beijingkids H&R Guide June 2014

2014 ~ 2015

Home & Relocation Guide The essential guide to making the most out of life in Beijing

out: With articles ab ur children o y r fo l o o h sc a • Selecting h care options lt a e h g in d n ta rs • Unde for utilities g in y a p d n a p u • Setting ets to China p r u o y g in g n ri •B port network • Building a sup uch more! m , h c u m d n A •

《中国妇女》英文刊

WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly Sponsored and administrated by ALL-CHINA WOMEN’S FEDERATION Published by WOMEN’S FOREIGN LANGUAGE PUBLICATIONS OF CHINA Publishing Date: May 26, 2014

Adviser 顾 问

2014 年 5 月（下半月随刊赠送）

WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly 中华全国妇女联合会主管/主办 中国妇女外文期刊社出版 本期出版时间: 2014年5月26日

彭 云 PENG PEIYUN 全国人大常委会前副委员长 Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee

Adviser 顾 问

顾秀莲 GU XIULIAN 全国人大常委会前副委员长 Former Vice-Chairperson of the NPC Standing Committee

Director and Editor-in-Chief 社长 · 总编辑 Chief Editor 主编 Managing Editor

Yun Pengju 恽鹏举 Wei Liang 位亮 Sijia Chen

Deputy Managing Editor

Aisling O’Brien

Dining and Lifestyle Editor

Clemence Jiang

School Editor

Yvette Ferrari

Web Editor

Nimo Wanjau

Assistant Web Editor Shunyi Correspondent Contributors

Editorial Consultant 编辑顾问 Director of Sales Department 广告发行经营部主任 Tel 电话 Legal Adviser 法律顾问 Advertising Agency 广告代理 Advertising Hotlines 广告热线 Printing 印刷 Address 本刊地址

Morgan Shang Sally Wilson Kyle Mullin, Emily Stranger, Steven Schwankert, Ember Swift

ROBERT MILLER (Canadian) 罗伯特 · 米勒 (加拿大) XIA WEI 夏巍 5779 8877 LI XUESEN 李雪森 Immersion International Advertising (Beijing) Co., Limited 深度体验国际广告(北京)有限公司 5941 0368/69/72/77/78/79 C&C JOINT PRINTING CO., (BEIJING) LTD. 北京华联印刷有限公司 WOMEN OF CHINA English Monthly 《中国妇女》英文月刊 15 Jianguomennei Dajie, Beijing 100730, China 中国北京建国门内大街15号 邮编:100730

国际标准刊号

ISSN1000 9388

国内统一刊号

CN11-1704/C

The beijingkids Board Jennifer Parrott A Publication of

The proud mother of a 4-year-old who attends YCIS Beijing, Jennifer hails from Boston. She loves shopping and discovering great new restaurants. Jennifer is involved with the International Newcomers’ Network (INN) and leads the Chaoyang Park Coffee Mornings on the third Wednesday of every month. She can be reached at jparrott@me.com.

True Run Media 出版制作 Advertising Agency

Immersion International Advertising (Beijing) Co., Limited 广告代理

Charlotte Moreau

Charlotte is beijingkids’ former Shunyi correspondent. Originally from Michigan, this on-the-go mom of two girls juggles freelance writing, substitute teaching, and CrossFit. After more than six years in Beijing, her family will move back to the US in June 2014.

深度体验国际广告（北京）有限公司 Telephone/电话: 5779 8877 Advertising Hotlines/广告热线： 5941 0368/69/72/77/78/79 General Manager Michael Wester

Victor Wong

Victor is a tech geek, serial entrepreneur, and the proud father of two boys. His latest venture is connecting parents and kids through mobile learning apps. Learn more at www.SmarTots.com.

Operations Manager Toni Ma Managing Editor Sijia Chen Deputy Managing Editor Aisling O’Brien Dining and Lifestyle Editor Clemence Jiang School Editor Yvette Ferrari Web Editor Nimo Wanjau Assistant Web Editor Morgan Shang Shunyi Correspondent Sally Wilson Marketing Manager Shana Zhang Art Director Susu Luo Production Manager Joey Guo Principal Designer and Illustrator Yuki Jia Photographers Mitchell Pe Masilun, Sui, Ken Sales Manager Ivy Wang Sales Team Coordinator Luo Yi

Yanhong Wheeler

Yanhong is a mother of two, a La Leche League leader, a Parent Effectiveness Training (PET) instructor, and the author of ten Chinese books on breastfeeding, parenting, and education (under the pen name Xiao Wu, or Wee Witch). Visit her blog at blog.sina.com.cn/weewitch.

Liu Nan

Liu Nan, also known as Chu Chu, is a native Chinese mother.

When she is not out with her baby girl in search of food and fun, she sells imported baby products on Taobao. Check out aibaimm.taobao.com.

Christopher Lay

Sales Team Sheena Hu, Winter Liu, Anna Rudashko, Amy Sun, Maggie Zhang, Sasha Zhang Sales Trainee Wendy Lv Sales Assistant Gladys Tang

Christopher’s many jobs include dad, writer, photographer, and all-round nice guy. Catch him in beijingkids’ Beijing Baba column or visit his blog, www.alivenotdead.com/chrislay.

IT Team Badr Benjelloun, Yan Wen, Arvi Lefevre Finance Judy Zhao HR & Admin Cathy Wang, Cao Zheng Distribution Cao Yue General Inquiries 5779 8877

Michelle Liu

After living in the US for 15 years, native Beijinger Michelle is happy to be living in her hometown again, where she works at an architecture firm. As a parent, she embraces both the Chinese and western perspectives on culture and education.

Contact her at mtliu123@yahoo.com.

Editorial 5779 5389/90 Distribution 5941 5387

Contact: General info: info@beijing-kids.com Editorial: editor@beijing-kids.com Sales: sales@truerun.com Marketing: marketing@truerun.com Distribution: distribution@truerun.com Directories: listings@beijing-kids.com

www.beijing-kids.com weibo.com/beijingkids @beijingkids www.facebook.com/beijingkids www.pinterest.com/beijingkids

Eyee Hsu

CCTV talk show host and mom-preneur Eyee Hsu is looking for more time in the day. When she’s not chasing after her two kids or the family dog, you might catch her at a Pilates studio, one of the Counting Sheep boutiques, or on TV. She hopes to save you time by bringing the most trusted baby brands to Beijing.

Find out more at www.countingsheepboutique.com.

AJ Warner

AJ Warner is a busy dad. When not with his two sons, he’s coaching Chinese students on how to get admitted to top US universities (undergraduate and Master’s programs).

He also helps Chinese families immigrate to the US for better education opportunities.

Contact him at ajwarner@touchdown.org.cn.

Want to Join?

If you think you’d make a valuable contribution to the beijingkids board, email editor@beijing-kids.com.

Editor's Note

Nancie and I (ages 1 and 8 respectively) outside our house Nancie

Sea Change

W

hen I was 5 years old, my family and I moved to the suburbs west of Montreal. My sister and I spent our afternoons catching grasshoppers and playing on the swing set in the backyard. We marked the changing of the seasons by watching the lilacs bloom in spring, running through the sprinkler in summer, setting out carved pumpkins in autumn, and building snow forts in winter.

My sister and I grew up in a multicultural neighborhood alongside Jewish, Indian, Italian, Haitian, Jamaican, and Lebanese families. I constantly took off with the neighborhood kids to Westminster Park, where we dared each other to bomb down the steep hill on our bicycles.

I snuck out to my friend Lisa’s house to have exotic Caucasian foods like mac n’ cheese and banana sandwiches. Sometimes we went over to Sarah and Sean’s to play on their pretend kitchen set or to Ruby’s to watch Disney movies.

Though we moved to a different neighborhood in middle school, I considered that first house my childhood home. In Grade 9, my parents announced we were relocating to China. At age 15, I was convinced I was “going to die” if I left my friends behind.

The first couple of months in Guangzhou were tough. I’d always considered myself Chinese in Canada, but realized how Canadian I was as soon as I landed. I didn’t speak Cantonese, understand Chinese culture, or recognize any of the local food. My peers at the international school were nice enough, but many had been third-culture kids their entire lives and already had their own cliques.

But soon, I became friends with two other new girls from Colombia and Australia. We were inseparable for the year and a half that I lived in Guangzhou. Like me, they were overseas Asians who didn’t speak much of the local language. Together, we bumbled through underground malls, ran away from beggars along the Pearl River, tried

playing

in the fr ont yard

KTV for the first time, and watched way too much Sex and the City during sleepovers.

We soon broadened our circle, began participating in school events, and found ourselves comparing favorite teachers. Though I was often late for Mr. Dow’s homeroom in the mornings (sorry Mr. Dow), he and Mrs. Dow made such a convincing case for the environmental impact of meat production in World Problems that I became vegetarian for a period. I credit my time at the international school for fostering my curiosity and critical thinking skills, as well as my interest in journalism, green issues, and other cultures. The experience also made me want to return to China one day – hence my current stint in Beijing.

The opportunity to live and grow in a foreign country now belongs to you and your family. We won’t lie to you and say it’ll always be blue skies; Beijing has its issues with traffic congestion, air pollution, rising inflation, and food scandals. However, your family will have access to some of the best international schools in Asia, world-class hospitals, modern amenities, and famous historical sites.

You’ll also discover a culture that is as fascinating as it is maddening; arm yourself with a healthy dose of curiosity and patience, and you’ll soon be on your way. Welcome!

Sijia Chen Managing Editor

Contents

Home & Relocation Guide 2014

38 66

20 Arriving 10

Alphabet Soup

An A-Z guide to education in Beijing

14

Healthcare 101

Taking stock of the city’s hospitals and clinics

16

Checking All the Boxes

What to expect from the health check for foreigners

18

Being Legal

Demystifying visas and household registration

58 48

A Comedy of Manners

Avoid common faux-pas with these handy tips

51

Flash the Cash

Card-less in the capital

52

Thick as Thieves

Safety issues to look out for in Beijing

54

White Makes Right

Clarifying Chinese beauty ideals

Settling In

20

This Land Is Your Land

58

Building a Nest

Choosing a neighborhood to live in

How to make a house feel like a home

32

Back to Basics

62

Airing on the Side of Caution

How to set up and pay for utilities

The lowdown on smog, masks, and purifiers

34

Prepare to Dial

66

Call 911! (I Mean, 120)

Acquiring and activating a mobile phone

Breaking down the Chinese hospital system

38

The Help

68

Meals on Wheels

On the hunt for a qualified ayi or driver

The city’s best delivery services

42

Creature Comforts

70

Station to Station

Making the move with pets

Riding the city bus in Beijing

46

Bank on It

72

Tic­ket to Ride

Should you get a domestic bank account?

Getting your Chinese driver’s license

Contents

Home & Relocation Guide 2014

76

85

102

78 74

Don’t Train in Vain

Hop on a high-speed train or long-distance bus

76

In and Out

Indoor and outdoor play venues for kids

78

Pumping Iron

Surveying the city’s fitness options

82

Out with the Old, In with the New

Building a support network through newcomers’ groups

85

Have It Your Way

Being a trailing spouse doesn’t mean being idle

88

Let Your Hair Down

An overview of beauty and wellness services

Leaving 92

Get a Move On

Picking the right relocation company for your family

96

Pets on a Plane

Humans aren’t the only ones moving out of the country

100 Mind Your Mao

Getting your money out of China

102 Keeping the China Connection

It’s not goodbye

Essentials 5

Editor’s Note

112 Survival Chinese

Directories 104 104 106 107 107 108 110 111

Family Dining Family Health Family Life Family Travel Fun Stuff Schools Shopping Sports ON THE COVER:

Originally from North Carolina, Sophie (age 9) and Hollis Baker (age 4) are both students at the International Montessori School of Beijing. They’ve lived in Beijing for one year. Sophie enjoys biking and skateboarding in her spare time while Hollis likes scooting around. At the cover shoot, the sisters ran wild stacking and toppling the cardboard boxes we bought for the occasion. We’ll admit they were quite a handful, but we think you’ll agree the pictures were worth it. Photography by PIXSTUDIO.

Arriving

8

beijingkids

Home & Relocation Guide 2014

Arriving photo by PIXSTUDIO

W

elcome to Beijing! Once the jetlag subsides, chances are you’ll experience a world completely different from your own. It can be disorienting at first, but there’s a whole city out there for you and your family to discover. But first things first; you’ll need to figure out living options, schools, hospitals, banks, social norms, and more. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.

beijingkids

9

Arriving

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Alphabet Soup An A-Z guide to education in Beijing

by Aisling O’Brien

O

ne of the top considerations for any family moving to Beijing is their children's education. That’s why beijingkids hosts the Spring School Choice Fair and publishes the School Choice Guide annually. Through them, we provide the most comprehensive introduction to the city’s educational landscape. The School Choice Guide should be an essential part of your research; pick up a free copy or read it online (tinyurl.com/og213fb).

In it, you’ll find individual listings for over 70 schools detailing everything from tuition fees to facilities, accreditations, curriculum, and more. You’ll be spoiled for choice with Beijing’s diverse and high-quality educational offerings. Selecting the perfect school is daunting enough in your home country; moving to China brings on a whole new set of considerations, such as Chinese language immersion, air quality measures, and a variety of curriculum choices. Here from A to Z are some of the factors you should consider when selecting a school to meet your family’s needs.

Arriving

Air Quality

Smog is a fact of life in Beijing. Several schools such as BSB Shunyi, Dulwich College Beijing, and the Western Academy of Beijing have sports domes with air filtration systems. In addition, BCIS’s upcoming Early Education Center is the first LEED Gold standard educational facility in Beijing. But it’s not all about domes or purpose-built facilities. Look into each school’s air purification systems, testing and monitoring processes, and AQI cut-off point for outdoor activities.

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Boarding Schools For many families – especially those with frequently changing job postings – boarding schools can be an ideal solution. For some children, they can provide a stable environment, foster independence and maturity, and strengthen social and academic skills. Local boarding schools include Keystone, St. Paul American School, and Wellington College International Tianjin.

Curriculum

Beijing’s educational scene offers a huge selection of curricula and educational philosophies, including the American school system (with SAT/PSAT testing), the Chinese National Curriculum, International Baccalaureate, Montessori, Multiple Intelligences, Reggio Emilio, UK National Curriculum, bilingual programs, and more.

For more information on the main educational systems, plus interviews with Beijing families, check out our School Choice Guide.

Children from Beijing City International School (BCIS)

Photo: COURTESY OF BCIS

Demographics

Smaller schools have their advantages, but the likelihood of uneven gender ratios is higher. This can be a concern for some families, as it is normal for kids to pass through stages in their maturation when samesex friendships are dominant. Similarly, a lack of ethnic diversity in some schools may be a concern.

For example, some kids may not enjoy being the pioneering laowai at a local Chinese school.

Employee Turnover Facilities The quality of the teaching staff is of paramount importance. If possible, meet the teachers who will be working with your children. International schools sometimes face higher levels of staff attrition. Nevertheless, think twice about schools with high staff turnover. It takes time for teachers to settle in, develop a rapport with their students, and build quality programs.

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Arriving

Facilities and equipment at top-of-the-line international schools are second to none (see Air Quality and Sports). Language and science labs, vast libraries, black box theaters, organic vegetable gardens, koi ponds, meteorological stations, dark rooms – if you can think of it, chances are one of Beijing’s international schools has it. By contrast, the amenities and hygiene at some smaller local schools may not always be up to standard.

Gut Feeling

Number of Students

Of successful child-school pairings, parents often tell us: “It just felt right.” When you’ve narrowed down your options, and weighed all the pros and cons, you may still be left with a coin toss between schools.

So trust your intuition and the impressions garnered from school tours (see Visits).

Know How

Homeschooling

It’s not compulsory for foreign children to attend school in China, so there are no legal obstacles to homeschooling. Homeschooled children can learn at their own pace, spend more time with their family, and do not have to adjust to a new learning environment.

Homeschooling parents can address socialization and curricular needs through Beijing’s active homeschooling community. A Yahoo group called Beijing Homeschoolers provides support, information, and opportunities to meet other families.

International Schools

Beijing’s international schools are truly international.

Most of them can legally only accept foreign passport holders, and many of the student bodies are incredibly diverse – so it’s not unusual to have 40 different nationalities together on one campus. The city’s best educational institutions are on par with top schools all over the world. However, their excellence in academics, manicured campuses, and stateof-the-art facilities don’t come cheap (see Tuition).

Checking up on accreditations is a vital part of the school selection process. Any school can call itself “international” or “Montessori,” but talk is cheap unless there is a stamp of approval from a recognized organization. Accreditation naturally increases the price of tuition because the process of obtaining and maintaining accreditation entails substantial costs for the schools. If the school you’re looking at isn’t properly accredited, ask a lot of questions about its curriculum and methodologies.

Local Schools

Since 2006, any overseas student is allowed to attend any local school – even those without an international campus. However, interacting with local schools can be especially challenging for expat families. Differing expectations, poor administration, larger class sizes (commonly up to 40 students), mismatched holidays (local schools follow the Chinese national holiday schedule), and communication difficulties are some common complaints. It’s vital that you speak Chinese, and/or interview a parent whose child attends the school to get an idea of what lies ahead.

Mandarin

Arriving

For new families, the school provides a vital link to the community. Many schools act as a social hub; some have parent-run cafes (such as DCB and MSB) and others offer all-day drop-in services for parents (such as at HoK).

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Obedience and Discipline

You might have raised model citizens, but be sure to research the school’s disciplinary and bullying guidelines to ascertain if their policies seem workable and effective if children do step out of line. Overall, disciplinary policies at international schools are more forgiving, whereas the rote learning system at local schools requires a level of focus that often entails stricter regulations for students.

Parent Organizations

An active Parents’ Association (PA) can provide networking and socializing opportunities as well as offer a platform to contribute to the school and community at large. Many Beijing PAs hold annual fundraising balls and other events to benefit local charities (also see Join In).

Photos COURTESY OF Daystar, sui

Join In

Beijing-based families can offer their children a major advantage: fluency in Mandarin. There is a wide range of options available ranging from Mandarin as a subject all the way to monolingual Chinese programs. Bilingual programs (such as the ones at BIBA and YCIS Beijing) are increasingly popular. In addition to the extra opportunities that proficiency in more than one language brings, multilingualism also develops adaptability, self-control, and focus.

Is bigger always better? Smaller schools may lack the resources of their larger counterparts (see Facilities), and it is likely your child will have to change schools (and perhaps curriculum) as they progress from K-12. On the other hand, smaller schools are less constrained by bureaucracy, and educators are free to make more day-to-day decisions. Some young children may also be less intimidated by a more intimate setting.

Work

Some expat families have difficulty adjusting to the Chinese school system because its reliance on rote memorization can lead to hours of homework every night, even for young children. Although the Ministry of Education banned Chinese kindergartens from giving homework in 2012, many continue to assign it. The workload is generally much lighter at international schools despite their focus on academics.

Tuition Qualifications

Accredited schools should have properly qualified staff members. Check that teachers have the right qualifications to teach the curriculum offered by the school.

There is a broad range of daycare, playgroup and kindergarten options in Beijing, with significant differences in educational quality and approaches. Those with young children should pay particular attention to the qualifications of teachers and teaching assistants.

Recommendations Talk to parents whose kids attend your preferred school, but also use community resources to get other perspectives on your shortlist. Contact other parents online through the beijingkids forum, Beijing Mamas, and Beijing Café (popular Yahoo Groups).

Once you arrive in Beijing, draw on newcomers’ groups (see our feature on p) or simply turn up to the school gate and mingle with other parents.

Alongside more traditional facilities such as running tracks, football fields and gymnasiums, Beijing’s international schools feature everything from Olympic-sized pools to roof-top putting courses and equestrian arenas. If your child’s preferred sport is not available at their school, check out some of the many after-school sports programs available across the city from organizations such as O’le Sports, Flips and Kicks, and Sports Beijing.

Uniforms and Dress Codes Many schools opt for uniforms as a way of reinforcing school ethos, increasing identification and school spirit, and reducing differences between students.

Schools without uniforms generally emphasize student choice, freedom of expression and personal responsibility, although they may enforce dress codes.

Visits

After you’ve read the School Choice Guide and school brochures, it’s time to draw up a shortlist and pound the pavement. If you’re unable to attend the open house or take a tour, contact the admissions departments. Most will be happy to arrange a private visit to suit your schedule. If possible, observe the students after hours and off the clock – getting on the school bus, playing on school grounds, etc. Are they orderly or rowdy, excited or exhausted? Can you see your little one fitting in?

“Xtra" Curricular After-school activities may not be the most important factor, but they can tip the balance when it comes to deciding between two equally-matched schools. These days, extracurricular pursuits are weighed more heavily – particularly for students preparing for university.

Music, arts, sports, clubs, and international honors such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award – think about what’s important to your child and their life stage.

Years

Is this a short-term posting? Or are you here for the long haul? Families committed to expat life tend to prefer education systems such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) which is available worldwide. If you’re not planning to be away from your home country for long, you may not want to change curriculum in Beijing. Some – like the German Embassy School and French International School of Beijing – are backed by foreign education ministries.

Zzz Distances in Beijing are often exacerbated by extreme traffic conditions. Cross-city commutes can mean brutally early rising times. So, the proximity between home and school is a key consideration for many parents. Before making your final choice, try to run through the commute to each of the schools you are interested in during peak times. Long transit times can wear your kids out, especially if they have a lot of homework to do after they get home.

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Arriving

Photos COURTESY OF harrow

Sports

China is a developing nation, but get ready to shell out; Beijing is expensive. Inflation isn’t just affecting the housing market; the cost of education is rising as well. Budget will be your number one consideration.

After all, there’s no point wasting time on schools you can’t afford. That said, tuition costs vary widely.

Grade 12 in the international section of a local high school can range from RMB 50,000-100,000 while international school fees range from RMB 150,000-250,000 per year, though sibling and other discounts may be available at individual schools.

Healthcare 101 Navigating the city’s clinics and hospitals

Photo: christian triebert (flickr)

Arriving

by Steven Schwankert

14 beijingkids

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H

ealthcare in Beijing is one of those things you may want to know a lot about but hope to never need. It provides significant peace of mind in case of emergency and is crucial for families who will be in and out of doctor’s offices with their children for routine checkups.

Hospitals have come a long way in Beijing, especially over the last ten years or so. International-standard facilities operated both

by Chinese and overseas companies – staffed with both Chinese and foreign doctors – are now available in almost every district of the city.

Overall, healthcare in Beijing adheres to the maxim of “you get what you pay for.” Low-cost care means long lines at a state-run hospital, with overworked doctors (often medical school graduates doing their residency) and assembly-line procedures. For more on what to expect from a Chinese public hospital, see p66.

As most foreign residents of Beijing will opt for western rather than Chinese medicine, this section focuses on international clinics and hospitals.

Clinics One main difference between the medical experience overseas and in Beijing is that doctors are all based out of hospitals and clinics rather than their own private practices. As such, a basic appointment will likely take place at a clinic. Staff physicians who work at clinics may or may not also have office hours at an affiliated hospital.

Clinics are designed to provide routine services such as checkups, pediatric medicine, and outpatient care. They may also offer dentistry, mental health services, physical rehabilitation, official physical examinations (for visas or other purposes), and inoculations. In most cases, anything relating to obstetrics and pre-natal care will not be available at clinics, requiring instead a hospital visit.

Although emergency cases may be accepted at a clinic for initial diagnosis, patients may need to be transferred to the main hospital depending on the seriousness of the case.

International hospitals are usually a wholly foreign-owned enterprise (WFOE) or a joint venture between an international medical operator and a Chinese hospital. Foreign patients will find the process and surroundings familiar and therefore comforting, but bear in mind that the attending doctor will likely still be Chinese – albeit Englishspeaking – and that not every international-standard hospital is equipped to handle all scenarios. For example, patients requiring major surgery, particularly emergency surgery, may need to be transferred to a Chinese hospital, both for the operations themselves and for continuing care post-surgery.

These caveats aside, international hospitals will likely be the first choice for most foreign residents for both urgent and routine care.

They offer niceties such as reminders for checkups and some have more than one location, offering access near your home, office, and school. There will also be a greater emphasis on preventative care.

Paradoxically, while Chinese locals will go to a hospital for even minor maladies like the flu, most foreigners avoid hospitals, seeing them as centers for serious care.

Ambulances The official medical emergency number is 120. Non-Chinese speakers can call the number and begin speaking in English; if the operator does not speak English, they will transfer the call to an Englishspeaking operator. Ambulances in Beijing have a mixed record for two reasons. They are notorious for getting lost and being perfunctory in their treatment of non-emergency patients.

Insurance for the Uninsured For those who aren’t insured by their company or whose insurance doesn’t cover care at international-standard facilities, self-pay options are available. Some larger hospitals offer their own membership-type programs, which provide discounts on services.

However, for full insurance, companies like Now Healthcare and William Russell that specialize in serving expats offer coverage for medical treatments and often repatriation, should the person wish to be treated in their home country for a serious condition or injury.

Americans should note that most of these plans require separate riders or plans for US care.

Insurance agents in Beijing such as Expat Solutions Consulting Ltd. and Pacific Prime Insurance Brokers can give prospective buyers options based on their needs and wants, including family coverage, repatriation, and any other special considerations.

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beijingkids 15

Arriving

Photo: scott & elaine van der chijs (flickr)

Hospitals

Also, Beijing’s traffic situation is not conducive to the quick transfer of patients to medical facilities, and drivers here are not yet in the habit of yielding to ambulances. There is no simple solution for this. Many taxis will not take injured or sick passengers for fear of being held liable for any negative outcomes.

There is no Good Samaritan law in China. This may explain why many Chinese are unwilling to become involved in emergency situations. Bystanders who offer help may be held liable even if everything works out for the better. A patient who is given cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) may survive, but non-qualified rescuers have been sued for the broken ribs that often occur in the process.

If you are unsure, call 120 and report the emergency, but consider carefully whether there’s a good reason to become directly involved in a situation. That said, for one’s own family, friends, and workplace, most international hospitals and clinics in Beijing offer CPR and first aid training in English. It’s a good idea to take a course, especially for people who live farther away from a major medical center.

Checking All the Boxes Making the standard health inspection as painless as possible

by Steven Schwankert

Arriving

T

he health inspection (known as tijian in Chinese) is a mandatory part of the residence visa application process for full-time employees, spouses, students, and other foreigners. For a process that only takes about an hour, it tends to be a major production mostly because of the remote location of the only clinic authorized to conduct the health check. Arm yourself with something to read and a healthy dose of patience, and it will be done before long.

The location couldn’t be more inconvenient, even for foreigners living in Haidian District. The good news is that taxi drivers at Xierqi subway station on Line 13 usually know why you’re there and – more importantly – where to go. Still, it’s best bring the address just in case.

It’s a long ride to the middle of nowhere, so be sure to bring everything you need. A few services such as photos or copying are available at the tiny strip mall across the street, but don’t plan on using them. For example, there’s no automatic teller machine at the clinic or anywhere nearby, so be sure to bring enough money to cover the roundtrip taxi fare, health check fee (RMB 650), and RMB 30-50 for courier delivery of the results (more on this below).

The clinic is open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 11.30am.

There are two schools of thought about when to arrive; early birds believe that getting right there when it opens means they’ll finish swiftly and be on their way well before 11.30am.

However, experience shows that arriving closer to closing time ensures a quicker passage because all the early birds are finished and the medical technicians on staff are eager to go to lunch on time. If you’re in by 11.15am, they should hurry you through the process and make sure you’re out by 11.30 – it’s a procrastinator’s delight. The

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Home & Relocation Guide 2014

only drawback is that applicants are required to fast before doing the blood test; people who’d rather eat breakfast may want to go early.

The check is done in an assembly line fashion. The doctors and nurses who work at the clinic speak enough English to keep things moving, but don’t expect any medical advice or a pleasant bedside manner.

Upon arrival, fill out the form with your information. Filling out the form in English is acceptable, but make sure you know your home, office, or school address in pinyin form. Along with the filledout form, you’ll need two passport-sized photos with a white background. Wait in line at the reception desk, where the clerk will take your form, passport, and photos, then register you. You’ll be given a sheet on which each health check “station” will record your medical results. After this, move to the left and follow the order for the various examinations. Carry your sheet with you, as it has bar codes affixed to it that will be used to process your information.

Bear in mind that the health check process is largely perfunctory. Anyone well enough to get themselves to the clinic should be healthy enough to pass the test, with possible exceptions, like people with serious, communicable blood-borne diseases such as HIV. That said, take the examinations seriously; the health check is required not only for a visa longer than six months, but also for other credentials such as a driver’s license.

Blood test: This is usually the first stop. Blood is drawn from a vein on the arm, so it’s not a simple pinprick. Anyone who gets dizzy either from blood tests or the sight of their own blood should let the technician know in advance. That being said, the process doesn’t

really hurt and is over very quickly. The needles are changed and discarded after each use, so don’t worry about hygiene.

Abdominal ultrasound: You’ll be asked to lie on a table and lift your shirt. There’s a curtain for privacy. Brace yourself; the gel used on the ultrasound wand is cold. The nurse will make sure there aren’t any aliens incubating inside you and move you swiftly along; don’t be surprised if she says something like, “Your liver is fat.”

Chest X-ray: You’ll stand up for this one; make sure to use the lead cover to shield your reproductive organs. It’s just a flick of the switch, then it’s over. That strange green, nighttime glow goes away after a day or so (just kidding).

Ears, eyes, and throat: This is a simple eye test, with your vision tested separately. There’s no hearing test – just a visual inspection of the ears and throat by the technician. Any visual shortcomings may be noted; you may be required to wear glasses if you decide to get your driving license here.

Electrocardiogram (ECG): The technician will put a cuff on your wrist and ankle, along with some very cold suction cups on your chest. The print-out of your cardiac activity will be given to you; don’t lose it, as it will become part of your file.

Blood pressure: The exam room is labeled with something general like “medical,” but it’s actually a blood pressure check. A normal reading is 120 over 80.

Lymph nodes and height/weight: The last stop on this medical odyssey is upstairs, where the technician will palpate around your throat to check the lymph nodes. Finally, you’ll be asked to step on a scale to measure your height and weight.

Once all your health checks are complete, hand in all your documents to the reception desk (at the line labeled “Cashier”) and pay the fee. You will receive a receipt, which will allow you to collect the results. It takes four working days to process the results and no rush service is available.

Now, you have a choice: Return four business days later to pick up the results in the afternoon, or simply pay to have a courier deliver the results to your home or office. The latter option is the clear winner. The service is convenient, reliable, and starts at RMB 30 depending where you’re having the results sent to. Just make sure you have the delivery address in Chinese; the courier representative can help you fill out the invoice if you don’t write Chinese characters. Give them your receipt, fill out the delivery form, pay the fee, and start making your way back towards civilization.

Once the results arrive, you’ll use them as part of your residence visa application. The document will be inspected by the immigration officer and returned to you. You probably won’t need the health check results again, but don’t lose them. The certificate does have other uses besides visa applications and the entire process will have to be repeated all over again if they’re misplaced.

Haidian Clinic of Beijing International Travel Healthcare Center 北京国际旅行卫生保健中心海淀分中心 Mon-Fri 8.30-11.30am. 10 Dezheng Lu, Haidian District (8240 3675) 海淀区德政路10号

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Photo: Thirteen of Clubs (Flickr)

Don't worry – the health check is a largely pain-free process

Legal Alien Demystifying Chinese visa regulations

by Nimo Wanjau

H

aving lived in Beijing for nearly four years, I have realized that keeping abreast of visa regulations is a must. I came to China on a student visa, then switched to a work visa after I graduated. Sounds straight forward, but when it came time, I had to do the laowai (“foreigner”) ritual of going on a visa run to Hong Kong.

The visa run may sound daunting, but it's nothing compared to dealing with the underground agents who charge a fortune to switch your visa domestically. Even the Hong Kong route is not guaranteed anymore, as new regulations state that work visas must be applied for from the candidate’s home country.

In September 2013, a new set of laws came into effect, expanding the number of visa categories from eight to 12. The visas are referred to by their letters: C, D, F, G, J, L, M, Q, R, S, X, and Z. Here’s an overview of the changes.

New Visa Categories

M Visa 商贸 , shangmao

Also known as the “commercial visa,” the M visa covers businessand commerce-related trips, which in the past fell under the F visa. This indicates people who are visiting China on business or planning to participate in a trade fair. The longest duration granted is 12 months with multiple entries.

This visa is intended specifically for families (previously covered under the L visa). People whose family members are Chinese citizens or foreign nationals with Chinese residence permits are eligible for this visa. Only spouses, parents, sons, daughters, spouses of sons or daughters, brothers, sisters, grandparents, grandchildren, and parents-in-law qualify.

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S Visa 私人事务 , siren shiwu

Also known as the “private visit visa,” the S visa is intended for family members (spouses, parents, minor children, and parentsin-law) who are visiting or staying with foreigners who reside in China for work, study, or other purposes. This is also divided into two categories, S1 and S2.

R Visa 人才 , rencai

The “talent visa” is issued to visiting or staying foreign, highlevel professionals whose expertise in their field is considered authoritative and valuable to China.

Photo: wikimedia commons

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Q Visa 亲属 , qinshu

The Q visa has two subclasses, Q1 and Q2. The Q1 is also known as Family Reunion or Foster Care visa and allows longterm stays of over 180 days. A trip to the Public Security Bureau (PSB) within 30 days of entry is required. The Q2 visa is for stays of under 180 days; there is no need to visit the PSB unless an extension is required.

Changes to Existing Visa Categories F Visa 访问 , fangwen

In the past, the F visa covered short-term business travel, shortterm study programs, and other types of cultural exchanges.

Now, it’s only valid for short-term, non-commercial “exchanges, visits, and inspections” for scientific, educational, cultural, health, or sports purposes.

L Visa 旅游, lvyou One of the most-issued visa categories, the tourist visa used to cover both tourists and those visiting family in China. Now, it’s reserved exclusively for tourists and tour groups.

X Visa 学生 , xuesheng Also known as the student visa, the X visa is issued to those who intend to study or intern in China for more than six months.

Documents Required to Apply for a Visa For work visas, your company’s HR department will handle some of the paperwork before you get to China. Required documents include: • The results of a health check done in a Chinese Embassycertified clinic or hospital. This must be completed no more than six months before your intended date of entry in China.

• A work license from the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Labor and Social Security. This usually takes ten working days.

• A government-issued invitation letter that must be applied for by your company, which takes at least five working days.

For other types of visas, such as the S visa, an invitation letter containing the applicant’s contact details, purpose of visit, bank statements going back three months, and the inviter’s personal information.

• After the work license and the invitation letter are sent to the applicant, they must apply for a three-month temporary work visa from the Chinese Embassy.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Z Visa from the PSB

J Visa 记者 , jizhe The elusive journalist visa is a specialist visa that requires several extra documents, including a Visa Notification Letter issued by the Information Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, an official letter signed by the head of the foreign media organization, an invitation from Chinese media authorities (if working for Chinese Media), or an itinerary.

The visa is divided into two subcategories, J1 and J2.

J1 is for resident journalists staying in China for more than 180 days. J2 is for visiting journalists staying less than 180 days.

Other Changes to Visa Regulations There are a few changes to the duration of stays, processing times, penalties, and required documents: • L or F visa extensions take seven working days (used to be five working days) • L visa can only be extended once for a maximum of 30 days (used to be twice for 30 days each extension) • The residence permit application takes 15 working days (used to be five working days) • The immigration office (Exit and Entry Administration) recommends that all foreigners process their visas at least one week before they expire; the earlier, the better. Don’t wait until the last couple of days to take action.

• Late household registration (exceeding 24 hours) at your local police station carries a maximum penalty of RMB 2,000.

• Expired visas carry a penalty of RMB 500 per day with a maximum penalty of RMB 10,000 (used to be RMB 5,000) • A certificate of No Criminal Record is required when applying for a work permit in Beijing • From now on, applicants must “provide fingerprints and other human biometric information.” It’s unclear what the “other human biometric information” is.

• Married couples must provide the original copy of their marriage certificate notarized by a public notary in the country where the certificate was issued and authenticated by the Chinese Embassy. Families with children must supply their original birth certificates, notarized like the above. If the birth certificate was issued in China, this step can be skipped.

Public Security Bureau (PSB) Entry & Exit Administration 北京市公安局出入境管理处 2/F, 2 Andingmen Dongdajie, Dongcheng District (8402 0101) www.bjgaj.gov.cn 东城区安定门东大街2号2层

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Upon arriving in China, registration at the local police station is required within 24 hours. You can do this in person or in some cases through your realtor. Those who need a long-term stay visas or need an extension must also visit the Public Security Bureau (PSB).

For Z visa applicants, your passport, proof of address, and medical certificate from the Beijing International Travel Health Center of Beijing (see p16 for more on this) must be taken to the Beijing Municipal Bureau of Labor and Social Security to apply for a work permit (not be confused for the work license). This takes five working days to process.

Then, go to the PSB with all the documents (work permit, filled-out application form, temporary residence registration, company’s business license, and two passport-sized photos).

It usually takes 15 working days to process.

After you’ve picked up your new Z visa, you’ll need to reregister at the local police station. Your old temporary residence form will be exchanged for a new one. Do not lose this document, as it proves your residence status and allows you to do things like open a bank account in China.

If the study or internship period is under six months, the candidate must apply for an F visa. Either visa does not grant permission to work; if discovered, the student faces immediate deportation.

The iconic CCTV tower and the surrounding neighborhood in the CBD

This Land Is Your Land An introduction to popular expat neighborhoods

by Sijia Chen

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Photo: edward tojakovic (Flickr)

ne of the first things that newcomers and visitors tend to notice about Beijing is how big the city is. That makes choosing a neighborhood to live in challenging at best and infuriating at worst. However, the upside to living in such a large city is the sheer diversity of housing arrangements available.

Whether it’s a courtyard home in Gulou, an apartment with a view in the CBD, or a spacious villa in Shunyi, there’s a place for you here.

We survey the most popular expat neighborhoods in Beijing, with an overview of residential compounds, schools, public transportation, nearby dining options, and more.

CBD (Central Business District) 北京商务中心 The CBD is the financial center of Beijing. Located in Chaoyang District, the 4sqkm area is sandwiched between the Third and Fourth Ring Road on the east side of the city. The CBD is one of the fastest-changing and most affluent areas of Beijing, but some would say it’s too eager to embrace modernity; new skyscrapers spring up every year, displacing entire communities in the process.

Good for: Well-to-do families and white-collar employees who work in the CBD and want to avoid a long commute. The area becomes relatively quiet after office hours.

Public transportation: Dawanglu (大望路) and Guomao (国贸) on Line 1, Jintaixizhao (金台夕照) on Line 10, and Dongdaqiao (东大桥) on the new Line 6.

Schools: There are many schooling options for younger kids, including Ivy Academy’s shiny new location at Central Park. There’s also AnRic Little Montessori Room near The Place, Beanstalk International Bilingual School and New Bamboo Academy in Jianguomen, The Family Learning House in Guomao, Huijia Kindergarten in Chaoyangmen, and Etonkids’ various campuses. Kids who are schoolage and older have limited options in the area; one of them is Fangcaodi International School, a local school with an international department.

Dining: Restaurants in the CBD tend to be concentrated in malls or residential compounds. For example, Central Park counts Obentos

Just for kids: Central Park has a large green space ringed with cafes and restaurants. Ritan Park, Tuanjiehu Park, and Chaoyang Park are all close. Most major shopping centers in the CBD also have play areas for children; nearby play centers include Gymboree, Kindyroo (both Jianwai SOHO), Yu Kids Island (The Place), and the Adventure Zone at the Kerry Center.

Popular residential compounds: Central Park 新城国际

• Rent prices (per month): RMB 13,000-15,000 (88sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 17,000-22,000 (120-135sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 28,000-35,000 (200sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Central location in a large compound filled with restaurants, shops, cafes, and beauty services. The Place is right across the street and the compound is about a ten-minute walk from Jintaixizhao subway station.

Gemdale International Garden 金地国际花园 • Rent prices (per month): RMB 11,000-15,000 (110-148sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 18,000-24,000 (188-198sqm, 3 bedrooms), RMB 30,000-35,000 (260sqm, 4 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: The compound has a supermarket, restaurants, cafes, a post office, a gym, a swimming pool, and a playground. A small shopping center called Gemdale Plaza is located right across the compound.

Blue Castle International Apartment 蓝堡国际公寓 • Rent prices (per month): RMB 8,000-9,000 (54-73sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 12,000-14,000 (128-138sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 15,000-20,000 (158-180sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Close to the post office, banks, Shin Kong Place, and hospitals. Limited choice of western restaurants in the area, though there’s an Annie’s around the corner.

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Shopping: Not surprisingly, the CBD boasts a number of fancy shopping malls such as Shin Kong Place, China World Shopping Mall, Kerry Center, and the LEED-certified Parkview Green. The Place, which has a huge LED screen, has more mid-range stores like Zara and H&M.

(Japanese), Thai Lime Cafe (Thai), and Pekotan (bakery and deli) among its many eateries while The Place has Ganges (Indian) and Herbal Cafe (Hong Kong).

Sunset over Shuangjing

Shuangjing 双井

of Chinese restaurants and eateries adjacent to Fulicheng as well as in the VIVA! Mall and Landgent Center.

Located just south of the CBD, Shuangjing was once a no-man’s land of factories and farmland. It’s bisected by East Third Ring Road, extending southward from China World Trade Center past Shuangjing Qiao to Jingsong Qiao. With one of the highest concentrations of residential compounds in Chaoyang District, Shuangjing has a diverse population of white-collar locals and expats who have settled in the area due to its proximity to downtown Beijing. The area has also become popular with families thanks to its growing selection of shopping and dining options.

Just for kids: Because Shuangjing is almost purely residential, there are no major parks except for Qingfeng Park along the Tonghui River.

The closest parks are probably Ritan and Chaoyang, 15-20 minutes away by taxi. The top floor of Viva Mall has a few play centers. Though pricey, the Adventure Zone at the Kerry Hotel in the CBD guarantees a good time.

Good for: Families and white-collar workers who want easy access to the CBD while keeping away from the hustle and bustle.

Public transportation: Shuangjing station on Line 10 has exits leading directly to Landgent International Center (乐城国际中心) and Viva Mall (富丽广场).

Shopping: Carrefour, Langdent International Center Mall, and Viva Mall are within walking distance of the area’s many residential compounds. There’s an April Gourmet next to Lohao City on the south side of Langdent International Apartments.

Dining: There’s a stretch of western restaurants with Lily’s American Diner, Gung-Ho Pizza, Main Street, and more. There are plenty

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Pingod 苹果社区

• Rent prices (per month): RMB 5,900-7,000 (63-72sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 7,300-7,500 (97sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 9,000-11,000 (131-144sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Large, well-designed garden with a good selection of convenience stores and shops in the compound.

Fulicheng 富力城 • Rent prices (per month): RMB 7,000-7,500 (73sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 7,500-11,000 (80-110sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 11,000-30,000 (130-232sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Gym and health club, children’s play areas, clubhouse, adjacent to Viva Mall.

Landgent International 乐成国际 • Rent prices (per month): RMB 7,500-8,500 (72sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 9,000-11,000 (109sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 10,000-23,000 (139-191sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Relatively new apartments (built in 2007) with a man-made lake and central garden within the compound. Nearby Carrefour, cafes, florists, laundry services, post office, and banks.

Photo: michael vito (Flickr)

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Schools: There are several schools in the area, the largest being Beijing City International School (K-12). Kindergartens include The Family Learning House, American International Academy of Beijing, Little Village Montessori School, and New Garden International School.

Popular residential compounds:

Chaoyang Park 朝阳公园 Chaoyang Park is often referred to as the “lungs of Beijing,” and for good reason – the park is the largest of its kind in Asia, and its green spaces and children’s activities draws families from all over the city.

Lined with shops, restaurants, and residential compounds, the areas around Chaoyang Park – particularly Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu (where the west gates are located) are particularly attractive for families. The popular Solana Mall lies on the northwest end of the park and Lucky Street, with its many restaurants, is across the street.

Good for: Families, runners, and young professionals, especially those working in the embassy areas in Liangmaqiao or Dongzhimen Wai. Public transportation: One of this area’s only drawbacks is its distance from the subway. The closest station is Tuanjiehu (团结湖) on Line 10, which is about a 15-minute walk from the park’s west gate.

As of this writing, Line 14 was still not completed. However, many buses run along Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu.

Just for kids: Chaoyang Park is a must-do for families in Beijing. In addition to its expansive green spaces, there are a number of ponds to paddle boats on and a large children’s area with amusement rides and attractions. Kite flying is a great spring tradition for local families. Solana has an indoor skating rink, a cinema, and an entire wing of the mall dedicated to maternity gear and children’s clothing.

