Shekou, China

"Before retiring in Shekou, expats should know that the cost of living is relatively low compared to other Chinese cities. Expats should also be aware that the official language used in Shekou is Mandarin Chinese, though English is also used in some commercial and expat areas. Expats should plan to get a valid work visa or residency permit in order to gain access to the public services, housing, and healthcare available in Shekou. For those retiring in Shekou, it may also be helpful to learn local customs as well as the laws, regulations, and tax rules that apply in the area," commented one expat who made the move to Shekou, China.

"It is important to research Chinese visa requirements before beginning the moving process to Shekou. While cost of living in the area is relatively low, understanding how much money can be spent and what expenses to expect can be helpful. Shekou is close to the main cities of Shenzhen and Hong Kong and has convenient transport links for exploring the surrounding area. The weather in Shekou is quite hot and humid during the summer months, so expats should be prepared for this. Finally, knowing basic Mandarin language skills can help expats make the most of their stay in Shekou," wrote a member in Shekou, China.

"Finding a place to live in Shekou, can be done through a variety of avenues. The most direct way is to use the services of local real estate agents. Most agents are familiar with the area and can help you find properties that meet your needs. Additionally, there are many online sites like RentFaster, 5i5j and SouFun that list available homes in Shekou. Additionally, there are many WeChat and other social groups dedicated to helping people find housing in Shekou. Lastly, you can use classified websites, such as 58 and Ganji, to search for and contact landlords who are renting properties in Shekou," remarked one expat living in Shekou, China, China.

"Expat homes and apartments in Shekou, typically feature large living spaces, comfortable bedrooms, and well-appointed kitchens. Most have balconies that offer sweeping views of the city, soothing hillside scenery, or a rainbow of brightly-colored kites skimming across the sky. Amenities commonly found in these residences include air-conditioning, modern appliances, and the latest in technology. Security and safety features such as video intercoms, CCTV cameras, and secure doors ensure a secure living environment for its occupants. The close proximity to many leading international schools and superb transportation links makes it a popular destination for expatriates living in the area," said one expat in Shekou, China.

"The cost of housing in Shekou varies depending on the area and type of property. Generally, apartments and houses can range from moderately-priced to luxurious, with most average-priced options being on the high end. Prices of single-family homes can range from 10,000 Yuan per square metre to more than 25,000 Yuan per square metre," wrote a member in Shekou, China.

"Expats in Shekou typically join a variety of meetup groups and associations, such as book clubs and outdoor activities. Many Shekou-based events and groups for expats can be found online. Expats may also find themselves socializing with those living in their neighborhoods, such as attending parties and local festivals. Additionally, many expats in Shekou have found that joining international companies or organizations such as churches and language classes have provided them with access to various networks and communities. Joining online forums related to Shekou is another great way for expats to meet people and learn about the local culture and activities," remarked one expat living in Shekou, China, China.

"When moving to Shekou, it is recommended to pack items such as comfortable clothing, necessary toiletries and medications, sunscreen, an umbrella for the hot and humid summers, workout clothes and shoes for exploring the city, a laptop or tablet with a charger, a transformer for electricity, and any important documents. Additionally, bring items to make the place feel like home, such as books, mementos, decorative items, and cooking utensils," said one expat in Shekou, China.

"1. Before retiring in Shekou, expats should be aware of the language barrier and be prepared to learn Chinese if possible. 2. Additionally, it is important to research the cultural customs and traditions of the region to ensure respect for locals. 3. Expats should also consider the cost of living in Shekou and make sure they have enough savings to cover their expenses. 4. It is important to research housing options in the area and understand the availability of public transportation to access needed services. 5. Lastly, expats should take precautions to protect their health and visit their healthcare providers in their home countries prior to their move," remarked one expat who made the move to Shekou, China.

"Foreigners in Shekou often take positions in the service industry, such as in restaurants, bars, and hospitality businesses. Many foreigners also work in the education sector, teaching English at local schools, universities, and private centers. Additionally, many expats work in the manufacturing sector, either in production or design roles. There are also a variety of opportunities in the technology sector, such as software engineering, coding, and product management," wrote one member in Shekou, China.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Shekou is generally quite pleasant. The city is well-connected to the rest of the country, with easy access to public transportation and a wide variety of international restaurants and shops. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The local community is welcoming and friendly, and there are plenty of activities and events to keep expats and digital nomads entertained. With its convenient location and vibrant atmosphere, Shekou is an ideal place for expats and digital nomads to call home," explained one expat living in Shekou, China.

"Expatriates in Shekou appreciate the friendly and welcoming attitude of the locals, as well as the unique cultural customs and traditions of the city. The abundance of sightseeing and cultural attractions makes for an eye-opening and fun experience, and the locals are always willing to share information about their culture with visitors. Additionally, expats are drawn to the traditional Chinese cuisine, which is renowned for its delicious flavors and ingredients. Finally, expats enjoy the pleasant and temperate climate, which make outdoor activities and leisurely strolls a pleasure year-round," commented one expat who made the move to Shekou, China.

"One of the most difficult aspects of Shekou life for expats to adjust to is the busy lifestyle. The pace of life can be particularly frenetic due to the large number of people living and working in the area. In addition, while Shekou is generally very accepting of foreign cultures and customs, navigating the Chinese culture and language can still be a barrier. Another challenge is the consumer culture that has arisen in recent years, as expats might feel pressure to buy the latest designer clothes or newest electronic gadgets in order to fit in. Finally, Shekou is known for its extreme weather, meaning that expats must be prepared for scorching summer heat as well as temperatures that can drop below freezing in the winter," wrote a member in Shekou, China.

