"},"modified":"2024-06-05T23:11:55","modified_gmt":"2024-06-05T15:11:55","slug":"why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Should You Stop Complaining About China"},"content":{"rendered":"<blockquote><p><a target=\"_blank\" class=\"inside_link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/tag\/living-in-china\/\" title=\"View all posts in Living in China\" >Living in China<\/a> can be eye-opening, profound, and rewarding, but it isn&#8217;t easy. Every expat faces challenges when they arrive in this country, ranging to the mildly annoying to the absolutely infuriating.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_73 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#Living_in_China_can_be_eye-opening_profound_and_rewarding_but_it_isnt_easy_Every_expat_faces_challenges_when_they_arrive_in_this_country_ranging_to_the_mildly_annoying_to_the_absolutely_infuriating\" title=\"Living in China can be eye-opening, profound, and rewarding, but it isn&#8217;t easy. Every expat faces challenges when they arrive in this country, ranging to the mildly annoying to the absolutely infuriating.\">Living in China can be eye-opening, profound, and rewarding, but it isn&#8217;t easy. Every expat faces challenges when they arrive in this country, ranging to the mildly annoying to the absolutely infuriating.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#We_asked_you_what_your_challenges_have_been_living_in_China_You_responded_with_enthusiasm_from_wechat_discussion_and_Facebook_page_Heres_what_we_found_out\" title=\"We asked you what your challenges have been living in China. You responded with enthusiasm (from wechat discussion and Facebook page). Here&#8217;s what we found out.\">We asked you what your challenges have been living in China. You responded with enthusiasm (from wechat discussion and Facebook page). Here&#8217;s what we found out.<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#Visas_Are_Immensely_Stress-Inducing\" title=\"Visas Are Immensely Stress-Inducing\">Visas Are Immensely Stress-Inducing<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#Nobody_likes_to_be_at_the_mercy_of_Chinas_exit-entry_authorities_Theres_an_absurd_amount_of_gray_area_in_Chinas_visa_regulations_for_example_no_designated_visa_for_interns_and_its_hard_to_find_consistent_information_on_application_processes_and_requirements_Plus_theres_just_a_ton_of_paperwork\" title=\"Nobody likes to be at the mercy of China&#8217;s exit-entry authorities. There&#8217;s an absurd amount of gray area in China&#8217;s visa regulations (for example, no designated visa for interns), and it&#8217;s hard to find consistent information on application processes and requirements. Plus there&#8217;s just a ton of paperwork.\">Nobody likes to be at the mercy of China&#8217;s exit-entry authorities. There&#8217;s an absurd amount of gray area in China&#8217;s visa regulations (for example, no designated visa for interns), and it&#8217;s hard to find consistent information on application processes and requirements. Plus there&#8217;s just a ton of paperwork.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#To_avoid_dealing_with_visa_woes_yourself_find_a_trusted_agent_%E2%80%93_preferably_one_a_friend_has_already_used_Just_be_prepared_to_pay_a_small_premium_If_you_want_to_tread_the_visa_waters_yourself_its_always_best_to_go_straight_to_the_source_and_get_information_directly_from_the_relevant_authorities_websites\" title=\"To avoid dealing with visa woes yourself, find a trusted agent &#8211; preferably one a friend has already used. Just be prepared to pay a small premium. If you want to tread the visa waters yourself, it&#8217;s always best to go straight to the source and get information directly from the relevant authorities&#8217; websites.\">To avoid dealing with visa woes yourself, find a trusted agent &#8211; preferably one a friend has already used. Just be prepared to pay a small premium. If you want to tread the visa waters yourself, it&#8217;s always best to go straight to the source and get information directly from the relevant authorities&#8217; websites.<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#The_Language_Barrier_is_Real\" title=\"The Language Barrier is Real\">The Language Barrier is Real<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#Too_Many_Sounds_Everywhere\" title=\"Too Many Sounds, Everywhere\">Too Many Sounds, Everywhere<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#Photo_www116114tgcom\" title=\"Photo: www.116114tg.com\">Photo: www.116114tg.com<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#Visit_any_city_village_in_China_for_a_microcosm_of_all_the_noises_that_drive_expats_up_the_wall_Incessant_car_and_motorbike_horns_loud_talking_outside_the_restaurants_techno_music_blaring_from_the_shops_construction_spitting_%E2%80%93_the_whole_nine_yards\" title=\"Visit any city village in China for a microcosm of all the noises that drive expats up the wall. Incessant car and motorbike horns, loud talking outside the restaurants, techno music blaring from the shops, construction, spitting &#8211; the whole nine yards.