Popular residential compounds: Palm Springs 榈泉国际公寓

• Rent prices (per month): RMB 15,000-31,000 (130-225sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 18,000-24,000 (160-190sqm, 3 bedrooms), RMB 44,000 (360sqm, 4 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: The north-facing units have a great view of Chaoyang Park. The Roman-style garden and large clubhouse make this a popular choice for families.

Schools: House of Knowledge International Kindergarten is located off Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu. Chaoyang Park is about a 15-minute drive away from Liangmaqiao, where there’s the Canadian International School and The Children’s House International Montessori Kindergarten. In the other direction, there’s the British School of Beijing’s Sanlitun campus and the French International School of Beijing.

Park Avenue 公园大道

Shopping: Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park (referred to simply as “Solana”) is an open-air mall just north of Chaoyang Park’s west gate.

It’s one of the more complete shopping centers, housing Zara, Uniqlo, Muji, H&M, Mothercare, Mango, Bershka, and more under one roof.

Greenlake Place 观湖国际公寓

Dining: There are many restaurants lining the west side of Chaoyang Park, including Muse (Vietnamese), Annie’s, and Alio Olio (Italian).

• Rent prices (per month): RMB 11,000-12,000 (95-100sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 18,000-22,000 (150-190sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 32,000-57,000 (215-320sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Park Avenue has a shopping complex with imported groceries, cafes and sporting good stores.

• Rent prices (per month): RMB 10,000-12,000 (85-123sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 12,000-14,000 (120-145sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 15,000-26,000 (160-250sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Located east of Chaoyang Park, Greenlake is a sizeable complex with stores, restaurants, and shops – including a Jenny Lou’s.

Pastoral views at Chaoyang Park

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Photo: bridget coila (Flickr)

Across from Solana, a strip called “Lucky Street” has several Japanese restaurants and South German Bakery, a popular brunch spot.

Be sure to try Baoyuan Jiaozi Wu on Maizidian, a small restaurant that makes some of the best dumplings in Beijing.

A view of Tai Koo Li and Sanlitun SOHO

Sanlitun and Xingfucun 三里屯和幸福村 Sanlitun is a major shopping and nightlife hub, especially for foreigners. With many international brands, restaurants, and bars concentrated in such a small area, it’s a bustling, fast-evolving, and some would say overly noisy area. To the west, near Second Ring Road lies the quieter Xingfucun area with many francophone families (owing to its proximity to the French Culture Center and French School) and a burgeoning dining and drinking scene.

Good for: Families and professionals who want to be in the middle of it all.

Public transportation: Dongsishitiao ( 东四十条 ) on Line 2 is closer to Xingfucun and Tuanjiehu (团结湖) on Line 10 is closer to Sanlitun Village and Sanlitun SOHO. Schools: Located in Xingfucun, Beijing No. 55 Middle School is a well-known local school with an international section (K-12) that is increasingly attracting students from the expat community. Next to Tai Koo Li, there’s the French International School of Beijing for francophone families, with more schooling options located just north in Dongzhimen (see opposite).

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Dining: You’ll never want for choice in Sanlitun. Most of the area’s western restaurants are concentrated in Tai Koo Li and the adjacent Nali Patio, including Element Fresh, Blue Frog, Union Bar and Grille, Wagas, Crêpanini, and Colibri Cafe. At Shimao Department Store, you’ll find an excellent Chinese restaurant called Green Tea

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Just for kids: Tuanjiehu Park has a water park, a roller skating rink, and boat rides. Though a bit rough around the edges, Fundazzle is a long-standing play center located near Worker’s Stadium. At the south gate, there’s Blue Zoo Beijing, an aquarium with rays, sharks, dolphins, and even mermaids. The Cervantes Institute and newlyrenovated French Cultural Center are also near the south gate; both have libraries with children’s books and regular film screenings with English and Chinese subtitles.

Popular residential compounds: Seasons Park 海晟国际公寓

• Rent prices (per month): RMB 9,000-12,000 (70-98sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 11,000-16,000 (95-140sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 16,00032,000 (140-210sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Popular with expat familes, Seasons Park is close to banks, restaurants, and western supermarkets. The compound has a kids’ playground.

Sun City 阳光都市 • Rent prices (per month): RMB 7,000-9,000 (64-84sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 8,000-16,000 (97-160sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 15,00021,000 (177-192sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: This community is home to many couples and young professionals. Great Leap Brewery, Beijing No. 55 Middle School, Sweet Tooth Cafe, and Kato-Ya are right around the corner.

Sanlitun SOHO 三里屯 SOHO • Rent prices (per month): RMB 11,000-17,000 (95-150sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 18,000-21,000 (130-150sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 33,000-36,000 (237-270sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: This block contains mixed commercial and residential spaces. The attached shopping mall has large outdoor spaces for skating, strolling, wining, and dining.

Photo: lux moundi (Flickr)

Shopping: The main shopping destination is Tai Koo Li, a sprawling village-style mall split into north and south zones. The latter houses more fast fashion and sports brands (including the largest Adidas store in Asia), while the former sells luxury labels. Right next to Tai Koo Li, there’s the popular but crowded Yashow Market, which specializes in fakes. Expect to bargain hard and get repeatedly accosted by salespeople yelling “Hello, lady! Louis Vuitton wallet?”

that always has a line. Across the street, there’s Gung-Ho Pizza, Annie’s, and Iki Barbecue (you’ll recognize the building by the prominent Hooters logo). Xingfucun is home to a growing selection of bars and restaurants such as The Big Smoke, Great Leap Brewery, O’Steak, Sweet Tooth Cafe, Kato-Ya, and Jingzun Roast Duck Restaurant.

Dongzhimen 东直门 Dongzhimen is split into Dongzhimen Wai (“Outer”) and Dongzhimen Nei (“Inner”) by the Second Ring Road, with the outer portion running north of Sanlitun all the way to Third Ring Road. Dongzhimen Nei is a gateway to the more historical neighborhoods of Beijing, such as Gulou, Andingmen, and Yonghegong.

Just for kids: There isn’t much to do in Dongzhimen besides shopping and eating, so many families head south to Sanlitun for fun. As a major transportion hub, Dongzhimen station also makes a great jumping-off point for day trips outside of Beijing, including the wild and untouched Huanghuacheng section of the Great Wall.

Good for: Embassy workers and families looking for a quiet alternative to Sanlitun.

Popular residential compounds:

Public transportation: Dongzhimen (东直门) subway station on the intersection of Lines 2 and 13 is a major transportation hub, with a major bus station located at the northeastern exit. It’s also the starting point of the Airport Express, the cheapest and most convenient way of getting to Beijing Capital International Airport.

Schools: On Dongzhimen Waidajie, there’s Ivy Academy and the British School of Beijing’s downtown campus. There’s also MOMA Kids International Kindergarten within a housing compound in northern Dongzhimen called MOMA. Shopping: Along with Solana and U-Town Shopping Center, Raffles City in Dongzhimen Nei is probably one of the better malls in the city. There’s a large BHG Marketplace in the basement for imported food; Zara, H&M, Mango, and Bershka for clothes; HOLA for affordable kitchenware and household goods; and a decent selection of restaurants on the top floor. Right across Second Ring Road, there’s a decent gym and a Uniqlo at Ginza Mall.

• Rent prices (per month): RMB 12,000-14,000 (81sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 19,000-26,000 (123-149sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 24,000-29,000 (150sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: East Lake Villas has western-style apartments as well as villas, with landscaped gardens throughout the compound. The clubhouse has a Comptoirs de France, a Jenny Lou’s, and exercise facilities.

MOMA 当代 MOMA • Rent prices (per month): RMB 12,000-14,000 (100sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 17,000-23,000 (145-187sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 21,000-35,000 (177-237sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Not to be confused with the old MOMA compound (known in Chinese as 万国城MOMA), MOMA is a modern residential complex located just outside North Second Ring Road. It has a clubhouse, a swimming pool, a post office, a man-made pond, Broadway Cinematheque (which regularly screens art house films), and Kubrick Cafe.

Min'an Community 民安小区 • Rent prices (per month): RMB 5,500-7,500 (65-90sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 8,000-13,000 (80-135sqm, 3 bedrooms), RMB 12,00015,000 (130-200sqm, 4-bedroom duplex) • Facilities and amenities: This no-frills compound in Donzhimen Nei is showing its age, but remains popular with locals and younger expats. No fancy amenities here, but the price is right.

Gui Jie's trademark red lanterns

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Photo: chinnian (flickr)

Dining: The embassy area has several restaurants, including the longstanding Serve the People (Thai), In and Out (Yunnan), and Alameen.

Around Dongzhimen Wai, Starfish is known for seafood, Paddy O’Shea’s for pub grub, Ganges for Indian curries, and Lau Pa Sak for Singaporean food. Dongzhimen Nei is home to Gui Jie (“Ghost Street”), a boisterous, lantern-lined stretch of Chinese hotpot and chuanr joints.

East Lake Villas 东湖别墅

The iron wolves of 798 Art District

Lido and Dashanzi 丽都和大山子

houses a Tous les Jours bakery, Bibigo bibimbap restaurant, and Twosome Coffee. There’s also Element Fresh, Gung-Ho Pizza, Annie’s, Taj Pavilion, and more. Dashanzi isn’t exactly a dining hotspot, but Indigo Mall has many restaurants, including Blue Frog, Muse, and Flamme.

Located in northeast Beijing, Lido lies halfway between the suburbs of Shunyi and downtown Beijing. The area is increasingly popular with families, who like its relative tranquility, access to high-quality healthcare providers like Amcare and Beijing United Family Hospital, and proximity to the airport, parks, and international schools in Shunyi. A bit further east is Dashanzi, which contains 798 Art District and the relatively new Indigo Mall.

Just for kids: Si’de Park is a gem with a children’s amusement park, tennis courts, artificial ponds with resident black swans, wellmanicured lawns and gardens, and paved paths for runners. Nearby Lido Park is smaller and less interesting, but very quiet. Within Lido Hotel, there’s a popular bowling alley called Cosmic Bowling. Not far away in Sanyuanqiao, families with older kids can also play laser tag or have fun go-karting.

Good for: Frequent travelers, families who want access to Shunyi schools without living in Shunyi, and employees of German and Korean companies (which are mostly located in Lido, Sanyuanqiao, and Wangjing).

Popular residential compounds:

Public transportation: The subway doesn’t go to Lido for now; the nearest stops are Sanyuanquiao (三元桥) and Liangmaqiao (亮马 桥) on Line 10. In the future, Lido will be connected to the subway network through Jiangtailu station on Line 14. There are no subway stops in Dashanzi.

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Shopping: The indispensable Ikea is located in Lido. Indigo Mall near 798 Art District offers good shopping, with a movie cinema, popular labels like Gap and H&M, restaurants, a BHG Marketplace, and frequent children’s events. The adjacent EAST Beijing hotel offers weekend brunch.

Dining: In Lido, the Korean-owned CJ Foodworld next to Si’de Park

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• Rent prices (per month): RMB 8,000-9,000 (71-78sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 11,000-13,000 (127-147sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 14,000-16,000 (155-180sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Includes an indoor swimming pool, a gym, a children’s playground, and a shopping strip.

Upper East Side 阳光上东 • Rent prices (per month): RMB 9,000-11,000 (80-90sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 12,000-16,000 (130-160sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 17,000-33,000 (150-260sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Gym, sauna, and swimming pool within the compound, with proximity to supermarkets, banks, cafes, restaurants, bakeries, and more.

Chateau Regency 和乔丽晶 • Rent prices (per month): RMB 9,000-10,0000 (84sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 30,000-35,000 (270sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 18,000-40,000 (170-336sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Clubhouse with a swimming pool, a fitness center, a convenience store, and a playground. Mookey Swim, which offers baby swimming classes, is also based here.

Photo: martin svalin (Flickr)

Schools: In Lido, you’ll find 3e International School, Young Starters Academy, Beijing International Bilingual Academy, Etonkids, and Beijing Collegiate Academy. There are many more options in Shunyi, which is just a short commute away.

Hairun International Apartments 海润国际公寓

Wangjing 望京 Good for: Koreans, Germans, employees of companies based in the area (e.g. Ericsson, Samsung, Microsoft), and families who want cheaper rent while retaining access to Shunyi international schools Public transportation: Wangjing is in a bit of a dead zone for public transit. Though served by Wangjing subway station on Line 15, distances are far to walk and taxis can be hard to find.

Schools: Though many Wangjing residents send their kids to school in Shunyi, there are several education options in the area. Both Muffy’s International Kindergarten and Venus Bilingual Kindergarten cater to ages 2-6, while Beijing World Youth Academy offers Grades 1-12.

Shopping: The area has several shopping centers of various sizes, one of the biggest being CapitaMall Wangjing. The latter has a BHG Marketplace, Zara, Uniqlo, Watsons, BreadTalk, and Costa Coffee. The “Wangjing Integrated Market” (望京街道综合菜市场) at the intersection of Hongchang Lu and Hongtai Xijie provides a more colorful shopping experience, featuring stalls of vendors selling homemade kimchi, Korean products like gochujang (hot pepper paste), and fresh produce.

Dining: Besides the student neighborhood of Wudaokou, Wangjing has some of the most authentic Korean food in Beijing. One of the best-known restaurants is Zixiamen, which has excellent service and great kalbi (barbecued marinated short ribs); customers get an RMB 5 discount voucher if there's a queue.

Just for kids: The New City Center is a three-in-one cafe, community center, and events venue founded by expats. There’s a children’s

playground and a variety of after-school clubs and classes, including Mommy and Me and Hooked on Phonics. There’s also Family Box Educational and Recreational Center, a three-floor play and learning center with its own pools for baby swimming lessons. However, their programs are pretty pricey. If there’s a budding artist in your family, head to Beijing International Art Material Center near the Central Academy of Fine Arts. The shops stock paintbrushes, watercolor and oil paints, sketching paper, kneadable erasers, and more by brands like Faber-Castell, Marie, Winsor and Newton, and Sakura.

Popular residential compounds: Nanhu Xiyuan 南湖西园

• Rent prices (per month): Varies widely depending on how the apartment is renovated, area size, and number of rooms. Among the listings we saw for Nanhu Xiyuan (Zone 1) were 2-bedroom apartments (100-105sqm) for RMB 5,000-5,500 and 3-bedroom apartments (120-140sqm) for RMB 7,000-7,500.

• Facilities and amenities: Nanhu Xiyuan is a large compound with landscaped gardens and an artificial pond. There are restaurants, hospitals, banks, and a Jingkelong supermarket nearby.

Wangjing Huayuan 望京花园 • Rent prices (per month): A 2-bedroom apartment (100sqm) averaged around RMB 5,800 while a 3-bedroom apartment (130sqm) cost around RMB 7,300.

• Facilities and amenities: Close to local kindergartens, Wal-Mart, Jingkelong, banks, hospitals, a post office, beauty salons, and more.

Huacai International Apartments 华彩国际公寓 • Rent prices (per month): RMB 5,000-8,000 (53-100sqm, 1 bedroom), RMB 7,000-9,500 (100-105sqm, 2 bedrooms), RMB 10,00017,000 (125-171sqm, 3 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Close to local primary schools and kindergartens, Wal-Mart, Carrefour, a post office, and banks.

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A residential compound in Wangjing

A canal in Huairou, close to Shunyi

Shunyi 顺义 Shunyi is filled with villa compounds that resemble North American suburbs, complete with street names, garages, and driveways. The “Central Villas District” is the area's core, with many surrounding villages and townships. Hegezhuang Village, for instance, is home to The Orchard, a popular brunch spot, and an art zone similar to 798 Art District.

Good for: Executives, frequent travelers, and families who want a safe and spacious environment for their kids to play in.

Schools: Some of Beijing's oldest international schools are in Shunyi. Right next to each other on Anhua Lu are the International School of Beijing and the British School of Beijing Shunyi. Another British school, Dulwich College Beijing, is about ten minutes south.

Closer to Chaoyang, there’s the Western Academy of Beijing. Other schools in the area include Harrow International School Beijing, the International Montessori School of Beijing, Beijing International Bilingual Academy, Daystar Academy, and Eduwings Kindergarten.

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Dining: Western restaurants tend to be scattered throughout Shunyi; for instance, Pinnacle Plaza has a Burger King, Hungry Horse, Mexican Kitchen, and a new Loft Eatalicious. Hegezhuang Village is home to The Orchard and Green T. House Living, both unique event venues with high-quality restaurants. Mrs. Shanen’s is a local fixture with homemade bagels and dishes made with organic produce from the restaurant’s farm, Green Cow. Just for kids: Schools like Dulwich often organize sports and recreation programs for the entire community, including soccer, ice skating, drama, dance, and more. The Asgard Horsemanship Club and Equuleus offers equestrian lessons in English, and kids can learn to sail at the Olympic Water Park. One of the advantages of living in the suburbs is easy access to the countryside. Miyun and Huairou are ideal for weekend excursions.

Photo: fang chen (Flickr)

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Public transportation: Subway stations serving Shunyi include Maquanying ( 马泉营 ) and China International Exhibition Center ( 中国国际展览中心 ) on Line 15. Most expat families rely on a driver or black cabs to get around, as getting a taxi can be very difficult.

Shopping: Europlaza spans four floors, with a BHG Marketplace, restaurants, cafes, a dental clinic, and Star Kids Children’s Bookstore. Roma Lake has a small selection of boutiques and restaurants, including the newly-reopened Radiance (furniture and cafe). Near WAB, there’s also a small shopping area attached to Cathay View.

Popular with locals and largely ignored by expats, the Sci-Tech Outlets offer discounts on luxury brands. Besides fresh flowers, potted plants, and gardening supplies, Beidong Flower Market also has household decorations and some furniture for sale.

Popular residential compounds: Capital Paradise 名都园 • Rent prices (per month): RMB 12,000-25,000 (159-196sqm, 3 bedrooms), RMB 20,000-30,000 (229sqm, 4 bedrooms) • Facilities and amenities: Outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a gym, squash, bowling, mini-golf, tennis courts, a sauna, outdoor and indoor children’s playgrounds, bars, cafes, and restaurants.

Yosemite 优山美地 • Rent prices (per month): Huge range, varying from around RMB 38,000-120,000 per month. Some houses exceed 800sqm and have as many as seven bedrooms.

• Facilities and amenities: A clubhouse, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, hot springs, a sauna, a gym, a restaurant, a cafe, and a children’s activity center.

Beijing Riviera 香江花园

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• Rent prices (per month): Varies from RMB 30,000-90,000 with three-, four-, and five-bedroom houses.

• Facilities and amenities: Bicycle track, large green spaces, an artificial lake, a clubhouse, a cafe, a swimming pool, a gym, tennis and squash courts, a massage room, a bar, a supermarket, and an onsite kindergarten.

House Hunting 101 What to Ask Before You Rent LOCATION

THE BASICS

Where’s the nearest _________? 最近的_______在哪儿? Zuìjìn dì ________ zài nǎ’er?

How long ago was the apartment renovated? 上次装修是什么时候？Shàngcì zhuāngxiū shì shénme shíhou?

• subway station 地铁站 dìtiě zhàn • bus stop 公车站 gōngchē zhàn • ATM 提款机 tíkuǎnjī

• convenience store 便利店 biànlì diàn • hospital 医院 yīyuàn

INFRASTRUCTURE What year was this building constructed? 这个房子是哪一年间的建的? Zhège fángzi shì nǎ yī niánjiān de jiàn de?

How many square meters? 有多少平米?

Yǒu duōshǎo píngmǐ?

Which direction is it facing? 这个房子的朝向是 ______ ? Zhège fángzi de cháoxiàng shì ______?

Is the elevator 24-hours? 这儿的电梯是24小时的 吗？Zhèr de diàntī shì èrshísì xiǎoshí de ma?

How many entry points does this residential compound have? 这个小区有几个入口？ Zhège xiǎoqū yǒu jǐ gè rùkǒu?

Have there been problems with insects or vermin? 这个房子又没有过虫蛀问题?

Zhège fángzi yòu méiyǒuguò chóng zhù wèntí?

Does this residential compound have roundthe-clock security? 这个小区有24小时的保安吗?

Zhège xiǎoqū yǒu èrshísì xiǎoshí de bǎo’ān ma?

Does this apartment use community heating or independent heating? 这里是区域供暖还是 按用量计算? Zhèlǐ shì qūyù gōngnuǎn háishì àn yòngliàng jìsuàn?

Is there hot water in both the kitchen and bathroom? If not, can you have a plumber redo it? 厨房和卫生间有热水吗?如果没有，你可以请人 安装吗？Chúfáng hé wèishēngjiān yǒu rèshuǐ ma?

Rúguǒ méiyǒu, nǐ kěyǐ qǐng rén ānzhuāng ma?

Is the hot water available 24 hours? 热水是24小时 的吗? Rèshuǐ shì èrshísì xiǎoshí de ma?

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Is the hot water heater gas or electric? 热水器是使用煤气还是电?

Rèshuǐqì shì shǐyòng méiqì háishì diàn?

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Will you clean it before I move in? 我搬进来之前你能清理一下吗？Wǒ bānjìnlái zhīqián nǐ néng qīnglǐ yíxià ma?

Can this room be repainted? 能粉刷一下这个房间吗？ Néng fěnshuā yíxià zhège fángjiān ma?

Can I hang things on the walls? 墙上可以挂装饰品 吗？Qiángshàng kěyǐ guà zhuāngshìpǐn ma?

Can you remove this? 你能把这个拿走吗？ Nǐ néng bǎ zhège ná zǒu ma?

Can you buy a ________? 你能买一个________吗？ Nǐ néng mǎi yíge ________ ma?

How old is this item? Can it be replaced before I move in? 这个用了多久了? 我搬进来之前你能换新的吗?

Zhège yòngle duōjiǔle? Wǒ bān jìnlái zhīqián nǐ néng huàn xīn de ma?

Can you provide more furniture? 能提供更多家具?

Néng tígōng gèng duō jiājù?

Write it down. Put it in the contract. 写下来吧。在合 同上标出。Xiěxiàlái ba. Zài hétóng shàng biāochū.

MONEY How much is the rent? 房租多少钱？ Fángzū duōshǎo qián?

Who pays the agency fee? 谁交中介费?

Shéijiāo zhōngjiè fèi?

Who pays the property management fee? 谁交物业费? Shéijiāo wùyè fèi?

How to pay the gas bill? 在哪儿能交煤气费?

Zài nǎr néng jiāo méiqì fèi?

How to pay the electricity bill? 在哪儿能交电费?

Zài nǎr néng jiāo diàn fèi?

How to pay the water bill? 在哪儿能交水费?

Zài nǎr néng jiāo shuǐ fèi?

Whose name is on the phone account? 在电话账户上是谁的名字？Zài diànhuà zhànghù shàng shì shéide míngzi?

Who pays the heating fee? 谁交暖气费?

Shéijiāo nuǎnqì fèi?

TV – how many channels? Is the fee included? 电视有几个频道? 是含在房租以内吗? Diànshì yǒu jǐ gè píndào? Shì hán zài fángzū yǐnèi ma?

Listen for:

BUILDING MAINTENANCE

The payment method is ... 交款方式是... jiāo kuǎn fāngshi shì...

(1) monthly 月付 yuè fù (2) quarterly 季付 jì fù one month’s deposit, three months rent 押一付三 yā yī fù sān (3) half-yearly 半年付 bànnián fù • deposit 押金 yājīn • normal wear and tear 正常磨损 zhèngcháng mósǔn • rechargeable card IC卡 IC kǎ • pay at the bank 银行 yínháng • meter reader 抄表 chāo biǎo

If this breaks, who is responsible for fixing it? 如果这个坏了，谁负责修理？ Rúguǒ zhège huàile, shuí fùzé xiūlǐ?

Where is the property management office? What’s their phone number? 物业办公室在哪? 电话号码是多少？ Wùyè bàngōngshì zài nǎr? Diànhuà hàomǎ shì duōshǎo?

Can you recommend a ____________? 能推荐一个__________? Néng tuījiàn yíge ________?

• handyman 修理工 xiūlǐgōng

• plumber 下水道修理 xiàshuǐdào xiūlǐ • locksmith 锁匠 suǒjiang

• electrician 电工 diàngōng

CHECKLISTS The Shell Ceiling for signs of leakage

Electrics Functionality of all appliances (stove, fridge, hot water heater, air conditioner, washing machine, cable TV, microwave)

Walls for stains or cracks

Flooring for unevenness or holes Size of the windows and whether there is cross-ventilation

Number of electrical outlets in every room

Screens and locks on all windows (look for rips in the screens)

Phone/broadband jacks

Cellphone reception inside the apartment

Lighting fixtures for brightness (and whether light bulbs can be easily replaced)

Security Whether the windows have bars (on a lower-level apartment)

Speed and power of all fans

Whether the front door has a solid lock

Location of fuse box and the electricity meter

Furnishings Amount of storage space

Whether your current furniture will fit in the apartment (and through the door) Mattress for firmness

Location of the radiators

Bathroom and Kitchen Amount of cabinet space

Location of the main gas valve and water valve

Location of gas meter?

Electricity meter? Water meter?

Water pressure and functionality of the showerhead

Sturdiness of the faucets (do they leak? do they need to be replaced?)

Amount of counter space

Drainage speed in all sinks and tubs How well does the toilet flush?

Does the toilet seat need to be replaced?)

Outside How much natural light does the apartment get?

Is the neighborhood noisy?

How close is the nearest street? How soundproof is the apartment?

Location of garbage cans and recycling bins Location of bike racks

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Back to Basics How to set up and pay for utilities in Beijing

by Morgan Shang and Sijia Chen

W

hen in China, do as the Chinese do. You’re embarking on a utilities journey that will most likely be in stark contrast to your previously smooth and efficient daily routine. Beijing’s complex system of top-up cards and specialized ATMs can be confusing even for hardened expats. Here are some tips to point you in the right direction.

Electricity

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After you’ve signed the lease, you’ll get an electricity card from either your landlord or your agent. In newer buildings, it’s one card per meter and one meter per apartment. The electricity meters are usually contained in a closet on the hallway of each floor. If there’s no shared entryway, the electricity meter will typically be on the first or top floor; just ask your landlord.

Each meter box is labeled with an apartment number. The meter should say in red digits how much money you have left. Some landlords can help top up the electricity meter if you give them a certain amount each month. But most of the time, you’ll be responsible for recharging the electricity yourself at a bank.

Older hutong houses, on the other hand, often have several electricity meters per dwelling; you can spot dense networks of these outside many siheyuan (courtyard homes) in neighborhoods like Gulou and Andingmen. Topping up electricity is a different process; usually, you just take the meter number directly to China Postal Savings Bank and tell the clerk how much money you want to put on it. (Don’t ask us why.) You can only pay in cash.

The electricity bill can vary wildly per month depending on the season and type of housing you live in. For example, old and badlyinsulated hutong houses with electric radiators usually eat up a lot of electricity in the winter. However, prices are reasonable; many electric radiators can also be set to crank up the heat late at night, when electricity costs the least. Make a habit of tracking your monthly electricity consumption and over time you’ll develop a much better sense of how much to put on the card.

How to Pay for Electricity at the Bank You have two options: Get help from a bank clerk or top up your card through one of the ATMs. For the first option, take a number and wait. Once you get to a service window, give the clerk your

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electricity card and some money; it should be obvious what you’re here for.

To top up your card at the ATM machine, you’ll have to go through a Chinese-language menu. Every bank is a bit different, and not all banks have this option. At China Merchants Bank, for example, you access the menu by selecting “No-Card Option.” You’ll then be prompted to enter your China Merchants Bank card number and insert the electricity card. You can then specify how many units of electricity (not RMB) you want to put on the card.

Keep the receipt. Generally, this is a good habit to get into in China. Sometimes, the landlord will ask you for proof of payment – best to keep a record, just in case.

Should you lose your electricity card, don’t panic. Call the hotline of Beijing Electricity Corporation (95588), which has an English service. That said, keep your electricity card safe; replacing it is more trouble than it’s worth.

Gas Picture this: It’s a sunny Saturday morning and you're finally getting to sleep in. Suddenly, there's a loud, heavy knock on the door; it’s a woman with a shiny work badge from the gas company pinned to her chest. She barges straight into your kitchen, where she declares that you forgot to pay the gas bill.

Like many Chinese families, you’ve just been served. At the beginning of every month, the gas company usually leaves a discreet white notice on the bulletin board of each building. Many locals fail to see this and receive an abrupt visit like the one we just described.

In some compounds, the management office takes care of this.

The most common way to pay gas is with a card. The latter is provided by the landlord and can be inserted into your gas meter to recharge it. You can put money on the card using a special machine at any Bank of Beijing branch. The price of gas varies costs around RMB 2.28 per unit or RMB 2.84 per unit in fancier compounds.

That’s because high-end complexes tend to use “commercial gas” – the same you would find in shops and restaurants. RMB 100 buys you just over 40 units of gas, which should cover the average family for about a month.

Once the card is charged, insert it in the gas meter and hold it for a few seconds; you’ll hear a “beep” when it’s synced. The number on

Electricity meters outside an older building in Beijing

the meter should then be updated with the number of units you just bought. Put your card in a safe place and away from magnetic objects.

If you lose or damage it, call Beijing Gas at 96777 (Chinese only).

Many hutong homes have propane gas tanks that must be switched when they're empty. Don’t worry; the process is much simpler than you think: • Call Beijing Gas at 96777.

• An automated menu will play. Press 2.

• There will be an agent at the end of the line. They don’t speak English, so you’ll have to ask a Chinese-speaking friend or learn to say the following: 要一罐燃气，送上门 (yao yi guan ranqi, song shang men ). That means, “I need a propane tank to be delivered to my door.”

• The agent will ask for your account number, which the landlord should have given you when you moved in.

• Once the agent finds your account number, they may or may not ask you what time you want the tank delivered. If you don't specify a time, note that it may take several hours.

• That’s it! Now just sit back and wait. The propane tank should cost around RMB 120.

As with gas, someone from the water company will check your water meter every month and may sometimes ask for the money directly.

Be careful; some families have been swindled by such people.

Sometimes, the person will claim that giving the money to them is the same as giving the money to the bank. Ask them to give you a bill and pay for it at the bank yourself.

You can’t drink tap water here, so most people buy a water dispenser and order 4L jugs of water. Reliable brands include Nongfu Spring (农夫山泉), Nestle (雀巢), and Watson's (屈臣氏), which has English service. You can order them through a bottled water company, a supermarket, or an online shopping site. Buying in bulk usually saves money; for example, you can pre-pay ten jugs of Nongfu Spring for around RMB 200 and the company will throw in a bottle for free. When the jug is empty, the delivery man will exchange your old bottle for a new one and collect one of your water coupons (水票, shuipiao ).

Internet As you may already know, there are three network providers in Beijing: China Mobile, China Unicom, and China Telecom. Each company is considered to have its pros and cons. For instance, China Mobile has better coverage nationwide while China Unicom has Internet and landline combo packages. China Telecom isn’t particularly popular, perhaps due to a lack of advertising.

For broadband Internet, make sure there’s a landline in your apartment. You can arrange to have one installed by going to China Unicom with your landlord, who will need to bring their Chinese ID. Some branches accept photocopies of their ID, but be sure to bring your own passport either way.

Once the landline is in place, call China Unicom’s hotline at 10010 (press 9 for English service). Broadband prices range from RMB 1,500-3,000 per year depending on Internet speed, which vary from 4MB to 100MB. Don’t be fooled, however; you’re lucky to reach speeds of 20MB in Beijing, so don’t overpay for a service that won’t be delivered. Get 12 months for the price of ten if you pay the Internet fee upfront, or pay monthly at no discount.

Once Internet is set up at your house, you’ll no doubt want to install Wi-Fi. You can purchase a router at any electronics market or on websites like Amazon China or JD.com. For some reason, they're not directly available from China Unicom. Recommended brands include TP-Link, Net-Core, Net-Gear, TENDA, and Buffalo. Follow the instructions to configure the router and set up a password; if they’re in Chinese, simply Google English instructions for your specific model.

Because you didn’t purchase the router from China Unicom, you’ll have to call the seller or a third-party company if it malfunctions. We recommend JD.com for the quality of their after-sales service. If the router breaks within the warranty period, JD.com will often replace it for free rather than repair it.

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Photo: pidulge (flickr)

Water

Beijing’s complex system of top-up cards and specialized ATMs can be confusing even for hardened expats

Prepare to Dial How to acquire, recharge, and activate a mobile phone

There’s a phone for every budget and need in Beijing

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Photo: @kobak (Flickr)

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by Clemence Jiang and Morgan Shang

T

hough we often try to wean our children (and ourselves) off of technology, connecting to others is the usually the first step when moving to a new place. Living in a new country without access to a mobile phone can leave you feeling helpless, and even desperate. The good news is that many services are but a phone call away in Beijing – but first, you need a phone.

Does My Mobile Phone Work in China?

In the past, most mobile phones bought outside the Chinese mainland wouldn’t work here. Fortunately, that changed when smart phones started to dominate the market. Your old smart phone should work here with a local SIM card, as long as it’s unlocked (not tied to a payment plan from your home country). If the new SIM card you bought needs to be cut to fit your phone, service providers can help.

Buying a Mobile Phone If you need a new phone, rejoice! Like the rest of Asia, Beijing is obsessed with new technology and has phones for every need.

Though they're sold everywhere from shops to supermarkets, we recommend going to an established chain such as Dazhong, Gome, Wal-Mart, Suning, or Sundan (see Directories under Shopping), where prices are reasonable and authenticity is guaranteed. Though iPhones and Samsung Galaxy devices dominate the market, basic Nokia models can still be found for under RMB 300.

Bargain markets like the Silk Market and Yashow Market offer cheap phones at negotiable prices, but they don’t come with any warranties or after-sale service. Zhongguancun has the largest electronics market in Beijing and used to be called “China’s Silicon Valley,” but has lost considerable ground to online shopping sites like Jingdong (JD.com) and Amazon China. The latter launched an English interface earlier this year and offers a “Cash on Delivery” option, making Internet shopping a cinch for those who can’t read Chinese.

If you go straight to the source (China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom) to buy a phone, be sure to bring your passport.

You’ll find all the big-name brands in different price ranges, and many monthly payment plans come with a phone. If you just want to buy an iPhone, head to one of the official Apple Stores.

SIM Cards

Topping Up Recharge cards can be bought in denominations of RMB 30, 50, or 100 at local newspaper stands and convenience stores. The shopkeeper will ask for your provider, but always double-check that the card matches your phone network. If you have a monthly plan, most service providers offer online payment with a Chinese credit card or bank card. Note that online banking must be enabled in advance at your bank for the latter payment option.

International Calls For overseas or roaming calls, go to a China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom branch with your phone and passport. Once the agent has registered your phone into the system, they'll enable your SIM card to receive international calls. You have to prepay at least RMB 500 to activate this service. International calls range from RMB 0.3 to RMB 4 per minute depending on your location in China.

You can also buy an international IP card from a newspaper stand to take advantage of local rates when making international calls. These range from RMB 30-40 and will cost you only RMB 0.150.30 per minute depending on your location in China.

Of course, most people use Skype on their computer or smart phone nowadays. The Skype website (www.skype.thom or www. skype.com) contains pricing for international calls, including unlimited calling between two countries for a reasonable monthly fee.

Chinese social media app WeChat is the newest star in international telecommunications. The free app allows users to bypass SMS charges, leave each other voice messages, and even communicate walkie-talkie style. The latest version supports international phone calls between two WeChat users.

The Complete Package Of the three main service providers, only China Unicom currently offers 3G service for iPhones. Though China Mobile has already rolled out 4G services, the consensus is that the network is still very unstable. At the time this article was written, China Unicom was also planning to offer 4G and had started promoting the service on its website, but no dates have been announced.

China Unicom’s 3G packages range from RMB 66 to RMB 866 per month, depending on the number of text messages, minutes, and amount of data included. For example, the RMB 96 package gets you 340MB of data and 240 minutes per month. A free SIM card is included in the plan. You have a pay a deposit and register with your passport.

Though their legality is disputed, many songs, movies, and videos can be enjoyed for free in China from your phone. Baidu Music and QQ Music are popular music streaming and downloading apps, while TV Sohu and Youku are great for watching videos and movies.

Enjoy!

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Prepaid SIM cards can be found at the airport, newspaper stands, and tobacco stores. You can also go to one of the larger branches of China Mobile, China Unicom, or China Telecom, where there is often an English-speaking member of staff on hand. Generally, China Mobile is known for its better network coverage while China Unicom offers 3G service.

Chinese people are very superstitious about numbers; many are willing to spend more to get a phone number that includes the number 8 and excludes the number 4. If that’s not an issue, you can get a SIM card for under RMB 100 with prepaid phone credit.

Prepaid SIM cards usually charge RMB 0.60 per minute for incoming and outgoing calls, and RMB 0.10 per SMS. If you need to buy an iPhone-compatible SIM card separately, bring your passport to any branch of China Unicom and take a

number. If you already have a SIM card that needs to be cut to fit your new iPhone, China Unicom can also help. Many authorized Apple resellers also offer a cutting service. If you need to buy an iPhone-compatible SIM card separately, bring your passport to any branch of China Unicom and take a number.

Vocabulary

I want to buy a phone.

Does it come with a plan?

I just want a phone.

How much is it?

我想买个手机。

有合约计划吗？

我只想要手机。

多少钱？

wǒ xiǎng mǎi gè shǒu jī.

yǒu hé yuē jì huà mā?

wǒ zhǐ xiǎng yào shǒu jī.

duō shǎo qián?

Do you have iPhones? 有iphone吗？

可以买卡吗？

yǒu iphone mā?

kě yǐ mǎi kǎ mā?

Recommend a plan for me.

How long is the warranty good for?

推荐个合约。

tuī jiàn gè hé yuē.

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Can I buy a card here?

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质保多久？

zhì bǎo duō jiǔ?

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Is it China Unicom, China Mobile, or China Telecom? 是联通、移动还是电信？

shì lián tōng, yí dòng hái shì diàn xìn?

Is there a discount? 打折吗？

dǎ zhé mā?

I use a lot of data. 我经常上网。

wǒ jīng cháng shàng wǎng.

Resources Apple Store Daily 10am-10pm. 1) China Central Mall, 81 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (5940 3300); 2) APM, 138 Wangfujing, Dongcheng District. (5657 2000); 3) Joy City, 131 Xidan Beijie, Xicheng District.

(5882 5200); 4) Bldg 6, The Village at Sanlitun, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (5931 2100) www.apple.com.cn 1) 朝阳区建国 路81号华贸购物中心; 2) 东城区王府井大街138号北京apm; 3) 西 城区西单北大街131号大悦城; 4) 朝阳区朝阳区三里屯路 19 号院 三里屯 Village 6 号楼

China Mobile 1) Daily 9am-7pm. Near Guomao Subway Station Exit D, B1/F, Guoyi Guangchang, Jianguomenwei Dajie, Chaoyang District.

(6566 0399); 2) 29 Financial Street, Xicheng District (6600 6688) www.chinamobile.com 中国移动通信, 1) 朝阳区建国门外大街国 宜广场B1国贸地铁口D; 2) 西城区西城区金融街29号

China Unicom Daily 9am-5pm. B1/F, Tower 1, Guomao Dasha, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. www.10010.com 中国联通, 朝阳区建国门外大街1号国贸大厦1座B1层

China Telecom Daily 9am-7pm. 1 Chaoyangmen Beidajie, Dongcheng District (10000, 5950 3000) www.chinatelecom.com.cn 中国电信, 东城区 朝阳门北大街21号

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The Help Hiring an ayi and a driver in Beijing text by Steven Schwankert, photo by PIXSTUDIO

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he relatively low cost of domestic help in China is one of the luxuries of expat life. A boon for busy families, the occasional cleaning services can even be afforded by many young foreigners living here. Domestic helpers (commonly addressed here as ayi ), whether used for daily household functions such as cooking and cleaning, driving, or assistance with child rearing, not only make life easier and more comfortable, but with proper management these employees can become helpful allies in cutting through red tape, finding good produce, and paving the way in a foreign environment.

While drivers may be assigned to executives by their company, domestic helpers will almost always be hired by the family either directly or via a service. That means an interview process likely conducted through an interpreter. However, don’t be fazed by this.

Evaluate the candidate the same way you would at home, and use

From left: Jose Cosio-Mercado (age 16), driver Dong Shifu, Jose's little brother Pepi (age 10), Sun Ayi, and their dog Rusty (age 4.5) at home in Shunyi

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the same criteria and common sense principles.

Start by checking the applicant’s references and don’t hesitate to contact previous employers. Each family will have its own requirements; an understanding of their expectations will help frame the interview and their own recommendation. Ask as many questions as you feel are necessary. This person will have a significant place in your family’s life going forward, and can be a big plus or a big minus, so this is the time to find out what you want to know and clear up any issues that may arise. Communicate your expectations clearly and emphasize what’s most important.

It’s also a good opportunity to see how much English the applicant speaks, if any. In the end, use your judgment. Consider asking the prospective ayi to go through some kind of trial, such as preparing a meal or doing some cleaning, although it is customary to pay her a day rate in this case.

Finding an Ayi

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June or December are the best months to find full-time help, as those are prime relocation times and many contracts will end then.

Recommendations from outgoing families in your work community are a great place to start, and helpers may feel more comfortable staying on with employees from the same company.

If there are no such leads, look in the classified ads sections of websites including beijing-kids.com and theBeijinger.com, and Yahoo! Groups such as Beijing Mamas. Many ayis will post employment ads at local stores; just bear in mind that an ad in English doesn’t necessarily mean that the ayi herself wrote it. Customer service departments of housing compounds occasionally keep portfolios of former residents’ employees and may be able to help with translation during an interview.

A professional hiring agency can potentially simplify this process, but this path will require an evaluation of agents. Again, one’s company may recommend an agency vetted in advance. Bear in mind that going through an agency likely increases the cost of the hiring and perhaps monthly rates as well, although it may make it easier to change ayis if the first one isn’t satisfactory. It’s also important to clarify how the fees are split between the agency and the ayi to ensure fair treatment and avoid any misunderstandings.

There are agency services that can provide ayis , drivers, Mandarin classes, and more, with frequent discounts for multiple needs. This route can take some of the guesswork out of the process, with background checks, health checks, and training offered.

Agencies generally require clients to pay a membership or management fee for some of these extra assurances, but the monthly pay then goes directly to the ayi for the work she does. Wary expats may be concerned that some of the ayi ’s full pay goes to a third party, but both Beijing Ayi Housekeeping Service Company and Beijing EX-PATS Service assure customers that ayis get paid as contracted. Agency websites are a great resource for pay ranges clearly outlined according to qualifications, language ability, hours and more. Childcare helpers are usually hired through agencies, although direct hiring is also possible.

To address the potential problem of agencies taking advantage of ayi pay, Beijing Municipal Labor and Social Security Bureau issued standard wage rates and tied them to levels of service. Most agencies abide by this code and will refer ayis with different salaries based on their skill and experience levels. Problems do remain, however, considering the numbers of domestic helpers in Beijing and the high demand from families.

Along with establishing expectations for routine tasks, it’s also important to discuss holiday periods in advance. How much time will the ayi have off for Chinese New Year, and will she receive a guaranteed bonus (often referred to as a 13-month bonus)? Many ayis will expect this. Will they receive non-holiday paid vacation time? Will you expect her to travel with you, including out of the country?

When new families come to Beijing, a lot of energy is spent on discussing the ayi situation here. Are ayis too demanding? Is inflation greatly affecting local residents? Arm yourself with the information you need and make the right decision for your family accordingly. If you’re happy and your ayi is happy, that’s all that really matters. What’s important is making a decision based on what you’re comfortable with. It may take a try or two to get it right, but putting in the effort to find and train your ayi will yield positive results for all concerned.

Questions to consider when hiring an ayi : • Does the ayi speak English? If so, how well?

• Has she worked with foreign families before? If so, are their customs and background similar to yours?

• Is she certified in CPR and first aid?

• How old were the children she has cared for in the past? How much experience does she have caring for babies?

• Is she available for babysitting and/or on weekends?

• Does she have any experience looking after pets? Does she have any allergies?

• Do you need her to cook? Do you want her to cook western food?

• Do you want a live-in ayi ? If so, what living requirements does the applicant have and can you accommodate her needs?

• Do you want a trial period? This is normally a minimum of three weeks and a maximum of three months.

• Is she trustworthy? Was she referred to you by a friend? If not, can you keep a copy of her Chinese ID card?

• What exactly do you want your ayi to do? Be specific about the daily responsibilities required, as well as a list of additional tasks such looking after the children at birthday parties.

• If you have pets, is she afraid of or allergic to them?

Discuss all aspects of money and time, including pay, overtime, raises, bonuses, holiday leave, and sick leave. If you are interested in a particular posting or referral from an acquaintance, contact the ayi immediately. Good ayis are always in demand.

Remember that ayis have different strengths and life experiences; don’t assume they can read your mind about what you want done or how. Expect to spend a fair bit of time showing the ayi what “clean” means. It’s best to demonstrate at the beginning how you would like things like laundry, folding, and storage to be done so there is no confusion.