"Crime in Shekou is not common, though there have been some reports of pickpocketing and scams aimed at tourists. In general, Shekou is a safe area with a low crime rate, and most visitors and residents alike report feeling secure. Local police are visible, and response to any suspicious or criminal activity is generally swift and effective," said one expat who made the move to Shekou, China.

"Shekou is an ethnically diverse settlement that has been welcoming foreign immigrants and visitors since the late 19th century. Besides the traditional Chinese population, the city has attracted people from over 80 countries, creating a mosaic of cultures and nationalities. Many expatriates from Europe, North America, and Asia have come to Shekou as students, professionals, and entrepreneurs. The majority of Shekou’s residents are accepting of diversity and are embracing different cultures and backgrounds. The city is known for its thriving nightlife, excellent international dining, and diverse social opportunities. This makes Shekou an inviting and inclusive place for people from all over the world to call home," wrote one member in Shekou, China.

"Shekou, located in Shenzhen, China, is home to many international schools and bilingual schools offering a vast array of educational and extracurricular activities. The renowned Shekou International School (SIS) offers comprehensive programs both in English and Mandarin for students from Early Years all the way to Grade 12. Students at SIS enjoy highly qualified, internationally experienced staff and engaging student-centered curriculum. Shenzhen College of International Education (SCIE) is another popular international school in Shekou providing an English-Chinese curriculum and engaging, interactive lessons. SCIE allows international students to enroll in grade programs as well as summer programs and offers 24-hour medical service and dedicated teachers who provide excellent support and guidance. Lastly, Shekou International School Of Nanshan (ISNS) is a premier international school offering a comprehensive academic program, with the chance to gain the American High School Diploma or the International Baccalaureate Diploma. Students enjoy extra-curricular activities, science and technology facilities, as well as an extensive After School Activities Program," said one expat in Shekou, China with children at .

"For elementary education it is quite good and full of caring staff. For high school education forget it (Low standards, bullying, drug use etc)- there is a better school across from it named SIS (Shekou International School)," remarked one parent with kids at QSI in Shekou.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Shekou appreciate the city's convenient location, with easy access to Hong Kong and Macau. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore. Additionally, the city's low cost of living is attractive to many expats and digital nomads. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the language barrier and cultural differences to be challenging. Additionally, the air quality in Shekou can be poor at times, which can be a deterrent for some," said one expat living in Shekou.

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Shekou typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world, as well as locals, through various activities such as language exchanges, meet-ups, and social events. There are also plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes to explore, providing a great opportunity to socialize and make new friends. Additionally, Shekou is home to a number of international schools, which can be a great way to meet people with similar interests," commented one expat who moved to Shekou.

"Shekou is a vibrant and lively city with a diverse social scene. There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes to explore, as well as a variety of cultural activities and events to take part in. The city is also home to a large expat community, making it easy to meet people from all over the world. Shekou is a great place to make friends, explore the city, and experience the unique culture of China," wrote one expat living in Shekou.

"Expats in Shekou recommend researching the area thoroughly before committing to a rental property. It is important to check the quality of the building and the surrounding area, as well as the landlord's reputation. It is also important to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding rental contracts. Additionally, expats suggest asking for help from other expats or local real estate agents to ensure that the rental process is smooth and hassle-free. Finally, expats recommend negotiating the rental price to get the best deal possible," mentioned an expat living in Shekou.

"Shekou offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and expatriates. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide comprehensive medical care, including general practice, specialist care, and emergency services. Shekou also has a number of pharmacies that offer both over-the-counter and prescription medications. Additionally, the city has a number of medical centers that offer a variety of services, such as physical therapy, acupuncture, and traditional Chinese medicine. Shekou also has a number of international medical centers that provide medical services to expatriates," commented one expat who moved to Shekou.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Shekou can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, private health insurance plans are more expensive than public plans, but they often provide more comprehensive coverage. Additionally, the cost of healthcare services can vary depending on the type of care needed and the provider. For example, a visit to a private hospital or clinic may be more expensive than a visit to a public hospital or clinic," commented one expat who moved to Shekou.

"The cost of living in Shekou is generally considered to be quite affordable. Rent for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Shekou can range from around $400 to $800 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $600 to $1,200 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Shekou can cost around $10 to $20 USD per person," commented one expat who moved to Shekou.

"In order to visit Shekou, visitors must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, passport, and other required documents to the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in the visitor's home country. Once the visa is approved, the visitor can travel to Shekou. In order to live in Shekou, China, visitors must apply for residency. This process involves submitting an application form, passport, and other required documents to the local police station in Shekou. The application will be reviewed and, if approved, the visitor will be issued a residence permit. This permit must be renewed every year," remarked one expat in Shekou.

"Shekou is an attractive destination for expats due to its convenient location near Hong Kong, its modern infrastructure, and its vibrant international community. The city offers a wide range of amenities, including excellent schools, shopping malls, and recreational facilities. Additionally, Shekou is home to a number of multinational companies, making it an ideal place for expats to find employment. The city also boasts a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for those looking to save money. Finally, Shekou is known for its friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great place to settle down and start a new life," mentioned an expat living in Shekou.