\">Visit any city village in China for a microcosm of all the noises that drive expats up the wall. Incessant car and motorbike horns, loud talking outside the restaurants, techno music blaring from the shops, construction, spitting &#8211; the whole nine yards.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#In_Chinese_culture_light_sounds_and_crowds_are_enjoyable_They_did_after_all_invent_the_firework_Because_of_this_most_locals_dont_mind_the_background_noise_If_you_do_find_a_go-to_place_%E2%80%93_a_cafe_park_or_even_your_apartment_%E2%80%93_to_seek_some_peace_and_quiet\" title=\"In Chinese culture, light, sounds, and crowds are enjoyable. They did, after all, invent the firework. Because of this, most locals don&#8217;t mind the background noise. If you do, find a go-to place &#8211; a cafe, park, or even your apartment &#8211; to seek some peace and quiet.\">In Chinese culture, light, sounds, and crowds are enjoyable. They did, after all, invent the firework. Because of this, most locals don&#8217;t mind the background noise. If you do, find a go-to place &#8211; a cafe, park, or even your apartment &#8211; to seek some peace and quiet.<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#Common_Courtesy_Isnt_So_Common\" title=\"Common Courtesy Isn&#8217;t So Common\">Common Courtesy Isn&#8217;t So Common<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#Photo_blogsinacomcn\" title=\"Photo: blog.sina.com.cn\">Photo: blog.sina.com.cn<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#Another_top_challenge_of_China_expat_living_is_that_manners_%E2%80%93_as_we_understand_them_anyway_%E2%80%93_dont_seem_to_exist_People_openly_gawk_at_foreigners_in_the_streets_They_push_and_shove_to_get_to_the_front_of_any_line_even_if_theres_assigned_seating_They_litter_They_spit_They_dont_hold_doors_open_or_say_%E2%80%9Cplease%E2%80%9D_and_%E2%80%9Cthank_you%E2%80%9D_In_business_they_will_often_be_blatantly_dishonest_about_timelines_budgets_etc\" title=\"Another top challenge of China expat living is that manners &#8211; as we understand them, anyway &#8211; don&#8217;t seem to exist. People openly gawk at foreigners in the streets. They push and shove to get to the front of any line, even if there&#8217;s assigned seating. They litter. They spit. They don&#8217;t hold doors open or say &#8220;please&#8221; and &#8220;thank you.&#8221; In business, they will often be blatantly dishonest about timelines, budgets, etc.\">Another top challenge of China expat living is that manners &#8211; as we understand them, anyway &#8211; don&#8217;t seem to exist. People openly gawk at foreigners in the streets. They push and shove to get to the front of any line, even if there&#8217;s assigned seating. They litter. They spit. They don&#8217;t hold doors open or say &#8220;please&#8221; and &#8220;thank you.&#8221; In business, they will often be blatantly dishonest about timelines, budgets, etc.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#These_things_are_all_true_but_not_about_everyone_and_its_not_malicious_The_trick_is_to_avoid_taking_it_personally_Chalk_it_up_to_a_cultural_difference_and_when_necessary_take_time_to_yourself_to_recharge\" title=\"These things are all true, but not about everyone, and it&#8217;s not malicious. The trick is to avoid taking it personally. Chalk it up to a cultural difference and, when necessary, take time to yourself to recharge.\">These things are all true, but not about everyone, and it&#8217;s not malicious. The trick is to avoid taking it personally. Chalk it up to a cultural difference and, when necessary, take time to yourself to recharge.<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#Complaining_Expats_Are_The_Worst\" title=\"Complaining Expats Are The Worst\">Complaining Expats Are The Worst<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-5' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#Photo_wwwjasonyounglivecom\" title=\"Photo: www.jasonyounglive.com\">Photo: www.jasonyounglive.com<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#The_response_we_received_to_our_Facebook_poll_was_shocking_%E2%80%93_most_respondents_said_their_biggest_challenge_living_in_China_was_dealing_with_OTHER_expats_complaining_about_China_Odd_at_first_glance_But_expats_in_China_do_generally_spend_much_of_their_time_together_and_if_every_gathering_deteriorates_into_a_China-bashing_fest_its_easy_to_get_fed_up_with_the_negativity\" title=\"The response we received to our Facebook poll was shocking &#8211; most respondents said their biggest challenge living in China was dealing with OTHER expats complaining about China. Odd, at first glance. But expats in China do generally spend much of their time together, and if every gathering deteriorates into a China-bashing fest, it&#8217;s easy to get fed up with the negativity.