Questions to consider when hiring a driver:

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Drivers usually own their own cars, so first consider the type of vehicle (sedan, minivan) and what it will be used for (daily commutes and/or weekend outings), then the drivers themselves. Buying cars in Beijing is now highly restricted, so often a car and driver are your only choice for personal transportation. Drivers can be hired directly or through a car rental company, as the latter has certain certifications and requirements for the people they employ. Car rental companies also have a pool of vehicles to choose from. Use the same criteria and process as choosing an ayi.

Car rental companies charge RMB 4,000-5,000 per month for an English-speaking driver. This does not include gas or tolls. Standard hours for drivers are 7am-6pm from Monday to Saturday. If you need a driver outside those times, expect to pay overtime – around RMB 10 per hour during the week, RMB 20 per hour on Sundays, and RMB 30 per hour on holidays. Be flexible; if you plan on using him as the designated driver for night outings, you may want to give him the next day off. Here are some factors to consider: • • • • • • •

Do you need the driver to speak English?

Does he have experience with expat families?

Has he ever been involved in an accident?

What kind of car does he drive?

How much will his salary be? Will there be overtime pay?

How much will the annual bonus be?

What will be the standard working hours?

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Here’s a glossary of the various terms and functions applied to the people who make life easier: Ayi 阿姨 In Chinese society, this is the way that an older, unfamiliar woman would be addressed – especially by children – but in this case refers to a female domestic helper. It specifically applies to domestic helpers (both live-in and part-time) who help with cleaning and housework.

Yuesao 月嫂 Yuesao specialize in caring for mothers and newborns, typically doing everything from cooking and cleaning to feeding and even serving as a lactation consultant. Most are contracted through agencies and demand premium prices due to the specialized nature of their work, which they make a point of distinguishing from everyday housework – so don’t expect them to iron dad’s shirts. The going rate in the CBD is currently RMB 6,000 and over per month.

You'er Sao 幼儿扫 Most directly translated as “nannies,” you’er sao are typically hired through agencies to care for younger children. They can also do housework, cooking and chores. Their monthly salaries are a little lower than those of yuesao , typically ranging between RMB 4,000 and 8,000 in the CBD.

Jishi技师

Typically addressed as shifu ("master"), jishi are the skilled workers you call when your toilet clogs up or your air conditioner stops working. They vary in quality from very helpful to entirely useless. Sometimes, an ay i's husband or relative will do a better job for a better price.

Wuye 物业 The building management or wuye is responsible for managing your residential compound or neighborhood, including the upkeep of the buildings, grounds, and facilities – a service for which it charges an annual fee to residents. Many wuye can refer domestic help agencies and repairmen. Although many are quite professional, bear in mind that property management companies don’t make money from extensive repairs, so they may use a bit more spit and glue than would seem appropriate at times.

Xiaoshigong 小时工 Refers to cleaners paid by the hour who usually work for an agency or wuye . Hourly wages vary from area to area; in the CBD, the going rate has increased to around RMB 30 an hour.

In addition, xiaoshigong typically charge more for specialized tasks such as floor waxing. For smaller apartments and single white-collar workers, xiaoshigong may be a better choice than employing a regular ayi .

Resources Ayi Agencies

Beijing Ayi Housekeeping Service Co. Ltd. 北京家福来劳务服务有限公司 Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. Rm 220, Sanxia Zhaoshang Dasha, 11 jiuxianqiao lu, Chaoyang District (6434 5647, 6434 5648, 139 1136 3252, service@bjayi.com) bjayi.com 朝阳区酒仙桥 路甲 11 号三峡招商大厦 213A 室

Beijing EX-PATS Service 北京易杨家美信息咨询有限公司 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm. Rm.6003, 6/F, Ambassador Mansion, B21 jiuxianqiao lu, Chaoyang District (6438 1634) expatslife.com 朝阳区酒仙桥路乙 21 号国宾大厦 6 层 6003

Beijing Sunnyhome Housekeeping Service 北京午后阳光家政服务有限公司 Mon-Sat 9am-5.30pm. Rm3022, 3/F, Shiyi Hotel, 1 jiuxianqiao lu, Chaoyang District (5288 4727, 133 6636 9720) bjayiservice.com 朝阳区酒仙桥路 1 号世一休闲商务酒店 3 层 3022 室

Beijing Huijia Ayi Housekeeping Service Company 北京汇佳家政 Daily 8am-10pm. 16 Qianquhe, Gaoliying Zhen, Shunyi District (6040 9096) beijingayiservice.com 顺义区高丽营镇前渠河 16 号

Car and Driver Agencies

Beijing Top Rated Car Rental Service 北京首选顺达商务服务有限公司 Daily 24 hours. Rm 1012, B tower, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu (6504 7266, car-rentl@live.com) sxsdcar.com 朝阳区东四环中 路 39 号 B 座 1012 室

Beijing TOP-A Vehicle Service 途安汽车租赁 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm. Rm.6003, 6/F, Ambassador Mansion, B21 jiuxianqiao lu, Chaoyang District (6438 1634) expatslife.com 朝阳区酒仙桥路乙 21 号国宾大厦 6 层 6003

Beijing North Star Car Rental Company 北京北辰 汽车租赁公司 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm. 2/F, Bldg 14, Anyuan Beili, Chaoyang District (800 810 2280) 朝阳区安苑北里 14 号楼 2 层

Beijing North Car Rental 北京北方汽车租赁有限公司 Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm. Rm 1031, New Fortune International, 71 Chaoyang lu, Chaoyang District (5136 8096) 朝阳 区朝阳路 71 号锐城国际 1031 室

First Choice Car Rental Service 北京嘉驰商务服务有 限公司 Daily 24 hours. Rm 507, Partview Center, 5 Fangyuan Xilu, Dongcheng District (6434 0778, 6433 7408) fccars.cn 东城区 朝阳区芳园里西路 5 号丽园中心 507 室

AAA Expatcar

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Daily 9am-5pm. 18 liyuan Beijie, tongzhou District (8152 3060, sales@expatcar.com) expatcar.com 通州区梨园北街 18 号院

Creature Comforts Bringing Tigger and Fido to the Middle Kingdom

by Sijia Chen and Dana Cosio-Mercado

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or many pet owners, leaving a cat or dog behind is akin to abandoning a family member. When separation is not an option, take comfort in the fact that it is possible to bring your pet to China, provided you’re ready to put in the hours of research and preparation. Many expats hire a pet relocation service to simplify the paperwork and alleviate language barriers, while others opt to save money and retain a higher degree of control by arranging everything themselves. No matter your approach, arm yourself with lots of patience and information – you’ll need both.

Cujo the service dog

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Before the Move First things first: you’ll need a Z visa (work) to bring your pet into the country, with a limit of one pet per passport. Required documents include: • Proof of a recent rabies vaccination. The shot must be administered at least 30 days but no more than 12 months before entry.

These guidelines are subject to change at any time, so double-check with your veterinarian or relocation company as soon as you know that you’re moving.

• An official certificate from your country of origin to export your pet.

Every country has different regulations; ask your vet or a relocation company to find out which government agency oversees this process.

• A health certificate or letter written by your veterinarian in the country of origin attesting to the health of your pet.

The Quarantine Period As of November 1, 2012, the mandatory quarantine period for pets arriving in Beijing varies between seven and 30 days depending on the rabies status of the country that the animal is coming from. For example, pets entering China from the US or Canada are subject to a 30-day quarantine, while those coming from rabies-free or rabiescontrolled territories such as Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, the UK, Hong Kong, or Taiwan must only undergo a seven-day quarantine.

All pets are quarantined at a facility near the airport and overseen by the Entry/Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau. Pets are fed, watered, and cared for humanely. However, owners aren’t allowed to see their pets while they’re in quarantine. In the past, when the quarantine period was set at 30 days, home quarantine was sometimes offered to diplomatic passport holders. However, the rules are now strictly enforced even for older pets and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Kennel cough (bordetella) is extremely common in China. The International Center for Veterinary Services (ICVS), a Beijing-based animal hospital, recommends vaccinating your pet at least two weeks before leaving your home country. Bordetella is an infectious disease that can be passed along in kennels and boarding facilities, as well as in transit.

A Clean Bill of Health

Registering Your Dog By law, all dogs must be registered in Beijing; other animals are exempt from this regulation. Registered dogs are provided with a dog license – an ID card that contains information about both the dog and the owner. If you’re caught without this ID while walking your dog, you could face a fine of up to RMB 2,000. Enforcement of this guideline is normally stepped up before major holidays such as Spring Festival (late January to early February), Labor Day (May 1-3), and National Day (October 1-7) as part of the government’s efforts to ensure public health and safety. Here’s what you need to know: • Only one dog can be registered per household address. If you own a second dog, it must be registered at a second address.

• All dogs living within Fifth Ring Road must be no more than 35cm in height from floor to shoulder.

• Your local police station (派出所, paichusuo ) is responsible for overseeing dog registrations. The process often varies according to district, so consult your local paichusuo for details.

• When registering your dog for the first time, you must bring the dog, two passport-sized photos of your dog (front head shot), your ID (including your passport and residence permit), your lease or property title document, written permission from your neighborhood watch committee (居委会, juweihui), and money for the registration fee.

• If you live in one of Beijing’s eight major districts (Dongcheng, Xicheng, Chongwen, Xuanwu, Chaoyang, Haidian, Fengtai, and Shijingshan), the registration costs RMB 1,000 the first time and RMB 500 for each subsequent annual renewal.

• Newly-adopted or imported dogs can be registered any time after January 1. The registration will be valid from the date of registration until April 30 of the same year. For dogs that are already registered, pet owners have an annual renewal window between May 1 and 31.

For a list of animal hospitals, see Directories under Family Life.

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Once the quarantine period is over, owners should bring their pet to a legally-registered animal hospital for a routine checkup. Beijing has over 120 animal hospitals, but not all of them are registered with the Agricultural Bureau. Only registered hospitals are allowed to provide vaccines legally imported from Europe and North America. Outside each hospital, look for a large gold plaque with red characters and a license number. The plaque should say: 动物狂犬病免疫注射定点 单位 (dongwu kuangquanbing mianyi zhushe dingdian danwei ). In addition, only Chinese veterinarians are allowed to administer shots;

foreign veterinarians may consult and perform checkups, but cannot physically administer any vaccinations.

To relocate within China or leave the country with your pet, you’ll need a booklet called the Beijing Animal Health and Immunity Certificate. This red booklet is issued by registered animal hospitals and is designed to keep track of vaccinations. In China, dogs and cats are required by law to receive annual rabies vaccinations; three-year rabies vaccinations schedules from other countries are not recognized.

Animal hospitals also recommend an annual canine distemper (DHPPi) vaccine for dogs and a feline distemper (FVRCP) shot for cats, which are administered every one to three years. If you decide to take your pet with you when you leave Beijing, note that rabies antibody titre testing is now required for entry into all European Union countries, Singapore, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia.

Overall, it was an ‘amazing’ relocation experience

Cujo (8 Years Old, Male Golden Retriever) Cujo was born in Beijing in 2006 at a shelter, then adopted as a puppy. He lived here with his family until they relocated to the US in February 2012. Last August, they returned to Beijing with Cujo.

Owners: Names withheld by request Date of relocation: August 2013 Relocation company: World Care Pet Cost: RMB 5,000 total • RMB 2,000 US document verification and vaccinations (Cujo had to have a rabies vaccination within 30 days of arrival to China) • RMB 3,000 for Chinese customs, quarantine, Beijing dog registration, and World Care Pet fees

Airline: Delta Airlines. Before booking their flights, the family had to submit the required documentation to the airline. After it was approved, Cujo’s information was listed in the itinerary along with the family’s.

Cujo traveled in the cabin under special conditions. There are laws that limit the number of animals in the cabin per flight, so the family had to begin the documentation process several months before their departure. The gate staff and flight attendants were prepared for him since the documentation was handed in ahead of time; the cabin crew was helpful throughout the flight. It also helped that Cujo was well-trained and even-tempered.

Cujo is a registered and certified service dog and emotional support animal in the US for one of the family’s daughters. Because of this, he was able to remain at their feet. The family was permitted to sit in the bulkhead seats to allow more room for the dog; no other passengers sat in the same row. Cujo remained in his harness and leash the entire flight to prevent him from wandering while the rest of the family was asleep. He received plenty of attention throughout the flight; one daughter occasionally used him as a footrest; he seemed to welcome the physical connection.

Moving timeline:

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The family’s travel routine for Cujo included him fasting for approximately 18 hours before the flight, with water allowed up to the morning of the departure. Because he was specifically trained as a service animal, Cujo was obedient. He slept periodically and was content to sit at his family’s feet during the flight. The mom carried a special travel bottle with a tray for him, and he was given a bit of cold water every three to four hours. Near the end of the 13-hour flight, Cujo was rewarded with a handful of dry food and some water.

Quarantine process: Because of their unique situation, the family was able to walk off the plane with Cujo on a leash. Several airport workers were shocked and some guards followed them closely while reporting a “large dog”

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walking with a “foreign family” towards the baggage claim area. The family had already prepared themselves for a lot of looks, so the attention didn’t bother them.

They went through the immigration process normally and submitted Cujo’s license, service dog registration, and immigration documents. They also had to show photos and the physician’s letters documenting Cujo’s status as a service dog. Kiki Chen from World Care Pet had sent them all the documents they needed to present upon arriving in China.

Chinese quarantine officials were aware that Cujo and his family were arriving on that flight. Kiki Chen had communicated with them before their arrival and was also at the airport to make sure there was no confusion. There was a quarantine employee waiting for the family to check them in after they retrieved their baggage. They took Cujo to the small quarantine office, where the officials compared the family’s submitted paperwork with the documents that Chen had submitted ahead of time. They took pictures of Cujo and their daughter for their records, then gave the family the necessary papers for Cujo’s license and registration after they signed the paperwork and paid the RMB 28 quarantine fee.

It took about 45 minutes to complete the entire customs and quarantine process at the airport. It was much faster than the family had imagined, especially considering their unusual situation. When they walked out of the airport, Chen was there to meet them. She took Cujo in her van, where she had food and water ready, and drove him to the family’s home because they didn’t have room for him in their own van.

The flight arrived late in the afternoon on a Friday. The Monday after that, Chen picked up Cujo at 10am to take him to the license and registration office. He was returned the same afternoon at 2pm.

Because Chen had helped the family get all the necessary documentation, registration, and permission for Cujo ahead of time, the normal quarantine period was waived so he could remain at home with the daughters.

Overall, it was an “amazing” relocation experience made much easier by World Care Pet. When the family left Beijing in February 2012, Cujo had to be crated in the cargo hold. According to the quarantine officials, their return last August marked the first time that a service animal was able to enter the country in this way.

Because everything was properly documented, the family secured a written confirmation from the quarantine officials that Cujo will be able to depart China in the same manner. In return, they’ll simply have to renew his annual registration as normal and keep their documentation up-to-date with Delta Airlines.

Note that while Cujo was allowed to enter the country on an American airline and be recognized as a service dog, there are no such laws or permissions on Chinese airlines. This means he is not permitted to accompany the family as a service animal in public areas in China.

Tucker (4 Years Old, Male Labrador Retriever) Owners: Kelly, Valerie, Julia and Ella DeSmet Date of relocation: August 2012 Relocation company: None Cost: Approximately RMB 5,470 • Traveling crate: RMB 1,500 • Veterinary bills, shots, and microchip: RMB 1,500 • USDA paperwork: RMB 470 • Quarantine fee: RMB 2,000 (not including additional charges to visit Tucker while he was stuck in cargo hold)

Airline: United Airlines. Because Tucker is a big dog, he had to fly in cargo.

Moving timeline: The DeSmets started getting Tucker ready at least three months before the move with vet visits, microchipping, and training for getting into a crate.

Kelly flew from the US to Beijing with Tucker and made sure that he was exercised, fed, and watered before he was checked in at the airport two hours before the flight. It was a direct 14-hour flight from Chicago to Beijing.

Upon landing, Kelly could not locate Tucker. After a frantic search and some phone calls, it was discovered that Tucker had been sent to the Air China cargo hold. Kelly could not get him out without the proper paperwork and fees. They had to pay an additional RMB 300 and get special papers just to get into the cargo hold to see him, feed him, and let him out to relieve himself.

Finally, by 4pm the DeSmets got all of the paperwork done and paid all of the fees necessary to get Tucker out of cargo. They got to be with Tucker during the ride to quarantine before he was taken away for a week.

Quarantine process:

Tips: If they had to do it over again, the DeSmets say they would definitely use a relocation company to help them handle the paperwork.

It may have cost a little more, but it might have prevented Tucker from being stuck in the Air China cargo hold and it would have taken away a lot of the stress they encountered upon arrival. Despite their misadventure, the DeSmets don’t regret bringing Tucker over with them.

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Photo: courtesy of desmet family

After seven days in quarantine, the family was able to pick Tucker up without incident. He was dirty but otherwise looked good, and even seemed to the DeSmets to have gained a little weight.

Bank on It Setting up a financial infrastructure in Beijing

by Steven Schwankert

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s having a Chinese bank account necessary? While the answer may seem obvious to you, it’s simply not necessary for people who don’t have any local banking needs. For foreign employees who are paid overseas and withdraw money via international banks, the only purpose of having a local account is to potentially decrease service or transaction fees.

American citizens and permanent residents (green card holders) should be aware that they are required by US tax law to declare all overseas bank accounts, especially those that contained at least USD 10,000 or the equivalent in foreign currency at any point during the tax year. As you can see, China certainly isn’t a good place to stash money.

Companies that pay employees via direct deposit almost always choose the bank where the money is received, which means that you’ll probably be required to open an account there. If that’s the case, someone from the company or HR department should be able to assist with the process.

Choosing a Bank

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ATMs All major banks in China are part of the UnionPay network, similar to ATM networks such as Cirrus, Maestro, or Plus in Europe and North America. That system allows withdrawals from any member banks,

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Opening an Account Opening a bank account in China is exceptionally easy, especially when compared to opening accounts in countries like post-9/11 US. All you need is a passport and your home or office address (preferably in Chinese). The clerk can help you fill out the paperwork in Chinese but be sure to verify any information written down in romanized form as it will be difficult to deal with your account down the line if the name on your passport is not entered correctly when you sign up. You’ll get a simple savings account by default, which comes with a debit card for ATM transactions.

Fixed-time deposits are also available for varying periods, but you’ll need to have an existing savings account in order to use this feature and get help from a bank teller. If you don’t speak Chinese, it’s best to bring someone who does to understand the options, durations, and interest rates available.

Photo: wikimedia commons

China has a number of banks to choose from. If you have a choice, the bank should be selected based on the number of branches and automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around Beijing and China. Other considerations include the ATM networks to which they belong. For users who receive all or part of their salary in RMB, being able to use those cards to withdraw cash or pay for purchases overseas can be a real benefit.

but fees may apply. Also, ATM users should know that unlike most banks internationally, some domestic banks apply “roaming charges” similar to mobile phone service. In other words, if a Bank of China customer who opened their account in Beijing uses an ATM in Tianjin, they will be charged a roaming fee when they withdraw money. Keep this in mind when deciding how much cash to take on a domestic trip.

Overseas exchange rates are often more favorable for ATM transactions than for other foreign exchange transactions. In addition, having a Chinese account allows for easy conversion of the local currency, which may not be accepted at all foreign exchange counters.

Almost all ATMs in China offer the option of an English interface, and access to that menu will be clearly labeled with an “English” button or tab. ATM cards in China usually have six-digit PIN codes rather than the more common four-digit codes seen in North America, so choose one wisely and be sure to remember your password.

Banks China Merchants Bank (招商银行) is based in Shenzhen and has established itself as the most friendly and serviceoriented bank in China. Case in point: At China Merchants Bank, a lost ATM card can be replaced in a matter of minutes; at the Bank of China, it takes ten working days, during which you can’t withdraw cash. The staff is willing to help customers fill out forms and lines are generally short. They also have the best mobile banking apps for both iPhone and Android systems, and their online banking is accessible to both Mac and PC users.

The biggest drawback is the relatively small number of ATMs in Beijing compared to other banks, so you’ll need to memorize the locations closest to you. Aside from their headquarters on Financial Street, the bank also has a large office at the southeast corner of Guomao Bridge in the CBD. Bank of China (中国银行) is probably the country’s bestknown bank. It has the most international branches of any Chinese bank and numerous ATMs in Beijing. BoC is probably the best option if you’re planning to transfer money regularly either domestically or overseas. Account holders pay only RMB 2 per transaction, instead of 1 percent of the value of the transaction like at other banks. Bank of China is best positioned to transfer significant amounts of money overseas, and offers multi-

currency accounts and withdrawals domestically. One thing to bear in mind with Bank of China is that it’s a bureaucratic place.

Transactions take a long time and the queues are long. The concept of “express service” doesn’t apply here unless you become an elite-level customer. Still, having a Bank of China account can be very helpful. And for an RMB 2 service fee per month, it’s a bargain if you ever use it. Consider opening one even if you do your primary banking somewhere else.

Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (工商银行), better known as ICBC, is now the world’s largest bank with USD 3 trillion in assets. If superlatives matter to you, ICBC may be the right choice for you. The bank has numerous branches throughout Beijing, and many companies use them for basic services like paying out salaries. For a big bank, they often act like a dinosaur. ICBC still only supports PC-based online banking. Yes, you read that correctly; the world’s biggest bank still doesn’t support Apple users. ICBC falls more on the side of the Bank of China in terms of service; transactions can take a long time. This is a bank that, like Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp. (HSBC), wants corporate customers, not private ones. Still, if you have an ICBC card, you’ll never need to worry about your card not working at an overseas ATM.

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A Comedy of Manners Making sense of China’s subtle social cues

by Kyle Mullin

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Photo: Courtesy of Ines Brunn

Natooke founder Ines Brunn (right) at a dinner with local celebrity Dashan

I’ve seen grown men almost coming to blows and fighting to get to the waitress first so they can pay the bill

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that Chinese seating arrangements can be complex. However, the basics are simple.

“Wait for the oldest people at the table to sit first, and don’t start eating before they do,” says Guan, adding that those elders will be very appreciative of foreigners who attempt to take note of those nuances.

There is one faux pas above all others that expats should be careful to avoid: “Do not pick up any food from the dishes, then change your mind and put it back. That is considered very sloppy and rude.”

Scheuber says that one of the most confusing aspects of Chinese etiquette has nothing to do with grub, and everything to do with gifts “I still find it strange that if you give someone a gift, they will never open it in front of you, which I would generally consider quite rude at home,” says Scheuber, adding that his Mandarin speaking pals often make up for such oddities with other overly gracious gestures. “I am a fan of the Chinese etiquette related to ‘picking people up’ from the airport/station etc. Even if you would much prefer to be independent and take the train or a bus or you don’t want to bother anyone to pick you up, close Chinese friends will still insist on coming to get you.”

Yining Zhao, who teaches Chinese language and culture at Culture Yard, adds that such warmth can often be limited to practicalities like pickups or logistics – at least in public.

“Chinese people tend to have more reserved views on public displays of affection,” says Zhao with a laugh. “A number of times, I’ve been in funny situations where I wanted to shake a foreigner’s hand but they preferred to go for a hug or a kiss on the cheek, and we ended up in a kind of weird, embarrassing greeting dance where both of us felt uncomfortable."

All the chuckling and blushing aside, Scheuber says that locals practically expect expats to bungle a few traditions. There is little chance that any slipups will become contentious. “China is a lot more forgiving than some other Asian cultures in this respect and there are very few etiquette mistakes that would genuinely upset or offend a Chinese native,” he explains.

“That said, we are impressed when foreigners learn and master Chinese etiquette rules,” says Zhao. “It will not go unnoticed if you do!”

In order to help you exceed the expectations of your Chinese hosts, Scheuber and Zhao outline on the next page more colorful examples of local etiquette that span a spectrum of experiences.

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hinese is a tough language to learn, but its four-tone complexity pales in comparison to the nuances of the nation’s customs, traditions, and faux pas. These etiquette rules can be so subtle that newcomers to the Middle Kingdom often fumble them with complete oblivion. What’s more, some of China’s most time-honored gestures can seem offensive to newbies when in fact the opposite effect was intended.

“Don’t be afraid if your host puts pieces of food on your plate or bowl. This is a sign of politeness in Chinese culture,” says Ged Scheuber, general manager of Culture Yard, a Dongcheng-based center that offers courses in Mandarin, calligraphy, and a variety of other activities.

Many of the country’s most important etiquette rules revolve like most things Chinese around the dinner table. “The Chinese love good food, so everything to do with dining etiquette is definitely worth knowing about,” says Scheuber.

Those doting local hosts have numerous customs, according to Ines Brunn, owner of fixed-gear bicycle store Natooke. During a recent dinner with Chinese friends, she was surprised by the star power of one of her fellow guests: Dashan, a famous Canadian expat beloved by locals for his mastery of “cross talk,” dubbed the traditional “art of Chinese comedic language.” Brunn says the TV host is a role model for expats looking to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture, and she was pleased to see his etiquette in action not only as dinner was being served, but also as bottles of baijiu were being poured.

“I was so happy to already know some of the drinking customs – to not pour for yourself, to pour for others that you respect, to hold my glass lower when I’m 'cheersing' someone I respect,” she says.

She adds that her cultural knowledge has come a long way over the years, though it pales in comparison to the famed TV host’s.

“I used to be shocked by a lot of dinner etiquette, like the fact that it’s considered dirty to blow your nose and put the napkin on the table, and yet it’s fine to hawk phlegm and spit on the floor,” she says with a laugh. But other traditions still beguile her: “I know that the ‘boss’ or the most honored guest should sit facing the door, but I never know where to sit myself. So I often wait and let my host direct me to my chair rather than being rude and presumptuous with that hierarchy.”

Guan Jie, a retired accountant and avid socialite who befriended some of Culture Yard’s employees over numerous dinners, agrees

Lighting Up and Butting Out The Name Game Scheuber: In China, business or calling cards are often called “name cards,” which is a direct translation of the Chinese mingpian . When exchanging these, be sure to hand out and receive cards with both hands. This shows respect, which is particularly important at the start of a relationship. The two hands rule is also a polite way to exchange anything else you might present to another person, such as presents or money.

Scheuber: If someone is smoking, they will offer you a cigarette. However, these days fewer younger people smoke and it’s perfectly acceptable to refuse with a polite “no thanks.” If you’re smoking, it’s particularly polite to offer a cigarette to someone older than you.

Sharing Ain’t Caring Scheuber: This one might seem strange: Chinese people will generally not share a pear and pears should not be given as gifts, particularly to a couple. That’s because the phrase “to share a pear” in Chinese is a homonym for “to separate or break up.”

Ding Dong, the Giftee’s Dead

Zhao: In business, it’s appropriate to refer to people by a combination of their family name and job title, so if someone is a manager and their last name is Zhang, you would address them as Manager Zhang. If that person was a teacher, they would be called Teacher Zhang. Personal acquaintances are often referred to as “auntie,” “uncle,” “brother,” or “sister.” However, determining exactly when and to whom these honorifics applyc an often be a confusing exercise; when in doubt, ask a Chinese friend.

Check Yourself

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The All-Mighty KTV Scheuber: KTV (or karaoke) is a staple of the Chinese social scene to be shared with friends, acquaintances, or business partners – no matter how bad your singing. Among colleagues, the most senior person in the room should kick off the singing. Locals take this very seriously, so do not snicker or laugh. Also, give others a chance to sing or you might become known as the mic hogger (麦霸, maiba ).

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Zhao: Generally, if you suggest dinner in China that means you’re paying. If not, this would be arranged beforehand. Chinese call splitting the bill “AA” (AA制). While this is becoming more common among young people, it can still cause awkwardness. The best way to avoid this is to make sure that everyone knows who will be paying before the meal. In many restaurants, I’ve seen grown men almost coming to blows and fighting to get to the waitress first so they can pay the bill.

Photos: jelene morris, sludge g, janet hudson, lindsay maizland, ttoshiyuki imai, jakob montrasio (flickr)

That’s My Title, Don’t Wear It Out

Scheuber: When it comes to gift giving etiquette, there are a few faux pas to be aware of. Clocks are one of them.

The phrase “to give a clock” in Chinese sounds like “to pay one’s last respects.” White or yellow chrysanthemums are also associated with funerals and should be avoided.

Similarly, knives, scissors, and anything sharp should not be given as gifts because they symbolize the severing of your relationship.

Zhao: I know someone who knows that you shouldn’t give sharp objects as presents but always likes to give people a really nice cooking knife. She always makes a joke of it and asks them to give her RMB 1 in return, so technically it’s not a gift.

Flash the Cash Living in a plastic-free society

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ou know those rectangular, pink bills with Chairman Mao's portrait on them? You’ll be seeing of them a lot during your stay in China. Although banking networks and payment options have expanded over the last five years or so, cash still reigns supreme here. Learning to deal with it effectively will significantly improve your time in Beijing.

Several terms are used to refer to China’s currency, inevitably creating initial confusion for newcomers. Renminbi , yuan , and kuai all refer to China’s paper currency. All three can be used interchangeably; for example, a meal may be said to cost 50 renminbi (or RMB), 50 yuan , or 50 kuai . Kuai is the most colloquial of the three, renminbi is the most formal, and yuan lies somewhere in the middle.

The only coin for this level of currency is one yuan . All currency is denominated and color-coded, so learning to tell them apart should be easy enough.

In addition to the paper currency, there is also the jiao (角) or mao (毛), two terms that are also used interchangeably. A jiao is one-tenth of a yuan . There are both coins and paper notes for jiao ; the coins come in one jiao and five jiao denominations. Jiao coins and notes are significantly smaller than yuan coins and notes.

Lowest on the currency totem pole is fen (分), which is one onehundredth of a yuan . Although coins and notes for fen remain in circulation, they are rarely encountered, let alone used. Despite being legal tender, they are almost impossible to spend even if you gather 10 or 100. Besides, you’ll probably get some serious side eye from vendors.

The biggest difficulty with money in China is that the largest note is worth only RMB 100. Once upon a time, 100 yuan was a lot of money; now, not so much. The challenge comes when large purchases are made in cash, as many are in China. If you want a discount on anything, you’ll have to pay cash. Most deliveries will only accept cash, along with many businesses, including restaurants.

Although it will feel like a lot at first, carrying RMB 1,000 will allow you to handle almost any situation that might arise. Personal checks don’t exist here, so in many cases, it’s cash or … cash.

Another issue is change. Taxi drivers are notorious for not carrying enough small change or even pretending they don’t have enough change for a RMB 100 note. Save your small bills and keep them on hand for situations like this. Use big bills at large restaurants and shops, where they’ll have less trouble making change.

Finally, beware of counterfeit bills, especially RMB 50 and 100 notes. The biggest clue that a bill may not be genuine is that it feels like printer paper, not normal paper currency. If it’s particularly shiny or terribly worn, reject it and ask for a different note. This is a big

problem in China, to the point that even automatic teller machines have been known to spit out the occasional fakes.

That being said, the proliferation of point-of-sale (POS) terminals makes shopping in Beijing far easier and surprisingly cashless, perhaps even more so than in many western countries. Almost any account from a major bank in China will work as a debit card, which will be issued upon opening the account (see our section on banking for more information). The phrase to use when paying by debit card is shua ka (刷 卡), literally to “swipe” or “brush” the card. You’ll be asked to enter your personal identification number (PIN) and sign the receipt to complete the transaction, and the funds will be automatically debited from your account. In Beijing, most restaurants and stores accept debit cards.

International credit cards will be accepted at major hotels, chain restaurants, and chain stores, but it’s neither convenient nor economical to rely on this payment method. They may, however, offer favorable exchange rates, considering your home currency’s performance versus the Chinese yuan .

Fapiao One concept that will be foreign to many new arrivals is the official tax receipt or fapiao (发票). In order to ensure that taxes are paid by various businesses, especially restaurants, anyone seeking tax exemption must provide an official tax receipt. Note that fapiao is different from a cash register receipt, which is usually referred to as a xiaopiao (小票). It will be produced by a fapiao machine – official receipts are no longer written by hand as they once were – and imprinted with an official Chinese red stamp known as a chop. Any company reimbursement made for an expense account or as part of an employee’s salary (local tax liability is often reduced as part of an expatriate package through claiming meals, housing, and other eligible expenses) requires a fapiao .

There’s an added incentive. In order to encourage citizens to ask for fapiao from businesses – especially restaurants, whose income is largely in cash and therefore difficult to track – most official receipts have a scratch-off section on the top, left-hand corner. Although chances are slim, customers have the chance to win RMB 20-500.

For RMB 100 and under, the business will redeem the indicated amount and clip off the top part of the receipt. For higher amounts, one must visit the local tax bureau in person to claim the prize.

Fapiao serve another purpose. They are the official receipt for any purchase and will be required if goods are returned, so get into the habit of requesting them for all meals, purchases, and even taxi rides. In the case of taxis, having a fapiao is really the only chance you have of tracking down lost or missing items, as it will display the number of the car, the time of the ride, and a contact number for the taxi company.

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photos: jimmie, sabrina & brad (flickr)

Money Talks

by Steven Schwankert

Thick as Thieves Staying safe in Beijing

Investigator Ding Jian with a satisfied customer and the guitar he helped recover from a taxi; Inset: Jessica Horsman reunited with her wallet

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Photos: Courtesy of ding jian and jessica horsman

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by Kyle Mullin

He wrote my answers down in Chinese, and that was it! I never heard anything from them again

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“Be aware of your surroundings. If you carry a purse, make sure it is made of a sturdy material and carry it in front of your body. Don’t carry large amounts of cash on you.”

Joel Shuchat says Horsman wasn’t a naive victim by any means; such an incident could’ve happened to any expat. As the owner of the Orchid, a boutique hotel in Gulou, Shuchat sees many Beijing newbies come and go every day, and he does what he can to ensure they don’t find themselves in a predicament similar to Horsman’s.

“We put signs on our hotel’s dinner tables and in our washrooms warning people about various scams that are common around town,” he says. “It’s the safest city in the world. You almost have to go looking for trouble, but there are some scams that any of us can fall for.”

The disclaimers explicitly warn visitors about the city’s most infamous scams carried out by faux art dealers and tea drinkers. These strangers approach foreigners in touristy areas like Wangfujing, asking if they want to buy art at a good price or share a cup of tea.

After taking them to a dingy establishment and offering them the services or items described above, the con artists then charge their victims exorbitant amounts of money.

“The art scam happens all the time. People don’t even get mad about it at first; you almost have to convince them that they shouldn’t have paid hundreds of dollars for that shabby-looking calligraphy,” says Shuchat. “Sometimes my guests have gone to the police on their own and told them what happened. If the police go back to these fake tea houses and art shops, the hustlers always hand the money back, no questions asked.”

The real risk is rickshaw drivers, says Shuchat. They often charge unsuspecting guests up to USD 50 for a short ride and can become violent if they don’t get the money. “I’ve had yelling matches with those rickshaw drivers. It’s best to avoid them,” he advises.

Ding Jian, a private eye who helps Beijingers retrieve lost items, says newcomers and seasoned locals alike should always keep their wits about them. He specializes in helping victims who put their valuables at risk out of sheer carelessness – those who simply forget their belongings in taxis. Such a mistake may seem foolish, but Ding says it happens often enough that he has built a lucrative business out of retrieving their forgotten items. He does so by calling taxi companies and consulting security cameras thanks to his contacts in the police department.

“You should always get a receipt from your taxi driver so that you can contact them if you forgot something in the cab,” he says, adding that taxi companies have strict policies that ensure most drivers are surprisingly honest about returning items. Ding says Beijing residents should also make a habit of checking the licence plate of any taxi they take so that it can be easily tracked down in case they forget something in it. He says he doesn’t cast judgement on anyone in such a predicament; Beijing is generally safe enough that even the most seasoned expat will occasionally let their guard down.

“It can happen to anyone, so you must try to be careful,” he says.

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he capital seems safe enough. Many American cities, for example, have only a fraction of the population of Beijing but exponentially higher rates of violent crime. Break-ins and muggings are rare here, and expat life is largely secure, cozy, and care-free.

At least that’s what Jessica Horsman thought as she browsed H&M in Chaoyang U-Town mall in early 2012. Horsman, who teaches high school in the suburbs of Tongzhou, had treated herself to a weekend stay at a hotel. When she went up to the cash register to pay, she realized her wallet was gone. All that was left was a hole in her tote bag.

“There were two attempts,” she recalls. “The first try, [the thief] did not cut a big enough hole. The second attempt successfully sliced a large hole in the side of my cloth purse. I can only assume that they used a sharp object like a razor blade. I did not feel a thing.”

She immediately notified the store manager, who checked the surveillance cameras – to no avail. Horsman then flagged down a taxi. “I asked to be taken to the police [station] and thought it would be no problem. Instead, they took me to The Place,” she says, adding she can now easily laugh at being mistakenly taken to the shopping center. With limited funds, she walked in a huff from The Place back to her hotel in U-Town. Horsman spent hours calling home to cancel her credit cards, then tracked down the hotel manager to ask if her deposit would cover the fee for her stay.

“At first, I think [the manager] thought that I was holding the hotel liable, saying ‘The shopping mall is not part of the hotel!’ But I explained that I just wanted to make sure that I could still pay him,” says Horsman. The manager was much more helpful after that. “He had H&M call the police, and the store manager took us down into the creepy depths of the mall to review tapes and share my story, the hotel manager translating through it all. Again, they said they saw nothing on the tapes.”

An hour later, the police arrived in what Horsman describes as a “broke-down station wagon,” which took her to a police station just around the corner.

“After snapping a few selfies in the back of the paddy wagon, I was escorted into the station by two officers, neither of which spoke English,” she describes. “Once inside, I was served before everyone else in the waiting room by the single officer with broken English. He wrote my answers down in Chinese, and that was it! I never heard anything from them again.”

A few days later, one of the secretaries at Horsman’s school received a call from a good Samaritan who’d found her wallet and name card on the other side of town. The cash was gone, but the call vindicated Horsman’s initial impression of Beijing as a relatively safe place – even if the city isn’t immune to pickpockets.

Horsman is now able to laugh about the incident. She says it taught her quite a bit about safety in Beijing, which she wishes every expat would be warned about upon arriving here. “Don’t let your guard down, even after living there for a while,” she advises.

White Makes Right Clashing with Chinese beauty ideals

Locals using umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun and avoid getting a tan

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Photo: natw (flickr)

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by Emily Stranger

Remember that you are beautiful and there’s nothing wrong with the way you were created looking for bleach-free products, be wary of lotions or face washes with the Chinese characters 美白 (meibai ) or “whitening.”

Jessica Tan, a 32-year-old student at Tsinghua University, says she does not let the pale skin craze deter her from working on her tan. “I’m such a huge sun-worshipper,” explains Tan, who is Malaysian-American and grew up in San Francisco. “Whenever the AQI in Beijing is below 100 and there is a chance to [take in] some free vitamin D in the city, I’m on the rooftop of some random cafe in the hutongs or in Wudakou soaking up the sun.”

Instead, Tan has had more problems living up to another Chinese beauty ideal: thinner is better. For western women accustomed to easily finding clothes in their size, shopping in Beijing can be very frustrating. Even popular western brands such as American Eagle Outfitters only carry smaller sizes in their Beijing stores. At Solana, the largest size available for jeans is 10; most stores in the US carry size 12 and larger.

“Finding clothes in Beijing that fit can be next to impossible,” says Tan. Kim Stover, 26, also finds shopping frustrating at times. The Philadelphia native moved to Beijing two years ago to teach English.

“The super skinny thing is really annoying,” she says. “If you ask for a shirt or pants above a size 6, salespeople will look at you like you are a blimp. If you are in serious need of new pants, good luck!”

However, Jessica Tan doesn’t let local beauty standards affect her self-esteem. “Personally, I love having curves,” she continues. “I love being able to fill out the cup size of my bra or the fact that I need a sports bra when I go running.”

If you’re new to Beijing and find yourself having difficulty buying clothes, don’t be hard on yourself. There are others just like you who are trying to find where exactly they “fit in" – literally. In the meantime, Carey has some advice.

“Have confidence in yourself! Don’t compare yourself to locals and embrace the fact that your figure is different from many of theirs,” she says. “To young black girls and women: Ignore the negative comments that you hear in Beijing. Remember that you are beautiful and there’s nothing wrong with the way you were created!”

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Photo: alexa (flickr)

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t's often said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. This may be a truism in the West, but standards of beauty in China are defined within cultural parameters that have existed for hundreds of years. Many expat women are often baffled by how different these norms are compared to those in their home countries.

There is a popular saying among Chinese women: “One white can cover up three kinds of ugliness” (一白遮三丑). Another translates to “white, wealthy, and beautiful” (白富美). Both of these phrases refer to one of the most prominent beauty ideals in China: the whiter the skin, the prettier the face. For western women who have never heard of this concept, think Snow White – but with an Asian twist.

To newcomers, this skin whitening craze may come as a shock.

Alicia Carey, 28, is an African-American woman from Louisiana; she didn’t find out that pale skin was an ideal trait here until she moved to China over four years ago. She has found that her darker skin tone has at times made her an anomaly among the local Chinese population. The mentality of “the fairer, the better” clashes with what Carey says she has experienced in the US. “In western culture, women are spending thousands of dollars in tanning beds and cosmetic surgery to have a body like Jennifer Lopez or Kim Kardashian,” she says. “Westerners are accepting the fact that there are beautiful full-figured women and women of color.” Carey also points out the popularity of African-American and Hispanic celebrities such as Halle Berry, Kerry Washington, Beyoncé, Eva Longoria, and Alek Wek. The culture clash even affected Carey’s relationships with a Chinese man. She says she will never forget one of the last conversations they ever had: “His comment was: ‘If you were darker, I wouldn’t date you.'”

To live up to this fair-is-better ideal, Chinese women have spent billions of RMB on skin whitening products over the past decade. In 2010, Bernstein Research, a Wall Street research and brokerage firm, reported that the Chinese beauty market generated USD 12.5 billion in revenues, with skin care accounting for 70 percent of total sales.

The evidence is all around us. Skin care products can be found in almost any retail store, both large and small, in Beijing. If you’re

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Settling In photo by PIXSTUDIO

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ow that you’ve put away the boxes and settled on a school, it’s time to discover all that the city has to offer. In this section, we cover topics like building a support network, setting up utilities, taking the city bus, dealing with air pollution, finding a gym, getting treatment at a local hospital, and much more. When it comes to being an expat Beijing, one rule holds true: You get out what you put in. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and start exploring!

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Building a Nest How to make a house feel like a home in Beijing

by Emily Stranger

Settling In

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oving is never an easy process. It’s hard enough to move to another city, never mind a different country. When Grace and Christopher McCallum relocated to Beijing eight years ago from Vancouver, they only packed clothes and medication in their suitcases. “We didn’t know what to expect,” says Grace. It was the couple’s first time moving abroad.

The two teachers didn’t pack anything to decorate their new home on the Canadian International School of Beijing’s (CISB) campus. Though CISB combined two units for the McCallums, the space was still smaller than their apartment in Canada.

Given that most apartments within the city are not known for their large floor plans, her first piece of advice to expats fresh off the plane is to think about where to put your stuff. “When we first got here, we bought a lot of things that looked nice but took up a lot of space and provided no room for storage,” she says.

It wasn’t long before the McCallums found themselves running out of space for their belongings. Things became especially cramped when they welcomed their two daughters: Lila (age 2) and Avery (8 months). Doubling the family meant not only doubling the amount of clothing, shoes, and food but also entailed the addition of diapers and toys. Like most Beijing families living within the city, the McCallums didn’t have an extra closet or attic to rely on. Instead, they had to find a way of creating more space inside their apartment without the option of knocking down walls.

The solution? “Make use of your vertical space,” recommends Grace.

For the past few years, most of the furniture purchased by the McCallums was designed with height or storage space in mind. The

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family TV sits on a stand that is taller and narrower than it is wide, providing space underneath to store items such as small toys and stuffed animals. In the living room, the sectional sofa has rolling drawers at the bottom for extra storage. Glance into the Grace and Christopher’s bedroom and you’ll also see furniture that passes the vertical space rule. “Even our beds are tall enough to put boxes under,” she says.

In addition, the McCallums rearranged some of the rooms to fit their needs. They originally had two bathrooms, but decided to have the shower taken out of one of them to have a dryer put in. The kitchen also needed a vertical makeover so the family could store more utensils and ingredients. The solution was simple; all it took was a trip to Ikea and a box of screws. “We bought enough metal shelving to run the entire length, so that doubled our storage area in the kitchen,” says Grace.

However, the additional storage space did not magically make the McCallums feel like they were back in Canada. To make their apartment feel more like their first home, they started bringing back easyto-pack items whenever they went home for visits, such as bedding and wall decals. The latter make good alternatives for families who may have restrictions on what they can put on their walls, says Grace. For example, Avery’s nursery is decorated with decals of owls and birds.

