Shanghai is one of the most vibrant cities in the world and a very exciting place to live. It is the most modern city in China and has a long tradition of looking to the west for inspiration. Often referred to as ‘the Paris of the East’, Shanghai boasts a modern infrastructure and the progressive outlook of its residence is famous throughout China.
The rate of change has been staggering over the past ten years and change is a common theme running through life in this city of 16 million people. It is progressing at a rapid rate and new buildings, shops and hotels are springing up virtually everyday. Like many other large Asian cities, Shanghai suffers from pollution, traffic congestion, and overcrowding. However, it is a city undergoing enormous change and is one of the most dynamic and interesting places to live today. The allure of 30's Shanghai is evident in some of the city's older quarters, and this is juxtaposed with modern skyscrapers heralding a bright future.
More and more foreign companies and people are establishing themselves in China, and more of the commodities they demand are in hot pursuit. Western clothes, toiletries, music and food are all available, although often at an inflated price. Local medical facilities are of a high standard, and western doctors are available, but are expensive.
Unfortunately, while bookshops abound, only a few stock good English books. The situation is improving, but for the moment the selection of English reading material is limited. International newspapers and magazines are available at larger hotels.
The social scene in Shanghai is constantly changing and expanding, like everything else in the city. There is a very active nightlife, with many pubs, bars, clubs and restaurants to choose from. There are also innumerable teahouses and coffee shops, a concert hall that plays host to local and foreign musicians and shows, and some quality museums, opera houses, gardens, and other cultural establishments. Karaoke bars are everywhere for those so-inclined.
Foreigners and local Shanghainese mix easily and develop relationships freely. Chinese people are friendly and are attracted by and to western culture and ideas. The locals are eager to meet and understand foreigners in Shanghai.
An interesting cultural experience We view teaching at Kai En as an opportunity for teachers to experience life in a different culture as well as develop their teaching skills and gain valuable EFL experience abroad. Whilst we are an academic business and therefore focus most heavily on working with teachers to help them get the most out of their experiences in the classroom, we also endeavor to provide as much pastoral support to the teachers as is needed, to ensure that the teachers have the foundation of security to really enjoy their time in Shanghai.
In addition, our salary and benefits package is generous enough to allow the teacher to sample plenty of Shanghai’s nightlife and vibrant social scene, or to leave the city with modest savings / traveling fund.
