What's the first step to

What's the first step to "stepping out"

Member since 08 April 2014

phasad23Member14 April 2014 19:49:16

Hi all! Great to be here with everyone.
I am planning to go to Shanghai in June of 2017 and stay for at least 6 months. I have my beloved wife and 2 yr. old son and we are not sure about what steps (in the right order) to take to be ready to go.

Any advice

KrisD Active member

Member since 16 May 2012

KrisDActive member28 April 2014 08:00:09

Hi there!

Is this for work? Or leisure?

That may drastically determine your lifestyle and range of housing, nursery school (etc) International schools are pricey here- Kindergarten is about as much as a private university Stateside. As a family, I recommend you check the forums on Shanghaimamas.org. Many have come before you with the same questions! There's a large expat community, and support network!

Do you want to be in down town, more "local" areas, or in the suburbs where it looks like mini- USA? See if your health insurance covers you here. Many in my mom circles bring a LOT of their kids stuff from their home countries- anything that touches their skin (clothes, soaps), and food. Stuff like cereal, syrup, is often 4 times the price. Also recognize the voltage difference in China- don't bothering bringing American appliances, but expect to have to buy them here. I recommend studying some mandarin if you get the chance. (I wish I had)

I've been here 5 yrs, with a 1 yr old (who was born here). Let me know if you have any questions.