Fortunately, new families don’t have to wait for a trip home before decorating their apartment. Though Ikea has been a great resource, Grace recommends Ladies’ Street (女人街) in Liangmaqiao for its little shops selling various decoration items such as custommade home textiles.

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Photo: Ken

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David (age 10), Bogusia, and Detlef Glogowski at home in Beijing

You can choose any type of wood, design, and shape, and they will make it

“A lot of [homes here] have windows that project out from the apartment and they are great places to sit,” she says. “Almost any of the tailors will make you a cushion that fits perfectly as well as curtains to match, and it’s all very inexpensive.”

For Bogusia and Detlef Glogowski, the key to decorating was simple: buy local. When the German family first moved to Beijing in 1999, their rental house was already furnished. That didn’t stop them from buying their own furniture, however; they commissioned pieces from several factories located in Shunyi. There was a range of options ranging from more western to more Chinese styles. The couple has an extensive collection of furniture in their Beijing home that reflects their varying tastes.

“You can choose any type of wood, design, and shape, and they

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will make it,” says Bogusia. She brought photographs to show the dealers exactly what she and her husband had in mind. While their order was being made, the factory lent the Glogowskis furniture so that their house wouldn’t be empty.

Both Bogusia and Detlef have their favorite shopping spots within the city limits. Detlef recommends Macalline, a furniture mall located near southeast Fourth Ring Road. “It has over 200 stores that offer a huge [variety] of furniture and decorations, including modern Chinese styles and historical Chinese,” she says.

The Glogowskis both enjoy perusing the massive Chengwaicheng Furniture Mall, where they bought their first couch. “It is a huge complex. Absolutely everybody will find something interesting there, from simple designs to French Baroque pieces,” says Bogusia. “They

Photo: Mitchell Pe Masilun

Settling In

Grace and Christopher McCallum with their daughters Lily (age 2) and Avery (8 months) at home

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also have a big separate building for decorations only. It is a very good place to go if you want to find decorating items that are different from Ikea’s.”

For families who like to bring a little bit of nature into their homes, Bogusia recommends the Laitai Flower Market attached to Ladies’ Street. “You can even pick up a family pet while you are there,” she says, referring to the talking mynah bird she purchased at the market. There are also turtles, guinea pigs, iguanas, fish, rabbits, chinchillas, and other small animals for sale.

Whether you are staying in Beijing temporarily or plan on making the city your long-term place of residence, the city offers a wide range of options for decorating your new home. All it takes is a map, a list of stores, and a budget. A little creativity goes a long way.

Airing on the Side of Caution Protect yourself from smog with purifiers and masks

by Sijia Chen

Settling In

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nyone considering an overseas posting in Beijing will need to consider the problem of air pollution. In January, The Wall Street Journal ’s China Real Time Report revealed that a slowing Chinese economy, rises in labor cost, and soaring air pollution are contributing to a drop in the number of expats moving to China. This has also had an adverse effect on international schools, with many reporting a decline or a lack of growth in enrolment figures.

The majority of China’s air pollution is caused by emissions from vehicle exhaust pipes and coal production. Serious health problems can result from inhaling minute substances suspended in the atmosphere called particulate matter (or PM), which have been linked to lung cancer, asthma, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, birth defects, and premature death.

Particle size is taken into consideration when tracking the air quality index (AQI), a figure used by government agencies to indicate the level of air pollution on a given day. While larger particles are generally filtered in the nose and throat, those measuring 10 micrometers or less in diameter (PM 10) can reach the deepest part of the lungs and settle in the bronchi. You’ll often hear the term “PM 2.5” in discussions of air pollution and AQI; these are the smallest particles, which measure 2.5 micrometers or less and can enter the bloodstream to cause cardiovascular problems.

Air pollutants include sulfur oxides from coal and petroleum combustion, carbon monoxide from exhaust pipes, volatile organic compounds (which are also suspected carcinogens), toxic metals such as lead and mercury, free radicals, and chlorofluorocarbons in banned products. Air pollution is of particular concern to families, as children and the elderly are at higher risk.

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Though air pollution should not be taken lightly, you and your family can take measures to minimize its impact on your health.

A growing number of international schools are building air-filtered sports domes and installing central air filtration systems as well as enforcing a cut-off AQI point for outdoor activities (see p10 for more information).

To keep track of daily pollution levels, check the US Embassy Twitter feed (@BeijingAir), which gives hourly readings of PM 2.5 levels from the roof of the US Embassy in Liangmaqiao. Keep in mind that these readings may not be accurate for other parts of the city, but they do provide a reliable snapshot of the air quality in central Beijing.

The Beijing Municipal Environmental Monitoring Center publishes its own air quality readings (zx.bjmemc.com.cn) from 27 different monitoring stations across the city. This official channel has made great strides in accuracy and transparency in recent years, but readings still tend to differ from the US Embassy’s.

The most convenient way to stay up-to-date on daily AQI readings is through phone apps. iPhone users can download the free China Air Quality Index app by Fresh Ideas, which provides data not only for Beijing but also for a number of other cities in China.

Android users can download the Beijing Air Quality widget.

Wearing a face mask outdoors on heavily polluted days is highly recommended. Don’t skimp; run-of-the-mill surgical masks will do little to protect against PM 2.5 particles. Invest in an air purifier for at-home use. It’s important to use them correctly; many people don’t (see overleaf on p64). Fortunately, there’s a range of air purifiers and face masks available in Beijing to suit every need.

Face Masks

Air Purifiers Face masks protect users during outdoor activities. But what about indoors? That’s where air purifiers come in. There’s a dizzying array of indoor filtration options, with a similarly broad range of price tags to match. Many families are willing to spare no expense to invest in premium air purifiers such as HealthPro Swiss by IQAir AG, Blueair (sold at Torana), Alen Air (sold by Renaud), and RGF Air Purifiers. You can expect to pay between RMB 3,000 to 40,000 per unit depending on the size, model, and surface area you’d like to filter.

There are much cheaper models, mostly made by domestic manufacturers like Yadu that can be found at supermarkets and electronics chains like Gome, Dazhong, and Suning. However, note that foreign brands are more likely to have undergone rigorous testing for their purifiers and to have passed product safety standards.

On average, a two-bedroom apartment might need up to three air purifiers to ensure clean air. When deciding on an air purifier model, factors include brand, the surface area of your home, and extra features such as UV-C lights to kill mold and yeast. It’s critical to keep the windows closed when running an air purifier; leaving them open defeats the purpose and wastes electricity.

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Photos: sui, courtesy of healthpro and vogmask, sui

Masks are divided into disposable and reusable types varying widely by materials, cost, and styles. Prominent brands include 3M, Respro, Vogmask, and Totobobo. US-based 3M makes disposable N95 masks (models 8210 and 9010) that have proven popular despite their rather surgical appearance; they can also be a bit awkward for those who wear glasses. Each mask costs RMB 10-30 depending on the model. They can be found at select supermarkets and convenience stores, as well as e-commerce websites like Amazon China, Taobao, I Just Wanna Buy, and Airbusters.

Respro masks are easily recognizable by their “Darth Vader” aesthetic, with replaceable charcoal filters and two external valves.

They’re popular with cyclists, though the close-fitting design tends to result in overheating on longer rides. The Techno (RMB 349) and Sportsta (RMB 369) models are available at Natooke, a fixedgear bike shop located in Wudaoying Hutong. The friendly staff can advise you on the best model for your needs. Two-packs of filters are also for sale at RMB 249.

Vogmask is one of the newer players in the industry. The company produces comfortable microfiber and organic cotton masks containing HEPA filters in four sizes: XS (ages 1-2), S (ages 3-7), M (ages 8-12), and L (adult). However, note that the child sizes are frequently out of stock due to high demand. There are numerous styles with patterns inspired by animals, flowers, classic arcade games, contemporary art movements, and even particle physics.

Vogmasks cost RMB 200 at the time of print and can be bought at Torana Clean Air Center. The store also carries RZ Masks (RMB 198), which are similar in appearance to Respro models.

Totobobo masks are made in Singapore and consist of a lightweight, transparent material called SoftTech. They also use replaceable filters (RMB 249 per pack) and can be trimmed to fit kids aged 5 and over. There are two models available on I Just Wanna Buy: Classic (RMB 195), which covers the nose and mouth, and SuperCool (RMB 202), which covers the mouth only. However, cyclists may find that Totobobo masks can get quite hot in the summer; condensation tends to form within the cup.

Everything You’ve Always Wanted to Know about Air Purifers (But Were Too Afraid to Ask)

by Ellis Friedman

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ormer beijingkids Deputy Managing Editor Ellis Friedman now lives in smog-free Phoenix, Arizona with her husband John. Before joining the magazine, she was a sales rep for a major air purifier company. Here, she dispels some common misconceptions about air purifiers.

Does my air purifier actually do anything?

Yes it does, but only if you use it properly – and many people don’t.

There are plenty of homes, businesses, and schools that have air purifiers, but the machines are never turned on. Likewise, many people turn on their purifier but only run them on the lowest setting because they find the noise distracting. This is almost as ineffective; keeping the machine on the lowest setting is simply not enough when the AQI exceeds 150.

My advice? Learn to deal with the noise and crank up your air purifier as high as it’ll go on bad smog days. The rest of the time, compromise with a medium setting that isn’t as loud as the highest setting and run it on that speed. It will be much more effective.

I don’t have an air purifier, but I’m considering it.

What sort of investment am I looking at?

I want someone to come to my apartment and do an air test. What can I expect?

The “big three” all offer free home air assessments. They’ll come to your house at the appointed time, and usually bring a demo model and a particle scanner. First, the representative will test the air without an air purifier. Then they’ll plug in the demo model, show you how to work machine, and wait about 10 minutes. Next, they’ll tell you how many machines they think you need and show you that the air particles have decreased (usually, by about half). If you end up buying from them, you can sometimes convince them to come back to your house a month – or even a year – later to test the efficacy of your actual machines.

My bedroom is only 15sqm in size. A purifier that covers 15sqm is all I need, right?

Not necessarily. The fine print on those measurements is that those purifiers cover up to 15sqm. That means they may cover 15sqm

Photo: theis kofoed hjorth (flickr)

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It depends on the brand. Some machines sold in supermarkets or electronic stores cost less than RMB 2,000. If cost is a big issue, something is still better than nothing. But in that case, I think you’re better off buying an imported brand like IQ Air, Blue Air, or Alen Air secondhand.

If you’re looking to buy new from one of the three big brands, the cost will be considerably higher. What you need depends on how many rooms you have and how big they are. If you have a standard two-bedroom apartment with a living room, you’ll probably need three machines. Prices range anywhere between RMB 13,000 and RMB 40,000 for IQAir, Blue Air, or Alen Air models.

That being said, everything is negotiable. You can haggle to an extent; sometimes you can get a bigger discount if you gather a group of friends to buy in bulk.

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only on the highest setting. When it’s on a lower setting, it won’t cover the whole room effectively. Err on the side of caution and get a machine that covers a larger surface area than your actual space.

stuffy room with clean air, or a cooler, better-ventilated room with polluted air. By all means, open the windows on blue sky days but keep them closed when it’s smoggy. Your lungs will thank you.

My machine is telling me to the filter after two or three months, but the company says it needs to be changed only every six months. My purifier is wrong, right?

What if my machine breaks down?

No. Most manufacturers say the filter need to be changed every six months, but that’s only true for places that don’t see as high levels of pollution as Beijing, including Shanghai.

The reality is that filters get dirtier much faster in Beijing and that means they need to be changed more frequently. While replacing the filter is a hassle and a considerable expense, it’s the only way to make sure the air in your home remains clean. It’s also the best way to avoid motor problems in your machine. When in doubt, call your customer service representative.

Warranties differ at each company when it comes to repair costs and procedures. It also depends on if you bought your air purifier from a reseller or straight from the manufacturer. The first step is always to contact the company you bought the machine from. If you bought directly from the manufacturer, they’ll usually give you a rundown on their procedures. If you bought it from a reseller, all bets are off on the type of response you may get. If they give you the runaround, call the actual manufacturer; your machine may not be under warranty, but the company should still be able to fix it.

Speaking of warranties, how long do they last?

Probably not. From my experience using particle scanners in rooms without air purifiers, the pollution inside is about half of what it is outside – if you’re lucky. I’ve been to apartments, schools, and offices where the AQI was higher inside than it was outside.

Again, this differs from company to company. It’s best to ask before you buy. When they tell you the length of time covered by the warranty, be sure to clarify what it’s contingent on. For example, the warranty may require you to regularly replace the filter. If so, it probably also entails buying those replacement filters from them directly and not from a third party.

How often should I turn on my air purifier?

What about secondhand purifiers?

Always. Unless it’s a legitimate blue sky day – personally, I judge this by what I can see around the window – keep your air purifiers running. The more expensive models shouldn’t significantly impact your energy bill.

Personally, I think buying secondhand is a great way to go. Air purifiers aren’t cheap and buying secondhand is an excellent way to save money. Families are always coming and going; ads for secondhand machines frequently appear on Yahoo groups like Beijing Mamas and Beijing Exchange, as well as in the classifieds sections of expat publications like the Beijinger or beijingkids.

Before you buy the machine, turn it on and listen to it. Make sure there are no rattling noises and that all the settings work properly. One thing to keep in mind is that buying secondhand will almost certainly void the warranty on the machine. You can still get it fixed by the manufacturer, but you’ll have to pay for it out-ofpocket.

But the air is much better inside than outside, right?

Can I open the windows?

If you open the windows, you might as well turn off the air purifier.

Running the machine with the windows open absolutely defeats the purpose.

But it’s stuffy inside.

Yes, it is. The reality is that you have to choose between a hot,

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Call 911! (I Mean, 120) Heading to a Chinese hospital? Here’s what to expect

Jonathan Pluygers waiting in line at Chaoyang Hospital

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Photo: ken

Settling In

by Clemence Jiang

We hate to break it to you, but Chinese public hospitals are not designed with the patient’s convenience in mind

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othing makes a foreign country feel more foreign than being ill and being able to find the right help. Don’t panic; major cities like Beijing have both public and private hospitals, as well as a small number of private clinics. Western treatments are widely available and many choose to supplement with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM).

If your health insurance covers international hospitals, you’re in luck; doctors from international hospitals and clinics such as International SOS and Beijing United Family Hospital are just a phone call away.

If you don’t have health insurance, don’t despair. Many public hospitals such as Sino-Japanese Friendship Hospital have international departments where staff speak decent English and provide a better level of service. If, however, you must go to a local Chinese hospital, it’s best to know what to expect and to be mentally prepared.

Getting Over the Shock We hate to break it to you, but Chinese public hospitals are not designed with the patient’s convenience in mind. In such an overpopulated country, speed and efficiency are key. Although appointments can nowadays be made through the Internet and via telephone in some cases, most patients just walk in and wait in line to be treated.

The first time you walk in a local hospital, you might feel like you’re in a maze as well as blind and deaf. Most of the staff in local hospitals don’t speak English and there is no one to rely on except yourself, so bring a Chinese-speaking friend if your language skills are not up to par.

You should also understand that everything – from car parking to IV drips – must be paid for upfront, so expect to do a lot of walking back and forth. We suggest you look up the hospital’s floor plan ahead of time to get a general idea of the layout; this is usually available in English and Chinese on the website.

Most hospitals offer a full range of medical services, from checkups to operations, and most Chinese doctors are very experienced.

You can expect accurate and efficient treatment, but do not expect a pleasant bedside manner; many doctors won’t take the time to explain what’s wrong with you.

Last but not least, be patient. Chinese public hospitals are very crowded and you may have to wait a while for your turn. Bring snacks and reading material. Be polite but firm with line cutters; most people will back off if you speak up and show that you aren’t passive.

When you enter the hospital lobby, there should be a floor plan and directory showing the location of the various departments. Take a picture with your smart phone and look for the queue to take a number (挂号, guahao ).

Emergencies The first thing you should note is the local emergency number: 120 – not 911, 112, or 999. An ambulance is supposed to arrive within 20 minutes. Foreigners can also call the English-language emergency hotline at 6525 5486.

Unless otherwise specified, the ambulance will take you to the closest emergency center. You will be charged for the pick-up service (starting from RMB 100) and first aid treatment on the road, but the fee is not significant.

Most public hospitals have a 24-hour emergency center, but only major hospitals can treat critical conditions during the night. Some of the larger international hospitals, such as Oasis International Hospital and Beijing United Family Hospital, have their own ER departments and hotlines. Be sure to save the number in your phone ahead of time.

Stay safe!

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How to Get Treatment

At the registration counter, you will be asked which department you want to visit and what type of doctor you wish to see. Luckily, treatment is very cheap at Chinese public hospitals. Assuming you have no insurance, it costs only RMB 5 to see a general doctor and around RMB 25 to see a specialist. If it is your first time at a local hospital, you will also have to buy a blue medical logbook (RMB 1.5) in which each doctor will record details of your ailments and procedures. Be sure to queue early because there is a limit on the number of guahao given out each day.

After you pay the consultation fee, take your stamped guahao paper and head to the relevant department. There is usually a nurse’s station in each department; give the nurse your guahao paper and blue logbook, then wait for your name to be called. Do not stray too far or bother asking the nurse how long you can expect to wait; she will not know the answer either.

After all the waiting and back-and-forth, your actual face time with the doctor may seem unbelievably short. Often without even telling you their name, they will swiftly ascertain the cause of your illness and ask you to go pay for your treatments. Do not expect transparency; the doctor – and only the doctor – knows what they are doing.

After the bills are paid, proceed to the hospital’s pharmacy with your prescription. If you are prescribed an injection or an IV drip (which Chinese doctors love for some reason), you will need to pick up the bags of fluids yourself and bring them to the nurse. Some hospitals have facilities scattered across different buildings, so you might need to walk from one to the other if the doctor requests a specific test.

Your guahao is only valid for one-time use; you will have to queue again the next time you visit the hospital.

Meals on Wheels Nothing in the fridge? Order in

by Sijia Chen

Delivery Networks Sherpa’s Founded in 1999, Sherpa’s is one of several delivery aggregators that partner with restaurants across central Beijing. There are offerings from several family-friendly eateries such as Wagas, El Gran Bocado, and Pizza+ (which also has its own delivery service). Most restaurants don’t require a minimum order.

Delivery zones: Chaoyang District and Dongcheng District Delivery fee: Starts at RMB 15 and increases according to distance.

However, Sherpa’s has a happy hour promotion from 1-6pm (including weekends) where the delivery fee is waived if it totals RMB 20 or less.

Average delivery time: 45 minutes English service: Yes, English-speaking operators and English website.

How to order: Sherpa’s has a four-step process. First, enter your street name or neighborhood in the search bar. A list of the restaurants closest to you will appear on the next page, along with the delivery fee for each. After you choose a restaurant, you’ll be prompted to choose what you want to order. Confirm your order, after which an email is sent to you with the total and estimated delivery time.

Contact and delivery hours: Daily 10.30am-10.30pm, closed during major holidays. 400 600 6209, www.sherpa.com.cn

Jinshisong 锦食送

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here are half-open boxes lying all over the house, and the kids are clamoring for pizza. What is a harried newcomer to do? Luckily, Beijing has a host of reliable delivery options, many with English hotlines and online menus. If you happen to speak and read a modicum of Chinese, the list of possibilities expands even further.

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Photo: judy zhou

Settling In

Cole Walker (then 7) is at your service

Along with Sherpa’s, Jinshisong is one of the larger delivery networks for western restaurants. Boasting an English interface, it has international and Chinese selections.

Delivery zones: Chaoyang, Dongcheng, Xicheng, and Haidian Delivery fee: Starts at RMB 15, though many restaurants offer free delivery within 3km. There is a minimum order of RMB 68.

Average delivery time: 45 minutes English service: Yes, English-speaking operators and English website.

How to order: Select a type of cuisine on the website, followed by the restaurant and menu selections. When checking out, fill in your name, phone number, and address. Click on your area on the map to find out how much the delivery fee costs. After finalizing your order, you’ll receive a text message on your mobile. Registered users can track their order via GPS on the website. A free bottle of water and fortune cookies come with every order.

Contact and delivery hours: Daily 10.30am-10.30pm (hotline).

400 030 0517, www.jinshisong.com

KK Rabbit Though more limited than Sherpa’s or Jinshisong, KK Rabbit offers a range of international and Chinese cuisine. It’s also notable for being the only service that supports orders through MSN and Skype.

Delivery zones: Guomao, Sanlitun, and Chaoyang Park Delivery fee: RMB 15 for addresses within 3km of the restaurant.

There’s an extra RMB 7 for every kilometer after that. When you place an order through the website, KK Rabbit will call you within ten minutes to tell you the correct delivery fee; the website tends to overestimates the fee as a conservative measure.

Average delivery time: 40 minutes English service: Yes, English-speaking operators and English website How to order: On the website, you can narrow down your selection by different cuisines, delivery areas, or types of food (e.g pizza).

KK Rabbit will calculate the delivery time and total after you enter your address. To check out, type in your name, telephone number, address, and any special requests you may have. Ordering online gets you a free drink (Sprite, Coke, or water).

Contact and delivery hours: Daily 10.30am-10.30pm (hotline), delivery hours vary from restaurant to restaurant. 400 720 1717, www.kkrabbit.com.cn

Daojia Meishi Hui 到家美食会 For locals, Daojia Meishi Hui is the gold standard for delivery services. Compared with Sherpa’s and Jinshisong, Daojia has more options for Chinese restaurants, many of them hole-in-the-wall establishments with cheap gaifan (rice topped with meat and/or vegetables) and noodles.

Delivery zones: Between Second Ring Road and Fourth Ring Road Delivery fee: RMB 6 normally, none if your order is RMB 200 or more Average delivery time: 45 minutes English service: None How to order: On the home page, you’ll see a list of neighborhoods in Beijing. Click on yours or type your address in Chinese in the search bar. You’ll get a list of restaurants, which can be sorted by popularity. Select an online menu and check the box next to the dishes you’d like to order. You can specify requests for each dish (e.g.

No MSG, make it vegetarian, etc.). If you speak Chinese, you may also phone in your order.

Contact and delivery hours: Daily 11am-2.30pm, 5-9.30pm (delivery); daily 9am-9pm (ordering). 6608 0101, www.daojia.com.cn

Standalone Restaurants with Excellent Delivery Service Annie’s 安妮

Gung Ho! Gourmet Pizza Factory 叫板比萨 Gung Ho! is not only known for its creative pizzas, but also for its super-positive company culture.

Yelling “Go! Go! Go!” at any of their pink-shirted delivery guys will usually get you a cheerful “Go! Go! Go!” in reply. Delivery tends to be fast and there are many meal combos (including a kids’ combo) with pizza, pasta, or salad as well as a side dish and drinks.

Delivery zones: Sanlitun, Shuangjing, and Lido Delivery fee: None Average delivery time: Though the website says to allow 45-60 minutes, the Gung Ho! delivery guys are often much faster than that. It’s not uncommon to get your order in 20 minutes.

English service: Yes, English-speaking operators and website.

How to order: You can order via telephone or on Gung-Ho’s website.

You’ll need to create an account, but the interface is quite userfriendly. Customers have the option of paying with a Chinese bank card; ask for the delivery man to bring the POS system.

Contact and delivery hours: Daily 11am-11pm. 5135 8557 (Lido), 5876 5262 (Shuangjing), 5738 9040 (Lido), www.gunghopizza.com

Haidilao HILaosong 海底捞HI捞送 Haidilao is a wildly popular chain of Sichuan hotpot restaurants with unmatched service.

Ordering from Haidilao isn’t a casual affair, but we couldn’t resist including them for the sheer comprehensiveness of their service. Depending on your needs, the nearest branch will dispatch a hotpot, hot plate, flavoring packets for the broth, raw ingredients, any necessary extension cords, and even wait staff to your house. (Could be an idea for your next dinner party?)

Delivery zones: Within 20 km of the specific Haidilao branch Delivery fee: RMB 12 per kilometer distance between the address and nearest Haidilao branch. There is a minimum order of RMB 258 and a service charge of 10 percent.

Average delivery time: Allow 90 minutes to three hours English service: None How to order: Order online or via telephone. To order online, select the city and branch closest to you. Browse the menu and select the items you want. You’ll be asked to create an account with your email address or mobile number, then enter your address and the desired delivery date and time. Accepted payment methods include cash upon delivery and Chinese bank cards (check the box that says “bring the POS system”). Items such as extension cords and hot plates must be requested in advance.

Contact and delivery hours: Daily 11am-11.30pm. 400 810 7107, www.4008107107.com Home & Relocation Guide 2014

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This award-winning Italian chain is a godsend to parents with hungry children who need food now . Founded in 1999, Annie’s offers standards such as spaghetti, lasagna, and pizza at affordable prices. Their delivery service is quick, friendly, and geared towards families. There’s a kids’ menu for picky eaters with choices like chicken strips and cheesy penne pasta.

Delivery zones: Sanlitun, Ritan Park, Chaoyang Park, CBD, Shunyi, Wangjing, and Lido Delivery fee: None Average delivery time: 30 minutes English service: Yes, English-speaking operators and website.

How to order: Online ordering isn’t available for now, so browse the menu on Annie’s website and call the branch closest to you for delivery.

Contact and delivery hours: D a i l y 1 0 . 3 0 a m - 1 0 . 3 0 p m . www.annies.com.cn

Station to Station Taking the bus in Beijing

by Sijia Chen

G

iven Beijing’s perpetual gridlock, cycling or taking the subway are the best ways to ensure that you arrive on time.

That being said, newcomers shouldn’t discount the humble city bus. On a sunny day, sitting next to the window with a breeze going through your hair is a lovely way to explore the city. In many ways, Beijing’s bus network is more developed than the subway and is more convenient for reaching remote locations. Here’s a basic guide to taking the bus, from purchasing a smart card to finding your way around the city.

you’re willing to learn a bit of Chinese or muddle through the following steps, Baidu Maps (maps.baidu.com) and BJ Bus (www.bjbus. com) are much better for figuring out the quickest route from point A to B. Baidu Maps has a more user-friendly interface, so that’s the one we’re using for the example below.

Step 1

Bus Fare Buses in Beijing have two fee structures: a fixed rate of RMB 1 for a one-way trip and a variable, distance-based rate. Depending on the bus route, the latter system costs either RMB 1 for the first 12km and RMB 0.50 for every 5km after that or RMB 2 for the first 10km and RMB 1 for every 5km after than that.

There are two ways to pay the fare: cash or smart card. There’s a 60 percent discount if you pay with a smart card; this knocks down the price from RMB 1 to RMB 0.40 for a one-way trip. The bus and subway use the same yikatong (一卡通) card, which can be purchased at any subway station. The card itself requires a RMB 20 deposit, which can be reclaimed upon return – but only with the original receipt. As a bonus, the yikatong can be used at shared bicycle stations, in phone booths, at select food retailers (McDonald’s, KFC, Yonghe King, Weiduomei), and in certain convenience stores (Jingkelong, Wu Mart, Watson’s, Wal-Mart).

To top up the card, use one of the recharge machines at any subway station; the instructions are available in English and Chinese.

Alternatively, go to the ticket booth and give the clerk your card and the amount in cash you want to charge it with.

All routes with distance-based fares and some routes with fixedrate fares have a ticket clerk on board to sell tickets and provide change for purchases. All passengers getting off the bus will be asked to show their ticket or swipe their smart card. On buses without a ticket clerk, the fare costs RMB 1 payable in cash or card.

Passengers carrying large suitcases may need to pay for two fares. All children under 1.2m ride for free if accompanied by an adult. Retirees and blind people also ride for free.

This is the Baidu Maps home page. The red circle indicates the search bar, where you can enter your destination in pinyin or Chinese characters. Baidu Maps will auto complete the address as you type.

Step 2

Press “enter” or click the gray button that says “百度一下” to the right of the search bar to bring up the search results, indicated here by the red circle.

Step 3

Settling In

Navigating the City If you don’t read or write Chinese, Google Maps will probably be your best bet when iot comes to navigational tools. However, both the app and the website tend to be slow and unreliable here. If

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Click the second tab labeled “bus” (公交) below the search bar.

Another input field will appear. Type your starting address in Chinese characters or pinyin, then hit “enter” again.

Step 4

On the left of the screen, you’ll see several bus routes sorted by commute time. On the map, you’ll see the bus trajectory in blue. Optionally, you may refine your search options (see next step).

Step 4 The green box indicates “departure time” ( 出发时间 ). Click on the calendar icon to pick a different departure date and the clock icon to pick a different departure time. The orange box contains “transportation tools” (交通工具). If you click on the drop-down menu, you have the option of excluding the subway from your itinerary. Finally, the tabs in the purple box control how your search results are sorted. The first is “by quickest route” (较快捷), the second is “minimal bus transfers” ( 少换 乘 ), and the third is “minimal walking” (少步行).

Moving on to the itinerary itself, the green box shows the route number (701), estimated travel time (40 minutes), estimated time of arrival (17:00), and approximate distance (4.7km).

The orange box contains the directions. The first line shows the starting point. The second line shows the bus number (701), station to get off at (安家 楼站), and number of stops (six).

The third line shows how much you’ll need to walk after you get off the bus (910m). The last line shows the name of your destination.

Baidu Maps also has an app called 百度地图 that replicates this interface and provides a great tool for those with 3G (for more information on setting up 3G access, see p34). Within China, Baidu Maps is generally faster and more accurate than Google Maps.

The photo above shows a typical bus sign with the route number, station names in vertical Chinese characters, the times of the first and last buses, the terminus names, and the fare (RMB 2 for the first 10km, RMB 1 for every extra 5km after that). Bus signs can be confusing at first, but learn to pick out the information you need with a Chinese app like Pleco or do your homework beforehand using Baidu Maps.

In general, there’s a door at the front for passengers boarding the bus and a door at the back for passengers getting off the bus.

Don’t enter via the exit doors unless you want to get an earful from the conductor or ticket clerk. Doors for getting on will have the character shang (上) or “up” and doors for exiting will have the character xia (下). On accordion buses, passengers board through the middle and disembark at the front or back.

Pay the fare by pressing your smart card against the surface reader located next to the driver, which will beep and show the amount left on your card. Paying cash? Just put the appropriate number of paper notes or coins into the fare box. Some buses require you to swipe your card only when you get on; others require you to swipe it when you get on and before you get off. The easiest way to tell? Check whether there’s a card reader at the exit; if there isn’t, you don’t have to swipe your card a second time.

Peak hours for traffic are from 8-9.30am and 5-7pm. The experience can be uncomfortable for the uninitiated, so we don’t suggest making your maiden voyage during these hours. Conductors and ticket clerks generally don’t speak English, so it’s best to know the name of your stop or have it written down Chinese. Each station is announced over the PA system, so you can listen for yours or count off the number of stops to your destination. Happy exploring!

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Photos: poeloq (flickr), wikimedia commons, clemence jiang

Step 5

Getting on the Bus

Ticket to Ride The key to personal transportation in Beijing

by Steven Schwankert

Settling In

I

f you’re considering driving in Beijing, it may feel like having to learn the skill all over again. But with a little bit of practice and some common sense, a driver’s license will provide you with an incredible amount of freedom and flexibility, especially when it comes to visiting natural and historical wonders in the surrounding counties.

Before putting the key in the ignition, check your driving eligibility.

If your company provides insurance, check if that that covers driving.

If not, will the insurance company carry a rider for you or can you add one if you’re willing to pay? Do you have existing insurance in your home country that might cover you? In any case, car insurance will be separate.

An international driver’s license won’t do you much good in China, unfortunately. You must submit the required paperwork and follow all of the steps in order to earn a regular driver’s license.

The latter is only available to those between the ages of 18 and 70; some special licenses also have height requirements.

If you’re here with an embassy, you might not have to take the test at all due to diplomatic reciprocity. Depending on which nation your current driver’s license was issued in, you may only be required to take the written theory test, which is available in Chinese and some foreign languages, including English. Citizens of Belgium have the rare privilege of being able to exchange their licenses directly for Chinese ones with no additional testing needed.

Just because you have a driver’s license does not mean there will be vehicles available to drive. Beijing’s swelling traffic problem has led to restrictions on the purchase of new cars, meaning that the likelihood of showing up and being able to buy a car is, well, unlikely.

In order to restrict the number of new cars on Beijing’s roads every year, would-be car buyers must first obtain a license plate – one of only 20,000 issued every month – by entering the dreaded license plate lottery. Think of this license plate as not just the registration for the vehicle, but your license to own a car, separate from your license to drive it. It remains with the driver, which has an additional controlling effect: a driver cannot sell you a used car with a license plate, as the license plate is non-transferrable. In the case of old cars, the plate is sometimes worth more than the car itself!

You need to submit the following in order to enter the license plate lottery: a valid driver’s license, valid visa or permanent resident permit, temporary registration form from the local police station, a minimum of one year residence in Beijing, and no other cars in your name in the city. If you “win” the lottery, you must buy a car within 30 days of the issuance date or lose your right to buy a car forever.

No kidding. If you win the lottery and pass on buying a car (or receive your notification late), you are then permanently ineligible or must buy the car in the limited time you have left. The good news is, a plate is yours for life once you have it.

Oh, that license plate comes with at least one more limitation.

Rotating every 90 days or so, the last number on a vehicle’s license

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plate determines which day of the week the driver is forbidden to drive within Fifth Ring Road. This information is available on the Beijing Traffic Management Bureau’s website (goo.gl/AF2u6i) as well as signs posted at the entrance to some housing compounds and villas.

There are no restrictions for weekends or public holidays.

Still interested in driving in Beijing? Now that you’re ready to apply for a driver’s license, you’ll need the following: • Passport, visa, and residence permit. Visas issued for fewer than 60 days are not eligible for the driver’s license. At least 90 days must remain on the visa in order to apply.

• Four square, one-inch passport photos with a white background in which both ears and glasses – if applicable – are visible (RMB 20).

• Vision test from an approved Chinese provincial-level or higher public hospital (RMB 10). Beijing Friendship Hospital and ChinaJapan Friendship Hospital are two of the many available choices.

• Application form and payment (RMB 50).

• The official study book (RMB 90, available in nine languages: Chinese, English, French, German, Spanish, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Arabic). There are over 1,000 sample questions that you will need to read, study, and memorize. Do not assume you will pass if you do not study.

• A trip to the Foreign Affairs Department of Beijing Motor Vehicle Administration to take the test.

Appointments are no longer required to take the computerized test, but it’s best to get to the Department of Beijing Motor Vehicle Administration when it opens at 9am. To pass, you must correctly answer a minimum of 90 randomly selected computer questions out of 100. Results flash on the screen immediately. If you pass, you’ll receive your license in five business days (valid for six years); if you do not pass, you may re-take the test after 30 days. The entire licensing process takes two to three weeks. When it’s time for a renewal, only the vision test is required; the renewal process needs to be completed at least 90 days before the license expires.

Visitors can receive a Temporary Driving Permit, providing they hold a visa with a valid period of no more than 60 days. This permit allows access to rental cars only. The process takes five working days to complete and will cost RMB 450 if you use a service provider to assist you.

Those with limited Mandarin skills – or if you’d simply prefer the convenience of having someone else deal with the red tape – may choose to pay an auto service to help them through the process. Services vary but often include completing forms, translating licenses, providing transportation to and from the various steps, providing the test study book, and delivering the license to you.

Some services offer an all-inclusive fee (about RMB 1,000); others offer itemized services depending on your needs. These companies can also assist with car purchases, leases, maintenance, and more.

However, most foreigners find the process straightforward, if timeconsuming.

A great resource for all before-and-after information is the Beijing Traffic Management Bureau. Their website tells you everything from when your restricted driving day is to how many points you could lose off your license for fines. Some sections (such as traffic fines) are currently only available in Chinese, but companies like ST Car Care Beijing Co., Ltd. can assist non-Chinese speakers.

Consider the risks before getting your license. According to the International Newcomers’ Network (INN), China has the highest number of traffic fatalities in the world, about 30 percent of which involve cyclists. Over 50 percent of drivers do not wear seatbelts, while helmet use for both motorbikes and bicycles is virtually nonexistent. Car seats for children are rare, though increasing. And many motorists simply do not obey traffic laws. However, if you have what it takes to pass the test, a Chinese driver’s license offers a freedom like no other.

Renting a car in Beijing is relatively simple if you have a Chinese driver’s license, a passport with valid visa, your Temporary Residence Form, and a credit card. International credit cards are widely accepted, but not international debit cards.

Local companies such as China Auto Rental (zuche.com) offer a wider choice of cars and pick-up points, though international rental car companies like Avis and Hertz are also present. These places often require a customer registration, so make sure to start the process a few days in advance. Once you’re registered, renting or leasing becomes straightforward; if you use the online booking service, the process can take less than 20 minutes.

Even when dealing with large firms like Hertz and Avis, be sure to check if auto insurance is included and what additional charges may apply. Hefty deposits ranging from RMB 3,000 to 10,000 are required. In addition, around RMB 1,000 is kept as a deposit (on your credit card) for 30 days to cover any traffic violations you may incur.

If you do not have a Chinese driver’s license, it is possible to get a temporary driving permit for a maximum of 60 days – but only if you have an L (tourist) visa valid for 60 days or less. You must go to the Foreign Affairs Department of Beijing Motor Vehicle Administration (the same place where the driving test is administered) or the

Resources Foreign Affairs Department of Beijing Motor Vehicle Administration Mon-Fri 8.30am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-4pm. 18 Nansihuan Donglu (southwest of Shibalidian Nanqiao, Nansihuan Waihuan), Chaoyang District (8762 5150) 朝阳区南四环东 路18号 (南四环外环十八里店南桥西南侧)

Beijing Traffic Management Bureau 1 Fuchengmen Beijie, Xicheng District (Hotline: 122) bjjtgl. gov.cn/publish/portal1/ 西城区阜成门北街1号

ST Car Care Beijing Co., Ltd. Daily 9am-6pm. 507 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Town, Shunyi District (8046 2075, 139 1021 1215, st@stautoclub.com.cn) stautoclub.com.cn 顺义区天竺镇荣祥广场507

Expat Car Daily 24 hours. Beigao Lukou, Jichangfu Lu, Chaoyang District (8152 3060, service@expatcar.com) expatcar.com 朝阳 区机场附路北皋路口

China Auto Rental (CAR) 2F, Lead International Building, A2 Wangjing Zhonghuan Nanlu (400 616 6666) zuche.com

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Photo: Bfishadow (flickr)

Renting a Car

Vehicle Management Service Station at Beijing International Capital Airport, Terminal 3. While you won’t need to take a driver’s test, you still need to have a valid driver’s license from your own country, your household registration, an eye exam from an approved hospital, and four one-inch photos for the permit, which can be processed within the same day. Afterwards, you may go to a rental car company.

If you’re only here for a short stay and aren’t familiar with the roads, this is a much more cumbersome way to get around. With so many cars and drivers for hire, it may be best to go that route for the duration of your visit.

Don’t Train in Vain Taking advantage of China’s long-distance bus and rail network

by Steven Schwankert

Y

ou might be surprised to find that China’s rail and road network are a huge improvement over long-distance travel options in your home country. They offer an affordable, comfortable, and often faster alternative to air travel or driving, especially in spring and summer when the weather can delay flights between Beijing and major domestic and international destinations.

In fact, Beijing Capital International Airport (BCIA) earned the ignominious title of “the World’s Most Delayed Airport” in July 2013, with an on-time rate of only 18 percent. Couple that with higher plane ticket prices and train travel becomes the clear choice.

Long-distance bus travel is a less expensive option and may be a better method of transportation for harder-to-reach areas. For example, rural towns or destinations far off the beaten path may only be accessible by bus. Far from the rickety sardine cans of decades past, modern bus travel in China can be perfectly acceptable as long as you adjust your expectations.

The biggest challenge for non-Chinese speakers will be purchasing bus and train tickets as well as knowing which station to get off at, assuming you’re not traveling to the end of the line.

Settling In

Plane or Train?

The establishment of the high-speed train service from Beijing to Shanghai was a boon for many travelers, from nervous flyers to businesspeople who needed to know when they would arrive at their destination. When time is of the essence, train travel may be the way to go – but not always.

On average (assuming that the flight takes off on time), taking the plane from Beijing to major domestic destinations will always be the faster option. Shanghai’s Hongqiao International Airport and Hongqiao Train Station are right next to each other, so there’s no difference in time from either of those places to the city center.

In Beijing, all high-speed trains for Shanghai and Tianjin depart from Beijing South Railway Station. The station is about the same distance from the central business district as BCIA. If you compare travel times for the plane (just over 2 hours) and the high-speed train (4.5 hours) to Shanghai, the plane wins every time.

However, given that 80 percent of the nation’s airspace is reserved for military use and conservative air traffic controllers regularly delay flights due to factors like pollution, snow, and thunderstorms, the train is a safer bet.

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In addition, flying from Beijing to Shanghai takes you from the world’s most delayed airport to the world’s second most delayed airport. Knowing exactly what time the train will arrive and depart is a huge advantage. Add to that cleanliness and lots of legroom, and rail travel starts to look pretty good.

Get on the Train and Go Beijing has three train stations: Beijing Railway Station southwest of Jianguomen, Beijing West Railway Station in Xizhimen, and Beijing South Railway Station in Fengtai District. The first offers access to international destinations such as Mongolia, Russia, and even North Korea; domestic trains are generally slower. The second generally offers high-speed trains to destinations west of Beijing. The third offers the fastest trains to Shanghai and Tianjin, as well as slower trains to major cities in southern China.

Each train has two to three classes: business class ( 公务等), first class (一等), and second class (二等). Business class isn’t available on every train. Second class – the most common – has seating configurations of three seats to one side of the aisle and two to the other. Each seat reclines and comes with a meal tray. There are two electrical outlets in most rows for the side with three seats and one for the side with two seats, though Wi-Fi is not yet available. First class has fewer, larger seats that include some complimentary food and beverage. Business class has a small number of semi-private compartments that come with higher-quality food and drink.

Second-class tickets cost less than the average air ticket while first-class tickets cost about the same as a full-fare air ticket. Business class tickets are between the price of a full-fare economy plane ticket and a business class plane ticket.

Trains and train numbers are not interchangeable. Train routes that begin with the letter G are the fastest and stand for gaotie (高铁). Train routes prefaced with the letter D are the next fastest and stand for dongche (动车). Beyond that, rail travel will likely be much slower than your average foreign passenger would expect or hope (see sidebar for an explanation of train letters).

One of the biggest disadvantages of train travel is that tickets may only be purchased ten days before the intended departure date.

This is particularly tricky during peak travel periods such as Spring Festival and the National Day holiday in October, as tickets sell out quickly and train stations are jammed with people rushing home for the break.

A gaotie train at Beijing West Railway Station

All purchases of train tickets in China now require photo identification.

The document must be produced at the time of purchase; sometimes tickets can be reserved in advance but must be picked up by the user with a valid photo ID. Generally, this also means you can’t buy tickets on someone else’s behalf. You can sometimes talk the clerk into taking a photocopy of your passport or allowing you to buy tickets for a friend, but there’s no way to predict. In addition, this would only work at individual ticketing agencies and not at the train station.

Tickets can be purchased in person at a train station, at one of Beijing’s many authorized ticket offices, or online. The official website for buying train tickets is www.12306.cn (Chinese only). Those who can’t read Chinese can buy tickets via Ctrip (english.ctrip. com), which charges a service fee. Note that each of the city’s train stations offers at least one queue labeled with an English sign and staffed by an English-speaking clerk. That being said, purchasing tickets at the train station tends to be an inconvenient and frustrating experience.

One piece of advice: Pack your own food. While the level of service is generally quite good, the catering is still lacking. South Railway Station has about 20 different Chinese and international fast food chains; you can bring your own food from home or outside the station, but not beverages. Liquids may be confiscated during the security check, which all passengers must go through upon entering the station.

Fewer foreigners take the bus for long-distance travel in China, especially after the introduction of high-speed rail travel. However, some destinations aren’t conveniently served by air or train, making the bus most convenient.

Buses to domestic destinations leave from long-distance bus stations. Beijing has about 20 different long-distance bus stations – some with overlapping destinations – but they generally serve cities relative to their location from Beijing. In short, buses from stations located in the west of the city will travel west, buses in the north will travel north, and so on. The largest station is Zhaogongkou Long-Distance Bus Station in Fengtai District, near the South Third Ring Road.

A list of bus destinations and schedules can be found at www.piaojia.cn, but tickets must be purchased in person. Advance purchase will depend on the destination and the station. Overnight sleeper buses – buses with sleeping berths – are available for journeys of ten hours and more. They won’t be particularly comfortable but are relatively inexpensive.

Research by Morgan Shang Letters are used to prefix different train routes, denoting train type and speed. Besides the two most commonly used by foreigners – D and G – there’s a whole alphabet soup of other categories that can be confusing for even the most seasoned travelers. Here’s a simple breakdown.