\">The response we received to our Facebook poll was shocking &#8211; most respondents said their biggest challenge living in China was dealing with OTHER expats complaining about China. Odd, at first glance. But expats in China do generally spend much of their time together, and if every gathering deteriorates into a China-bashing fest, it&#8217;s easy to get fed up with the negativity.<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#The_solution_Surround_yourself_with_positive_people_who_understand_and_know_how_to_deal_with_China_And_check_this_out\" title=\"The solution? Surround yourself with positive people who understand and know how to deal with China. And check this out:\">The solution? Surround yourself with positive people who understand and know how to deal with China. And check this out:<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-5'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/why-should-you-stop-complaining-about-china\/#%E2%80%9CWhenever_I_am_about_to_grumble_about_something_that_I_dont_like_in_China_I_first_remind_myself_that_I_am_a_guest_in_this_country_I_love_China_but_I_also_get_culture_shock_I_think_its_important_to_remember_we_are_guests_here_and_that_Chinese_people_should_not_be_expected_to_cater_to_our_western_standards_Chinese_people_spit_because_its_part_of_Zhong_Yi_Chinese_medicine_its_kinda_like_how_we_cover_our_mouths_when_we_cough_Except_the_Chinese_people_believe_all_mucus_should_be_clear_from_the_throat_In_our_western_eyes_hacking_up_a_golden_nugget_and_letting_it_fly_isnt_legal_at_least_in_Canada_But_I_am_not_in_Canada_right_now_China_doesnt_need_to_do_anything_for_foreigners_Most_of_us_are_making_a_salary_that_is_triple_that_of_a_professional_local_Its_hard_for_me_to_keep_a_positive_prospective_on_China_when_I_see_foreigners_rage_hate_I_usually_have_two_questions_for_these_kids_Are_you_happy_here_if_the_answer_is_no_then_I_ask_why_dont_you_leave_then%E2%80%9D\" title=\"&#8220;Whenever I am about to grumble about something that I don&#8217;t like in China, I first remind myself that I am a guest in this country. I love China but I also get culture shock. I think its important to remember we are guests here, and that Chinese people should not be expected to cater to our western standards. Chinese people spit because its part of Zhong Yi (Chinese medicine), its kinda like how we cover our mouths when we cough. Except the Chinese people believe all mucus should be clear from the throat. In our western eyes hacking up a golden nugget and letting it fly isn&#8217;t legal (at least in Canada). But I am not in Canada right now. China doesn&#8217;t need to do anything for foreigners. Most of us are making a salary that is triple that of a professional local. Its hard for me to keep a positive prospective on China when I see foreigners rage hate. I usually have two questions for these kids: Are you happy here? (if the answer is no), then I ask why don&#8217;t you leave then?&#8221;\">&#8220;Whenever I am about to grumble about something that I don&#8217;t like in China, I first remind myself that I am a guest in this country. I love China but I also get culture shock. I think its important to remember we are guests here, and that Chinese people should not be expected to cater to our western standards. Chinese people spit because its part of Zhong Yi (Chinese medicine), its kinda like how we cover our mouths when we cough. Except the Chinese people believe all mucus should be clear from the throat. In our western eyes hacking up a golden nugget and letting it fly isn&#8217;t legal (at least in Canada). But I am not in Canada right now. China doesn&#8217;t need to do anything for foreigners. Most of us are making a salary that is triple that of a professional local. Its hard for me to keep a positive prospective on China when I see foreigners rage hate. I usually have two questions for these kids: Are you happy here? (if the answer is no), then I ask why don&#8217;t you leave then?