User Comments - 667660760

Posted on: Lifestyle of foreigners

Of course Shanghai and Beijing attract different kinds of internationals. I would not say they 'look down on each other'; they're just in China for different reasons.

Beijing, as the capital, has all the embassies and associated staff. Then there's the concentration of universities attracting academics. Shanghai is the financial and business center, so attracts more business people. However, the days of housing allowances and expat arrangements are gone forever!

Posted on: Beijing & Shanghai Difference

Wonderful lesson. Great fun, and lots of useful phrases. I lived in both Beijing and Shanghai. I always recommend international people to visit Beijing first to get immersed in Chinese culture on all levels. Life is easier in Shanghai though, and not just as a foreigner. In any case, I love both.