Welcome to Beijing.

Forget clichés about cadres in Mao suits cycling to work along half-empty avenues - Beijing is a business town. Come here and you are on the frontline of China's fiery economic growth. It's a place where almost no one speaks English and where foreigners can still be stared and pointed at. It's a place where connections (guanxi) count for everything. It has a history 5,000 years old, expressed in the environment all around you - and yet, in economic terms, it's a new frontier. You will need our help in making those vital first links and finding your way around this baffling but bedazzling city.

Getting There
Some practical first steps: travel tickets? Tips on how to navigate China's Byzantine bureaucracy? Need a work permit? Advice on bringing a pet? Vaccinations? Recommendations for hotels and interim housing? More.

Living There
Essentials of life in Beijing. Where to live, price guides and even a sample lease. Need an English-speaking vet at short notice? We have it covered. Can’t face the day without a bagel? We know a few places to get that taste of home. Our Health section contains practical advice on the Chinese medical system with English-speaking contacts. Everything you need.

Raising Kids There
Your need-to-know. We tell you about the best international schools in Beijing, how to get in and whom to contact. Which agencies to trust with day-care, costs and contacts are all inside. Have a little spare time? We have fantastic ideas for great family days out including where to have a meal with the kids after all that running around.

Playing There
Having a China day? Need some stress relief? Lie back and plan some serious playtime. We cover all the best ways to spend your free time - after all, you didn’t come here just to work, did you. See the sights, take in the bars, and maybe even enjoy a concert or two?

Working There
Lets get down to business. We tell you all you need to know for working in the Beijing market. Most importantly, we cover all the legal issues in setting up and running your business. Secondly, we cover the issues that govern business etiquette. Do you know how to accept a business card respectfully in China?

Spouse Survival Kit
Here with your partner? Think you’re alone? Wrong. We will put you in contact with the expat community in Beijing. Before you know it you will be wondering why you were ever worried in the first place. After frantic socializing, we tell you the place to go for a well-deserved sauna. Everything to help your survival there.


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