• G is for gaotie (高铁): Trains that travel at speeds of over 300km/hour. The fastest type of train, which travels on an exclusive high-speed rail network.

• D is for dongche (动车): Trains that travel at speeds of over 200km/h. The second fastest type of train.

• T is for tekuai (特快): Translates to “very fast,” but is ironically the second slowest type of train.

• K is for pukai (普快): Translates to “ordinary speed.” The slowest type of train.

• Z is for zhida (直达): Translates to “express train.” Unlike other trains, which stop at several stations along the way, this type goes straight from point A to B to save time.

• L is for linshi (临时): Translates to “temporary.” Denotes trains added to ease congestion in times of peak travel, such as Spring Festival and National Day. You may also encounter the term chengji (城际). These inter-city trains serve those who frequently commute between two major neighboring cities, such as Beijing and Tianjin, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, or Shanghai and Hangzhou. They run frequently and usually carry the letter prefix D or G. However, the chengji distinction makes no practical difference when purchasing train tickets.

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Photo: Fabio (flickr)

Taking the Bus

What Do All Those Train Letters Mean?

In and Out Venues for indoor and outdoor fun in Beijing

by Sijia Chen

O

ne of the first things you’ll want to find out is where to take the kids for fun. When Beijing does have blue sky days, they can be spectacular. The best way to take advantage is to plop down on a picnic blanket and let the kids run wild in one of the city’s many excellent parks. But let’s face it – on days when the AQI is over 250, playing outside just isn’t an option. That’s why we also included some suggestions for indoor fun, from play centers for the very young to go-karting for older kids. You’ll find all the addresses in our Directories. These are just a few ideas to get you started; for more, visit our website at www.beijing-kids.com.

Olympic Forest Park 奥林匹克森林公园

Outdoor Fun

A favorite with CBD families, this relatively small park features landscaped gardens, a small hill with a pavilion, and plenty of rocks for kids to climb and play on. Highlights include an outdoor rock climbing wall, old architecture, lakeside dining, free admission, and a kids’ playground. There are public bathrooms with squat toilets, but no changing tables. Toilet paper tends to run out, so bring your own.

Nearby restaurants include Schindler’s Tankstelle, The Elephant, and Dacha. The U-Town shopping mall is also close by.

Chaoyang Park 朝阳公园 Located on the site of a former palace, Chaoyang Park is the largest park in Beijing at 288 hectares. On any given day, you’ll see couples taking lavish wedding photos, old people flying kites, and families picnicking. Activities include a 4D movie theater, treetop obstacle course, a children’s amusement park, a science museum, and paddle boating.

There are many restaurants near the west gate, including Annie’s, Alio Olio, and Muse. The park has relatively clean public bathrooms with squat toilets but no changing tables or toilet paper.

Beihai Park 北海公园

The famous White Pagoda of Beihai Park

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Ritan Park 日坛公园

Tuanjiehu Park 团结湖公园 Located just outside Third Ring Road, Tuanjiehu Park has a cozy neighborhood feel with merry go-rounds and carp ponds. In the summer, there’s a popular water park with a kids’ area and water slides; however, it can get very crowded in nice weather. Other activities include paddle boating and roller skating. Tuanjiehu Park is ideal for families living in Sanlitun, Xingfucun, or the CBD. There are squat toilets with toilet paper but no changing tables.

Also check out: Si’de Park, Jingshan Park, Yuyuantan Park, Longtanhu Park, Ditan Park, Honglinjin Park

Photo: thomas fishler (flickr)

Settling In

Located just northwest of the Forbidden City, Beihai Park is home to the famous White Pagoda and Nine-Dragon Pavilion. Despite its status as a tourist attraction, the park is large enough that you can find quiet nooks among its lilies, peonies, and flowering trees. You can skate on the frozen lake in the winter or take a boat ride in the summer to escape the heat. A visit to Beihai Park would fit nicely into a day trip to Gulou and its surrounding hutongs. Jingshan Park (景山公园) just to the east is also worth checking out for the view of the Forbidden City from atop the hill.

Built for the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games, Olympic Forest Park is an underrated gem located in the north of the city. Bisected in half

by North Fifth Ring Road, this expansive park is a haven for bird watchers, runners, hikers, and families. There are some amusement rides in the southeast corner; families can also visit the well-curated China Science and Technology Museum just south of the park. There are bathrooms with sit-down toilets, but no toilet paper or changing tables.

The cinema at Indigo Mall

U-Speed Go-Karting is suitable for ages 10 and up

Indoor Fun

The New City Center 新城文化中心 Ages 7 and under. This Wangjing community center, indoor playground, and cafe has a Mommy and Me Club, After School Kids’ Club, and English Corner for parents. The New City Center can host events and birthday parties with friendly English- and Chinesespeaking staff on hand. Parents can kick back at the Corner Cafe while the kids play in the ball pit (RMB 100 for ten visits or free admission with every purchase of RMB 30 or more at the cafe).

China Science and Technology Museum 中国科学技术馆 All ages. The expansive China Science and Technology Museum has tons to see and do, including a “huge-screen theater,” hands-on science activities, and exhibits covering Chinese innovations, human biology, nature, and future technology. There’s a section just for kids (ages 3-10) that charges separate admission and features a jungle gym, science-themed obstacle courses, and age-appropriate presentations given by museum staff on topics like health.

Shopping Malls Most shopping malls in Beijing have an entire floor or section reserved for kids with a ball pit or indoor climbing frame. Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park is popular with both local and expat families thanks to its open-plan design and proximity to Chaoyang Park.

An entire wing is dedicated to children’s wear, maternity products, and baby gear with stores like Mothercare from the UK and Motherswork from Singapore. There’s also an indoor ice rink, kids’ play area, Gymboree branch, and cinema with English movies.

Located between 798 Art District and Lido, Indigo Mall is also a good choice for families. The mall often runs children’s events either outdoors or in the main atrium. There’s a cinema and a wide selection of restaurants, including Blue Frog, Muse, Element Fresh, and Flamme. Next door, EAST Beijing also has its own eateries such as Hagaki, FEAST, and Domain.

other venues to check out: Mitty Jump, Family Box, Fundazzle, Blue Zoo Beijing, StarTrooper Laser Tag, Adventure Zone

Ages 8 and up. Also known as Cosmic Bowling, this Lido bowling alley is a great venue for birthdays or impromptu fun. It has 20 bowling lanes, a pool table, and support racks for younger kids. The many surrounding restaurants include Element Fresh, Mugen Japanese Restaurant, The Taj Pavilion, Eudora Station, Parkside Bar and Grill, and Baskin Robbins. Both Si’de Park and Lido Park are nearby if the weather’s nice.

U-Speed Go-Karting 优速卡丁车馆 Ages 10 and up. U-Speed’s 4,000sqm facilities include go-karting tracks, VIP rooms, a bar/restaurant, conference rooms, and a game center with foosball, pool tables, and an arcade. It’s not cheap (RMB 120/six-minute session), but go-karting provides hard-to-beat thrill for older kids.

SMJ Bowling Club (also known as Cosmic Bowling)

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Photos: lova and ellis friedman

SMJ Bowling Club 北京沙明建保龄球俱乐部

Pumping Iron An overview of Beijing’s gym options

Five-star jacuzzis at The St. Regis

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Photo: courtesy of the st. regis

Settling In

by Kyle Mullin

Lots of newcomers put on weight due to eating oily and sweet foods

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While pristine facilities like the St. Regis’ may be hard to rival, Rowse’s more low-key approach ensures that his facility caters to a different niche. His clients aren’t paying for high-end equipment, but rather a high-end personal touch.

“Our trainers themselves are the most attractive feature of our gym,” says Rowse. “As a personal training studio, we offer one-onone and small group classes. Our trainers work with clients to help them achieve whatever health and fitness goals are important to them. Because we are by appointment only, we can control exactly how many people will be in our gym at any one time; there are never too many people or queuing for equipment.”

However, such benefits don’t come cheaply. Training sessions cost RMB 350 for one-on-one training and RMB 150 per person for group training, with clients often attending the sessions two to three times per week. But Rowse says his clientele prefer paying those fees as an alternative to the workout machines at most gyms.

“The key difference is being able to move in three dimensions according to the natural movement patterns of our own body, rather than being forced to move in a set way determined by a machine,” he says.

Some newcomers may be under the impression that they have little choice outside an expensive upscale facility or a low-end holein-the-wall with rusty equipment and negotiable prices. Luckily, there is a whole swath of options in between.

Kang Jiaxin, the manager of B Active Fitness, concedes that China does have many sketchy local gyms where customers must haggle over prices with owners. However, he says Chinese fitness buffs are demanding higher and higher standards. With an annual membership of RMB 2,999 as well as monthly and weekly memberships of RMB 400 and RMB 180 respectively, Kang’s gym is the type of mid-range facility that many gym goers are looking for.

Though bargaining is not allowed at B Active Fitness, Kang sees no problem with the practice and points out that it doesn’t make gyms that allow it automatically low-class. “[Haggling] is not just for stingy people,” he says.

To get started on your own search for the right gym, see the Resources on the next page.

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hether you want to tone up or build muscle mass, have a leisurely beginner’s workout or pursue a strict regimen, want to beat your personal record or compete with an entire class, Beijing has plenty to offer for those looking to work up a sweat. The city has hundreds of gyms with a variety of price ranges, from posh and dazzling to dingy and dirt cheap – and everything in between.

Finding a gym can be especially beneficial for Beijing newbies, who could use a healthy way to work off the stress of culture shock as well as their unpredictable new diet of Middle Kingdom dishes. “I think going to the gym to get fit makes sense for anyone anywhere, but that’s especially true here,” says Victor Rowse, owner and founder of Prime Fitness. “Lots of newcomers put on weight due to eating oily and sweet foods.”

One of the most upscale places to keep fit is the gym at the St. Regis Beijing, a luxury hotel in the CBD. Facilities include a 25m glass-walled swimming pool, 465sqm of floor space, and workout machines like the TechnoGYM imported from Italy.

“We offer lessons in ballet, Latin dancing and belly dancing,” says Apple Wu, a spokesperson for the facility. “We also have state-ofthe-art equipment – 28 machines like treadmills, exercise bikes, and steppers, and 26 machines for muscle workout available 24 hours a day within a safe and quiet environment.”

The St. Regis’ clientele of mostly diplomats and businesspeople is willing to pay handsomely for the privilege of working out here – to the tune of RMB 25,000 per year.

However, some gym goers are looking for a different experience.

Rowse says that gleaming, high-end equipment can certainly be attractive, but he prefers another approach.

“We don’t have any treadmills or weight machines, as these are relatively ineffective workout tools,” he says, adding that his facility only uses “functional” training equipment like ropes, kettle bells, medicine balls, and rubber tubing. “You can use this type of equipment to exercise the full body, which is the most natural and most effective way to train.

The only pieces of cardio equipment we have are Concept 2 rowing machines. These are excellent for cardiovascular training, as they work the entire body and are suitable for short sprint work as well as endurance training, unlike treadmills, which are unsafe to use for sprints.”

The St. Regis’ 25m glass-walled pool

Resources High-End:

Prime Fitness

The St. Regis Beijing 北京瑞吉酒店 Daily 24hrs. 21 Jianguomen Waidajie, Chaoyang District (6460 6688) 朝阳区建国门外大街21号

Mid-Range:

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B Active Fitness 必爱体健身房 Daily 9am-7pm, daily 24hr access for members only. Unit 161A-C, 1-2/F, Bldg C, Chaowai SOHO, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District (5900 4748, joinus@bactive.cn) www.bactive.cn 朝阳区朝阳 门外大街乙6号朝外SOHO C座2层0161A-C Free weights and training machines at Prime Fitness

Middle Kingdom Fitness Mon-Fri 7am-9pm, Sat-Sun 9am-noon. Rm 129B, B1/F, Guanghua Lu

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Photos: courtesy of the st. regis and prime fitness

Daily 6am-10pm. Opposite north gate of Central Park, Chaoyang District (5907 3006, infobj@primefitness.cn) www.primefitness.cn 朝 阳区新城国际北门的对面

Running machines at B Active Fitness

SOHO, Chaoyang District (156 5232 6889, tim@middlekingdomfitness.com) www.middlekingdomfitness.com 朝阳区光华路SOHO地下 1层 129B

1) Mon-Fri 10am-7pm, Sat-Sun 10am-10pm. C/F, Oriental Kenzo Office Bldg, 48 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Dongcheng District (8447 6980, service@powerhousegym.com.cn) www.powerhousegym.com. cn 东城区东直门外大街 48 号东方银座写字楼 C 层 ; 2) Mon-Fri 7am10pm, Sat-Sun 10am-10pm. 3/F, West Tower, LG Twin Towers, 12B Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District (5828 7718) 朝阳区建外大 街乙12号LG双子座西塔3楼

Budget:

Garden Health Club Daily 8.30am-8.30pm. Bldg D, Gloria Gardens, 3 Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District (6416 9840) 朝阳区幸福村中路3号锦绣园D座

Hosa Fitness Centre 浩沙健身中心 Daily 9am-9.30pm. B1/F, East Gate Plaza, 9 Dongzhong Jie, Dongcheng District (6418 1088) www.hosafitness.com 东城区东中街 9号东环广场地下1层 Home & Relocation Guide 2014

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Photo: courtesy of b active fitness

Powerhouse Gym 宝力豪健身

Out with the Old, In with the New Finding the all-important support network

Ines Levy-Leung with her husband Michael Levy and their dog Tudou

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Photo: Courtesy of Ines Leung

Settling In

by Ember Swift

Your business card is irrelevant because there’s no need to impress.

The organization is about meeting people and making friends

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That’s because INN is a completely volunteer-run organization that doesn’t rely on sponsors. People from all cultures, religions, professions, and walks of life are welcome. There is no membership fee and events charge only enough admission to cover overhead costs like transportation, venue rentals, and refreshments.

This past January, Ines Leung and her husband moved to Beijing from the US and are expecting their first child this month. She is an example of someone whose positive experience of acclimating to local life was a direct result of her involvement with a newcomer organization. She described INN as her “main gateway of resources and friends.”

The various activities include weekly coffee meet-ups in different parts of the city, INN “Night Out” events for those who work during the day, and “Trekkie” day trips to explore major attractions and parks.

Most importantly, however, INN offers answers. For newcomers, everything about this country can feel foreign and overwhelming.

They inevitably have questions about public transportation, basic utilities, domestic help or drivers, housing and landlords, schools or education options, food safety and air pollution, banking and finances, visas, and more. These are just a few of the topics that continue to be covered by INN at its monthly meetings. The website also contains a vast library of information and resources.

“I was searching online for information about expat tax implications when I came across INN,” Leung says. She promptly started attending all of INN’s events and volunteering as a coffee coordinator in her neighborhood. “That’s just my personality. I jump right in with both feet,” she explains, laughing, “I’m extroverted, so it’s right up my alley.”

But even introverts can find a gentle welcome at INN. The wellattended monthly meetings feature speakers and selected charities to give members an opportunity to do meaningful volunteer work.

In addition, the meetings are not mandatory; members can choose to attend whichever meeting they want. “It’s low-commitment, low stress,” says Leung.

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ou’ve arrived in a foreign country. This is a chance to reinvent yourself, everything is exciting and new, and there’s an adventure around every corner. That is, at first.

Once the novelty wears off even slightly, excitement can turn to bewilderment, sometimes driving newcomers to a state of isolated frustration that we seasoned expats know all-too-well.

That’s where a solid support network comes in.

This city’s most famous newcomers’ group is the International Newcomers Network (INN), an organization founded in 1996.

According to Mary Peng, its president of six years and a volunteer since 2004, it is the largest and oldest volunteer newcomer association on the mainland.

Religious and cultural organizations can also bring people together and provide an immediate sense of community. Jewish families might seek out the Chabad House in Lido and Christian families can connect with Beijing International Christian Fellowship. Families may also find a support network through their embassy community.

In fact, expats can find their fellow countrymen and women via groups like InterNations, which has an active Beijing chapter.

Since many expats move here for work, the workplace community is a natural place to find support. There are frequent networking events, and organizations such as 85 Broads and Viva Beijing Professional Women’s Network specifically enable women in business to connect with each other.

INN, on the other hand, is a unique phenomenon. The organization’s mandate is simply to welcome newcomers – any newcomers – and help them integrate into life in Beijing. With over 2,000 members from more than 200 countries, INN is a platform where people can share information, make new friends, attend events, exchange resources, and find a sense of belonging.

“We are the intersection,” Peng explains. “Like a Venn diagram, if you were to draw circles around all the other organizations through which people find community in the city, we are where they all overlap.”

From left: INN President Mary Peng, former Website Manager Regina Wang, former Assistant Minna Lipponen, Secretary Young Lim, former Volunteer Coordinator Amanda Foster, former Secretary Kati Pola, and Vice President Theresa Ahdieh

“INN is not a business networking group,” specifies Mary Peng.

“There are plenty of those in the city. Your business card is irrelevant because there’s no need to impress. The organization is about meeting people and making friends.” She believes that it is these values that enable INN to “fulfill a big gap in our social community and lives.”

Additionally, INN frequently offers members psychological support for culture shock. “[Most newcomers] don’t speak the language and it can be really isolating and stressful,” says Peng. What’s more, it’s common for trailing spouses to be left without a support network.

INN helps connect these people with any professional help they may need and a welcoming social group with whom to venture out and explore the city.

Leung echoes this point. “We women who come here with our spouses are often dealing with identities crises,” she explains. “We ‘used to be’ so many other professions.” While it’s not always the women who are in the trailing spouses, any person who follows

their partner’s professional calling to a foreign country must wrestle with a personal and/or professional reinvention once the bags are unpacked. Sometimes, the reality of that uphill battle can hit hard.

Since many families choose to relocate in late summer, INN’s most popular meeting every year is called “Arrival Survival” and takes place in late August – just before the start of the school term.

But INN’s success lies mainly in its desire to create a cohesive community. “What’s essential is to be able to break out of our de facto social groups,” says Peng. Citing the many friends she has made over the years, many of whom have extended invitations to visit in their home countries after they left Beijing, she muses, “Once you’re a member of INN, you never really leave. Your friendships will span the globe.”

Leung probably says it best when she sums up the role that INN can play for newcomers. “INN is a spectrum,” she says with infectious enthusiasm. “It’s what you make of it!”

Settling In

Beijing International Newcomers’ Network (INN) To find out more about INN, email innbeijing@hotmail.com or visit www.innbeijing.org.

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Photo: christopher lay

Resources

Have It Your Way Being a trailing spouse doesn’t mean sitting at home and twiddling your thumbs

by Kyle Mullin

Jaclyn Dam Laute and her daughter

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Photo: Courtesy IDC dental

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oming to Beijing without a support system can be tough, but sometimes it’s even worse to have such a network come through your partner. Such is the case for many couples who move to Beijing for a job offer, leaving one half to become the “trailing spouse.” Such a change can be uncomfortable even in a familiar setting, but these feelings are often compounded for newcomers who can’t speak the language, don’t know the city, and are having trouble adjusting to cultural differences. These factors can leave them feeling isolated, lost, and without purpose.

Fortunately, there are many ways to keep busy and stay connected.

Jaclyn Dam Laute initially relied on her husband’s company for support, but she adjusted, achieved independence, and even established a dental clinic.

A certified dentist and the owner of IDC Dental, Laute recommends that trailing spouses use their partner’s resources as a springboard rather than a crutch. “You need to know what company support is available and take full advantage of it. But then you need to establish you own network, and seek activities outside of the home,” she says.

Finding a community of your own can challenging, especially for newcomers who have a little one in tow and don’t speak Chinese. However, parents can rely on their child’s school as a resource and support network.

“Upon arriving I immediately immersed myself into the parentteacher organization at my son’s international school,” says Patrice Christie, a trainer and dental educator at IDC Dental. “That allowed me to meet other expat women and their families. We shopped together, dined together, and volunteered together at an orphanage and women’s group home.”

Nemanja Arandelovic, a guidance counselor at the Canadian International School of Beijing, says that getting involved in your children’s school life can drastically brighten your routine.

“It’s a great way to help your kids, get to know the school, and get tips from other parents about how to adjust,” he says. “People are social animals and we need that support.”

Arandelovic adds that ties between parents can often become crucial once they spend some time in a new locale and the novelty begins to wear off. “Most expats typically go through stages of adjustment. At first there’s euphoria, but after awhile they’ll get frustrated with the challenges and unfamiliar things they encounter,” he says. “New contacts help you continue to adjust rather that withdraw and only maintain contact with people back home.”

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Photo: Courtesy of idc dental

Patrice Christie teaching a student the correct way to brush at IDC Dental

If you stay in the westernized areas, you’ll find it horribly frustrating

a dental hygienist,” she says. “I am a licensed dental professional in America and I wanted to utilize my skills in China. That led me to a position at IDC Dental as a dental educator.”

Like Laute, that professional itch eventually prompted Christie to become an entrepreneur. “I started a small enterprise selling silk items produced in Shanghai,” she says. “I sold at local bazaars and at expat events.”

Other expats decide to take advantage of their downtime by going back to school. Crystal Wolfgram and her husband Julian Tolhurst arrived in Beijing in 2012 from Ottawa to work as high school teachers. But this year, Wolfgram decided to stop giving homework assignment and hit the books herself, beginning online courses in Human Resources. She says such a career switch would have been more difficult back home.

“If you were going to pick anywhere to do it, Asia would be the place because it’s so much easier for couples to live off one income,” says Wolfgram. “A lot of companies in this city cover flight tickets, housing, and utilities, so that makes it all so much easier.”

Of course, many expats may not want to pursue a career change or a new job during their stay in Beijing, but Wolfgram says that those individuals would have little reason to feel bored.

“There are so many festivals and chances to volunteer,” she says, citing the annual Bookworm International Literary Festival as one of her favorite events. Such a multitude of options is crucial, because keeping busy helps stave off homesickness and culture shock.

Most of all, Christie says newcomers need to show enough confidence to immerse themselves in their new surroundings – at least a little. She sees no benefit in exclusively frequenting western restaurants, foreign coffee chains, and strictly English-speaking neighborhoods. Instead, expats should make an effort to visit Chinese teahouses and restaurants, explore hutongs, and study at least a little hanyu .

“If you stay in the westernized areas, you’ll find it horribly frustrating. You limit yourself in where you can go and what you can do,” she says. “You tend to repeat the same things, which is boring, uninspired, and sets up resentment about being here.”

“It makes a huge difference to learn Mandarin – at least conversational – so that you can order food or tell the taxi where to go, or greet and chat with someone. The Chinese appreciate it when you make an effort. Then you start to feel like you’re integrating, and it gives you a sense of accomplishment.”

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Christie attributes her success in pushing past such growing pains to the parent-teacher organization at her son’s school. From there, she scoured expat magazines, social networks, and other sources to make more friends and acquaintances.

“There are a multitude of groups here ranging from hikers to bikers,” she says. “Get a hold of any expat magazines and educate yourself on what’s happening in the foreign community in Beijing, then make sure you attend some events.”

Such happenings are designed to help laowai connect, both with each other and their new locale. “New people are drawn to each other and, because you are sharing similar experiences at the time, you tend to make fast friendships,” adds Christie. “Volunteering is another great way to make a positive contribution to the community. It offers a wealth of opportunities to learn more about this city and its culture, and it exercises our compassion for others.”

Aside from a healthy social circle, both Laute and Christie say that developing a professional identity can also make life in Beijing vastly more enjoyable. “You should have a plan on how long you would remain a non-working spouse, and have a way to keep your skill set and home country network current,” advises Laute.

She took a proactive approach. Before arriving in Beijing, the telecommunications company that employed her husband also helped her look for work of her own.

“I soon had a job at an international hospital,” Laute says of her eight-year stint at Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU), where she helped set up a clinic, got it licensed, and eventually became chair of the dental department. “During this time, I also had two children, and experienced Beijing as a new mom and as a working mom.”

“But we eventually localized. I transitioned away from my initial employer and found myself in a completely unique situation, as a foreigner providing consultation in setting up and running a dental business from scratch.”

That was the key for Laute – not only establishing a routine, but also building upon it and finding new ways to thrive to avoid being stuck in a rut or trapped in an expat bubble.

Most expats, of course, will need more time to map out such a personal and professional plan. Christie didn’t begin such a process until after her arrival, but she was still able to strike out on her own once she gained her footing in Beijing.

“Within 18 months, I applied at BJU’s dental clinic for a position as

Let Your Hair Down Getting your pamper on in the capital

by Ember Swift

“T

o pamper” is defined as “to indulge with every attention, comfort, and kindness.” When we read such a gentle definition, it’s a wonder that we put actively pampering ourselves – or seeking others to do it for us – so low on our list of priorities. Thankfully, with low prices and a multitude of options, finding pampered bliss is easy in Beijing.

Spas Spas are an Asian specialty. They’re much more affordable than in the West and are thus less stigmatized as a playground for the wealthy. Many offer massages, facials, body scrubs, aromatherapy, and reflexology as well as hair, nail, and beauty treatments. Some, like Daisy’s Spa, also offer waxing, intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments, and laser therapy. Others, like The Wellness Spa by Hummingbird, even offer weight control treatments.

The higher-end spas are often called “retreats” and usually have extensive bilingual websites that offer to “whisk away your stresses” or “give you back your soul.” However, be sure not to write off the non-website or slogan-bearing spa in your neighborhood that doesn’t advertise its services in English. A few choice words (see Vocabulary on the opposite page) can get you some amazing treatments, sometimes for a fraction of the price. And besides, you won’t be talking while you’re relaxing anyway.

Massage Parlors Unlike a spa, these venues only offer massages. Even so, there are enough massage parlors in Beijing to make a newcomer’s head spin.

Choosing the right place for you might take some trial and error, but consider the following criteria before stripping off and climbing onto the massage table.

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A massage room at Bodhi Therapeutic Retreat

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Pricier establishments often sport fancy decor such as bubbling brooks in the lobby, attractive wait staff carrying trays of complimentary refreshments, and gentle music wafting from well-concealed speakers. Though pleasant, keep in mind that these pristine environments usually increase the price of your massage by about RMB 100 per hour on average.

Photo: courtesy of bodhi

1. Environment

Simpler massage parlors may have fewer bells and whistles invested in their decor, but their staff’s massage skills may be indiscernible with your eyes closed. It’s good to try out places first to get a “feel” for it before judging a parlour by its lobby. What’s more, these more local locales are often priced lower, which makes it possible to have more massages, more regularly!

A good tuina or Chinese massage therapist can seriously get the kinks out

2. Hygiene Request a viewing of the facilities before choosing to part with your pampering budget on a massage. In the tour, keep an eye out for cleanliness. Even the fanciest places can have suspect practices regarding towels or tables, tubs, or massage chairs. Sometimes your neighborhood massage place can prove more hygienic than the most popular massage parlor featured in the foreign magazines. In China, checking out the establishment before engaging their services is not considered uncouth.

3. Massage Types Places like Bodhi offer 14 different types of massage from “Aromaheat Herbal” to “Imperial Ginger Steam.” Within these types are both Chinese-style and Thai-style massages. The latter has been called “yoga for two” and involves the therapist maneuvering the client into a number of rather acrobatic positions.

Local massage parlors usually offer just a few types of massages, most commonly in the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) tradition.

Tuina (推拿) is a medical therapy in which the practitioner kneads, rolls, presses, and rubs the areas between each joint to restore balance to the body. Don’t look down on the relatively limited choices in local parlors; a good tuina or Chinese massage therapist can seriously get the kinks out.

Manicures and Pedicures There seems to be a nail salon on every corner here, but the prices vary considerably. If you just want your nails cleaned up and polished, a no-frills market kiosk can accomplish this for less than RMB 50. Some local chains, such as Haidilao, even offer free nail services for those waiting to be seated.

If you’d prefer one-stop pampering, many hair salons offer simultaneous nail and hair services. Spas, on the other hand, often have nail technicians on staff and you can easily schedule a manicure into your afternoon – perhaps while resting with cucumbers over your eyes.

The most popular chain in the city is Lily Nails, which has branches scattered across Beijing. Standard manicures start at RMB 30 and go up to RMB 90 depending on the nail polish brand.

Gels and acrylics range from RMB 120-220 for hands. They are less popular here than they are in the West, hence their infrequent availability in smaller nail salons. Lily Nails also offers foot, hand, and shoulder and neck massages in half-hour blocks for RMB 45.

Hair Salons

VIP Cards Newcomers to Beijing will quickly realize that being offered a VIP card has nothing to do with one’s fame. Hair salons, spas, massage parlors, and nail bars usually offer significant discounts if the customer buys a pre-paid card in chunks of anywhere from RMB 1,000-10,000. If you’re taking this route, make sure it’s a business with several branches.

There’s nothing like investing in regular pampering, only to discover that the building has been razed to the ground overnight without advance warning.

Vocabulary In this city, the difference between cheap and pricey is often split along linguistic lines. If there are English-speakers on staff, you can be sure to pay a premium. Here are some Chinese terms to get you started: • Massage: 按摩, anmo • Chinese-style massage: 中式按摩, zhongshi anmo • Thai-style massage: 泰式按摩, taishi anmo • Oil massage: 精油按摩, jingyou anmo • Foot massage: 足疗, zuliao • Manicure: 修手, xiushou • Pedicure: 修脚, xiujiao • Facial: 面部修复护理, mianbu xiuhu huli

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If you’re here for the long haul, eventually you’re going to need a haircut or a root touch-up. Unlike in the West, getting blond highlights or finding TLC for curly or thin hair can be very difficult in Beijing. Local hair salons often don’t even carry the same dye colors and/or have never worked with hair of different textures. Then, there’s the language barrier, which results in many a laowai stumbling out of a hair salon ready to pull out what’s left of their hair (or someone else’s) in frustration.

In Beijing, you generally get what you pay for. However, many expats recommend Julie from Julie’s Hair Salon, an affordable salon located at the East Gate of the Worker’s Stadium. Julie is Chinese

but speaks English and charges RMB 95 for a cut (call 136 0137 1790). Alex at MyStudio is another English-speaking local stylist who is reportedly great with blonde hair and highlights (RMB 128158 for a cut, 137 0125 3148).

Alex Dam, a Vietnamese-French expat who works at the Toni & Guy Hilton branch also comes highly recommended; he was described as “pricey but worth it” (RMB 580 for a cut but currently RMB 380 with promotion card, 6461 8368).

If you’re looking for some change, Tom Yuen from Hair & Beauty

by Hummingbird is your man. This Malaysian loves getting creative with hair and is also a certified makeup artist. However, his services don’t come cheap; cuts start at RMB 1,280 (call 6597 9119 for an appointment).

Last but not least, the most highly-recommended expat stylist in our straw poll is the British expat Scarlet Salmons at Salon dePark at the Kerry Center. Having lived here for eight years, this flamboyant, pinkhaired dog lover has a loyal clientele (RMB 880 for a cut, discounted to RMB 580 for teachers and embassy workers, text 135 2019 9568 for an appointment).

Leaving

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Leaving photo by PIXSTUDIO

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hether you’re in Beijing on a short-term contract or have lived here for over ten years, leaving is a bittersweet proposition. On one hand, you’ll be glad to get away from the smog, food scandals, and neverending traffic; but on the other, you’ll miss the language, the rich culture, and the friends you’ve made during your time here. In this section, we help you tie up loose ends with articles on choosing a relocation company to suit your needs, getting your pets out of the country, repatriating funds, and staying connected to China. As the Chinese say, “Zaijian !”

This isn’t goodbye, but rather “see you later.”

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Home & Relocation Guide 2014

Get a Move On How to pick the right relocation company for your family

From right: Mark Thirlwall, Cathleen Chang, and their children Kai (5 months) and Hugh (2.5) in Sydney, Australia

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Photo: courtesy of mark thirlwall

Leaving

by Kyle Mullin

The most useful thing a family can do is to organize in advance what they want to ship and what they want to carry in their own luggage

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forgo shipping altogether in favor of freight and paying excess baggage fees with their airline.

“It will be quite a bit pricier, but the peace of mind is worth the added expense,” says Mike. “It’ll just be like checked baggage; all we’ll have to do it pick it up.”

Advance Planning Granted, the Fortinos’ situation is not typical; many families may feel the cost of paying freight is too steep. Luckily, there are many options for the latter group.

Many families decide to use a relocation company, distinct from a moving company which doesn’t have such a comprehensive range of services. Typically, a relocation company aims to help customers make a smooth transition, whether that’s packing boxes, helping them find an apartment, or showing them around their new neighborhood.

Joseph Pellicano, relocation services manager for Santa Fe Relocation Services’ Beijing office, says that one of the greatest challenges that expats face is getting the full security deposit back from their landlord and then getting the money out of China.

“With a currency exchange limit of USD 500 per day for non-Chinese nationals, receiving a one-month, two-month, or in some cases three-month security deposit refund in cash means you may be left with a huge amount of money in hand and no way to get it out of the country in the time you have left before departing from Beijing,” he explains.

Advance planning is key. Pellicano says there are some situations where the USD 500 limit can be waived; it’s worth checking with both your employer and your bank. Reducing the amount of money you need to take out of the country can also help.

“Before terminating the lease, try to negotiate with your landlord to have part of your security deposit offset by a final rental payment,” says Pellicano. “The landlord may not accept to use the whole deposit this way, but even a partial offset will lessen the amount that needs to be recovered, also in turn reducing the risk of the landlord not paying it back.”

Making sure that the apartment is clean and tidy goes a long way towards getting your deposit back, specifies account manager Faiszal Taib. “Santa Fe usually does an inspection with the landlord present before we begin shipping items out of homes. Prior to that,

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fter the tickets are bought and the bags are packed, families leaving Beijing will be bracing themselves for more than just a plane ride. It will also be an emotional rollercoaster of nostalgia, sadness, nervousness, and excitement.

Ed and Mandy Barlow began the process of relocating from Beijing to Shanghai in 2011 with their 9-month-old daughter, Penny. As they packed their boxes, they realized the bigger chore would be finding a company to ship it all. “It would be good to have a list of top-rated moving companies so that you don’t need to do the research [them] yourself,” says Mandy. In the end, they decided to go with Santa Fe. “They were useful and transparent,” says Ed. “We have since moved apartments using a local company that, despite promising us that their quote was all-inclusive, sprung several additional charges for things like taking the sofas up the stairs. Santa Fe and similar companies won’t pull that.”

Some families decide they don’t need a moving company at all.

Mike and Sarah Fortino first moved to Beijing last August to work as high school teachers at an international school. However, their belongings arrived six months late. “We were eating with plastic utensils and dishes for months, thinking our things would soon arrive and not wanting to buy a bunch of new stuff,” says Mike.

The year before, the Fortinos had worked at an international school in Italy that had paid for two shipments of belongings when they moved there. Assuming they would also be granted two shipments when they left, Mike and Sarah sent one shipment to their family in the US and the other to Beijing for the coming school year.

However, the school in Italy ended up covering only one of the shipments and Bolliger, the relocation company, did not inform the couple that they would be stuck with the bill. As a result, their belongings sat in Italy well past the Fortinos’ arrival in Beijing.

Sarah was especially upset that Catherine, their baby girl, had no toys or books to play with because of the delay. By November, they were freezing; the shipment contained all their winter clothes. It was spring by the time it finally arrived. To make matters worse, the Fortinos had to pay duty on all the items they received because their employer only offered them a 364-day visa rather than the full year visa required to avoid such costs. In all, they paid an extra RMB 4,000 for items that they didn’t end up using because they were already out-of-season.

To avoid a repeat of this incident, the Fortinos – who are moving to Vietnam after the end of the current school year – decided to

Penny Barlow (then 9 months) playing in some moving boxes

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By Air or By Sea Many people don’t consider which items they’ll need quickly and which ones they can wait for – or which items are even allowed to be shipped by air. For instance, bulky items such as furniture must be shipped by sea, which takes weeks. Air shipments are best-

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suited to necessities like clothes and books, but families often try to cram items like soaps, plants, fruits, and electronics, which are not allowed to be shipped by air.

Being aware of these limitations beforehand can make the shipment process faster and prevent disappointment. “Essentially, air shipping is good for the items that you need to arrive quickly and shipping by sea is best for the bigger things that you can wait for,” says Bouguettaya.

Relocation companies often handle most moving details like visas and customs clearance to put their clients at ease. But if those clients do some of the aforementioned legwork beforehand, the process can begin more smoothly.

Of course, one way to simplify the process is to donate some of your belongings. That’s what Mark Thirlwall realized when he moved to Sydney with his family. “We used Asian Tigers and they were excellent,” he says. “[But they] moved way too much stuff.

My advice is to give it all away to a good cause before you leave China.”

Photo: Courtesy of Ed Barlow

we also ask that clients check if there is any damage to the property and suggest that they make repairs themselves, otherwise the landlord could seek compensation that might be higher than the cost of the family fixing it themselves.”

Nassim Bouguettaya is the corporate services manager in Beijing for Asian Tigers Mobility, a popular relocation company. He agrees that most of the hard work happens in the planning stages.

“The most useful thing a family can do is to organize in advance what they want to ship and what they want to carry in their own luggage,” he says. While this may seem like common sense, he says that the number of families who don’t take such measures is much higher than you expect.

Before the move: • Notify your landlord if you’re planning to terminate your lease and follow the terms of lease termination outlined in your contract. Most leases should have a clause clarifying the property handover and the ending of the lease. It’s best to issue a written notification and send it to the landlord by courier to ensure it’s received.

• If relocating pets, familiarize yourself with the destination country’s requirements well in advance. Pet bloodwork, chipping and vaccination boosters may need several months planning prior to your final move.

• Check your house or apartment for damage and make repairs as best you can. A good cleaning can also go a long way to ensuring a smooth deposit recovery.

• Start looking into ways to move currency out of the country. As there are strict laws concerning currency exchange, it is worth thinking and planning for this in advance.

• If you’ll be shipping goods by air, familiarize yourself with the customs regulations for your destination country, as there may be strict rules governing what can or cannot be imported via air. Your moving services provider should have this information available.

• Decide exactly what you want to ship, and what you want to bring in your luggage.

• Double-check which items you’re allowed to ship by air or by sea. For example, books and clothes can be shipping by air while food and plants can only be shipped by sea.

Nothing corrosive, explosive, or containing other dangerous chemicals can shipped by air. These items must be shipped by sea and include detergents, candles, and soaps. Batteries are not permitted in air shipments and must be removed.

Take electronics in your luggage rather than removing the batteries and sending them by air.

• Decide on a moving or relocation company by determining your budget and needs. For example, do you need a no-frills moving company to just ship the boxes or a full-service relocation company like Asian Tigers or Santa Fe to help you find a place to live and familiarize yourself with your neighborhood?

• Identify your other needs. Expat Blog, a popular online forum, suggests taking out insurance on shipments: “Zero risk does not exist. Loss and damage luggage insurance is highly recommended. Nearly all shipping companies can handle this service.”

During the move: Your moving company should be able to handle these details, including paperwork for customs clearance. However, be sure to take down the tracking number and contact information of your shipping company so you can easily check on your items.

After the move:

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• Decide how you want to retrieve your shipment. Do you want to pick up your items yourself or are you willing to spend a little more to have your shipment sent to your front door?

• Will you need help settling into your new environment?

Many employers offer such services, but if not some relocation companies can help fill the void.

Pets on a Plane Moving from China with dogs and cats

by Dana Cosio-Mercado

E

very year, countless pets are abandoned when their owners decide to relocate. The problem is amplified in areas with large populations of waidiren , such as Beijing. However, many people don’t realize that moving internationally with animals isn’t as puzzling as they think; the trickiest part is figuring out the prerequisites for entering your destination country. You should start preparing for your pet’s relocation at least six months before the planned moving date. For the latest entry requirements, consult your destination country’s embassy, department of agriculture, or quarantine bureau.

Required Procedures for the Exit Process First things first: only dogs and cats are allowed to be taken out of China. Unfortunately, that means you’ll have to leave behind birds, reptiles, rabbits, or other animals. This is a basic consideration when thinking about what kind of pet to adopt in the first place.

Microchipping As of November 2011, Beijing Guanshang Animal Hospital requires that all animals be microchipped by the time they receive their exit health check. The microchip must conform to the European Union’s ISO 11785/11785 standard or other ISO-compliant standard. This is not a national, municipal, or Entry/Exit Quarantine and Inspection Bureau requirement, but one of Beijing Guangshang Animal Hospital. The rule is intended to facilitate accurate identification of pets during the exit health exam.

In Beijing, ISO-compliant and EU-approved microchips are sold by Globy Pet Relocation. However, insertion is a surgical procedure that must be overseen by a certified veterinarian; ICVS is equipped to both insert and scan microchips. The hospital can also scan microchipped pets for free to ensure that the chip works.

Rabies Vaccination Rabies vaccinations must be performed at a legally-approved animal hospital in China (for more information about this, see our article about importing pets on p42). Pets requiring the RNATT must get their rabies shot at least 30 days before blood is drawn for the RNATT test.

Leaving

Rabies Neutralizing Antibody Titre Testing (RNATT) The RNATT is required for EU countries, Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand, and Hawaii. Typically, countries and territories that require the RNATT specify that pets should be vaccinated against rabies at least four to seven months before departure. In the EU, the blood sample must be drawn at least three to six months before the pet’s arrival. Animals must also be microchipped before or on the day of the rabies shot.

For pets entering the EU, a blood sample must be taken from the animal one month after the rabies shot. On the following day, the

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separated serum is taken to an authorized laboratory in the EU for testing. For a list of authorized labs, visit the European Commission’s website. Currently, China doesn’t have any EU-approved labs. Pet relocation companies such as Globy can help transport the serum sample to the EU. Owners must download the EU CE 998/2003 form for “noncommercial movement of pets.” The form must be filled out by a veterinarian at Beijing Guanshang Animal Hospital and checked by customs at the EU destination country. Most EU countries require a 90-day wait after the blood is drawn before the pet can enter, but it’s best to confirm with the authorized laboratory.

Entry Requirements for Different Countries Before completing the three-step exit process for China, you’ll need to research specific entry regulations for your destination country.

Depending on where you’re going, the entry process can range from surprisingly simple to painfully difficult. Either way, you’ll want to allow yourself plenty of time before the departure date – at least six months, and more if you’re moving to a country or territory with strict regulations. Generally, islands like Australia, Taiwan, and New Zealand have the most stringent entry rules.

Canada and the US (Except Hawaii) Difficulty: Easy The rabies shot is required at least 30 days but no more than 12 months before entry. No microchipping, RNATT, or quarantine required if all other conditions are met. Regulations for pets entering Hawaii are different than those for the continental US. For the most up-to-date Hawaiian regulations, visit the websites of the US Department of Agriculture or Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

Malaysia Difficulty: Easy • RNATT and rabies vaccination required.

• Microchipping not required, but this is moot since it is mandatory for all pets getting a health exam at Beijing Guangshang Animal Hospital.

• Mandatory seven-day quarantine period for all incoming animals.

European Union and Japan Difficulty: Moderate • Rabies vaccination and RNATT required at least three to six months before the animal’s arrival.

• Tattoo and/or microchip with EU ISO 11784/11785 standard required, depending on the destination country.

• No quarantine is required if the above conditions are met.

• The UK now follows EU entry requirements. In other words, no quarantine is required if the pet meets all other requirements.

• Japan requires two rabies vaccinations within six months of the pet’s arrival date.

Hong Kong Difficulty: Moderate • Microchipping and rabies vaccination required.

• No RNATT required.

• Mandatory four-month quarantine period for all pets arriving from mainland China.

Singapore Difficulty: Hard • Microchipping, rabies shot, and other vaccinations required.

• RNATT required. A second rabies vaccination is required after drawing blood for the RNATT. • Mandatory 30-day quarantine period for all pets arriving from mainland China.

Difficulty: Hard • Microchipping, rabies, other vaccinations, and RNATT required.

• No direct importing of animals from mainland China. Pets must stay in another “rabies-free” country for at least six months before entering these territories. For example, if you’re moving to Australia, you’ll need to board your pet in a country like Malaysia for six months before they can follow you.

• Mandatory 30-day quarantine period for all pets entering the country or territory.

The Exit Process Step 1: Rabies Vaccination and Official Vaccination Certificate All cats and dogs leaving China must be vaccinated for rabies at an animal hospital registered with the Agricultural Bureau. The shot must

Step 2: Health Examination and Certificate All pets must undergo a health checkup no more than seven days before the date of departure at Beijing Guanshang Animal Hospital, the official animal hospital of the Entry-Exit Inspection and Quarantine Bureau. Once the health exam is complete, you should receive the Beijing International Companion Animal Health Inspection Certificate within two business days. Note that the health certificate is valid for only seven days after the issue date; if you don’t exchange it for an exit permit within the allotted time, your pet will have to repeat the health examination all over again.

Go to Guanshang early in the morning; appointments are not accepted, so it can get busy later in the day. If you’re not comfortable in Mandarin, bring a Chinese-speaking friend along. Even if you use the services of a pet relocation company, you’ll still have to go with the agent because the owner is required to present themselves.

