Why we moved to
China
We moved to Beijing for my wife's job. What I didn't expect was falling into China's booming nightlife scene — I ended up performing in over 40 cities and doing almost 90 shows. After two years in Beijing, I took a consulting role at Club Master, Shanghai's biggest club, so we moved south.
Shanghai is pleasant in spring and autumn. Summers are hot and humid; winters are mild but grey.
Avoid OK Good Best
Things To Do.
Where To Stay.
Life Abroad.
More Guides.
If you're staying in Shanghai, I really recommend The Langham Shanghai. I've lost count of how many times I've stayed here — it's walking distance from the French Concession and Xintiandi, the location is hard to beat, and the rooms are genuinely great. It's the hotel I always go back to. From $120/night.
China Travel FAQ
Most nationalities need a visa in advance, though China has recently expanded visa-free access for a growing list of countries. Check before you go — the rules change frequently. Chris spent 3 years here navigating this.
Yes. Google, WhatsApp, Instagram, Facebook, Gmail, and most Western apps are blocked. Download a reliable VPN before you arrive (it's much harder once you're there). ExpressVPN and Astrill have worked consistently.
WeChat Pay and Alipay dominate — most places barely accept cash. As a foreigner, linking an international card to WeChat Pay or Alipay before arrival is now possible and highly recommended. Cards are rarely accepted.
China is generally very safe for tourists, with low violent crime and a heavy security presence in cities. The main friction is bureaucracy, language barriers, and digital restrictions — not personal safety.
Shanghai is the easiest entry point for first-timers — more international, great food, easier to navigate. Beijing is more historic and closer to the Great Wall. I lived in both and they feel like completely different countries.