u/Additional_Pen1136

I like to understand a situation before I’m in it. I’ve done my own research, but as far as understanding the current social climate, it’s hard to gain much knowledge.

So, what is expected when a white American woman comes to work in China?

What stereotypes could be helpful for me to be aware of? What positive or negative expectations might there be?

What are some small ways I can show respect and humility?

Any random, weird advice?

I'm curious what the dating scene is like around Yunnan for people in their thirties? In the US a lot of people in this age group are unmarried and have no kids. Is that true in China? Are there many hobbies, like sports clubs, where I could meet people?

Are Chinese men around my age generally more traditional? What is their cohort known for, what are the general goals of men this age? Because Yunnan has a variety of ethnicities, is the view of interracial dating quite open and normalized?

I miss my dog. That's all.

Hello! I'm currently about to start a 2-year teaching stint in China. I may well decide to renew my contract and stay. Or it could be terrible! I understand anything can happen.

My main priority is to save money (and spend my days around silly kids!), so I assume China will remain at the top of my list.

However, I like to plan long-term, and I'm curious about where else I could/should consider living in the future, after this contract is complete? Any opinions are appreciated!

Here's some relevant information:

- My rent and food will be subsidized.

- It's just me, no kids or pets or partner.

- "Comfortable" to me means being able to eat out 2-3 times weekly, buy a few plants or pieces of clothing each month, and travel to neighboring provinces a couple times a year.

I've done a little research online. Is it accurate that ¥2,500–4,500 RMB ($350–630 USD) monthly is enough for a fairly simple life in Kunming?

I'm trying to estimate a loose, general idea of how much I will spend monthly. Any advice is appreciated. If you need more info let me know.

My dog of 16 years died in December.

This fall, I’m moving overseas for work to a country I’ve never been to before.

Can you recommend music for this transition?

If anyone is familiar, I need to complete the “foreigner physical examination form” from China in order to teach overseas next fall.

I just want to confirm I need: HIV, Syphilis, Chest x-ray, ECG tests.

And I also want to understand what my doctor is supposed to write next to sections such as "Neck"/"Nourishment"/"Nose". Is she supposed to initial?

Also, when they stamp my form at the end, are they supposed to stamp it underneath the photo, on top of the photo, or half-and-half?

If anyone is familiar, I need to complete the “foreigner physical examination form” from China in order to teach overseas next fall.

Has anyone around gone through this process? I’m worried about how much everything is going to cost, and where to get it done. Thanks!

I miss my dog.

It’s almost worse now than when we first said goodbye. I can’t believe I’m truly never going to see her again.

I adopted her when I was 16 and she was 8 weeks old. She passed in December at 16; would have been 17 this upcoming Sunday.

We were young together. We had so much fun. I cannot believe it’s over.

I’m moving to Kunming this autumn from the USA and am wondering what to wear as a new teacher. I want to appear professional and quite modest.

Also. I am young-looking and decently attractive, and will be teaching middle school. So I want to dress like an old, boring woman. lol.

For example, what types of necklines are appropriate? I would never show cleavage, but what about v-necks with a tanktop underneath, or a scoop neck? Are bare legs okay? Is knee-length appropriate for dresses and skirts? Are short sleeves or sleeveless shirts appropriate?

I’m curious about the general standard and how to dress/be seen respectfully.

The dog I had for 16 years passed in December, and quickly after, I was hired to teach in southern China this fall. I’m packing up my things and preparing to leave for 2+ years. I’d love some music recommendations.

I move to Yunnan in 3 months. I'll be there for 2+ years.

My company is taking care of my VISA, the apps are downloaded and set up, and my one-way flight is scheduled. I'm now deciding what to pack (anti-perspirant, apparently!) and get prepared.

Does anyone have extra advice before I leave?

I'm mostly concerned with sending money back to my US bank account once I'm there and established. Otherwise I plan to worry about things as they happen, lol.