Be sure to bring your pet, the red vaccination booklet, your passport (limited to one pet per passport), and at least RMB 800 in cash – you’ll be charged for the checkup and any additional health tests.

Step 3: Exit Permit The health certificate must be exchanged for an Animal Health Certificate for Exit (or exit permit). This can be done at a separate office located on the second floor of Beijing Guanshang Animal Hospital. You’ll need the red vaccination booklet, the health certificate, your passport, and around RMB 100 in cash for the exit permit fee – no need to bring your pet for this part. The exit permit is usually processed within two business days and is valid for 14 days after the issue date.

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Photo: egidio maurizio (flickr)

Australia, New Zealand, and Taiwan

then be documented in the official Beijing Animal Health and Immunity Certificate (red booklet). These two steps must be completed at least 30 days but no more than 12 months before departure.

May and Simba

Emily

Owners: Fiona and Trevor Ness Relocated to: Boston, US Date of relocation: May 2013 Relocation company: World Care Pet Cost: Declined to give information Airline: May and Simba flew on KLM from Beijing to Frankfurt, stayed in the city overnight, and flew the following day from Frankfurt to Boston.

Moving timeline: Fiona and Trevor started preparing in December 2012. May and Simba were both rescue dogs from China and had never been in crates. Fiona started training them by crating them, then moving the dogs around the house inside their crates. She also made sure their shots were updated.

Kiki Chen of World Care Pet dealt with everything; Fiona only needed to go to one place, where they needed to see the dogs’ owner. A member of Kiki’s staff dealt with all the paperwork and did all the talking.

On the morning of May 21, a World Care Pet representative picked up the dogs and took them to Beijing Capital International Airport. Chen sent Fiona a few emails and text message updates, and a final picture of the dogs before the flight.

The dogs had to leave Beijing six weeks before Fiona and Trevor due to airline rules that don’t allow animals to travel in the heat. The owners arranged for someone from the boarding kennel to pick up May and Simba at the airport in Boston.

Quarantine period: No quarantine is required in the US as long as the dogs have up-to-date rabies shots and pass all their health checks from the Chinese government.

Tips: Fiona recommends training your dog to be comfortable in its crate. She also wrote all of her contact details in block letters and attached them to the top of the crates, as well as a small photo of each dog for identification purposes. Fiona and Trevor put the dogs’ unwashed bedding in the crates so they had a familiar smell. Overall, Fiona was pleased they used a relocation company to take care of all the paperwork on the Chinese side.

Owner: Eileen Mooney Relocated to: San Francisco, US Date of relocation: October 22, 2013 Relocation company: None Cost: Around RMB 2,400 in total • Pre-departure checkup and shots at ICVS: RMB 600 • Crate and air mat: RMB 800 • Processing fee for exit permit: RMB 800 • Strapping fee at the airport: RMB 20 Airline: Air China. Emily weighs more than 7.5kg, so she had to travel in the cargo hold. Eileen could only book space for Emily after obtaining the exit permit. She had to go to Air China’s main ticketing office in Xidan to process the reservation, and the fee could only be paid at the airport after Eileen had checked in and picked up her own boarding pass. The crate had to be strapped before she checked Emily in. On Air China, no water is allowed in the crate.

Moving timeline: Prior to departure, Eileen took Emily to ICVS for microchipping, deworming, and a rabies booster. All procedures were documented in the red booklet with an official stamp.

She then went to Beijing Guanshang Animal Hospital to get the exit permit. An appointment isn’t necessary, but Eileen got there first thing in the morning at 8.30am, presented Emily’s red booklet, and told the receptionist that she wanted a chukou zheng . They hospital gave Emily a check-up and took a blood sample, and Eileen returned the next day to collect the permit.

On the day of the flight, Eileen took Emily for her morning walk and fed her. The flight departed Beijing at 3pm, so Emily was able to have her regular routine. They arrived in San Francisco the next day at 1pm. When Eileen got to baggage claim, Emily was already at the arrival lounge; the customs official released her as soon as Eileen presented the exit permit.

Quarantine period: No quarantine period needed.

Tips: ICVS advised Eileen to crate-train Emily before departure.

Eileen did this for two weeks prior to the flight, so that Emily wasn’t intimidated by the time they left. It was helpful to keep a normal routine, because the calmer the owner, the calmer the pet.

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9-Year-Old Female Beagle

Photos: courtesy of fiona ness and eileen mooney

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8-Year-Old Female Old English Sheepdog and 3-Year-Old Male Labradoodle

Bailey

5-Year-Old Male Mixed Breed Dog Owner: Leslie Morgan Relocated to: Singapore Date of relocation: July 2013 Relocation company: Globy Cost: USD 2,400 (approximately RMB 15,000). This covered the cost of the RNATT (which needed to be sent to Germany for testing), dog crate, testing and paperwork in Beijing, airport transfers, China Air fee for flying in cargo, and the 30-day quarantine in Singapore.

Airline: China Air. Bailey traveled on the same flight as Leslie in cargo.

Quarantine period: Regulation is 30 days’ quarantine in Singapore.

Tips: Since she was leaving Beijing in July, Leslie decided to take an evening flight because it was so hot. She was glad to have used a relocation company and found ICVS’ information sessions with Mary Peng very helpful. Leslie bought the crate a few weeks ahead of time so that Bailey could get used to it. This helped him feel like it was a safe place.

Genghis Kahn and Chaka Kahn Owners: Karla and Charles Kahn, and their kids JD and Callie Fields Relocated to: Saudi Arabia Date of relocation: September 2012 Relocation company: None Cost: Approximately RMB 5,500 per cat • Veterinary exams and paperwork: RMB 1,300 per cat • Health certificate: RMB 800 per cat • Export permit: RMB 100 per cat • Lufthansa tickets to fly as excess baggage: RMB 1,300 per cat • Import permits for Saudi Arabia: RMB 1,600 per cat • Authentication of documents by the Saudi Embassy: RMB 650 Airline: Lufthansa.

Moving timeline: According to Saudi regulations, only the husband can enter the country until he earns residency. Because of China’s requirement of one pet per passport, one cat flew under Charles’ passport and the other under Karla’s even though the Kahns were going to different countries at first.

Charles, Karla, and the cats flew together from Beijing to Frankfurt. They separated from there; both cats flew with Charles to Saudi Arabia while Karla returned to the US for the summer. Genghis and Chaka traveled as excess baggage in the cargo hold and didn’t need to be medicated for the flight.

At the time, Frankfurt had a relatively new animal lounge that accepted pets for overnight transit. This service is also available to pets not flying under an EU passport. Animals are fed, watered, and walked, and there is even a veterinarian on staff. The fee was included in the cost of the plane ticket.

Quarantine period: No quarantine required.

Tips: In September, the weather’s quite hot in Saudi Arabia. Despite this, the cats were able to fly in because there’s no heat embargo.

The flight landed at 3am, so the worst was avoided for their safety.

Because Islamic culture considers dogs to be “unclean,” the country doesn’t allow dogs to be imported unless they are certified as guard animals. However, owners have been able to find loopholes and even get toy poodles certified as “guard” dogs. There are no such restrictions for cats.

Getting together the paperwork for Saudi Arabia is difficult due to a lack of information, even among Saudi government agencies and pet relocation companies. The documents must be translated into Arabic and authenticated by the Saudi Embassy. Though the Kahns did everything that was required, the paperwork wasn’t even looked at when they arrived in Saudi Arabia. A pet relocation company would handle every detail of the import process, but owners can expect to pay at least USD 2,500 per pet.

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Photos: courtesy of leslie morgan and karla kahn

4-Year-Old Brother and Sister Pixie Bob Cats

Mind Your Mao Transferring money out of China

Photo: epsos.de (flickr)

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by Steven Schwankert

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In other words, the easiest way to repatriate funds if if they never arrive in China

W

hile people coming to China on a short-term corporate contract will want to plan in advance for the repatriation of funds, just about everyone working in China will need to address the issue of taking money out of the country at some point.

China’s renminbi (RMB) is not a fully convertible currency. Though welcome in Hong Kong and many Southeast Asian countries, banks in Europe and North America may not readily accept it for exchange or multi-currency deposits. As such, large sums require special handling.

China strictly regulates the export of funds for both RMB and foreign currencies. While the days of only being able to exchange currency at the airport upon departure are over, dealing with current restrictions still requires a bit of advance planning and strategy.

Salaries For people moving to Beijing as executives or with the same employer as in their home country, the currency that the salary is paid in – and where – should be negotiated in advance. In other words, the easiest way to repatriate funds is if they never arrive in China. Though many foreign workers are employed and therefore paid by the Chinese entity – either wholly-owned or joint venture – of their parent company, those sent directly from the home office may be able to receive at least part of their salary in their preferred currency.

For example, one well-known news agency pays its employees most of their income in a foreign currency into a bank account in Hong Kong. It then provides a local “stipend” in RMB for daily expenses and other cash outlay. An award-winning travel company also follows this practice. These options aren’t available to each expat, but it’s important to look into them prior to a move.

If you’re taking out foreign currency just for travel purposes, be sure to go the exchange desk before your departure. Not every bank branch will have sufficient quantities of foreign currency (or any foreign currency) to complete your transaction. Avoid disappointment by going at least a week in advance.

Transfers

Moving Small Amounts The simplest solution is to exchange funds with people who need RMB, such as new arrivals. The rate will likely be favorable and the only obstacle will be how much the other person has or wants to exchange.

Other options for moving small amounts of money include sending the funds via Western Union, although the fees for this are relatively high given the total transferred. Western Union outlets can be found at just about any China Post office or branch of China Agricultural Bank.

Exchanging money at foreign exchange counters in airports or banks is possible, though again the commission will be rather high and foreign citizens are limited to RMB 3,000 per day. Some users have claimed to have successfully transferred money via PayPal, but this is not proven and would violate PayPal’s current terms of service. Alipay does not currently permit RMB to be sent to foreign bank accounts.

Moving Larger Amounts Aside from the abovementioned methods, there are other legal means to take Chinese currency out of the country. Each person is allowed to carry RMB 20,000 for travel purposes; RMB 10,000 fits nicely inside each pocket of a men’s sport jacket or suit jacket and will not attract attention from security personnel. Money packed in carry-on luggage or in checked may or may not be noticed. Carrying more than RMB 20,000 may result in the confiscation of the entire amount. However, more can be spread among a group of people, as long as one person doesn’t carry more than the designated amount.

The other way is to purchase something of value that may be readily resold for the same amount of money, such as gold. You may also purchase an item on behalf of someone living outside of China (such as artwork), who would then repay you in a foreign currency.

In both cases, the transport of those items to a destination outside the mainland would be required, which carries with it its own set of complications. For example, any object manufactured before 1911 is considered an antique and requires special permission to be exported, so it’s probably wise to exclude the purchasing and reselling of antiques as part of your plan.

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The official rule is that citizens of the People’s Republic of China are limited to sending USD 50,000 per year. That’s a hard and fast rule for any transfers to be done legally, especially via electronic transfer from a bank in China to an overseas financial institution (Hong Kong is considered overseas for these purposes).

The biggest impediment to exchanging currency – especially transferring currency overseas – will be taxes. In order to send

money abroad, a foreign citizen will likely need to prove their employment status and provide receipts to demonstrate that tax has been paid on that income, depending on the value of the transfer.

While it shouldn’t be difficult for the legitimately employed, people working gray-market jobs may find themselves in a bind.

Keeping the China Connection Leaving doesn’t always mean saying goodbye

Milo (age 7) and Merle Thompson (age 2.5) play in their new home of Tokyo

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Photos: courtesy of alison thompson

Leaving

by Ember Swift

Maintaining ties to China is a simple as maintaining ties to your new city’s Chinese community

A

fter calling China home for so long, expats – a clan for which impermanence is built into this cultural environment – often struggle with their eventual departure – particularly those of us who have resided in Beijing for many years.

Add a family to the mix and the exit can seem all the more dramatic, especially if your children were born and raised here.

However, with so many immigrant communities all over the world, it’s possible to find Chinese culture outside of China. For those of us whose roots go deep into this land, maintaining ties with China is within reach thanks to modern technology and air travel. It’s just a question of making the effort.

After ten years in Beijing, the Thompsons were one family whose departure from Beijing initiated a huge shift in their lives. Alison and Gavin, who are originally from the UK and parents to Milo (age 7) and Merle (2.5), made the leap this past January after requesting that Gavin be transferred to Japan for work.

Now residing in Tokyo, they are readjusting to a new Asian environment. Gavin, who works for an oil and gas consultancy firm, and Alison, who was the former marketing director of 3e International School, had built a solid life in Beijing, giving birth to both of their children at Beijing United Family Hospital.

Tongue-Tied “China was a huge part of our lives for a long time,” says Alison, “We want our children to remember China, especially the language.”

While Gavin’s work enables him to make business trips to China, staying connected with the country will take more effort for Milo and Merle. Milo is enrolled at an English-language school that offers weekly Mandarin lessons alongside of a limited amount of daily Japanese language training. Since Milo was born in China and schooled in a bilingual environment, he has already impressed his teachers with his native Mandarin skills.

This is but one of many education options. As Alison Thompson points out, each family must find the best fit for their children. Nevertheless, full-time Chinese schools do exist in most major cities worldwide. Additionally, part-time weekend and and/or after-school programs are also widely available.

When relocating to a new environment (as opposed to one’s home country), it’s also important to gauge how important it will be for the child to learn the local language and whether or not this will unbalance their foundation in Mandarin.

Because Milo has always been immersed in a bilingual environment, he has had no trouble adjusting to a third language. “[I was] advised not to do another 50/50 approach like we had in Beijing,” says Alison, “So we a found a school that will just offer a little Japanese each day to introduce him gradually.”

Another way to maintain ties to China is via consistent correspondence and communication with your former ayi . The Thompsons left

Feed the Family, Feed the Soul On that note, authentic Chinese fare is often the first thing a family will miss after leaving this foodie country. Many families will find that their first inroads into the local Chinese community are made via a restaurant owned by overseas Chinese. The Thompsons have become regulars at such a restaurant so that Milo can chat with the owner. This allows them to both reconnect with the language and satisfy their taste buds.

Finally, celebrating Chinese holidays is a great way to keep your family connected with Chinese culture. While not every holiday may be on your family’s radar, the big ones are generally hard to miss in any Chinatown. In particular, Chinese New Year (or Spring Festival) usually comes with a busy schedule of events and performances.

With modern day communication tools like WeChat and Skype, it’s easy to remain close to the places that matter. If you’re lucky enough to be in a position to visit friends or treat your friends (including an ayi) to a visit your new locale, air travel makes it relatively simple to stay connected. The Thompsons, for instance, are planning a few trips back to China every year. They just returned to Beijing for a week in April “to see everyone.”

Why are so many people leaving in the first place? Air quality is a primary reason. The Thompsons made a choice to move to Japan for this very reason. “I just don’t want to take my children back there to live while the pollution is such an issue,” Alison says – and we can all relate to that sentiment. The longer we stay, the harder it is to leave; but the worse the pollution gets, the harder it is to stay.

The Thompsons are no longer “stuck in the house,” living close to parks, nature, and surrounded with blue skies. Even the family dog, Kipper, is enjoying her new environment. “[Kipper] is spoiled here.

She is allowed in the park, where they have designated dog runs, rabies vaccines are checked, and everyone picks up after their dog.

It’s great!”

Regardless of our reasons for leaving, there is no shortage of ways to stay in touch. Geography doesn’t have to be an impediment; there is room for China in our lives wherever we go.

Home & Relocation Guide 2014

beijingkids 103

Leaving

Say “Hello”

two beloved ayis behind, one of whom worked for the family for six years and the other for two. Even within that relatively short period of time, the latter worked her way into the family’s hearts. The family has even approached her to come live with them in Japan, which would certainly go a long way to preserving Mandarin in the household.

We’ve all heard the adage “It takes a village to raise a child,” and this is an integral part of the Chinese experience. Extended family, ayis , and neighbours are all engaged in each other’s children. Thus, maintaining ties to China is a simple as maintaining ties to your new city’s Chinese community. Chinese cultural organizations often bring new immigrant families together and can just as easily help a nonChinese family integrate with others who are also pining for jiaozi and yangrou chuanr .

Family Dining Family Dining American Blue Frog This popular Shanghai-based restaurant chain has a menu rooted in burgers.

The “Blue Frog Burger” ranks right up there among the best in the city, and there are a host of other patty-based options available. American style breakfast is available all week. Decent Wi-Fi. Voted “Outstanding American” and “Outstanding Burger” in the Beijinger’s 2011 Reader Restaurant Awards.

1) Daily 10am-midnight. 167, 1/F, Indigo, 18 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8426 0017, info@bluefrog.com.cn); 2) Daily 10am-late. S4-30, 3/F, Bldg 4, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 4030, info@bluefrog.com. cn); 3) Daily 10am-late. 1/F, Bldg 1, U-Town, Sanfeng Beili, Chaoyang District. (8561 2665, info@bluefrog.com.cn) www.bluefrog. com.cn 蓝蛙, 1) 朝阳区颐堤港店酒仙桥路18 号1层167号; 2) 朝阳区三里屯北路19号三里屯 Village南区4号楼3层S4-30; 3) 朝阳区三丰北里 悠唐生活广场1号楼1层 Home Plate Bar-B-Que 1) 11am-10pm. Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu Chaoyang District(100m past The Bookworm on the right; 800m west of Tuanjiehu station (Line 10)), Chaoyang District. (400 096 7670, seth@homeplatebbq.com); 2) Daily 11am10pm. 35 Xiaoyun Lu courtyard (from Dongsanhuan Beilu, head 20m north of Xiaoyun Lu intersection and take the first right), Chaoyang District. (5128 5584, seth@homeplatebbq.com) http://homeplatebbq.com/ 本 垒美国餐, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区 工体北路4号院; 2) 朝阳区霄云路35号院（东三环北路,过霄云路 路口,往北走20米,到第一个路口右转）

Cafes Mrs Shanen’s Bagels This Shunyi staple offers Beijing’s best bagels (in a variety of flavors, including jalepeno cheddar, sesame and cinnamon raisin), as well as burgers, sandwiches(served on a choice of pita, ciabatta or bagels) salads, artisan pizza, cheeses, breads, cakes, cookies, ice cream and an extensive breakfast menu. Produce and other organic products from the owner’s other venue Green Cow Farm are also available. The venue also includes a large children’s playroom is equipped with toys, kid-sized chairs and tables and an entire Chinese kitchen in miniature. Sun-Thu 7.30am-8pm, Fri-Sat 7.30am-8.30pm. 5 Kaifa Jie, Xibaixinzhuang (next to Capital Paradise), Shunyi District.

(8046 4301) 单太太贝谷面包房, 顺义区西白辛 庄开发街5号 (紧邻名都园)

European The Orchard Daily noon-3pm, 6-9pm. From Jingshun Lu, turn left (west) at Shunbai Lu Intersection, (turn at the driveway just west of the Hegezhuang Village Sign), Chaoyang District. (6433 6270) 果园, 朝阳区崔各庄乡何 各庄村(过何各庄村路标往南转)

Directories

French Crepanini Run by two Bretons, this small cafe features a variety of savory and dessert crepes (including a buckwheat Breton Crepe and the ever-popular Nutella and Banana Crepe). In addition, they offer a selection of paninis and waffles and drinks include coffee, smoothies, cider and pastis. Set breakfast and lunch menus on offer. Local delivery available. Sun-Thu 9am-midnight, Fri-Sat 9am-2am. Unit A110, 1/F, Nali Patio, 81 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (5208 6093) 可百尼尼, 朝阳区三里屯路81号那里花 园1层酒吧街对面

German South German Bakery, Cafe Konstanz and Bodenseestube Provides over 20 varities of German and European rye, wheat and white breads (Alpenschpitz, Mohn Stange, Kaese

104 beijingkids

Stange, toast bread and baguettes), along with tasty homemade cakes and sweets.

Upstairs you’ll find Cafe Konstanz and Bodenseestube, a south German restaurant that offers great weekend breakfasts (Sat-Sun, 8.30am-3pm), business lunches, dumplings, sausages, sauerkraut, cheese noodles and hearty German dinners. Sandwiches and quality coffee also available. Available for private parties and events. Daily 9am-10pm (restaurant), 7am-10pm (bakery). 27 Lucky Street, 1 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5867 0201, sales@germanbakery. com.cn, michael@germanbakery.com.cn) www.germanbakery.com.cn 德南面包房, 朝 阳区朝阳公园路1号好运街27号

Indian Ganges Indian Restaurant This is a good restaurant for the gastronomically adventurous. Spicy dishes can be cooked without the heat upon request (probably a good idea for the young ones). There’s a play area with two kids’ tables and chairs, plus books and crayons mixed in with other toys. For smaller diners, there are a few highchairs available. In a nutshell, this is delicious Indian food in a comfortable environment that won’t break your budget. Winner of “Best India/Pakistani” in the Beijinger’s 2011 Reader Restaurant Awards. Daily 10am-11pm. 1) Stall 202, 2/F, Bldg 1, Shimao Department Store, 13 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6416 0181); 2) 6/F, Wudaokou U-Center, Chengfu Lu, Haidian District.; 3) 2/F, Paddy O’Shea’s, 28 Dongzhimenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6417 0900); 4) 138A, B1/F, The Place, 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6587 2999); 5) 5/B, Hairun International Apartment, 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (5135 8353) www. ganges-restaurant.com 恒河印度餐厅, 1) 朝 阳区工体北路13号世贸百货1号楼2层202; 2) 海 淀区成府路五道口U-Center6层; 3) 朝阳区东直 门外大街28号爱尔兰酒吧2层; 4) 朝阳区光华路 9号世贸天阶地下1层138A; 5) 朝阳区将台路2号 海润国际公寓底商5号

Italian Annie’s Serves trattoria favorites like antipasto, soups, pastas and pizza. Parents give the restaurant gold stars for its numerous highchairs, while kids enjoy making their own small pizzas and playing in the wellstocked toy corners. Voted “Most Family Friendly” and “Best Italian” in the Beijinger’s 2011 Reader Restaurant Awards. 1) Daily 11am-11pm. 1/F, Tower AB, The Office Park (Yuanyang Guanghua International), 10 Jintong Xilu (near Central Park/The Place), Chaoyang District. (8590 6428); 2) Daily 11am-11pm. Jiuxianqiao, Jiangtai Lu Shangye Jie, Chaoyang District. (6436 3735); 3) 1/F Ruisai Business Building (opposite Ascott Beijing), Chaoyang District.

(6568 5890); 4) Daily 11am-11pm. 2/F Daimler Tower, 8 Wangjing Jie, Chaoyang District. (8476 0398); 5) 105, Bldg 3, China View, 2C Gongti Donglu, Chaoyang District.

(8587 1469); 6) Daily 11am-11pm. West Gate of Soho New Town, 88 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (8589 8366); 7) Daily 11am-11pm. Chaoyang Gongyuan Xilu (next to Chaoyang Park West Gate), Chaoyang District. (6591 1931); 8) Daily 11am-11pm.

Across from Western Academy Beijing, 5 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District.

(8470 4768); 9) 11am-11pm. Unit 2-3-93, Ritan Highlife, (opposite north gate of Ritan Park), 39 Shenlu Jie, Chaoyang District.

(8569 3031) www.annies.com.cn/en/ 安妮意 大利餐厅, 1) 朝阳区金桐西路10号远洋光华国 际AB座1楼(近新城国际/世贸天阶); 2) 朝阳区 酒仙桥将台路商业街; 3) 朝阳区瑞赛大厦商务 楼一层(北京雅诗阁服务公寓对面); 4) 朝阳区 望京街8号利星行广场奔驰展厅2层; 5) 朝阳区 工体东路丙2号中国红街大厦3号楼105室; 6) 朝 阳区建国路88号Soho现代城西门; 7) 朝阳区朝 阳公园西路（朝阳公园西门）; 8) 朝阳区来广 营东路5号京西学校对面; 9) 朝阳区神路街39号 日坛公园北门对面日坛上街2-3-93号

Home & Relocation Guide 2014

Michael’s Place Italian Ristorante Despite the comfortable decor, brick pizza oven, kiddie corner and decent selection of imported wines, Michael’s free-n-quick home delivery might just be its strongest asset. Pizzas and pastas range RMB 48-75. Daily 10.30am10.30pm. L112, Euro Plaza, (Opposite the Exhibition Hall), Central Villa District, Shunyi District. (8042 4457, 8046 3359) 北京明天意 大利餐厅, 顺义区天竺镇裕翔路99号欧陆时尚购 物中心一层112号（国展对面）

Japanese Haru Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar Watch and listen to your food as it sizzles and cooks to your preference. Haru impresses with sleek decor and the quality of the food. Kids will be entertained by the chefs flaming hot plates, and the large portion servings mean this is a great place to spend a few extra kuai on a family night out. Daily 11.30am2pm, 5.30pm-10pm. 1) Unit N4-30, 3/F, Sanlitun Village North, 11 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (6415 2112); 2) 902 Pinnacle Plaza, Jingshun Lu, Shunyi District. (8046 5112) 尚水长廊铁板烧 餐厅, 1) 朝阳区三里屯路11号院（Village北区） 能号楼三层N4-30单元; 2) 顺义区天竺镇开发 区荣祥广场902

Pizza Gung Ho! Gourmet Pizza Factory Pizza delivery service that positions itself as a cut above the competition, offering ten “gourmet” toppings featuring wine-soaked blackcurrants, fresh pesto and New Zealand mozzarella. Voted “Outstanding Pizza” in the Beijinger’s 2011 Restaurant Awards. 1) 10-9 Fuli City Xingguang Avenue(West of the Beijing Capital Renaissance Hotel), Chaoyang District. (5876 5262); 2) Daily 11am-11pm.

Shop 2, Hairun International Apartments, corner Jiangtai Lu and Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (5135 8557); 3) Daily 11am-midnight. Bldg. 3, China View, (rear side, opposite City Hotel), Gongti Donglu, Chaoyang District. (8587 1404/1370) www. gunghopizza.com 叫板披萨, 1) 朝阳区富力 城, 星光大道10-9（富力大酒店网西走）; 2) 朝阳区将台路2号海润国际公寓（将台路和方 园西路的十字路口）; 3) 朝阳区工体东路中国 红街3号楼 Pizza Plus Pizza sold by the slice (or “al taglio” as the Italians say), and made by a world champion pizzamaker. Try their signature “forest” pizza, with sausage, cherry tomato and drizzles of black truffle sauce.

Delivery: Within a 3km radius, minimum order RMB 50. 1) Daily 11am-10pm. 112/115 Bojinghaoting, 8 Shizipo Jie, Dongcheng District. (6413 0991); 2) 11:00am - 10:00 pm.

109 Bld #4, Park Avenue, No.6 Chaoyang Park South Rd., Chaoyang District. (0106530 6591); 3) 11:00am - 10:00 pm. #9, Bld#15 Tianli Street, Chaoyang District, (C6-16 Fuli City, Shuangjing), Chaoyang District. (010-5876 6957) 1) 东城区十字坡街 8号铂晶豪庭底商112/115室; 2) 朝阳区朝阳公 园南路6号公园大道4号楼109室; 3) 朝阳区朝阳 区天力街15号楼9号 The Kro’s Nest Run by Olaf Kristoffer “The Kro” Bauer, the new edition of this Beijing pizza institution features enormous pizzas, deep-fried jalapenos and other pizza innovations like pizza sliders. You’ll even find hyper-caloric desserts like funnel cake and Rocky Road Rice-Krispy Pie. The beverage offerings have expanded to wines, cocktails, soda floats, smoothies and milkshakes. All this, plus video games and Wi-Fi. Voted “Outstanding New Restaurant of the Year (Non-Chinese)” and “Outstanding Pizza” in the Beijinger’s 2011 Restaurant Awards.

Daily 11am-midnight. 1) Courtyard 4, Gongti Beilu (across from Salsa Caribe), Chaoyang District. (8523 6655); 2) 35 Xiaoyun Lu (opposite Renaissance Beijing Chaoyang Hotel, next to Kou Fu Ju restaurant), Chaoyang District. (8391 3131) 乌巢, 1) 朝阳区工体北 路4号院 (卡利宾拉丁舞俱乐部对面); 2) 朝阳区 霄云路35号(国航大厦万丽酒店对面, 口福居旁)

Russian Dacha Located near Ritan Park, Dacha serves features truly global cuisine, from sushi to pizza. Try Russian classics like borscht and traditional beet salad, or opt for European standards such as pasta Carbonara and rack of lamb. Most entrees range from RMB 45-100, while appetizers and salads are in the 20-60 RMB range. The restaurant caters to families with a smoke-free environment and kids’ playroom with toys. Shisha is also available. Daily 10am-3am. 1 Ritan Lu (on the north side of Ritan Hotel), Chaoyang District. (8563 5765, dacha.asia@mail.ru) www.dacha.asia 别墅西餐厅, 朝阳区日坛路1 号（日坛宾馆北侧）

Sichuan Haidilao Hot Pot As famous for its hospitality as it is for its authentic Sichuan cuisine: get your nails done and enjoy a fruit plate while you wait in the long queue. Don’t forget to ask for the noodle show – an energetic waiter will pull noodles right at your table. Voted “Best Hot Pot,” “Outstanding Service” and “Outstanding Chinese Restaurant of the Year” in the Beijinger’s 2011 Restaurant Awards. 1) 2 Dahuisi Lu, Haidian District. (6213 3511); 2) 26-2 Pufang Lu, Fengtai District.; 3) 2/F, 11 Majiapu Lu, Fengtai District. (6757 7027); 4) Unit C, Bldg 4, Wanda Plaza, 18 Shijingshan Lu, Shijingshan District. (8868 9559); 5) 4/F Hulian Wanliu Shopping Center, 2 Bagou Lu, Haidian District. (8258 9332); 6) 4/F Jiamao Shopping Center, 5 Cuiwei Lu, Haidian District. (6821 8532); 7) 2/F Donghua Shang Dasha, 2 Yanjing Xili, Hongmiao, Chaoyang District. (6506 0403); 8) 29 Nanmofang Lu Pingle Yuan, Chaoyang District. (8779 8911); 9) 8/F Tianyingtai Dept Store, 88 Wangfujing Dajie, Dongcheng District. (5762 0153); 10) 4/F Suning Electrical Appliance Store, Section 1, 4 Beiwa Lu, Zizhuyuan Lu, Haidian District. (6871 6676); 11) 4/F Wangjing Guoji Shangye Zhongxin, 9 Wangjing Dongjie, Chaoyang District. (5920 3512); 12) 1-2/F Zhongjian Er Ju Dasha, 42 Guanganmen Nanjie, Xuanwu District.

(5181 6880); 13) Daily 24hrs. Bldg 7, Xixi Friendship Store (just north of Xidan Shopping Mall), 109 Xidan Dajie, Xicheng District.

(6617 4043); 14) 10.30am-11pm. 31 Huayuan Donglu (north of Peony Hotel), Haidian District. (6203 3112); 15) Daily 24hrs. 2A Baijiazhuang Lu (next to No. 80 Middle School), Chaoyang District. (6595 2982); 16) Daily 10.30am-3am. 3/F, Beiyue Dasha, 2A Huixin Dongjie, Chaoyang District. (8463 9300) www.haidilaohuoguo.com 海底捞火锅, 1) 海淀区海淀区大慧寺路2号; 2) 丰台区丰台 区蒲芳路26-2号; 3) 丰台区丰台区马家堡西路 11号2楼; 4) 石景山区石景山区石景山路乙18号 万达广场c栋4楼; 5) 海淀区海淀区巴沟路2号华 联万柳购物中心4楼; 6) 海淀区海淀区翠微路5 号嘉购物中心4楼; 7) 朝阳区朝阳区红庙延静西 里2号东华商大厦2楼; 8) 朝阳区朝阳区南磨房 路平乐园29号; 9) 东城区东城区王府井大街88 号乐天银泰百货8楼; 10) 海淀区海淀区紫竹院 路北洼路4号1区195号楼苏宁电器4楼; 11) 朝阳 区朝阳区望京街9号望京国际商业中心4楼; 12) 宣武区宣武区广安门南街42号中建二局大厦1-2 楼; 13) 西城区西单北大街109号西西友谊商场7 楼西单商场北边; 14) 海淀区花园东路31号牡丹 宾馆北; 15) 朝阳区白家庄路甲2号 (八十中学 西侧); 16) 朝阳区惠新东街甲2号北奥大厦3层

Family Health Clinics & Hospitals Amcare Women’s & Children’s Hospital Amcare Women’s and Children’s hospital provides families international medical services in Chinese cultural background.

Services include obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, family planning, and psychological consulting. The new 6,000 sqm Yayuncun branch has 50 wards, private gynecological clinic and a neonatal intensive care unit. 1) Daily 24 hours. Bldg 5 Anhui

Family Health Beili Yiyuan, Chaoyang District. (400 100 0016, contact@amcare.com.cn); 2) Daily 8am-4.30pm. 9 Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6434 2399 24hr hotline, 800 610 6200, contact@amcare.com.cn); 3) 9-9 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District. (contact@ amcare.com.cn) www.amcare.com.cn 北京 美中宜和妇儿医院, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区安慧北里 逸园5号楼; 2) 朝阳区芳园西路9号; 3) 朝阳区 将台西路9-9号 Beijing New Century Women’s and Children’s Hospital (NCWCH) With stateof-the-art park side facility, New Century Women’s and Children’s Hospital (NCWCH) is established to operate with international standards. Backed by strong ties to Beijing Children’s Hospital and Beijing Obstetrics & Gynecology Hospital, the experienced and friendly medical staff of NCWCH provide fi¬rst-class gynecology, obstetrics, pediatric, NICU and urgent care services for women and children (0-18 years old). 51 Wangjing Beilu (Wanghu Park south gate), Chaoyang District. (5178 3366) www.ncich.com.cn 北 京新世纪妇儿医院, 朝阳区朝阳区望京北路51号 院（望湖公园东门南） Beijing Puhua International Clinic Beijing Puhua International Clinic’s unique services include orthopedic and trauma surgery conforming to European standards.

They also offer physical rehabilitation, an eye clinic with certified US ophthalmologist, a chiropractic clinic, comprehensive family medical services, a Western-style pharmacy, and emergency services. The clinic offers services in English, Chinese, Arabic, Russian, Filipino, Amharic, and Taiwanese. Conveniently located in Jinsong, the center has free parking available for customers. Mon-Sun 9am-6pm. 54 Wusheng Beilu, Dongsanhuan, Chaoyang District. (8773 5522, 5245 2585 (24hr hotline)) www.puhuaclinic.com 北京普 华门诊, 朝阳区东三环武圣北路54号 Beijing United Family Hospital (BJU) Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics (BJU) offers international-standard care to thousands of Beijing’s expatriate and Chinese families. BJU features an international team of doctors from more than 20 countries and since 2005, it has been consistently re-accredited by Joint Commission International (JCI) and the College of American Pathologists (CAP). Since 1997, BJU’s multilingual staff has provided professional expertise with heartfelt care. The hospital and clinics offer a full range of medical services. In addition to departments of family medicine, surgery, pediatrics, and dentistry, BJU has attracted top medical professionals in cardiology, neurology, internal medicine, dermatology, psychological health, obstetrics and gynecology, emergency medicine, integrative medicine, ophthalmology and ENT. Mon-Sat 8.30am-5.30pm. 24-hour emergency care. 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District.

(4008-919191 (24hr Service Center)) www. ufh.com.cn 北京和睦家医院, 朝阳区将台路2号

Hong Kong International Medical Clinic, Beijing Beijing’s first joint-venture medical organization operates according to international standards, has a high-quality international administration system, high-level

International Medical Center (IMC) IMC was the first expatriate medical institution in Beijing. A multilingual clinic with a full range of medical services including Family Medicine, Pediatrics, Internal medicine, Obstetrics & Gynecology, Endoscopy and Surgery & Orthopedics. Other services include Dental Services, TCM & Acupuncture, Physiotherapy and Psychological services. The department of Emergency Care at IMC is open 24/7 with all board certified foreign doctors on site.

Daily 24hrs. S106, S111 Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmahe Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1561/2/3, 6465 1384/28, marketing@imcclinics.com) http://www.imcclinics.com/ 北 京国际医疗中心, 朝阳区亮马桥路50号燕莎中心 写字楼1层S106 International SOS One of the world’s leading international healthcare, medical and security assistance company with 66% of the world’s Fortune 500 companies choosing International SOS. Since 1989, International SOS has led international-standard medical care in China, with a 24/7 alarm center hotline, a dedicated air ambulance, four international quality clinics staffed with expat and foreign doctors and 200+ network of medical service partners. International SOS Beijing clinic is the city’s leading family practice and specialist services clinic, represented by 15 nationalities, including English, French, Japanese, German, Spanish, Korean and Chinese-speaking doctors. Offers 24/7 Emergency Services, GP, Pediatrics, Gynecology, specialists, Pharmacy, Psychology, Physiotherapy, Dentistry and Orthodontics, Optometry. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District. (Clinic: 6462 9112, 24hr hotline 6462 9100, china. inquiries@internationalsos.com) www.internationalsos.com, www.clinicsinchina.com 北 京国际救援中心, 朝阳区新源里16号琨莎中心 一座105室 Naturopathic Medicine Dr. Melissa Rodriguez is a licensed, board certified Naturopathic Doctor from Ontario, Canada.

She uses homeopathy, botanical medicine, nutrition, and other natural therapies that are effective and safe, to help her patients prevent illness and treat disease. Dr. Rodriguez is committed to working with you and your family to achieve your goals of optimal health. Rm S106, International Medical Center-Beijing, Lufthansa Center Office Building, 50 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1561) www.drmelissarodriguez. com 朝阳区朝阳区亮马桥路50号燕莎中心写字 楼1层S106 OASIS Family Counseling Center OASIS International Hospital’s Family Counseling Center offers counseling services for anxiety, depression, child development, life transitions, parenting, personal growth, premarital and marital issues, stress management, and trauma. There are two counselors: Regina Ho (Australia) and Dr. Catherine Hsu (US), whose specialties are relationship counseling and childhood and pediatric counseling respectively. Services are available in English, Mandarin, and Cantonese. Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm, Sat 8.30am-12.30pm..

Oasis International Hospital, 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District.

(400 87 62747) 朝阳区朝阳区酒仙桥北路9号 明德医院 OASIS International Hospital OASIS is a full-service private hospital. Their international medical team provides patient-

centered care in a modern facility designed for comfort, safety and privacy. OASIS offers attentive service in a soothing environment and expert medicine backed by leading technology, including the most advanced MRI and CT scans available from a private hospital in China. The hospital currently provides services in family medicine, pediatrics, gynecology, general surgery, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), and dentistry.

Direct billing is available for many insurance providers. Daily 24hrs (emergency care), Mon-Fri 9am- 6pm, Sun 8.30-12.30am.

9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (400 UR OASIS (876 2747)) www.oasishealth.cn 明德医院, 朝阳 区酒仙桥北路9号 United Family CBD Clinic The United Family CBD Clinic is United Family Healthcare’s (UFH’s) sixth satellite clinic in Beijing and will be staffed by bilingual doctors and nurses who are committed to providing the high-quality, international-standard care unique to United Family. Mon-Sat 9.30am-6 .30pm. Suite 3017, Bldg AB, Vantone Center, 6 Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (4008919191 (24hr Service Center)) www.ufh. com.cn 和睦家朝外诊所, 朝阳区朝阳门外大街 6号万通中心AB座2层3017室 United Family Home Health United Family Home Health is one of the first home careservices in China with a medical focus, and its vision is to provideclients and their families with United Family Healthcare’s world-classmedical care from the comfort of their homes. Daily 8:30am-5:00pm. New Hope Oncology Center, 2/FNo. 9-11 Jiangtai W. RdNear Fangyuan W.Rd, Chaoyang District. (4008-919191 (24hr Service Center), 5927 7333 (UFHH), homehealth@ufh.com. cn) homehealth.ufh.com.cn 和睦家家庭医疗, 朝阳区和睦家家庭医疗和睦家启望肿瘤中心二层 地点：丽都将台西路9-11号近芳园西路 United Family Jianguomen Health and Wellness Center United Family Jianguomen Health and Wellness Center is a satellite clinic of BJU located in the St. Regis complex in the heart of Beijing’s Central Business District. The clinic makes high-quality healthcare accessible to CBD residents and employees. It offers integrative medicine, family counseling services, and provides health checkups for immigration purposes.

Mon-Fri 8.30am-12pm,1pm-3.30pm. B1/F, The St. Regis Residence, St. Regis Hotel, 21 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District.

(4008-919191 (24hr Service Center)) www. ufh.com.cn 和睦家建国门保健中心, 朝阳区 建国门外大街21号北京国际俱乐部饭店公寓楼 地下1层 United Family Liangma Clinic United Family Liangma Clinic serves Beijing’s diplomatic area, providing internationallyaccredited Family Medicine services. A multinational clinic staff of experienced doctors and bilingual nurses will ensure that you and your family receive the highest quality medical care available. Mon-Fri 8.30am5pm. 2/F, Grand Summit, 19 Dongfang Donglu, Chaoyang District. (4008-919191 (24hr Service Center )) www.ufh.com.cn 和 睦家亮马诊所, 朝阳区东方东路19号1号楼会所 27号（外交人员公寓B区官舍16号） United Family New Hope Center The United Family New Hope Center is a LEEDcertified satellite clinic of Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinics (BJU) housing BJU’s pioneering New Hope Oncology Center, Psychological Health Center, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) services.

The United Family New Hope Oncology Center offers a unique new concept in international-standard cancer treatment.

Our Oncology services provide patients with the most up-to-date treatment options from a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, specialist physicians, and healthcare professionals. Mon-Fri 9am-5pm. 9-11 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District. (4008-919191 (24hr Service Center)) www.ufh.com.cn 和睦家启 望中心, 朝阳区朝阳区将台西路9－11

United Family Shunyi Clinic United Family Shunyi Clinic serves Beijing’s suburban area and international school district with internationally-accredited family medicine, pediatrics, rehabilitation (physical therapy), psychological counseling, Traditional Chinese Medicine, laboratory, and pharmacy services. A multinational clinic staff of experienced doctors and bilingual nurses will ensure that you and your family receive the highest quality medical care available. The Shunyi Clinic is a satellite facility of BJU. Like other BJU satellite facilities, the Shunyi Clinic strictly adheres to Joint Commission International (JCI) and international infection control standards. Mon-Thu 9.30am-7.30pm, Fri-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm. Unit 806, Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (4008-919191 (24hr Service Center)) www.ufh.com.cn 和睦家顺 义诊所, 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场806号 Vista Medical Center Medical services including family and internal medicine, OB/ GYN, pediatrics, dentistry, ophthalmology, dermatology, ENT, TCM, physiotherapy, psychiatry, imaging laboratory and pharmacy service. Also offers pre- and postnatal care and infant health check-ups. English-speaking staff onsite 24hrs a day. A consultation with a GP costs RMB 660. Direct billing with more than 40 international insurance providers. Daily 24hrs. 3/F, Kerry Centre, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (8529 6618, fax 8529 6615, vista@vista-china.net) www.vista-china.net 维世达诊所, 朝阳区光华 路1号嘉里中心3层

Dentists Beijing United Family Hospital Dental Clinic Provides comprehensive dental services for families, including cleaning, crown and bridges, dental implants, fillings, tooth whitening and more. 2 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (4008-919191 (24hr Service Center)) www.ufh.com.cn 北京和睦 家医院牙科, 朝阳区将台路2号 Beijing Vista Dental Clinic Provides comprehensive dental services including teeth cleaning, whitening, gum treatment, white filling, crowns and bridges, root canal treatment, wisdom tooth extraction, orthodontics and implants. Daily 8.30am-6pm. Level 3, Kerry Centre, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (vista@vista-china.net) www.vistachina.net 朝阳区光华路1号北京嘉里中心三层 IDC Dental Standing for International Standards, Dedicated Professionals and Compassionate Care, IDC is a multi-specialty clinic offering a broad spectrum of family and restorative dental care. Experts in cosmetic makeovers and CT-guided implant surgeries. A certified clinic with Progressive Orthodontics and Beijing’s only Westerntrained root canal specialist. Multi-tier pricing. IDC is a Preferred Provider with CIGNA, Allianz, and MediLink. Daily 9am-6pm. Rm 209, Bldg 7, Yard 9, Richmond Park Clubhouse, Fangyuan Nanli, Chaoyang District.

