Try something new: crispy tofu.
“I locked myself in my room for three days.”
“I hated it for a week…”
Honestly? Comforting words of wisdom from experienced Beijing expats. Jet-lagged and hyper-aware, international travel can leave you suddenly doubtful feeling about months’ worth of planning global jaunts. For me, I left a fun job and family to chase a dream I felt worthy, if not crucial, considering the shifting poles of global influence and power: learning Mandarin Chinese and gaining Chinese work experience by moving to Beijing.
Thankfully, the next words from these transplanted Beijingers’ was:
“After a year and a half, it’s my home. It’s safe, has good opportunities, nightlife, and great, cheap food. My life is here.”
“…before loving it. I have a fun job at a university, and I get to travel all over the country.”
The first few days can and will be a whirlwind; here are some tips on keeping your sanity intact.
1) Try to learn some Mandarin before you go
Having a “survival” Mandarin skill set can help you navigate a city where you can’t read or write the script. WikiTravel has a great Mandarin phrase book, which can help you get your barrings on the language. Copy some useful words and phrases, and stick them in your pack. Beijing is an international city, and signs in English and Mandarin are common, but there’s no guarantee a shop keeper will care to hear anything you say in English.
I tutored with eChineseLearning.com, an easy flexible way to gain Mandarin skills via Skype before moving. Explain your situation, and make sure to practice “survival” vocabulary. Despite any nagging hesitance once you’ve landed, use your fledgling Mandarin skills. Any practice moves you closer to understanding.
2) Write it down.
When you arrive at the hotel, make sure you pick up the business card at the front desk. This will help you navigate and work with taxi drivers when all you want to do is feel your head on your hotel pillow.
3) You will lose luggage.
Bring a carry-on with all the essentials you may need for at least one night and day. A change of clothes, essential toiletries, electronics, and papers in a rolling suitcase or knapsack will go a long way when checked luggage never makes its way to the baggage claim.
I lost my big checked bag, apparently in the switch from United Airlines to Air China. This story was comically common among my coworkers from multiple countries, among various airlines. However, United was a repeat offender. One guy even said United Airlines lost his bags five times. No joke. Five.
4) Get some one to show you how to use public transportation.
The subway is an easy, fast way to get around the city, while getting your barrings on the lay of the land. Buses are a great option for outer areas where the subway lines don’t reach (yet).
Get your hands on a map, and label all your important places: hotel, places of interest and need. Download Beijing and China-centric apps on your smart phone to help you further navigate.
If you want to get a good sense of the city before you leave, lonleyplanet.com offers good advice on navigating for tourists. WikiTravel also has a good description of the city’s 14 districts.
5) Find some digs.
TheBeijinger.com is the city’s go-to English language online listing directory. Craigslist is also a possible, but often lacking option. Finding roommates is also a great way to make connections and new friends in a large, but friendly city.
Be friendly and have a good sense of humor. Things are going to happen, and it won’t be the end of the world.