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Anyone going to, or is in, Shanghai?

Last post 04/02/12 at 15:01 by starry_eyed_surprise, 13 replies
Post started by Micromania on 31/01/12 at 07:14

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  • Micromania avatar
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    Posted by: Micromania 31/01/2012 at 07:14
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     I finally got the offer from my first choice in Shanghai! I am very excited about it and really looking forward to living and working there. I was wondering if anyone else is going to Shanghai next year, or if anyone is there already as it would be nice to meet people who are on the same boat or who know about the city and don't mind me asking a few questions. Thanks in advance. Smile

  • february31st avatar
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    Posted by: february31st 31/01/2012 at 10:58
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    I would email the Head/Principal and ask for the emails of staff in the school already, they are mostly friendly. Most schools have an information pack they can send you about living in Shanghai.

     You can try and post this on www dot shanghaiexpat dot com which is good for various information.'
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    Posted by: Micromania 31/01/2012 at 16:07
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    Thanks for the advice february31st. I can find the emails of staff on the school's website. Should I just pick one and email them or is it better to go through the Head out of courtesy and he might pass me on to someone who he knows will be happy to answer my million questions?
  • february31st avatar
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    Posted by: february31st 31/01/2012 at 16:30
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    I would via the Head out of courtesy, as I said they are mostly a friendly bunch. Your HoD should be one of the people you should contact about living in Shanghai.
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    Posted by: Micromania 01/02/2012 at 07:08
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     Haha no, it's not the school you're thinking of kindgloves2, it's a well established school with a good reputation and won't be dying anytime soonSmile

    What's the polution like in Shanghai? I know it's manageable but can I jog outdoors or is that not possible?

    Also, I was wondering what people do regarding shipping their belongings as I can only obtain my freight from the Chinese customs department 6 weeks after I arrive. Any ideas how I can minimise any demurrage charges or storing fees?

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    Posted by: february31st 01/02/2012 at 07:34
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    It takes 6-7 weeks to ship from the UK to Shanghai by sea.  So if you have the agent pick up from your home the last few days you are in the UK it should not be a problem.  I would not pack any small electrical items such as a PC, laptop, scanner, printers, furniture, TV and hifi as the tax is very high. Cheaper to buy here in Shanghai at ikea.  Clothes, beding, books and toys seem fine to bring in.

     Best getting a door to door package, but you will still have to pay any customs charges.  Best to have a look on www dot shanghaiexpat dot com  for more details.
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    Posted by: kidgloves2 01/02/2012 at 14:09
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    Thanks for the Freudian slip Micromania, Kidgloves2 IS Kind!
    Hurrah for the legitimate world of International Schooling and good for you for getting a gig at one in Shanghai.

    Pollution is not good, but if you start indulging in that health consious business, you wont last 'til Christmas. Weigh up the genetic effects of heavy metals in the water and the value of being in the only booming economy on the planet, I think you get my drift.

    Ship what? Everything you probably own was either manufactured here or funded by Chinese cash. Get a grip, bring nothing, hoard while here then save cash for shipping OUT in a few years!
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    Posted by: Micromania 01/02/2012 at 16:02
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     Thanks for te help february31st, much appreciatedSmile

     kiDgloves2 you are indeed very kind to take your time to answer my questions. I see what you mean about paying too much attention to the pollution out there. It didn't stop me from applying and it sure won't stop me from enjoying the city! And if I have to jog on a treadmill indoors it is no big deal anyway.

    I couldn't possibly let go of my books, I've had some since my A level days! And my clothes, can't leave them behind either. I will try and get rid of most of my stuff of course, the good thing is that the school offers shipping allowance so at least I will get some money back.

     Thanks again for all your help!

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    Posted by: MC1977 02/02/2012 at 12:28
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     So is the pollution acceptable enough to bring a young family to te city? How does pollution compare to Beijing, Guangzhuo, Bangkok, UAE, Qatar? 

     Trying to weigh up finances with family's health!

     Thanks

  • Micromania avatar
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    Posted by: Micromania 02/02/2012 at 16:43
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     I've lived in the UAE, no pollution issues there, very safe and plenty of activities for the young ones. The people I know with families out there are very happy indeed and none of them have any plans of returning to the UK.

     I hear the pollution in Beijing is far greater than in Shanhai.
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