&#8221;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Living_in_China_can_be_eye-opening_profound_and_rewarding_but_it_isnt_easy_Every_expat_faces_challenges_when_they_arrive_in_this_country_ranging_to_the_mildly_annoying_to_the_absolutely_infuriating\"><\/span>Living in China can be eye-opening, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/jobs\">profound<\/a>, and rewarding, but it isn&#8217;t easy. Every expat faces challenges when they arrive in this country, ranging to the mildly annoying to the absolutely infuriating.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"We_asked_you_what_your_challenges_have_been_living_in_China_You_responded_with_enthusiasm_from_wechat_discussion_and_Facebook_page_Heres_what_we_found_out\"><\/span><span style=\"font-size: 1em;\">We asked you what your challenges have been living in China. You responded with enthusiasm (from wechat discussion and Facebook page). Here&#8217;s what we found out.<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #e33737;\"><b>\u00a0<\/b><\/span><\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #e33737;\"><b><a target=\"_blank\" class=\"inside_link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/tag\/visa\/\" title=\"View all posts in Visa\" >Visa<\/a>s Are Immensely Stress-Inducing<\/b><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.hiredchina.com\/FoJHjcERnP6uHX0X9kSC1OgcaMfC?imageView2\/0\/format\/webp\/q\/75\" alt=\"1.jpg\" width=\"598\" height=\"383.8878842676311\" title=\"\">Photo: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.17u.net\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.17u.net<\/a><strong><br \/>\n<\/strong><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nobody_likes_to_be_at_the_mercy_of_Chinas_exit-entry_authorities_Theres_an_absurd_amount_of_gray_area_in_Chinas_visa_regulations_for_example_no_designated_visa_for_interns_and_its_hard_to_find_consistent_information_on_application_processes_and_requirements_Plus_theres_just_a_ton_of_paperwork\"><\/span><span style=\"color: inherit; font-size: 1em;\">Nobody likes to be at the mercy of China&#8217;s exit-entry authorities. There&#8217;s an absurd amount of gray area in China&#8217;s visa regulations (for example, no designated visa for interns), and it&#8217;s hard to find consistent information on application processes and requirements. Plus there&#8217;s just a ton of paperwork.<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"To_avoid_dealing_with_visa_woes_yourself_find_a_trusted_agent_%E2%80%93_preferably_one_a_friend_has_already_used_Just_be_prepared_to_pay_a_small_premium_If_you_want_to_tread_the_visa_waters_yourself_its_always_best_to_go_straight_to_the_source_and_get_information_directly_from_the_relevant_authorities_websites\"><\/span>To avoid dealing with visa woes yourself, find a trusted agent &#8211; preferably one a friend has already used. Just be prepared to pay a small premium. If you want to tread the visa waters yourself, it&#8217;s always best to go straight to the source and get information directly from the relevant authorities&#8217; websites.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Language_Barrier_is_Real\"><\/span><b><span style=\"color: #c00000;\">The Language Barrier is Real<\/span><\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><b><\/b><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.hiredchina.com\/FoLYXYK0ko084qUuFgY_EIQjSemy?imageView2\/0\/format\/webp\/q\/75\" alt=\"2.jpg\" width=\"640\" height=\"466\" title=\"\"><\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Photo: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.stargazersworld.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.stargazersworld.com<\/a><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>Most expats<span style=\"color: inherit; font-size: 1em;\"> can&#8217;t speak fluent Chinese, which instantly makes any task twice as hard to accomplish. Ordering from a menu, opening a bank account, or even being treated at a hospital can be problematic. This also contributes to being considered an &#8220;outsider,&#8221; which can get you ripped off when it comes to doing business or even hiring a taxi (be sure to check the meter).<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: inherit; font-size: 1em;\">The only<\/span> real solution to this is to learn the language, but it does take time and effort. In the meantime, it&#8217;s important to find the translation tools (and possibly a living translator) that help you communicate better.