Expat Life in China

Expatlife in China

Vicky Li Yip currently lives and works in Beijing, China. She moved there from New York City with her husband 3 years ago. Vicky is taking a break from her career in the Marketing/Advertising sector to raise her infant son, who was born in Beijing. To keep some balance in her life, she also does some part-time freelance consulting and volunteer work.

What is your overall view of Beijing, China?

Beijing is an amazing place, full of history and yet modernizing at an intense speed. Having been here before, during, and now after the Olympics, I can attest that this city has really developed quickly and is still changing every day. There are so many more expat-targeted services (businesses, restaurants, housing, organizations, schools, etc.) than even a few years ago. There are lots of expats here—I think the unofficial count is over 300,000. It is a wonderful place to meet very interesting people from all over the world as well as explore some awe-inspiring relics of an ancient culture.

What is the standard of living like?

Beijing is very spread-out and the standard of living varies by location. There is likely something for every budget. There are luxury apartment buildings right next to hutongs (old style alley-way housing) and more modest local housing. There are a myriad of choices for housing from stand-alone houses in the suburbs to full service apartments in the city center. Expats can also find decent local housing at a fraction of the price of international ones. On the more cosmopolitan east side of town, there is very easy access to western supermarkets, restaurants, and schools. Some western products are a lot more expensive here but at least they are available! There is plenty to do here between the cultural exploration and the regular stuff of daily life like movies and eating out, all of which is affordable.

Are there any benefits/perks?

Household help is very affordable here. Ayis (“aunties”) do all the cleaning, cooking, and even childcare in many families. I have a part-time ayi that does the cleaning and some cooking and it just frees up so much of my time! Taxis are also really affordable (especially coming from NYC) so just jumping in one to get around is really convenient.

What about money matters?

The tax issues can get complicated when living overseas, especially if you own a home in your home country. Income tax is also very high here. It’s wise to save if you can because although some things are really affordable here, other things are not. International school education is basically unaffordable (especially if you have multiple kids) at upwards of $30K USD per school year unless you earn a huge salary or your employer pays for tuition. Health insurance is also crucial so having a job that either provides it or making enough to afford it is essential since the level of care between local clinics and the more expensive international ones can be quite stark.

What are your top tips

• Find a community for both you AND your spouse. It’s so important to surround yourself with a support network as an individual but also as a couple/family. Make friends with other families at schools, other couples you meet, church groups, etc.
• Get the best air purifiers for your home that you can afford. These are often the expensive imported brands but it’s worth it. Unfortunately, the air outside can be as bad as people hear about so the more good air your breathe while sleeping and being indoors, the better.
• If you are a trailing spouse who cannot find work/not allowed to work in the country you are now residing in, you can explore other ways to continue your “professional life.” There are lots of inspiring interviews, stories, and useful resources on ExpatWomen.com that are extremely helpful.