(6538 8111, info@idcdentalbj.com) www. idcdentalbj.com IDC国际齿科中心, 朝阳区芳园 南里9号院7号楼209室 IMC Dental Clinic IMC-Beijing has the longest history of expatriate dental service in Beijing, state of the art equipment, and certified well-trained dentists. Services include: cleaning, filling, fluoride treatment, implants, canal therapy, orthodontics, crowns and bridges, tooth extraction, Invisalign, periodontics, space maintainers, and X-ray. Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. S111, Lufthansa Center, 50 Liangmahe Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 1384, 6465 1328, marketing@ imcclinics.com) http://www.imcclinics.com, http://www.imcclinics.com 北京国际医疗中 心牙科诊所, 朝阳区亮马桥路50号燕莎中心写 字楼1层S111 International SOS Dental, Orthodontics Clinic Provides comprehensive dental services for the whole family, including routine cleaning, X-rays, fillings, whitening, crowns,

Home & Relocation Guide 2014

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Directories

Beijing United Family Rehabilitation Hospital Beijing United Family Hospital’s newest facility offers everything from physical and occupational therapy to pediatric, neurological, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and TCM in a state-of-the-art facility featuring hydrotherapy facilities, an ICU, individual therapy rooms, hyperbaric and atmospheric oxygen chambers and an international team of specialists. 24 Hours. 1 Yaojiayuan Bei Erlu (South gate of Dongfeng Park, northwest corner of Yaojiayuan North 2nd Road and Qingnian North Road intersection), Chaoyang District. (4008-919191 (24hr Service Center), bju.rehab@ufh.com.cn) beijing.ufh.com.cn/en/locations/rehabilitation-hospital/ 北京和睦家康复医院, 朝阳区朝 阳区姚家园北二路1号（姚家园北二路与青年北 路交叉口西北角，东风公园南门）

medical staff, and warm service. A 24hr helpline offers medical support in English, Chinese and Japanese, and other languages on request. A basic consultation costs RMB 680. Direct billing with over 50 international insurers. Daily 9am-9pm (after 9pm nurse on duty). 9/F, office tower of the Swissôtel, 2 Chaoyangmen Beidajie, Dongcheng District. (65532288 ext 2345/6/7, 6553 9752) www.hkclinic.com 北京港澳国际医务诊所, 东 城区北京港澳国际医务诊所，朝阳门北大街2号 港澳中心瑞士酒店办公楼9层

Family Life bridges and cosmetic makeovers. Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. Suite 105, Wing 1, Kunsha Building, 16 Xinyuanli, Chaoyang District. (6462 0333) www.clinicsinchina.com 国际SOS齿科,畸齿矫正诊所, 朝阳区新源里16号 琨莎中心一座105室 OASIS Dental Clinic OASIS Dental provides complete dental care for families through internationally-trained dentists.

Services include routine cleaning, fillings, root canals, crowns and bridges, veneers, whitening, orthodontics, prevention orthodontics, periodontics, and implants. Mon-Sat 6am-9pm. 9 Jiuxianqiao Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5985 0305) 朝阳区酒仙桥北路9号 United Family Shunyi Dental Clinic United Family Shunyi Dental Clinic is located in Pinnacle Plaza, just around the corner from the United Family Shunyi Clinic. A multinational clinic staff of experienced doctors and bilingual nurses will ensure that you and your family receive the highest quality dental care available. Like other BJU satellite facilities, the Shunyi Dental Clinic strictly adheres to Joint Commission International (JCI) standards, which enables the Shunyi Dental Clinic to be officially recognized as an internationalstandard dental clinic. Mon-Thu 9am-7.20pm, Fri-Sat 9am-5.30pm. 818 Pinnacle Plaza, Tianzhu Real Estate Development Zone, Shunyi District. (4008-919191 (24hr Service Center)) www.ufh.com.cn 和睦家顺义牙科诊 所, 顺义区天竺开发区荣祥广场818

Eye Hospitals Beijing Aier-Intech Eye Hospital 15 years of eye care experience, including emergency treatment, telephone consultations, laser vision corrective surgery and preventative care. On-site shop sells frames and lenses.

The VIP clinic has English-speaking staff, many trained overseas. Can direct bill to many international insurance companies.

Daily 8.30am-4.30pm. 1,4,5/F Panjiayuan Plaza, 12 Panjiayuan Nanli, Chaoyang District. (6773 2700, customerservice@intecheye.com) www.intecheye.com 英智眼科医院, 朝阳区潘家园南里12号潘家园大厦1，4，5层

Family Life Hair & Beauty Salons Hair & Beauty by Hummingbird Formerly Hummingbird spa, this revamped boutique hair salon will continue to provide beauty and spa treatments, but now also specializes in haircuts and styling, with celebrity stylist Tom Yuen at the helm. Daily 10am-8pm. Unit 103, Bldg 3, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District.

(6597 9119) www.hummingbird.net.cn 朝阳 区朝阳门外大街6号新城国际3号楼103

Directories

Julie’s Salon Julie’s salon caters to women, men and children and staff can speak both English and Chinese. Walk-ins and appointments both welcome.Other services include: wash/blow Dry, Color (Wella and L’Oreal), highlights, perms, straightening, extensions, hair treatments, special event styling, head massage, shoulder massage, eyebrow shaping and tweezing, eyelash coloring, waxing (eyebrow, lip, leg, arms, bikini, and Brazilian), manicure, pedicure, hand treatment/massage. Juice, coffee or tea also available for purchase. Mon 1-8pm, TuesSun 9.30-8pm. Worker’s Stadium (Gong Ti) East Gate, Between Doors 9 & 10, Chaoyang District. (6553 2733; 136 0137 1790) 朝阳区工 人体育场10号台下, 珠丽斯美发沙龙 Melonhead Melonhead is an innovative hair care and branded entertainment concept designed specifically for kids. Whether you come to Melonhead for a fantastic kid’s hair cut ,special event hairstyle, SPA treat, fun birthday party, photography, afternoon outing, or just to browse the cute games & toys, Melonhead offers a safe, comfortable and entertaining environment that will make

106 beijingkids

you want to go back again. Daily 10am10pm. Rm 412, 4/F, South Bldg, The Place, 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6587 1599) 朝阳区光华路9号世贸天阶南街四层412 号商铺 MyStudio A full service beauty salon offering hair removal via sugaring (instead of waxing) to safely and less painfully remove hair. Haircuts go for about RMB 300 for women and a full leg wax is similarly priced. Daily 10am-8.30pm. Bldg 811, Zone 8, Jinsong, Chaoyang District. (6771 4375, 137 0125 3148) 朝阳区劲松八区811号楼 Salon DePark Shop B09, B1/F, Kerry Center, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District.

(8529 6328/9) 丁和李朴发型设计, 朝阳区光 华路1号嘉里中心商场地下1层B09 Toni & Guy Beijing branches of the worldrenowned UK hair salon. If you want to give your locks the five-star treatment, book a cut with director Frankie (RMB 780). His assistants charge considerably less (RMB 120 and up). Perms and colorings cost RMB 380 to 580. Surprisingly little English spoken. 1) Daily 11am-8pm. Shop 41, 1/F, Indigo Mall, 18 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8426 0688); 2) Daily 10am-9pm.

Unit 303, Tower C Office Bldg, Yintai Center, 2 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8517 1292); 3) Daily 10am-10pm.

Shop 404-405, 4/F, ECMall, 1A, Danling Jie, Haidian District. (8248 3435); 4) Daily 10am-9pm. 4/F, Seasons Place Shopping Centre, 2 Jinchengfang Jie, Xicheng District.

(6622 0316); 5) Daily 10am-9pm. 1/F, Hilton Beijing, 1 Dongfang Lu, Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6461 8368); 6) Daily 10am-9pm. 1/F, Oriental Plaza, 1 Dongchang’an Jie, Dongcheng District.

(8518 2646) 托尼英盖, 1) 朝阳区酒仙桥路18 号颐堤港商场地铁层店铺号LG41; 2) 朝阳区建 国门外大街2号银泰中心写字楼C座3层303商铺; 3) 海淀区丹棱街甲1号欧美汇购物中心4层404405; 4) 西城区金城纺街2号金融街购物中心四 层L404; 5) 朝阳区朝阳区东三环北路东方路1号 希尔顿酒店大堂1层; 6) 东城区东长安街1号东 方广场汇贤豪庭一层

Nail Salons Lily Nails 1) Shop 218, 2/F, Yangguang Jinjie, 2 Fangyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District.

(5135 7245); 2) Unit 5, B/1F, Bonjour Supermarket, 5 Jianguomen Dajie, Chaoyang District. (136 8148 3308); 3) B1102, B/1F, Block A, Sanlitun Soho, Chaoyang District. (8590 0569); 4) Shop 4, 1/F (east side), Yashow Clothing Market, 58 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5944 0872); 5) Shop 3020, 3/F, 3.3 Shopping Center, 33 Sanlitun Beijie, Chaoyang District.

(5136 5919); 6) Daily 9.30am-9pm. Shop 4018, 4/F, Yashow Clothing Market, 58 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6416 6441); 7) Shop 2049, 2/F, 3.3 Shopping Center, 33 Sanlitun Beijie, Chaoyang District.

(5136 5829, 136 8148 3308); 8) 2 Ginza Mall, 48 Dongzhimenwai Dajie (southeast of Dongzhimen Bridge), Dongcheng District. 1) 朝阳区芳园西路2号阳光金街2层218号; 2) 朝阳 区建国门大街5号法宝超市地下一层5号; 3) 朝 阳区三里屯Soho A座，地下一层B1102号; 4) 朝 阳区工体北路58号雅秀市场1层4号; 5) 朝阳区 三里屯北街33号3.3大厦3层3020号; 6) 朝阳区 工体北路58号雅秀市场4层4018号; 7) 朝阳区三 里屯北街33号3.3大厦2层2049号; 8) 东城区东 直门外大街48号东方银座2楼(东直门桥东南侧)

Relocation Services Allied Pickfords The largest international moving company in the world with corporate owned offices in over 40 countries and 800 offices. Offers online estimates for small shipments; otherwise a physical survey can be booked online. (021 6332 0088) www. alliedpickfords.com Asian Express Started in 1979 in mainland China, Asian Express is an international company that offers household goods, office moving, storage and a full range of

Home & Relocation Guide 2014

relocation services. Quotes available upon request in several languages. Rm 1612, Tower D, SOHO New Town, 88 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (8580 1471, beijing@ aemovers.com.hk) www.aemovers.com.hk 朝阳区建国路88号SOHO现代城D座1612室 Asian Tigers K.C. Dat (China) Ltd. 19 Shunchi Lu, Konggang Wuliu Jidi, Shunyi District. (6415 1188) www.asiantigersgroup. com 顺义区空港物流基地顺驰路19号 Globy Pet Relocation The leading pet transportation service company in China, Globy Pet Relocation has five domestic offices and a widespread agent network.

Globy is equipped to help transport pets anywhere in the world, arrange pet relocation planning (including required papers), international airline arrangements and door-to-door pick-up and delivery.

Rm 26B, Block 2, Bauhinia Court, 30 Dongsanhuan Beilu, Chaoyang District.

(8762 5020, mary@globypetrelo.com) www. globypetrelo.com 朝阳区东三环北路30号紫荆 豪庭2座26B Links Moving Beijing Wholly owned moving company established in Hong Kong in 1997 with full range of household moving services and storage options. Now handles over 3,000 international moves worldwide each year. Great website, offering information including freight container sizes and details, online quotes available for smaller shipments. Keep an eye out for specials, such as free air freight with certain container sizes or percentage discounts for early booking during peak seasons. (8447 7496) www.linksmoving.asia Santa Fe 2 Ba Jie, Beijing Capital Airport Logistics Zone, Shunyi District. (6947 0688) www.santaferelo.com 顺义区顺义区首都机场 物流中心8街2号

Serviced Apartments Lanson Place Located in Central Park, Lanson Place offers 105 units with a variety of layouts, including two-story lofts and penthouses. Babysitting service, concierge, business center, gym, pool and limo service are among the amenities. Tower 23, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Avenue, Chaoyang District. (8588 9588, enquiry. lpcp@lansonplace.com) www.lansonplace. com 逸兰国际 Kerry Residence 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. 朝阳区光华路1号 Embassy House No more than six units per floor in a 32-story apartment building, with spacious bedrooms, bathrooms, living rooms and kitchens. Facilities include fitness center, pool, bar, cafe, business center, playroom, library and more. Concierge service available. 18 Donzhimenwai Xiaojie, Dongcheng District. (6415 4724, mary.han@ embassyhouse.com.cn) www.hines.com 万 国公寓, 东城区东直门外小街18号 Millennium Residences Offers 329 apartments from the 3rd to 31st floor in one, two and three bedroom configurations.

Each apartment includes large screen HDTV LCD televisions; fully equipped kitchen featuring refrigerator, full size oven, washer/ dryer, microwave, kettle, toaster, rice cooker and all dining ware; luxuriously appointed, hotel style bedrooms and bathrooms with marble highlights and views of the city.

Three times per week room cleaning service (twice weekly refreshing of all interior linen). Residents can enjoy all restaurants and bars operated by the Grand Millennium Hotel, special membership fee to the Oxygen Health Club and preferential rates of the MTM. Beijing Fortune Plaza, Bldg 6, 7 Dongsanhuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (8588 2888) www.millenniumresidencesbeijing. com/en 北京财富中心千禧公寓, 朝阳区朝阳区 东三环中路7号院6号楼 Ascott Beijing Centrally-located serviced apartments with a range of personalized

services and facilities. Designed for executives and their families, the residences feature Neo-Asian lines with Asian artwork adorning the hallways. There are one to three-bedroom layouts as well as three and four-bedroom penthouses. Each apartment has fully-equipped kitchens, a home entertainment system and elegant furnishings. The twelve penthouses offer panoramic views of this majestic city. 108B Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6567 8100) www.the-ascott.com 北京雅诗阁服务公寓, 朝 阳区朝阳区建国路乙108号 Beijing Marriott Executive Apartments 8 Chaoyang Gongyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (8557 8888, mea.bjssw.reservation. agent@execapartments.com) www. marriottsandalwood.com 朝阳区朝阳区朝阳 公园南路8号 Fraser Residence CBD These stylish apartments feature exclusive elevator access, tasteful furnishings, and superior finishes. Recreation facilities include a gym with jet pool, steam room, and sauna; DVD movie library; all-day dining; a members’ lounge and a snooker lounge. The Business Centre offers a range of secretarial services and meeting spaces with round-theclock reception, concierge and security services. Block B, Ocean International Centre, 58 Dongsihuanzhonglu, Chaoyang District. (5870 9188, sales. frbeijing@frasershospitality.com) www. frasershospitality.com/ 北京辉盛庭国际公寓, 朝阳区朝阳区 东四环中路58号远洋国际中心B座 Fraser Suites CBD, Beijing The 357 contemporary apartments at Fraser Suites feature international furnishings with Chinese motifs. Facilities include meetings rooms, a business center, and a gym.

Located near subway lines 1 and 9, Fraser Suites are also near a park. 7 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (5908 6000, 400 817 1188) frasershospitality.com 北京辉盛阁国际 公寓, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区光华路7号; 2) 朝阳区 朝阳区光华路7号 Oakwood Apartments Oakwood Apartments Beijing offers 236 stylish and contemporary studio, one and two bedroomed serviced apartments, all fully equipped with broadband Internet, flatscreen television and stylish furnishings.

Guest reception will be 24 hours and housekeeping will be offered twice per week. All crockery, cutlery, glassware, linen and electrical items will be provided too. A health club will also be available onsite for residents. Oakwood is located in the Ocean Express commercial complex, adjacent to the Gateway Center and Silver Tower office buildings. Oakwood is within moments of corporate offices of Microsoft, Sony, BMW, Lockheed Martin, Siemens, Nestle, Toshiba, FujiXerox, Denso and Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi UFJ. The property is also adjacent to the Embassies of Japan, Korea, Malaysia and moments from the future site of the U.S. Embassy. Convenient shopping and restaurants can be found at the nearby Beijing Lufthansa Center. 8 Dongzhimenwai Xiejie, Chaoyang District. (5995 2888, reschaoyang@oakwoodasia.com) www. oakwoodasia.com/resbeijing 北京奥克伍德华 庭, 朝阳区朝阳区东直门外斜街8号 China World Apartments Nestled within the China World Trade Center, China World Apartments are located close to an exhibition hall, three luxury hotels, office towers, restaurants, shops, supermarkets, and a cinema. China World Trade Center, 1 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6505 2299, apartments@cwtc.com) www.shangri-la. com/beijing/chinaworldsummitwing 国贸公 寓, 朝阳区朝阳区建国路1号中国国际国贸中心 Kylin Diplomatic Mansion East 2nd Ring Road (50m to the east of The Ministry of Foreign Affairs), Dongcheng District. (8563 8888, 139 1051 1770, kylindm@126.com) 麒麟外交公寓, 东城区东二环路（50米外交部 东部）

Family Travel GTC Residence Beijing 36 North Ring Road East, Dongcheng District. (5675 6666) 东城区北三环东路36号 Reignwood City Club 2-4F Reignwood Center, No.8 Yong’an Dongli, Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (8528 8507) 华彬 城市俱乐部, 朝阳区建国门外永安里8号华彬 中心2-4层

Spas Bodhi Sense Like the original branch of Bodhi on Gongti, Bodhi Sense draws inspiration from both Thai and Chinese culture, but boasts an added touch of luxury. There are ten foot-massage rooms and an additional ten treatment rooms, all exquisitely decorated Daily 11am-12.30am.

2/F, Somerset Grand Fortune Garden, 46 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8440 1495) 朝阳区亮马桥路46号盛捷副景苑公寓2层 Bodhi Therapeutic Retreat A range of luxuriant massage options in stylish, minimalist surroundings. Offers aromatherapy massage, Thai massage, foot massage and Chinese body massage.

Bodhi’s Chinese therapist is trained in TCM. Daily 11am-12.30am. 17 Gongti Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6417 9595) www.bodhi. com.cn 菩提会所, 朝阳区工体北路17号 Dragonfly Therapeutic Retreat Rapidly expanding Shanghai-based chain of high-end spas. Chinese, shiatsu and foot massages start at RMB 150 per hour. An exhaustive menu of spa packages, such as an hour each of full-body and foot massage, starts at RMB 290. Daily 10am-1am. 1) 1/F, Grand Summit Plaza, 19 Dongfang Donglu (100m north of Lufthansa Center), Chaoyang District. (8532 3122); 2) 60 Donghuamen Ave (near The Peninsula Hotel and Oriental Plaza), Dongcheng District.

(6527 9368); 3) B1/F, Eastern Hotel, Nansanlitun Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6593 6066) 悠庭保健会所, 1) 朝阳区朝阳区燕莎桥 东方东路19号外交会所1层（燕莎中心路北100 米）; 2) 东城区东城区东华门大街60号(近王府 饭店和东方广场); 3) 朝阳区朝阳区三里屯南 路逸羽酒店1层 Kocoon Kocoon sets itself apart from the pack, specifically because it lacks the outrageously girly frills and frou-frou nonsense that the average Beijing nail bar is synonymous with. Natural light seeps through every part of the lounge, with natural wood, and abundant greenery sectioning off individual areas. There are 12 spa stations, where you can indulge in all manner of hand and foot treatments, although reservations are recommended for the two private spa rooms (for treatments, massages and facials). TueSun 10.30am-8.30pm. 1) Kocoon spa in The Oppo­site House.Taikoo Li, Build­ing 1, 11 San­l­i­tun RoadChaoyang Dis­trictBei­jing 100027, Chaoyang District. (137 179 434 06); 2) No. 106, 1st floor, East side of the building16, San­l­i­tun South RoadChaoyang Dis­trictBei­jing China, 100027Sub­way Line 6: Dongdaqiao station, Exit BBus Stop: No. 43, Chaoyang District. (132 416 960 21) www.kocoonspalounge.com 1) 朝阳区中国 北京市朝阳区三里屯路11号1号楼瑜舍酒店B2 邮 编：100027; 2) 朝阳区北京市朝阳区南三里屯 路16号泰悦豪庭底商106 邮编：100027

April Gourmet Chain of stores purveying imported cheeses, olives and cold cuts, as well as staples like dried pasta, canned tomatoes (and beans) and cereal. Prices can be high for goods that can seem a bit shopworn. The Shunyi branch offers a small but constant “specials” section, which often features imported cookies and filter coffee.

1) Bldg 7, Richmond Park, 9 Fangyuan Xili, Chaoyang District. (8457 8116); 2) 8am-9pm. Outside South Gate of Capital Paradise, Shunyi District. (8046 4132); 3) Daily 8am-midnight. 1/F Jiezuo Mansion, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. (6417 7970); 4) Daily 8am-9pm. 1 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang District. (8455 1245) 绿叶子食品店, 1) 朝阳区芳园西里9号院 丽都水岸会所7号楼; 2) 顺义区后沙峪乡白辛庄 名都园南门外; 3) 朝阳区三里屯幸福村中路杰 作大厦1层; 4) 朝阳区三里屯北小街1号 BHG Market Place Taiwan chain of upscale supermarkets has an extensive, albeit pricey, selection of goods and produce, including alcohol and organic products. Daily 10am-10pm. 1) Shop 1, B1/F, Indigo Mall, 18 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8426 0299); 2) B1, Shin Kong Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (6530 5888); 3) SLG00, The Village at Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. (6415 8226); 4) SMM06, SOLANA Lifestyle Shopping Park, Chaoyang District.; 5) B2/F, Legend Center, Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. 北京华联高级超 市, 1) 朝阳区酒仙桥路18号颐堤港商场地铁层 店铺号LG01; 2) 朝阳区建国路87号新光天地B1 层; 3) 朝阳区三里屯VillageSLG00号商铺; 4) 朝 阳区蓝色港湾国际商区SMM06号; 5) 朝阳区东 三环中路乐成中心地下二层 Jenny Lou’s These Western grocery stores have, along with the usual staples, fresh meat and cheese, unusual pasta shapes, unsweetened yogurt, fresh herbs … we could go on and on. 1) Daily 8.30am-9pm.

Pinnacle Plaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (8046 2500); 2) 8am-10pm.

101, Bldg 17, Central Park International Apartments, Chaoyang District. (6533 6792); 3) Daily 8am-10pm. Laiguangying Donglu (opposite Heping Hospital), Chaoyang District. (8470 1557); 4) Daily 8am-10pm. Bldg 4, Jianwai Soho, 39 Dongsanhuan Zhonglu, Chaoyang District.

(5869 2253); 5) Daily 8am-9pm. Inside East Lake Villa Clubhouse, Chaoyang District.

(6467 8018); 6) Daily 8am-midnight. 4 Ritan Beilu (opposite to Fancaodi Primary School), Chaoyang District. (8563 0626); 7) Daily 8am-10pm. 6 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang District. (6461 6928); 8) Daily 8am-midnight. South of Chaoyang Park’s West Gate, Chaoyang District. (6501 6249) www.jennylou.com.cn 婕妮璐, 1) 顺义区荣 祥广场,天竺开发区裕翔路99号; 2) 朝阳区新 城国际17号楼101; 3) 朝阳区来广营东路和平医 院对面; 4) 朝阳区东三环中路39号建外Soho4号 楼; 5) 朝阳区东湖别墅会所里; 6) 朝阳区日坛 北路4号（芳草地小学对面）; 7) 朝阳区三里屯 北小街6号; 8) 朝阳区朝阳公园西门南侧

Veterinarians Doctors Beck & Stone Pet Health Care Center Get full, international standard, pet care with open Western and highly trained Chinese veterinarians, nurses and medical technicians. Hospitals are also emergency crisis centers. Ambulances available for collection and drop off of pets. Daily, 24 hours. 1) Unit 104, Tower B, Bldg 3, Hou Xiandai Cheng, BaiziwanLu, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (8774 8653, 135 0103 0572 (emergencies), info@drbns. com); 2) Daily 9am-7pm. Shop 0153, Tower B, Chaowai Soho, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5869 6401, 400 103 8686 (for appointments, pet pick-up and emergencies), info@drbns.com); 3) Daily 9am-9pm. Unit 104, Bldg 7, Compound 9,Fangyuan Nanli, Chaoyang District. (8457 8233, 400 103 8686 (for appointments,

pet pick-up and emergencies), info@drbns. com); 4) Shop LB05, Euro Plaza,99 Yu Xiang Lu, Shunyi District, Shunyi District. (8046 2886, 135 0103 0572 (emergencies), info@ drbns.com) www.doctorsbeckandstone.com 思威（北京）国际动物医院有限公司, 1) 朝阳 区百子湾路后现代城3栋B座104底商; 2) 朝阳区 朝阳门外大街6号朝外SohoB号楼0153; 3) 朝阳 区芳园南里9号院7号楼104; 4) 顺义区顺义区天 竺镇 裕祥路99号欧陆广场LB05 International Center for Veterinary Services (ICVS) ICVS is a professionally managed and affordable full service international standard animal hospital and pet care facility. All doctors are legally licensed in the PRC. Services include internal medicine, hospitalization, spay/neuter, soft tissue and orthopedic surgeries, dentistry, dermatology, blood tests, laboratory diagnostics, X-rays, ultrasound, legal vaccinations, prescription pet foods, behavior counseling and obedience training, import/ export advice, pet adoption counseling and more. Boarding kennel, grooming salon, SAFE pet foods & pet shop available. All services in Mandarin and English. Licensed rabies vaccinations for export. Soft opening hours: 9am-8pm Tue&Thu, 9am-6pm Mon, Wed, Fri-Sun. 13-16 Rongke Ganlan Chengshang Jie, Futongxi Dajie, Wangjing, Chaoyang District. (8456 1939/40/41, ICVS_ CHINA@yahoo.com) www.ICVSASIA.com 北 京新天地国际动物医院, 朝阳区望京阜通西大 街, 融科橄榄城商街13-16号

Family Travel

Fun Stuff Animal Attractions Beijing Zoo The conditions for the animals in the zoo and the behavior of some local patrons may upset animal lovers.

However, things are improving, as the new chimpanzee and panda houses testify, and most kids will be oblivious to the zoo’s shortcomings and enjoy the vast collection of animals and the leafy compound, which was the former private garden of a Qing dynasty aristocrat. Apr-Oct: RMB 15, RMB 8 (students). Nov-Mar: RMB 10, RMB 5 (students), free (kids under 1.2m). RMB 5 for Panda House. Daily 7.30am-5pm (winter), 7.30am-6pm (summer). 137 Baishiqiao Lu, Xizhimenwai Dajie, Haidian District. (6831 4411) www.bjzoo.com 北京 动物园, 海淀区西外大街白石桥路137号 Blue Zoo Beijing Not to be confused with either the Beijing Aquarium or the Beijing Zoo, the Blue Zoo is actually an aquarium with an enormous coral reef tank containing eels, tuna, shark, stingrays and (we swear we’re not making this up) the occasional underwater marriage ceremony.

RMB 90, RMB 60 (kids under 12 years old), free (kids under 1m). Daily 8am-7.30pm (summer), daily 8.30am-6.30pm (winter).

Workers’ Stadium South Gate, Chaoyang District. (6591 3397) www.blue-zoo.com 富 国海底世界, 朝阳区工人体育场南门

Art Schools

Travel Agencies China Culture Center (CCC) From its Beijing headquarters, the Chinese Culture Club plans and organizes a diverse range of trips and cultural events (lectures, tours, courses, etc.) for those who wish to better understand and experience China, including a range of family-friendly programs.

Kent Center, 29 Anjialou, Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6432 9341/1041, info@chinaculturecenter.org) www. chinaculturecenter.org 朝阳区亮马桥路29号安 家楼肯特中心院内 Kingdom Travel This bilingual outfit arranges domestic and business air tickets, family vacation packages and weekend escapes. Suite 601, Bldg A, SOHO Shangdu, 8 Dongdaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (5870 0033, fit@kingdomtravel. com.cn) www.kingdomtravel.com.cn 中侨国 旅, 朝阳区东大桥路8号尚都国际中心A座601 Newman Tours (138 1777 0229, info@ newmantours.com) www.newmantours. com Sunflower Travel 22D, Bldg B, Ginza Mall, 48 Dongzhimenwai Dajie(8447 6361, tours@sunflowertravel-cn.com, www.sunflowertravel-cn.com, Dongcheng District. (8447 6361) 东城区东直门外大街48 号东方银座B座22D) Trekiz Trekiz.com is a one stop shop for all things travel. Create and book DIY travel itineraries online with Trekiz’s patented trip planner. Choose from hundreds of activities (and tours and treks and classes and cruises!) in countries and cities around the world. Book China flights and China hotels, too! Trekiz takes the headache out of travel planning with its great prices, wide selection and user-friendly interface. ((+86) 4001-873549) http://www.trekiz.com/ TUI China Travel Co. Ltd. With its extensive international network, this German-Chinese joint venture can arrange personalized tours to destinations both domestic and worldwide. Unit 921-926, Bright China Chang An Bldg, Tower 2, 7 Jianguomennei Dajie, Dongcheng District.

(8519 8800, private-tours@tui.cn) www.tui. cn 途易, 东城区建国门内大街7号光华长安大 厦2座921-926

Art Bug Singaporean art center ArtBug aims to make art accessible for everyone, with programs catering to children from ages 2-12. ArtBug focuses on nurturing a child’s creativity, communication skills, and self-confidence through the arts. The center offers courses in a wide variety of subjects, including drawing, sculpture, photography, speech and drama, and performance arts. 1) Rm 102, Unit 4, Bldg 3, Upper East Side, Chaoyang District.

(5947 2275); 2) Rm 753, Tower A, Chaowai SOHO (north of Central Park), 6 Chaowai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (5900 0270) www.artbug.com.cn 1) 朝阳区阳光上东3号楼 4单元102; 2) 朝阳区朝阳区朝外大街乙6号朝外 SOHO写字楼A座753 （新城国际北侧） Atelier Created by two French artists, Atelier is a school dedicated to the study of the visual, literary and performing arts.

The center offers high-quality courses led by professionals in their field for children, adolescents, and adults. Current courses include drawing, painting, sculpture, sewing, as well as courses in writing and theater. Atelier also offers courses specifically designed to help students who are preparing a Bachelor of Arts and/ or admission to an art school. Atelier courses are taught in French and English; courses taught in Chinese will be offered in the near future. Rm 202, Building C, Jinxiu Yuan, Xingfucun Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (6416 1614, 132 4018 4908, atelier@atelier.cn.com) www.atelier.cn.com 啊特黎尔, 朝阳区朝阳区幸福村中路锦绣园C 楼202室 UCCA Creative Studio This art center brings a fresh family element to 798. It offers daily classes to young artists ages 2-11, with the goal to not only teach them art but also give them the confidence to approach problems creatively. UCCA, 798 Art District, 4 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (5780 0202/03) www.creativestudio.cn 朝阳区酒仙桥路4号798艺术区

Arts & Crafts JOP Pottery Daily 10.30am-4.30pm. 17 Shuipo Village, Gaoliying Town, Shunyi District. (5145 0754, joppottery@163.com) www.joppottery.com 拙朴, 顺义区高丽营镇 水坡村17号

Home & Relocation Guide 2014

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Directories

The Wellness Spa by Hummingbird Hummingbird Therapeutic Retreat’s second branch. The Wellness Spa’s facilities are twice as big as they are at the original location, boasting a 32 customer capacity, a custom-made Ayurvedic massage bed and Hummingbird’s first-ever VIP suite.

1) Park Avenue, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6530 6042); 2) Bldg 26, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District. (6533 6922) www. hummingbird.net.cn 1) 朝阳区朝阳公园南路 6号公园大道; 2) 朝阳区朝阳门外大街6号新城 国际26号楼

Supermarkets

Fun Stuff Cinemas Mega Box One of the more popular cinemas in Beijing, Mega Box screens both the latest Hollywood blockbusters and Chinese films.

For RMB 20 per year, their membership program is well worth it. Non-members pay RMB 80 for regular tickets and RMB 120 for 3D tickets. With the discount, members get 50 percent off on weekdays and 30 percent off on weekends and holidays. 1) B1/F, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 6118); 2) 3/F, Area C, Zhongguancun Mall (West of Dinghao Mall), Haidian District. (5986 3777) www. imegabox.com 美嘉欢乐影城, 1) 朝阳区三里 屯路19号三里屯Village南区地下1层; 2) 海淀区 中关村广场购物中心C区三层（鼎好西侧） Saga Cinema SA-42, Solana, 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5905 6868) www.sagacinema.com 传奇时代影城, 朝阳区朝阳公园路6号蓝色港湾商业区SA-42

Museums & Education China Science and Technology Museum Mammoth 48,000 sqm facility features five themed exhibition rooms (the Children’s Science Paradise, The Glory of China, Exploration and Discovery, Science, Technology and Life and Challenges and the Future) and an array of hands-on scientific exhibitions, a science playground and displays of Chinese exhibitions. Also boasts four state-of-the-art “4D” and 3D cinemas, and an array of dining options. Tue-Sun 9am-4.30pm, extended hours for special events (ticket selling 8.30am- 3.30pm). 5 Beichen Donglu (ten minutes east of the south gate of the Olympic Forest Park), Chaoyang District. (5904 1188) www.cstm. org.cn 中国科技馆, 朝阳区朝阳区北辰东路5号

Parks & Gardens Beihai Park This park is a good example of a classic Yuan dynasty imperial garden and has the benefit of being good to visit in all seasons. Ticket: RMB 10 (April-Oct); RMB 5 (Nov-March). Half-price for students. Daily 6.30am-8pm (Nov-March); 6am-9pm (April, May, Sept, Oct); 6am-10pm (June-Aug). 1 Wenjin Jie, Xicheng District. (6403 1102) www.beihaipark.com.cn 北海公园, 西城区 文津街1号

Directories

Chaoyang Park Kitschy but fun. Kids can kick or throw a ball on the big grass field near the entrance, and the concrete podiums beyond are tree-free kite flying zones.

There’s lots of room to stroll, a range of boating options, a handsome merry-go-round and many rides including a roller coaster, flying dinosaurs, bumper cars, sky swings and several large inflatable castles. On top of all this, Sony ExploraScience is also located in the park. The outdoor pool is a great place to while away a summer afternoon and winters see a makeshift ski slope go up near the west gate – thrill seekers can rent skis and inter tubes onsite. The delightful northwestern section of the park includes a lake, flower beds and grassy expanses where families can enjoy a picnic. RMB 5, RMB 2.5 (students), free for kids under 1.2m. Daily 6am-10pm (last entry at 9pm). 1 Nongzhan Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6506 5409) www. sun-park.com 朝阳公园, 朝阳区农展馆南路1号 Olympic Forest Park Beijing’s Olympic Forest Park is a large, man-made nature park at the north end of the Olympic Green.

Built for the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics, the park is oval in shape and features lake Wa Biancun in the center. The park features many walking and jogging paths.

Several small islands in the lake are linked by bridges. The southeast end of the lake has a handful of carnival rides for children.

The south gate of Olympic Forest Park is accessible through South Gate of Forest Park station (森林公园南门) on Line 8.

Daily 6am-8pm (summer), daily 7am-7pm (winter).. 15 Beichen Donglu, Chaoyang

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District. (Southern Garden: 6452 9060, Northern Garden: 6452 9090) 奥林匹克森林 公园, 朝阳区朝阳区北辰东路15号‎ Ritan Park The CBD’s “lungs,” Ritan Park packs a surprising amount of child-friendly stuff into a limited space: the playground area includes an inflatable playhouse, large trampolines, a mechanical bull, a merrygo-round with Technicolor unicorns and an infrequently washed indoor playhouse.

Other attractions include the fishing pond, climbing wall and mini-golf – the latter attracts few customers, so don’t worry about triple-bogeying each hole. The altar is a great place to watch weathered gentlemen fly kites. If you need a snack, Schindler’s Filling Station, the Stone Boat Bar and Xiheyaju all have terraces opening onto the park. Free. Daily 6am-8pm (summer), daily 6.30am-8pm (winter). 6 Ritan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (8561 6301) 日坛公园, 朝阳区日坛北路6号 Tuanjiehu Park Tuanjiehu is home to downtown Beijing’s best and most hygieneconscious water park, which is great fun on weekdays but crowded on weekends.

Tuanjiehu also features a roller-skating park, several rides and boats. Beach: RMB 20, RMB 15 (kids). Pleasure boats: RMB 30-60/ hr, RMB 50-100 (deposit). Roller-skating: RMB 5 (entrance), RMB 10 (skate rental).

Daily 10am-9pm. 16 Tuanjiehu Nanli, Chaoyang District. (8597 4677) 团结湖公园, 朝阳区团结湖南里16号

Play Centers Fundazzle This cavernous, indoor playground has a huge two-story jungle gym, trampolines and a toddler area with small cars, swings, seesaws, toy houses and so on. On weekends, counselors put on shows, lead the kids in song and dance, and teach arts and crafts. RMB 50/ child (weekend or weekday), three-hour limit. RMB 15/adult (weekends), free on weekdays. Mon-Fri 9am-5.30pm, Sat-Sun and holidays 9am-7pm. Gongti Nanlu, Chaoyang District. (6593 6208) 翻斗乐, 朝 阳区工体南路 Kerry Adventure Zone The Kerry Hotel’s new play center features top-of-the-line vertical drop slides, swinging ropes, ball pools, a tree house, tiny town and birthday party theme areas. RMB 5,000 for half-year memberships and RMB 7,500 for a full year.

Mon-Fri 10am-9pm, Sat-Sun 9am-10pm.

3/F, in the Kerry Sports Center, Kerry Hotel, 1 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6561 3388) http://www.beijingkerrycentre.com/ adventure_zone.html 朝阳区朝阳区光华路1号 北京嘉里中心饭店3层 The New City Center The New City Center has a coffee shop with a closed in playroom that includes a ball pit and slide. Programs available for all ages, including “Mommy and Me”, Phonics, Math and Art Classes as well as language lessons for adults. It also offers services including food, games and access to the playroom for birthday parties.

A conference room is available to be rented.

Mon-Sat 9am-5pm. 112, Lize Xiyuan, Guangshun Beidajie, Wangjing, Chaoyang District. (6475 1066, info@thenewcitycenter. com) www.thenewcitycenter.com 朝阳区望京 广顺北大街丽泽西园112号

Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6461 6283, jac@ oliviasplace.org) www.oliviasplace.org 胡宝小 屋, 朝阳区东四环北路10号瞰都国际2号楼19－05 室 (东风北桥东北角） Side by Side Side by Side provides support for individuals with special needs and learning difficulties through music therapy, learning support, and a daytime special education program. Side by Side’s team members are fully qualified and experienced professionals who conduct services in English. Music therapy is also available in German. We also offer community support such as workshops for schools, community groups, parents and other members of the community, arranging vocational training within the community, support with life skills such as basic finances, shopping, cooking, personal hygiene or social skills, support with parenting skills, advocacy, family and school support with transition and/or behaviour issues, support for those dealing with a new diagnosis and work experience for high school students or new graduates. We also provide support with finding organizations and professionals to assist in the development, diagnosis and assessment of children with special needs, or suspected special needs. Mon-Fri 8am-6pm (after hours by appointment). Capital Paradise 3336, Shunyi Distrcict, Shunyi District. (8046 3858, info@sidebysidebeijing.com) www. sidebysidebeijing.com 顺义区后沙浴名都园 3336号 The Learning Center (TLC) The Learning Center opened in 2004 to meet the specific educational needs of local and expatriate students in Beijing. It aims to address the individual challenges of each student by offering a nurturing environment with small classes or 1:1 tutoring, and experienced, specialized teachers who design tailor-made programs. By helping them realize their academic potential, The Learning Center cultivates not only students’ skills but also their confidence and self-esteem. So far, TLC has worked with over 2,000 students in Beijing. As the only professional tutoring service in Beijing, TLC prides itself on helping students of all ages and levels find the support they need in the subjects they need. Services are targeted to ages 5 to 18. Parenting programs are also available, including adult education and child development workshops.

TLC tutors are native English-speaking professional educators with an understanding of international school curricula across Beijing.

Mon-Fri 10am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm.

Gahood Villa 2108 (next to Yosemite and Capital Paradise), Houshayu, Shunyi District.

(8046 3886/7085, registration@hydeeducation.com) www.thelearningcenter.cn 顺 义区后沙峪嘉浩别墅2108(新国展与ISB之间)

Language Schools

Schools Educational Services Eliott’s Corner A therapy center, offering speechtherapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy for children from 0-12 years of age. Experienced therapists work with children, helping a wide range ofissues - from communication and articulation to handwriting to balance and coordination. Eliott’s Corner is a division of Olivia’s Place, Shanghai’s premier pediatric therapy clinic. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm. Rm 19-05, Block 2, Condo 360, 10 Dongsihuan

Home & Relocation Guide 2014

Beijing Mandarin School Established in 1998, Beijing Mandarin School is one of Beijing’s best-known institutes for learning spoken and written Mandarin as a second language. The school has thousands of students from over 50 countries and more than 70 companies and embassies. The curriculum has students speaking 60 percent of the time in class. Features include group classes split by level beginning monthly (starting from RMB 33/hour), private classes

starting any time, custom-made study plans (including textbooks, schedule, and teachers), and free lessons every Tuesday and Thursday (1-3pm, RSVP needed). There’s also a Chinese summer camp for ages 3-18 that runs from June to August (call for more info). Show this magazine to get 10% off classes. Visa and accommodation services available. Call for a free one-hour trial lesson. 1) Rm 709, 7/F, Guangming Hotel (near US Embassy), 42 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. Skype ID: beijingmandarinschool1998 (8441 8391, info@beijingmandarinschool.com); 2) Rm 904-905, 9/F, E-Tower Bldg, 12 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6508 1026/1126) www. beijingmandarinschool.com 北京普通话学校, 1) 朝阳区亮马桥路42号光明饭店7层709室; 2) 朝 阳区光华路12号数码01大厦9层904-905室

Schools School fees listed are for one academic year unless otherwise. Specified.Abbreviations: IB = International Baccalaureate; ESOL = English as a Second or Other Language 3e International School Founded in 2005, 3e International School has grown into an institution of over 200 studentsfrom Nursery to Grade 4. The school aims to develop critical thinkers through a specially-developed, research-based curriculum. Classes are taught inEnglish and Chinese with half of the day devoted to each language. Within this inquiry-based program, a balance of child-initiated and teacher-directed activity is provided to supportchildren’s development across the entire curriculum. Age range: 2-10.

Tuition fees (2014-2015 academic year): RMB 108,300 (Half-day Nursery); RMB 113,300 (Full-day Nursery); RMB 149,400 (Pre-K); RMB 153,500 (Kindergarten); RMB 164,500 (Grades 1-4) 9-1 Jiangtai Xilu, Chaoyang District.

(6437 3344 ext 100, admissions@3einternatio nalschool.org) www.3einternationalschool.org 3e国际学校, 朝阳区将台西路9-1号 AnRic Little Montessori Room (AnRic LMR) AnRic LMR is a full international member school of the American Montessori Society. The multicultural classroom aims to help children develop into self-directed learners, flexible thinkers, creative problem solvers, empathetic citizens and resilient individuals. The school offers a fully bilingual curriculum so that children are immersed in an environment where both English and Chinese are consistently used all day. Children learn in a warm, close-knit environment maintained by a low student to teacher ratio. Special needs children are welcome and evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Age range: 1.5–6 years 2014-2015 Tuition Fees: RMB78,800/year (half-day), RMB 92,800/year (full day) Global Trade Mansion, 9 Guanghua Lu, Chaoyang District. (6591 8169, admissions@anricedu. com) www.anricedu.com 安杨蒙台梭利小屋, 朝阳区光华路9号安杨蒙台梭利小屋 Beanstalk International Bilingual School (BIBS) Over the past 20 years, BIBS has grown from one campus to four and from a kindergarten-only curriculum to a fullfledged K-12 school. Students represent 36 countries and local Chinese students are also accepted. BIBS’ curriculum combines Eastern and Western educational philosophies. The nutritionist-approved lunch men includes vegetarian, Muslim, Chinese and Western options made with organic produce. Age range: 2-18. Tuition fees (2012-2013 academic year): 1) 21st Century Kindergarten: RMB 1,600 (application fee), RMB 78,000/ year (half day), 100,000/year (full day); 2) Wanda Kindergarten: RMB 1,200 (application fee); RMB 55,000/year (full day); 3) Primary School: RMB 1,600 (application fee), RMB 30,000 (capital levy fee); RMB 100,000/ year (reception class); RMB 135,000/year (Grades 1-6); 4) Senior School: RMB 1,600 (application fee), RMB 30,000 (capital levy fee), RMB 135,000/year (Grades 7-12) 1) Primary School: Area 2, Upper East Side, 6 Dongsihuan Beilu, Chaoyang District. (5130 7951, 21s Century Kindergarten: bikoffice@

Schools bibs.com.cn, Primary School: office@bibs. com.cn, Wanda Kindergarten: bbkoffice@ bibs.com.cn, Senior School: senioroffice@ bibs.com.cn); 2) Senior School: 38 Nan Shiliju, Chaoyang District. (8456 6019, 21s Century Kindergarten: bikoffice@bibs.com. cn, Primary School: office@bibs.com.cn, Wanda Kindergarten: bbkoffice@bibs.com. cn, Senior School: senioroffice@bibs.com.cn); 3) 21st Century Kindergarten: 1/F, Bldg B, 40 Liangmaq Qiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6466 9255, 21s Century Kindergarten: bikoffice@ bibs.com.cn, Primary School: office@bibs.com. cn, Wanda Kindergarten: bbkoffice@bibs.com. cn, Senior School: senioroffice@bibs.com.cn); 4) Wanda Kindergarten: Bldg 7, Wanda Plaza, 93 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (5960 3887, 21s Century Kindergarten: bikoffice@bibs. com.cn, Primary School: office@bibs.com.cn, Wanda Kindergarten: bbkoffice@bibs.com. cn, Senior School: senioroffice@bibs.com.cn) www.bibs.com.cn 青苗国际双语学校, 1) 朝阳 区东四环北路6号阳光上东二区; 2) 朝阳区南十 里居38号; 3) 朝阳区亮马桥路40号B座1层; 4) 朝 阳区建国路93号万达广场7号楼 Beijing BISS International School (BISS) With a diverse student body, Beijing BISS International School’s mission is to foster international relationships to educate and empower students to attain personal excellence and positively impact the world.