<\/p>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Too_Many_Sounds_Everywhere\"><\/span><b><span style=\"color: #e33737;\">Too Many Sounds, Everywhere<\/span><\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Photo_www116114tgcom\"><\/span><b><\/b><strong><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.hiredchina.com\/FqiuMuFO86m_0ATs05WKHaljhALo?imageView2\/0\/format\/webp\/q\/75\" alt=\"3.jpg\" width=\"598\" height=\"398.6666666666667\" title=\"\"><\/strong>Photo: www.116114tg.com<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<hr \/>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Visit_any_city_village_in_China_for_a_microcosm_of_all_the_noises_that_drive_expats_up_the_wall_Incessant_car_and_motorbike_horns_loud_talking_outside_the_restaurants_techno_music_blaring_from_the_shops_construction_spitting_%E2%80%93_the_whole_nine_yards\"><\/span><span style=\"color: inherit; font-size: 1em;\">Visit any city village in China for a microcosm of all the noises that drive expats up the wall. Incessant car and motorbike horns, loud talking outside the restaurants, techno music blaring from the shops, construction, spitting &#8211; the whole nine yards.<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_Chinese_culture_light_sounds_and_crowds_are_enjoyable_They_did_after_all_invent_the_firework_Because_of_this_most_locals_dont_mind_the_background_noise_If_you_do_find_a_go-to_place_%E2%80%93_a_cafe_park_or_even_your_apartment_%E2%80%93_to_seek_some_peace_and_quiet\"><\/span>In <a target=\"_blank\" class=\"inside_link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/tag\/chinese-culture\/\" title=\"View all posts in Chinese culture\">Chinese culture<\/a>, light, sounds, and crowds are <a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.cambridge.org\/dictionary\/english\/enjoyable\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">enjoyable<\/a>. They did, after all, invent the firework. Because of this, most locals don&#8217;t mind the background noise. If you do, find a go-to place &#8211; a cafe, park, or even your apartment &#8211; to seek some peace and quiet.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Courtesy_Isnt_So_Common\"><\/span><span style=\"color: #c00000;\"><strong>Common Courtesy Isn&#8217;t So Common<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Photo_blogsinacomcn\"><\/span><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.hiredchina.com\/FtUSsb6lJCwM_ltB7UBkpRJ35Xj0?imageView2\/0\/format\/webp\/q\/75\" alt=\"4.jpg\" width=\"600\" height=\"448\" title=\"\">Photo: blog.sina.com.cn<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<hr \/>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Another_top_challenge_of_China_expat_living_is_that_manners_%E2%80%93_as_we_understand_them_anyway_%E2%80%93_dont_seem_to_exist_People_openly_gawk_at_foreigners_in_the_streets_They_push_and_shove_to_get_to_the_front_of_any_line_even_if_theres_assigned_seating_They_litter_They_spit_They_dont_hold_doors_open_or_say_%E2%80%9Cplease%E2%80%9D_and_%E2%80%9Cthank_you%E2%80%9D_In_business_they_will_often_be_blatantly_dishonest_about_timelines_budgets_etc\"><\/span>Another top challenge of China expat living is that manners &#8211; as we understand them, anyway &#8211; don&#8217;t seem to exist. People openly gawk at foreigners in the streets. They push and shove to get to the front of any line, even if there&#8217;s assigned seating. They litter. They spit. They don&#8217;t hold doors open or say &#8220;please&#8221; and &#8220;thank you.&#8221; In business, they will often be blatantly dishonest about timelines, budgets, etc.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"These_things_are_all_true_but_not_about_everyone_and_its_not_malicious_The_trick_is_to_avoid_taking_it_personally_Chalk_it_up_to_a_cultural_difference_and_when_necessary_take_time_to_yourself_to_recharge\"><\/span>These things are all true, but not about everyone, and it&#8217;s not malicious. The trick is to avoid taking it personally. Chalk it up to a cultural difference and, when necessary, take time to yourself to recharge.<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><\/h3>\n<h3 style=\"text-align: center;\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Complaining_Expats_Are_The_Worst\"><\/span><span style=\"font-size: 18px; color: #c00000;\"><strong>Complaining Expats Are The Worst<\/strong><\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Photo_wwwjasonyounglivecom\"><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.hiredchina.com\/FnIhO4Lcj5kz8On_8sTvi01MLowW?imageView2\/0\/format\/webp\/q\/75\" alt=\"5.jpg\" width=\"598\" height=\"398.6666666666667\" title=\"\">Photo: www.jasonyounglive.com<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<hr \/>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_response_we_received_to_our_Facebook_poll_was_shocking_%E2%80%93_most_respondents_said_their_biggest_challenge_living_in_China_was_dealing_with_OTHER_expats_complaining_about_China_Odd_at_first_glance_But_expats_in_China_do_generally_spend_much_of_their_time_together_and_if_every_gathering_deteriorates_into_a_China-bashing_fest_its_easy_to_get_fed_up_with_the_negativity\"><\/span><span style=\"color: inherit; font-size: 1em;\">The response we received to our Facebook poll was shocking &#8211; most respondents said their biggest challenge living in China was dealing with OTHER expats complaining about China. Odd, at first glance. But expats in China do generally spend much of their time together, and if every gathering deteriorates into a China-bashing fest, it&#8217;s easy to get fed up with the negativity.