Moving to China can be overwhelming. These 15 tips will help you settle in smoothly.
Essential Apps
WeChat – Everything app for messaging, payments, and services
Alipay – Mobile payments and bill management
Didi – Ride-hailing service
Meituan/Ele.me – Food delivery
Taobao/JD – Online shopping
Banking
Open a local bank account (ICBC, Bank of China). Bring passport and residence permit. Link to WeChat Pay and Alipay.
Shopping
Local markets offer fresh produce at lower prices. Supermarkets like RT-Mart and Carrefour are expat-friendly. Taobao has everything but requires Chinese.
Transportation
Metro is efficient and cheap. Buy a transportation card or use Alipay. Taxis are affordable but have destination written in Chinese.
Language
Learn basic Mandarin phrases. Translation apps help. Many young people speak some English in tier-1 cities.