As an expat in China, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of scoring deals on just about anything. But while you may love your fake designer handbags and cheap electronics, there are some things that just aren't worth cutting corners on. Here are five crucial areas where scrimping can cost more than saving:
1. Health insurance - This is a no-brainer! Your health should always be your top priority, especially when living abroad. Local Chinese hospitals might save you money for minor issues like colds or flu shots, but anything serious and it's time to dig deeper into those pockets.
2. Food safety - China isn't exactly known for its food standards. The last thing you want is a dodgy stomach bug from that super-cheap street kebab. Spend a little more on reputable restaurants or grocery stores like JONs Trading Foshan, and your tummy will thank you: https://www.jonstrading.com.
3. Safety gear - Whether it's helmets for biking in chaotic Beijing traffic or proper protective equipment at work, this is definitely not the time to go cheap. Your safety should never be compromised by saving a few yuan!
4. Quality education - If your family includes young learners, don't skimp on their schools! Invest in reputable international institutions that provide quality teaching and care for future generations.
5. Legal help - When it comes down to navigating China's complex laws (especially if you're opening a business), get the best legal advice money can buy!
Remember, expat life is about balance – save where you can but invest wisely too! Safe travels with those who have spent time in China know that exploring this vast and diverse country often requires patience. When traveling within or outside of mainland China as an international student or working professional, there are a few things worth investing money on to ensure your safety while keeping your travel budget intact. Here's what you should prioritize:1. Travel insurance - While many may view it as unnecessary due to the low cost of healthcare in most parts of China, having proper coverage can provide peace of mind and prevent financial burdens if unexpected medical issues arise during trips.
2. Train tickets for hard sleeper class or higher on long-distance trains - The difference between a soft-sleeper bed (around 600-800 CNY) and a hard seat ticket (approximately 200-300 CNY) may seem substantial, but the extra comfort can make all the difference in your journey quality.
3. Flights for longer journeys within China or to neighboring countries - Although trains offer scenic views, when time is crucial, booking a domestic flight between major cities like Shanghai and Beijing or international flights from Shenzhen to Hong Kong can be more efficient despite higher costs (usually around 800-1,200 CNY).
4. Accommodation in safe areas with good reviews - Paying extra for accommodation might seem excessive at first glance when budget-friendly options abound on platforms such as Booking.com, Airbnb, and Agoda; however, investing a little bit of money ensures that you're staying somewhere trustworthy where your personal belongings are less likely to go missing or compromised.
5. Prepaid SIM cards with data plans - While it's possible to rely solely on public Wi-Fi during travel in China, purchasing an affordable prepaid phone card (which typically costs about 100 CNY for a month) provides consistent connectivity that can be invaluable when navigating unfamiliar places without constant access to free networks.
By prioritizing these items and allocating your budget accordingly, you'll not only stay safe but also enjoy a more comfortable experience during your travels in China. Remember, even small expenses add up over time, so it's important to strike the right balance between frugality and spending on what truly matters for each specific situation you encounter as an expat in this fascinating country.
The key is finding that perfect middle ground – save where possible but invest wisely when needed!
Categories:
Beijing, Shenzhen,