<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_solution_Surround_yourself_with_positive_people_who_understand_and_know_how_to_deal_with_China_And_check_this_out\"><\/span>The solution? Surround yourself with positive people who understand and know how to deal with China. And check this out:<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<h5><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%E2%80%9CWhenever_I_am_about_to_grumble_about_something_that_I_dont_like_in_China_I_first_remind_myself_that_I_am_a_guest_in_this_country_I_love_China_but_I_also_get_culture_shock_I_think_its_important_to_remember_we_are_guests_here_and_that_Chinese_people_should_not_be_expected_to_cater_to_our_western_standards_Chinese_people_spit_because_its_part_of_Zhong_Yi_Chinese_medicine_its_kinda_like_how_we_cover_our_mouths_when_we_cough_Except_the_Chinese_people_believe_all_mucus_should_be_clear_from_the_throat_In_our_western_eyes_hacking_up_a_golden_nugget_and_letting_it_fly_isnt_legal_at_least_in_Canada_But_I_am_not_in_Canada_right_now_China_doesnt_need_to_do_anything_for_foreigners_Most_of_us_are_making_a_salary_that_is_triple_that_of_a_professional_local_Its_hard_for_me_to_keep_a_positive_prospective_on_China_when_I_see_foreigners_rage_hate_I_usually_have_two_questions_for_these_kids_Are_you_happy_here_if_the_answer_is_no_then_I_ask_why_dont_you_leave_then%E2%80%9D\"><\/span><span style=\"color: inherit; font-size: 1em;\">&#8220;Whenever I am about to grumble about something that I don&#8217;t like in China, I first remind myself that I am a guest in this country. I love China but I also get culture shock. I think its important to remember we are guests here, and that Chinese people should not be expected to cater to our western standards. Chinese people spit because its part of Zhong Yi (<a target=\"_blank\" class=\"inside_link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/tag\/chinese-medicine\/\" title=\"View all posts in Chinese medicine\">Chinese medicine<\/a>), its kinda like how we cover our mouths when we cough. Except the Chinese people believe all mucus should be clear from the throat. In our western eyes hacking up a golden nugget and letting it fly isn&#8217;t legal (at least in Canada). But I am not in Canada right now. China doesn&#8217;t need to do anything for foreigners. Most of us are making a salary that is triple that of a professional local. Its hard for me to keep a positive prospective on China when I see foreigners rage hate. I usually have two questions for these kids: Are you happy here? (if the answer is no), then I ask why don&#8217;t you leave then?&#8221;<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h5>\n<hr \/>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media.hiredchina.com\/FlXXlKXBxtykYAuKbjvAxKMwIbVH?imageView2\/0\/format\/webp\/q\/75\" alt=\"GIC.jpg\" width=\"500\" height=\"543.2937181663837\" title=\"\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Living in China can be eye-opening, profound, and rewarding, but it isn&#8217;t easy. Every expat faces challenges when they arrive in this country, ranging to the mildly annoying to the &#8230;","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[23],"tags":[60,386,311,306,29,378,309],"class_list":["post-690","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-pro-tips","tag-china","tag-chinese-culture","tag-chinese-medicine","tag-hiredchina","tag-jobs","tag-living-in-china","tag-visa"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/690","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=690"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/690\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":9983,"href":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/690\/revisions\/9983"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=690"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=690"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.hiredchina.com\/articles\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=690"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}