BISS offers the IB Diploma Program, serves as an SAT Test Center, caters to children with learning needs, and offers counseling, student enrichment programs, universitysearches, and transitional education services to thirdculture kids and their parents. Age range: 3-17. Tuition fees (2012-2013 Academic Year): RMB 18,000-23,000 (refundable deposit); RMB 3,800 (registration); RMB 99,000 (Kindergarten); RMB 146,400-177,500 (Grades 1-12); RMB 20,000 (ESOL) Bldg 17, Area 4, Anzhen Xili, Chaoyang District. (6443 3151, admissions@biss.com.cn) www.biss.com.cn 北 京BISS国际学校, 朝阳区安贞西里四区17号楼 Beijing City International School (BCIS) The school motto of BCIS is “Empowering and inspiring throughchallenge and compassion.”

This non-profit, independent co-educational day school is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Western Associationof Schools and Colleges (WASC).

BCIS offers an international curriculum for Nursery through Grade 12 students under the International Baccalaureate (IB) World School system and isauthorized to teach all three IB programs (Primary Years, Middle Years and Diploma). The campus culture is characterized by a warm and inclusive nature and an emphasis on personalized rigorousacademic inquiry through the extensive use of information technology in the classroom. Age range: 3-18. Tuition fees (2012-2013 Academic Year): RMB 2,000 (registration fee); RMB 5,000 (new student fee); RMB 132,600 (Nursery); RMB 144,500 (Pre-K); RMB 154,000 (Kindergarten); RMB 186,300 (Grade 1-2); RMB 188,700 (Grade 3-5); RMB 195,300 (Grade 6-8); RMB 199,100 (Grade 9-10); RMB 206,600 (Grade 11-12) 77 Baiziwan Nan Er Lu, Chaoyang District. (8771 7171, admissions@bcis.cn) www.bcis.cn 北京 乐成国际学校, 朝阳区百子湾南二路77号

Beijing Huijia Private (IB) School Beijing Huijia Private (IB) School is comprised of a kindergarten, primary school, junior high school and senior high school. It is a day and boarding school where Chinese and foreign students study together, and it is the first member school of the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO) in China that admits Chinese students. With a mix of Chinese and foreign students (from 15 countries) and more than 500 Chinese and foreign teachers and staff, it is one of the largest private schools in Beijing. Age range: 3-18. Tuition fees (2013-2014 Academic Year): RMB 1,000 (application fee); RMB 20,000 (deposit); RMB 146,600/year (Grade 1-2); RMB 148,200/year (Grade 3-4); RMB 152,500/year (Grade 5-6) 157 Changping Lu, Changping District. (400 889 1993, admissions@huijiaedu.org) www.huijiaedu.org 北京汇佳私立学校, 昌平区昌平路157号 Beijing International Bilingual Academy (BIBA) Founded in 2006, we comprise of Kindergarten, Elementary, Middle and High Schools and located in Shunyi about 5 minutes from Europlaza. BIBA follows an international US standards based curriculum, but also incorporates strong Chinese language and mathematics programs. While it’s KG Department is 50%/50% bilingual, the percentage of English instructional time increases as students progress up the grade levels. BIBA is also passionate about education of the “whole child” via a wide array of sporting, music and performing arts programs.

A sibling discount of 20% applies for second and subsequent children. Age range: 2.5 – 15.

Tuition Fees 2013-14: Application Fee – 1600 RMB. Capital Levy KG – 10,000 RMB, ES, MS & HS – 20,000 RMB. Fees per year: Pre-K – 70,000 RMB, Reception – 80,000 RMB, G1-G5 - 120,000 RMB, G6-8 - 130,000 RMB, G9-10 – 140,000 RMB. Monet Garden, 5 Yumin Dajie, Houshayu, Shunyi District. (8041 0390, info@ bibachina.org) www.bibachina.org 海嘉国际双 语学校, 顺义区后沙峪裕民大街5号 Beijing World Youth Academy (BWYA) Beijing World Youth Academy is an IB World School offering both English and bilingual (Chinese/English) programs for local and overseas students. BWYA values holistic education and inquiry-based learning, and offers students opportunity to develop as globally aware critical thinkers. The faculty hails from over 15 countries. BWYA emphasizes creativity and teamwork using a curriculum that incorporates standards from North America, Europe and Asia. The school has a strong track record of preparing students for top universities around the world, including Harvard, Princeton, UC Berkeley and Stanford. Age range: 6 – 18Tuition fees (2014– 2015Academic Year) Application fee: 1,800 Capital Levy fee: 30,000 New Student fee: 2,500 International Primary School (Grade 1-5):120,000IB Middle Year Programme (Grade 6-9): 140,000 IB Middle Year Programme (Grade 10): 160,000IB Diploma Programme (Grade 11–12): 160,000 18 Huajiadi Beili, Chaoyang District.

(6461 7787, admissions@ibwya.net) www. ibwya.net 北京世青国际学校, 朝阳区花家地 北里18号 Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB) Opened in September 2006, CISB offers a Montessori Nursery and PreKindergarten program, as well as a Canadianstyle curriculum for K-12 students. CISB is a three-program IB World School: IB Primary Years Program, IB Middle Years Program and the IB Diploma Program. The student body currently represents over 60 nationalities and has the capacity for 1400 students. Age range: 18 months to 18 years. Tuition fees (2013-2014 Academic Year): RMB1,800 (Application Fee); RMB76,600 (Half-Day Montessori Nursery); RMB121,800 (PreKindergarten & Kindergarten); RMB158,800 (Grade 1-5); RMB160,400 (Grade 6-8); RMB179,800 (Grade 9-12) 38 Liangma Qiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (6465 7788, admissions@cis-beijing.com) www.cisb.com. cn 北京加拿大国际学校, 朝阳区亮马桥路38号 Daystar Academy Daystar Academy, a Kindergarten-Grade 6 school, offers a balance of Montessori-based English education and the Chinese National Curriculum. Students spend half of their day in each language environment. As part of their curriculum, they are developingan integrated, capabilitiesbased character education program that unites all areas of the school and community.

This approach connects two cultures and implements the strongest attributes of both Western and Eastern teaching methodologies.

Sibling discounts availabe. Age range: 3-12.

Tuition fees (2013-2014 Academic Year): RMB 105,000 (Kindergarten full day); RMB 57,000 (half-day, for 3-year-olds only); RMB95,000 (3 years old); RMB 105,000 (4-5 years old) RMB 110,000 (Elementary, Grade 1-6); RMB 10,000-30,000 (additional one-time entry fee) 2 Shunbai Lu, Chaoyang District. (8430 2654 ext 8009 or 5603 9446 (Heather Zhao in Admissions), heatherz@daystarchina.cn) www.daystarchina.cn 启明星双语学校, 朝阳 区顺白路2号 Dulwich College Beijing (DCB) Dulwich College first opened its doors to students in Beijing in August of 2005. Since then, the school has grown to include approximately 1,400 students ranging in age from 12 months to 18 years. DCB is a 21st-century school that couples outstanding ICT facilities with a modern approach. The school features a one-to-one laptop policy for students in Year 8 and above and utilizes a Virtual Learning Environment for the entire faculty. DCB is accredited by the Council of International Schools and Western Association of School and Colleges, and was named International School of the Year in 2011. The school aims to provide students with a well-rounded environment to grow, develop, and learn in. Ages: 12 months – 18 years. Application Fee: RMB 2000 – non-refundable; Placement Deposit: RMB 18,000 – refundable subject to terms and conditions; Early Years: RMB 66,200-168,000; Grades 1-12: RMB 168,000219,200 1) Legend Garden Campus and Legend Early Years Campus: Legend Garden Villas, 89 Capital Airport Road, Shunyi District.

(6454 9000, info@dulwich-beijing.cn); 2) Beijing Riviera Campus: 1 Xiangjiang Beilu, Jingshun Lu, Chaoyang District. (8450 7676, info@dulwich-beijing.cn) www.dulwich-beijing. cn 北京德威英国国际学校, 1) 顺义区机场路 89号丽京花园; 2) 朝阳区京顺路香江北路1号 香江花园 Harrow International School Beijing Harrow International School Beijing prides itself on high academic standards that are maintained within a close-knit school community. All students are assigned a personal tutor who looks after their overall welfare and serves as a liaison between school and home. High academic standards and leadership skills are promoted school-wide, with a range of enrichment activities to help students develop teamwork and creative thinking skills, as well as independence and

responsibility. Graduates from Harrow Beijing have been accepted at universities across the world, including Oxford, Cambridge, and Princeton.Harrow Beijing follows the National Curriculum of England and Wales, culminating in the General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE and IGCSE’s), and A Levels.

Its curriculum is fully accredited by all British Examination Authorities and it is an accredited SAT center. Harrow Beijing is also a member of the Council of International Schools (CIS) and, like all Harrow International Schools, undergoes regular accreditation visits by CIS and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) in the US. Harrow Beijing is also a member of the Federation of British International Schools in Southeast Asia and East Asia (FOBISSEA), which enables students to collaborate in music and sports with other schools across Southeast Asia.Age Range: 9 weeks-18. Tuition Fees (2012-2013 Academic Year): Nursery: RMB 119,800; Reception: RMB 149,300; Years 1-2: RMB 177,700; Years 3-6: RMB 189,100; Years 7-9: RMB 207,600; Years 10-11: RMB 217,600; Years 12-13: RMB 231,700. 287 Hegezhuang Village, Cuigezhuang County, Chaoyang District. (6444 8900, enquiries@harrowbeijing. cn) www.harrowbeijing.cn 北京哈罗英国学校, 朝阳区崔各庄乡何各庄村287号 House of Knowledge International Kindergarten (HoK) House of Knowledge (HoK) boasts a unique curriculum that includes aspects of Montessori and Reggio Emilia, with special emphasis placed on the latter approach. Students are treated as competent learners with boundless potential.

With this in mind, the curriculum helps kids acquire critical thinking and collaboration skills by teaching them how to “learn to learn” in a multilingual environment (English, German, Chinese). Age range: 10 months to 6 years.

Tuition fees (2013-2014 Academic Year): RMB 2,000 (registration fee); RMB 5,000-15,000 (refundable deposit based on withdrawal policy); RMB 66,780-136,680 (school fees based on choice of program). 1) Quanfa Campus: North gate of Quanfa compound, 15 Maquanying, Chaoyang District. (6431 8452, info@hokschools.com); 2) Victoria Gardens Campus: 15 Chaoyang Gongyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (6538 2624, info@ hokschools.com) www.hokschools.com 好思 之家国际幼儿园, 1) 朝阳区马泉营15号泉发花 园北门; 2) 朝阳区朝阳公园西路15号维多利亚 花园公寓 The International Montessori School of Beijing (MSB) As the first and only fullyregistered international Montessori school in Beijing, MSB has been serving the city’s expatriate children since 1990. During that time, it has earned a glowing reputation for its steady commitment to the growth, education, and well-being of its pupils. The school is both an affiliate member of the American Montessori Society(AMS), which upholds the MACTE Montessori education standards on an international level, and the International Montessori Teaching Institute, which provides ongoing training to all of MSB’s lead teachers and teaching assistants. In August 2012, the school expanded its Riviera campus to cover all of its pre-kindergarten through elementary programs, and counts spacious classrooms, an indoor pool, and a multi-purpose auditorium among its facilities. Parents, in particular, are fond of the campus’s twoCoffee Stops, where they can mingle with a cup of coffee and a freshly-baked treat, courtesy of the school’s dedicated parent association. Age range: 1-12.

Tuition fees (2012 Academic Year): 3 Day Toddler (Age 1): RMB 41,000; 5 Day Toddler (Age 1): RMB 65,000; Morning Nursery (Age 2): RMB91,000; Full-day Nursery (Age 2): RMB 135,000; Morning Kindergarten (Ages 3-4): RMB 95,000; Full-day Kindergarten (Ages 3-4): RMB 140,000; Reception (Age 5): RMB 157,000; Elementary (Ages 6-12): RMB 163,000. Bldg 8, 2 Xiangjiang Beilu, Chaoyang District. (6432 8228, admissions@msb.edu.cn) www.msb.edu.cn 北京蒙台梭利国际学校, 朝阳 区朝阳区香江北路2号院8号楼

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Directories

Beijing Huijia Kindergarten Part of a nationwide chain, Huijia Kindergarten has 17 campuses and early childhood centers around Beijing. The curriculum combines advanced international educational ideas, modern teaching methods and Chinese traditional culture and focuses on nurturing children to become international citizens.

The coursework, which emphasizes basic concepts, skills, knowledge, attitudes and behaviors, is designed to help students become “lifelong learners” and take responsibility for themselves, their studies others.Age range: 1.5-6 years old. Tuition fees (2010-2011 academic year): Huijia Longwan Experiential Early Childhood Education Center - RMB 72,000/year; Huijia Central Park Experiential Early Childhood Education Center - RMB 72,000/year; Tuition for other

centers vary from RMB 25,000-72,000/year (contact school administration for details) 1) Shangdi MOMA campus: MOMA, Anning Zhuang, Haidian District, Haidian District.

(8275 9510 / 8274 1391, hjkids@263.net); 2) Changping campus: Huijia Vocational College, 20 Chuangxin Road, Zhongguancun Kejiyuan, Changping District, Changping District. (5163 1603, hjkids@263.net); 3) Sanyuan Qiao campus: 6 Jing’an Dongli, Chaoyang District, Chaoyang District. (6463 5251, hjkids@263. net); 4) Wanquan campus: 35 Xinxin Jiayuan, Wanquanyuan, Bagou nanlu, Haidian District, Haidian District. (8255 1751, hjkids@263.net); 5) CBD campus: 24 Xincheng International Apartment, 6 Chaowai Dajie (6597 9358), Chaoyang District. (6597 9358, hjkids@263. net) www.hjkids.com 汇佳幼儿园, 1) 海淀区安 宁庄上地MOMA小区; 2) 昌平区中关村科技园创 新路20号汇佳职业学院内; 3) 朝阳区静安东里6 号; 4) 海淀区巴沟南路35号小区万泉新新家园; 5) 朝阳区朝外大街6号新城国际公寓24号楼

Shopping International Montessori Teaching Institute (IMTI) The International Montessori Teaching Institute ( IMTI ) provides training for new and experienced teachers. The Early Childhood Montessori Teacher training course is designed for teaching 2 and a half to 6 year olds and is affiliated with the American Montessori Society ( AMS ) with accreditation by MACTE, therefore it is an internationally recognized qualification. We offer a flexible year-round training schedule designed with Adult learners in mind. It is delivered with Chinese/ English bilingual synchronous translations and includes English or Chinese manuals.

Our training facilities are well equipped with Montessori materials to ensure ‘hands on’ experience is delivered. IMTI offers a suite of Professional Development workshops to increase the knowledge and skills of teachers and parents. They include Art, Music and Movement , Infant and Toddlers, Preparing for Chinese New Year and Designing Classroom materials just to new a few. 688 Glory Palace, No.2 Shunfu Road, Renhe Town, Shunyi District. (8949 6877 ext 288, snowzhang@ imti-china.com) www.imti-china.com 蒙台梭 利教学法国际交流中心, 顺义区仁和镇顺福路2 号御墅688号 International School of Beijing (ISB) Building on its 33-year tradition of academic excellence, ISB is embracing the challenges and rewards of the future of education.

Through a tailored, connected, real-world curriculum known as Learning21@ISB, the experienced and passionate teachers provide students with opportunities to grow as individuals, scholars, and contributing members of the community. The school’s curriculum and culture are grounded in the core values of global-mindedness, integrity, respect, balance, creativity, and service. ISB has superior facilities and offers opportunities in sports, service, and the arts. In the school’s welcoming community, students find a balance of rigorous academics and enriching personal growth. Tuition fees (2013-2014 academic year): RMB 75,860 (EC3 half day); RMB 138,710 (EC4 full day); RMB 162,560 (K-Grade 5); RMB 174,430 (Grade 6-8); RMB 191,840 (Grade 9-12). Application fees and capital levy fees also apply. 10 Anhua Jie, Shunyi District. (5149 2345, admission@isb. bj.edu.cn) www.isb.bj.edu.cn 北京顺义国际学 校, 顺义区安华街10号

Directories

Ivy Academy Ivy Academy is a pre-school and kindergarten created in collaboration with the Harvard Graduate School of Education Researchers that accepts students of ages two through six. The school offers an English speaking environment taught by a team of highly qualified early childhood educators who customizes the Multiple Intelligences theory influenced curriculum according to the children’s interests. Age range: 2-6 years old. Website: www.ivyschools.com. 1) Central Park Campus: Bldg 24, Central Park, 6 Chaoyangmen Waidajie, Chaoyang District.

(5738 4599, East Lake Villas Campus: Infoel@ivyschools.com, Central Park Campus: Info-CP@ivyschools.com); 2) East Lake Villas Campus: Rm C101, East Lake Villas, 35 Dongzhimen Waidajie, Dongcheng District.

(8451 1380, East Lake Villas Campus: Infoel@ivyschools.com, Central Park Campus: Info-CP@ivyschools.com) www.ivyschools. com 艾毅国际幼儿园, 1) 朝阳区新城国际校 园：大街6号新城国际公寓24号楼; 2) 东城区东 湖校园：东直门外大街35号东湖别墅C座101室 Ivy Bilingual School (IBS) Ivy Bilingual School offers a curriculum based on the Multiple Intelligences theory and provides an immersion bilingual program in which both Chinese and Western teachers interact with children throughout the day. IBS’ goal is to provide children with the most current research-based practices coupled with knowledge of Chinese culture. Upon graduation, children will be comfortable speaking in both English and Chinese. Age range: 2-6. Tuition fees for Orchid Garden Campus (2013-2014 Academic Year): Deposit

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is one month tuition (non-refundable, to be credited toward tuition); Material fee RMB 1,500; Half-day RMB 5,810/month; Full day RMB 7,750/month. Tuition fees for Ocean Express Campus (2013-2014 Academic Year): Deposit is one month tuition (nonrefundable, to be credited toward tuition); Material fee RMB 1,500; Half-day RMB 6,080/ month; Full day RMB 8,100/month. 1) Orchid Garden Campus: 18 Xinjin Lu, Cuigexiang (Airport Expressway, Beigao Exit), Chaoyang District. (8439 7080, Ocean Garden Campus: info-og@ivyschool.com, Ocean Express Campus: info-OE@ivyschools.com); 2) Ocean Express Campus: Bldg E, Ocean Express, 2 Dongsanhuan Beilu (north of Kempinski), Chaoyang District. (8446 7287/6, Ocean Garden Campus: info-og@ivyschool.com, Ocean Express Campus: info-OE@ivyschools. com) www.ivyschools.com 艾毅双语幼儿园, 1) 朝阳区卓锦校园：崔各乡新锦路18号卓锦万 代; 2) 朝阳区远洋校园：东三环北路2号远洋 新干线E座 Jiade Montessori Bilingual Kindergarten Jiade Montessori Bilingual Kindergarten is located in one of the most beautiful residential compounds in the CBD area of Beijing, with convenient transportation and city parks amidst. Jiade combines Chinese culture with an international blend of English classes and an international faculty team. The vision of Jiade is to be a community in which the education of the child in its fullest sense is nurtured and the child’s potential is realized.

We emphasize the development of basic skills and the strong foundation in language, mathematics and cultural subjects which are essential for higher learning. At the same time, we foster the development of the child as a happy, responsible, motivated, confident, thinking person who is well equipped for life.

Bldg 221 Balizhuang Beili, Chaoyang District.

(8591 8288, Tinatoh@jdmotessori.com) www. jdmontessori.com 北京市朝阳区嘉德蒙台梭利双 语幼儿园, 朝阳区八里庄北里221号楼 Keystone Academy Keystone Academy will open in Shunyi District in the fall of 2014.

Keystone promises to be a unique and exciting school option for families in China – offering Chinese and American instructional techniques of inquiry-based learning, critical-thinking, and creative problem solving in a rigorous intellectual environment. The academic program will be international in scope, with a central curriculum thread that focuses on Chinese identity, language, culture, and history. Keystone will serve students grades 1 through 12, with a bilingual curriculum in the primary years and more intensive instruction in English as students progress through the program. There will be a boarding school option for Grade 7 and 8, and mandatory boarding in Grade 9-12. Houshayu Town, Shunyi District. (5825 6008, admission@ keystoneacademy.cn) www.keystoneacademy. cn 北京鼎石国际学校, 顺义区后沙峪镇 The British School of Beijing (BSB) The British School of Beijing, established in 2003, has campuses in Shunyi (primary & secondary) and Sanlitun (primary). It is the only school in Beijing approved by the UK’s Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI).

BSB offers an enhanced English National Curriculum to 1,500 expatriate students from more than 60 countries. Our Shunyi campus currently offers IGCSE and A-level examination programmes and from August 2014 will offer the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma programme. Families are eligible for a 5% discount by paying yearly tuition fees in full. Age range: 2-18. Tuition fees 2013-2014 Academic Year: RMB 1,600 (Application fee); RMB 16,000 (Security deposit, payable upon acceptance); RMB 107,286 (Pre-Nursery & Nursery mornings); RMB 160,944 (Pre-Nursery & Nursery full day); RMB 173,600 (Reception); RMB 193,217 (Year 1-2); RMB 206,273 (Year 3); RMB 209,339 (Year 4-6); RMB 227,796 (Year 7-9); RMB 234,734 (Year 10-11); RMB 246,057 (Year 12-13). 1) Sanlitun Foundation Stage: 7 Sanlitun Beixiaojie, Chaoyang District. (8532

Home & Relocation Guide 2014

5320, admissions@britishschool.org.cn); 2) Sanlitun Primary: No.5 XiLiuJie Sanlitun, Chaoyang District. (8532 3088, admissions@ britishschool.org.cn); 3) Shunyi Campus: 9 Anhua Lu (south side), Shunyi District. (8047 3558, admissions@britishschool.org.cn) www. britishschool.org.cn 北京英国学校, 1) 朝阳区 三里屯北小街7号; 2) 朝阳区三里屯西六街5号; 3) 顺义区安华路9号南院

for Excellence in Education’ from Cambridge International Examinations. Honglingjin Park, 5 Houbalizhuang, Chaoyang District. (8583 3731, enquiry@bj.ycef.com) www.ycis-bj.com 北京耀中国际学校, 朝阳区后八里庄5号红领巾 公园东门

Shopping Air Purifiers & Masks Beijing Torana Clean Air Center Air purifiers from Blueair and Alen Air, pollution masks from Totobobo. Free home assessments and delivery. 1) Daily 10am8.30pm. Unit LB09, 1/F, Europlaza Mall, Shunyi District. (8459 0785); 2) 10.30am6.30pm. Unit 308, Pinnacle Plaza, Shunyi District. (8046 1091) www.toranacleanair. com/index.html 1) 顺义区天竺镇裕翔路99号 欧陆广场LB09; 2) 顺义区天竺镇花梨坎村南“ 荣祥广场308室

Tsinghua International School (THIS) 清华大学附属中学国际部 Tsinghua International School students follow an American Curriculum program in a nurturing atmosphere. Tsinghua International School located on Tsinghua University campus, allowing students access to the university’s extensive resources and facilities, including libraries, computer labs, gymnasiums, sports fields, dance and art studios, a swimming pool, fitness center and outdoor experiential education center. Accepts students Grades 1 to 12 (ages 6-18). Grades 1-5: 119,100 RMB per year, Grades 6-8: 129,000 RMB per year, Grades 9-12: 138,000RMB. Inside Tsinghua High School Campus, Zhongguancun Beilu (northwest of Tsinghua University), Haidian District (6279 7000, 6277 1477, this@mail. tsinghua.edu.cn, http://www.this.edu.cn) 海淀 区中关村北路清华大学西北侧清华中学校园之内 Western Academy of Beijing Western Academy of Beijing is an International Baccalaureate World School that boasts a “challenging and caring educational environment in which students are active participants in the learning process.” WAB provides a learner-centered atmosphere that nurtures a strong sense of community among its 1,550 students from 55 countries, with the mission to “Connect, Inspire, Challenge: Make a Difference.” Campus facilities are extensive and include a lake and model wetlands that are the foundation of its environmental science center.Age range: 3-18 years old. Tuition fees (2010/2011 Academic Year, combined total includes capital levy and tuition): Nursery RMB 85,000; PreKindergarten RMB 141,000; Kindergarten RMB 165,000; Grades 1-5 RMB 165,000; Grades 6-8 RMB 181,000; Grades 9-10 RMB 198,000; Grades 11-12 RMB 204,000 10 Laiguangying Donglu, Chaoyang District. (5986 5588, wabinfo@wab.edu) www.wab.edu 北京京西学 校, 朝阳区来广营东路10号 Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS) Situated next to the scenic downtown Honglingjin Park since 1995, Yew Chung International School of Beijing (YCIS Beijing) is officially registered as a school for foreign nationals, providing bilingual education for students aged 2-18. YCIS Beijing adheres to the National Curriculum for England (NCE) and also integrates an extensive Chinese Language and Culture programme, featuring a unique Co-Teaching model in Kindergarten and Primary school that combines one Western teacher and one Chinese teacher in every class. Within Secondary school, Yew Chung International School of Beijing follows the IGCSE and IB programmes and is accredited

by NCCT, CIS and NEASC.YCIS Beijing has a 100 percent pass rate and 100 percent university acceptance rate to universities such as Oxbridge Universities, Princeton and MIT. YCIS is the only international school in China to have received the ‘Cambridge Award

HealthPro® Swiss Made by IQAir AG With record levels of air pollution, families need an air purifier now more than ever.

Protect your health with one of HealthPro®’s top-rated air cleaning systems. HealthPro® Swiss Made by IQAir AG promises nearperfect levels of clean air with zero loss of efficiency between filter changes. The type HyperHEPA filter technology is certified to capture 99.97% on particles down 0.3 microns, and 99.5% on particles down to 0.003 microns – 800 times smaller than PM2.5. 1) B1/F, 03A Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu, Shunyi District. (6457 1922, info@iqair-china.com); 2) Daily 10am10pm. 5/F, Household Appliance Area, Youyi Shopping City, 52 Liangmaqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (158 0136 1601, info@iqair-china. com); 3) 10am-8pm. 6/F, Parkson Plaza, 101 Fuxingmennei Dajie, Xicheng District.

(157 1286 8485, info@iqair-china.com); 4) Daily 10am-10pm. B1/F, Parkson Plaza Taiyanggong, Bldg 1, 12 Qi Sheng Zhongjie, Chaoyang District, Beijing, Chaoyang District.

(157 1286 8454, info@iqair-china.com); 5) Daily 10am-10pm. 5/F, Shin Kong Place, 87 Jianguo Lu, Chaoyang District. (5738 2401, info@iqair-china.com); 6) Daily 9am-6pm.

Rm 1801-03, Air China Plaza, 36 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District. (8447 5800, info@iqairchina.com); 7) Daily 10am-9pm. 4/F, 417 Seasons Place, 2 Jinchengfang Jie, Xicheng District. (6622 0179, info@iqair-china.com); 8) Mon-Thu 10am-9pm, Fri-Sun 10am-10pm.

B1/F, Golden Resources New Yansha Mall, 1 Yuanda Lu, Haidian District. (157 1286 9044, info@iqair-china.com); 9) 10am-10pm. B2/F, Scitech Plaza, 22 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Beijing, Chaoyang District. (188 1020 5987, info@iqair-china.com) www.iqair-china.com 1) 顺义区天竺镇裕翔路99号欧陆广场地下一层 03A; 2) 朝阳区亮马桥路52号燕莎友谊商城5层; 3) 西城区复兴门内大街101号6层百盛复兴门店 家电部; 4) 朝阳区七圣中街12号院1号楼B1百盛 太阳宫店生活家电区; 5) 朝阳区建国路87号新 光天地5层生活家电区; 6) 朝阳区霄云路36号国 航大厦1801-03室; 7) 西城区金城坊街金融街 417号四层; 8) 海淀区远大路1号金源新燕莎商 城地下1层; 9) 朝阳区建国门外大街22号赛特购 物中心地下二层 RGF Pro-active Air Purification System The RGF-DESKTOP system is small, compact, lightweight, easy to install and use in any place. PHI Cell reduces not only germs, viruses. And bacteria but also harmful gases, VOCs, odors, tobacco smoke, suspended airborne particulates as small as 0.01 mm, which are common indoor air pollutants in modern buildings and home. Many air purifiers only purify the air that passes through the device. This results in a large percentage of the room left untreated and unprotected. PHI Cell not only treats the air that passes through the device, but it also sends the friendly oxidizers into the entire room for a complete coverage. Traditional air purifiers often require regular maintenance, which results in high operational cost.

The Desktop requires no cleaning and maintenance. It consumes no more than

Sports 10W and operates with low-pressure drop.

This provides a great way to save energy for building operators and home owners. F11, North Tower, Daheng Technology Towers, 3 Suzhou Street, Haidian District. (400 818 6660, www.dahengit.com) 美国艾洁弗主 动式空气净化器, 海淀区苏州街大恒科技大厦 北座11层 Villa Lifestyles Villa Lifestyles has been serving the Beijing community for more than five years. Providing you with quality name brand products backed by great service, they have the widest selection of BBQs and accessories, the Mosquito Magnet, trampolines, IQAir air purifiers, Bissell Vacuums and more. Stop by their Shunyi showroom or visit their website to have a look at what’s new. Daily 10am-9pm. B1/F, 03A Europlaza, 99 Yuxiang Lu, Tianzhu Town, Shunyi District. (6457 1922, info@ villalifestyles.cn) www.villalifestyles.cn顺义区 天竺镇裕翔路99号欧陆广场地下1层03A Vogmask® China Vogmask is the leading anti-pollution mask available in China. Using a revolutionary microfiber filtration fabric, it filters an average of 99.978% of particulate matter (PM) – including tiny PM2.5 particles.

Vogmask meets US FDA requirements for N99 rating, meaning it outperforms standard N95 masks. Vogmask comes in sizes suitable for babies, young children, teens and adults. They require no filter changes and can be used for hundreds of hours without replacement. Vogmask designs can also be customized for businesses and schools. Rm 1801, Air China Plaza, No.36 Xiaoyun Lu, Chaoyang District. (400 650 1253, info@ vogmask.cn) www.vogmask.cn 威隔口罩, 朝 阳区霄云路36号国航大厦1801室

Bookstores Beijing Star Kids Children’s Bookstore This children’s bookstore sells a range of soft- and hard-cover English-language books from big-name publishers in the US, Canada, Australia, Italy and the UK. Kids up to age 16 should be able to find something that tickles their fancy. Francophiles will be interested in the store’s small selection of Frenchlanguage study materials. Mon-Fri 9am6pm, Sat-Sun 10am-5pm. Rm 1205, Bldg D, Xingyuan International Apartments, 222 Wangjing Xiyuan, Chaoyang District. (8472 7131) 北京市佳星孩趣儿童书店, 朝阳区朝阳区 望京西园222号星源国际公寓D座1205室 Page One This addition to Beijing’s bookstore scene offers the best selection under one roof (in art/design, food & wine, bestsellers, classics, etc.), with competitive prices for English-language material. 1) Daily 24hrs. S2, 1-2/F, Sanlitun Village South, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 6626, page1_cwtc@pageonegroup.com, page1_ indigo@pageonegroup.com); 2) Daily 10am9.30pm. B2/F, China World Summit Wing, 1 Jianguomenwai Dajie, Chaoyang District.

(8535 1055, page1_cwtc@pageonegroup. com, page1_indigo@pageonegroup.com); 3) Mon-Thu 10am-8pm, Fri-Sun 10am-10pm.

Shop 50, 1/F, Indigo Mall, 18 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8426 0408, page1_ cwtc@pageonegroup.com, page1_indigo@ pageonegroup.com) www.pageonegroup. com 叶一堂, 1) 朝阳区三里屯路19号三里屯 Village南区2楼1-2层; 2) 朝阳区建国门外大街1 号国贸商城三期地下2层; 3) 朝阳区酒仙桥路18 号颐堤港地铁层50号

Photography Studios & Services

Littleones Kids & Family Portrait Studio This Western photography studio specializes in newborn, children, family, and maternity

Mishka Family Photography This husband and wife team speak Russian, English and Chinese. Offers professional portraits, actions shots, and specializes in photographing children. 1) C3, Fuli City, Shuangjing Qiao, Chaoyang District. (maxim@mishka.pro); 2) Rm 1910, CAMEO Center, Guangshunnan Dajie, Chaoyang District. (maxim@mishka. pro) www.mishka.pro, www.mishka.cn 1) 朝 阳区双井桥富力城C3; 2) 朝阳区广顺南大街嘉 美中心1910 Moxue Zhang Photography Trained at the Hallmark Institute of Photography in the US, Moxue Zhang is a portrait photographer with a studio in Central Park. While her focus lies on children and female solo portraits, Moxue has experience with a wide range of subjects – from weddings to executive portraits – and welcomes challenging assignments. Rather than mass production, the outcome of each shoot is an individual piece of art. For onlocation shoots, Moxue is relatively flexible within or around Beijing. Appointments are best booked one month in advance to guarantee availability; walk-in clients are not accepted. (156 0056 6329, moxue@ moxuezhang.com) www.moxuezhang.com 默雪映像 PIXSTUDIO Beijing’s premier creative fine art portrait studio specializing in 100-day portraits, kids, and commercial photography.

(6500 1663) www.pixstudio.com.cn 美国大 卫儿童摄影

Shopping Centers & Malls Indigo Mall Swire Properties’ new megamall located right by 798 is home to a massive supermarket and a cinema, as well as a trendy array of popular shops (including bla bla bra, GAP) and local eateries (Blue Frog, Element Fresh). Daily 10am-10pm.

18 Jiuxianqiao Lu, Chaoyang District. (8426 0898) www.indigobeijing.com 颐堤港, 朝阳 区酒仙桥路18 Solana Located inside Chaoyang Park, Solana Lifestyle Shopping Park has a fine collection of shops, restaurants, cafes and sporting facilities. Venues include British baby shop Mothercare, the perfect place to stock up on all things related to kids, pregnancy and moms. Other highlights include Banana Leaf Thai Restaurant, Romana Ice Cream, Cold Stone Creamery, a cinema, an ice rink and much more. Daily 10am-10pm. 6 Chaoyang Gongyuan Lu, Chaoyang District. (5905 6565/68) http:// www.solana.com.cn/english/web/index. asp 蓝色港湾, 朝阳区朝阳公园路6号蓝色港湾 国际商区 Taikooli One of Beijing’s biggest expat attractions, this combination indoor/ outdoor shopping and food center is home to the Uniqlo, Adidas and Apple flagship stores, Element Fresh, Hatsune, Blue Frog, Ganges, Union Bar and Grille and more. The basement level has a Megabox cinema and toy stores. The outdoor fountain is a hit with the kids in the summer. Sanlitun Village, 19 Sanlitun Lu, Chaoyang District. (6417 6110) 三里屯太古里, 朝阳区三里屯路19号

Sports Sports Beijing Mon-Fri 10am-6pm. Lido Country Club 2/F, Holiday Inn Lido Hotel, 6 Jiang Tai Road, Chaoyang District. (6430 1370) www.sportsbj.org 朝阳区将台路6号丽 都饭店丽都乡村俱乐部2层

Bowling SMJ Bowling Club Strike! Whoever said silence is golden clearly never experienced

the 10-pin joys of SMJ Bowling Club’s 20lane alley (also known as Cosmic Bowling).

Prices vary throughout the day, but start from RMB 12/game or RMB 100/hour. Daily 6pm-2am. 3/F, Lido Hotel, 6 Jiangtai Lu, Chaoyang District. (6437 6688 ext 3801) 北 京沙明建保龄球俱乐部, 朝阳区将台路6号丽 都饭店三层

Football (Soccer) ClubFootball ClubFootball runs football coaching programs at 20+ locations across Beijing for boys and girls aged 4 to 14.

Held after school, on weekends and during holidays, courses range from fun skill development courses to competitive league teams and are taught by ClubFootball’s experienced FA-qualified soccer coaching staff. 9am-6pm. Unit A316, Door 3, Zone A1, Zhaowei Huadeng Plaza, Zhaowei Building #51, 14 Jiuxianqiao Road, Chaoyang District. (5130 6893/4/5/6, coaching@wanguoqunxing.com, activities@ wanguoqunxing.com) www.clubfootball. com.cn, www.wanguoqunxing.com 万国群星 足球俱乐部, 朝阳区万国群星办公室位于朝阳区 酒仙桥路14号兆维华灯大厦A1区3门A316，工作 时间为上午9点至下午6点。联系方式为 Jia You Football Club Jia You Football clubs offers children the opportunity to take their first steps into football. Players Jia You F.C. come from around the world and are led by FA-qualified coach Gary Saunders and his coaching team, whose have over 15 years of football experience in China. From Saturday morning toddler sessions to Sunday Youth League matches, Jia You aims to have something for every age group. Training sessions take place both during the week and on weekends at Dulwich College Beijing’s campuses.

The club also hosts football camps in Beijing over school holidays. Dulwich College Beijing (Legend Garden Campus), 89 Capital Airport Road, Shunyi District.

(6454 9019/9127, gary.saunders@dulwichbeijing.cn) www.dulwich-beijing.cn/page. cfm?p=442 顺义区机场高速路89号北京德威英 国国际学校（丽京花园校园）

Go-Karting

high mountains, ancient temples, and rural villages. Hikes are non-invasive and non-exploitative, preserving these natural sites for generations to come. Other events include cultural activities like hutong explorations, Chinese cuisine, Chinese philosophy, Tao-Te Ching, Chinese tea culture, and more (chinatravellers88@ gmail.com) http://www.chinatravellers. com/

Martial Arts Black Tiger Fight Club Founded in 2006, Black Tiger Fight Club is the only complete MMA training center that caters primarily to expats and Beijing’s international community. Facilities include fitness training equipment, martial arts and boxing gear, showers, steam room, and lockers (Xiaoyun Lu location), and an equipment shop.

With two locations in Beijing, Black Tiger Fighting Club Beijing offers martial arts and fitness classes for women, kids, teens, and adults, including Muay Thai kickboxing, Brazilian jiujitsu, wrestling, boxing, and weekend self-defense workshops. 1) 2/F, 5 Laiguanying Donglu (across from WAB, west of Lane Bridge Villa), Chaoyang District. (info@blacktigerclub.com); 2) 1/F, Park Apartments, 17 Chaoyang Gongyuan Xilu, Chaoyang District. (139 1071 2576, info@ blacktigerclub.com) www.blacktigerclub. com 1) 朝阳区莱广营东路5号2层（京西学校对 面，长岛澜桥西侧）; 2) 朝阳区朝阳公园西路 17号天安家园1层 China Baby Kung Fu Hall China Baby Kung Fu Hall combines traditional Chinese culture and martial arts. As the designated teaching base of the Chinese Wushu Association, the school has more than 100,000 students training in kung fu, sanda, taichi, and self-defence.

There are group classes (maximum of eight students), one-to-one classes, and family packages available. Rm S108B, Guangcai International Mall, 18 Gongti Xilu, Chaoyang District. (186 0098 8666 Registration, 6551 3108 or 6553 7689 Hotline, chinababykungfu@163.com) www. chinababykungfu.com 中华宝贝功夫会馆, 朝 阳区朝阳区工体西路18号光彩国际底商S108B

U-Speed Go-Karting Open year round, this giant indoor karting center offers much more than a choice between four-stroke, 160cc and 200cc go-karts.

Ideal for conferences, team building and celebrations. Mon-Fri 1pm-1am, Sat-Sun 11am-1am. 1 Siyuan Qiao, Jingshun Lu (near Beijing Marriott Hotel Northeast), Chaoyang District. (English: 186 1015 8386, Chinese: 6473 2548/6148, rockqoffroad@ yahoo.com.cn) www.u-speed.com 优速卡 丁车馆, 朝阳区四元桥1号（近北京海航大厦 万豪酒店 ）

Flips & Kicks Plus Formerly known as Beijing Sports Plus, Flips & Kicks Plus specializes in providing gymnastics and martial arts coaching to Beijing’s international community. Kids can improve their physical condition, co-ordinaton, concentration, self-esteem and confidence in a stimulating, challenging, safe and fun environment. Programs are taught in English by qualified international staff.

(Kai: 151 1021 8649, Fredrik: 183 1146 2632, info@flipsandkicksplus.com) www. flipsandkicksplus.com

Hiking

Scuba Diving

Beijing Hikers Hikes of varying difficulty in villages near Beijing. Call for info on hikes and what to bring. Prices vary for overnight hikes; weekend hikes are RMB 250/300 (adult), half price for children under 12, including round trip transport, snacks and drinks after the hike, detailed map of the hike and professional guidance.

Advance reservations necessary. RMB 200/ yr membership gets a 10% discount on regular hikes. Mon-Fri 9am-6pm. Rm 601, Bldg 2, Xinhualian Ligang, 26 Jiuxianqiao Zhonglu, Chaoyang District. (6432 2786, info@beijinghikers.com) www.beijinghikers. com 朝阳区酒仙桥中路26号新华联丽港2号 楼601室

SinoScuba Offers safe, family scuba diving services! Kids aged 10 and up Underwater activities, including swimming with dolphins and full certification courses for ages 10 and up. Classes available in Chinese and English. (186 1113 3629, steven@ sinoscuba.com) www.sinoscuba.com

China Travellers China Travellers offers a variety of walking, hiking, trekking, and camping tours on the Great Wall.

Participants step off the beaten path to witness the remote, historic and unspoiled Great Wall. The group also offers historical and ecological trips to all corners of rural Beijing. Explore the pristine beauty of

Yoga Yoga Yard Yard Vinyasa (flow) yoga classes offered daily, mornings and evenings, at various levels. offers pre- and postnatal yoga, introduction to yoga, restorative yoga, and other workshops.

Yoga books, mats and wellness products also available. Kids yoga for ages 4 and above. RMB 400 for a four-week session.

Mon-Thu 7.15am-9.30pm, Fri-Sun 7.15am8pm. Fri-Sun 7.15am-8pm. 6/F, 17 Gongti Beilu (across from the north gate of Workers’ Stadium), Chaoyang District.

(6413 0774, info@yogayard.com) www. yogayard.com 瑜珈苑, 朝阳区工体北路17号6 层工人体育场北门对面

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beijingkids 111

Directories

ELF kids Photography Daily 9.30am5.30pm. 5-2-101, 33 Shiyun Haoting, Guangqu Lu, Chaoyang District. (8776 9877, 152 0110 0176, 1824019404@qq.com) www.ielf.cn 爱儿菲亲子摄影工作室, 朝阳区广 渠路33号石韵浩庭5-2-101

photos. Photo shoots are tailored to each family. Daily 9am-6pm. Swan Bay Building 16, suite 2203, Chao Yang Bei Lu, Chaoyang District. (8577-9987, service@littleones. com.cn) www.littleones.com.cn 美国乐童万 色儿童摄影机构, 朝阳区朝阳北路天鹅湾南区 16号楼2203

Survival Chinese

Basic phrases and essential vocabulary to help you start your life in Beijing

ǐ hǎo Hello 你好 N ng ni or Good m g hǎo àn sh ǎo Z 好 早上 n Good afternoo o 下午好 Xiàwǔ hǎ g Good evenin g hǎo 晚上好 Wǎnshàn

I don’t s 我一点 peak any Ch in 儿中文 Wǒ yìdiǎ 都不会 ese nr zhōn 说 gwén dō u bú huì I speak shuō a 我只会 little Ch inese 说一点 儿中文 Wǒ zhǐ h uì shuō y zhōngw ì diǎnr én

Do you speak E nglis 你会说 英语吗 h?

Nǐ huì s huō yīng ?

Is there yǔ ma? anyone who sp eaks En 有人会 glish?

Yǒu rén 说英语吗? huì shuō yīngyǔ m a?

Directories

How much is it? ? qián 多少钱？duōshǎo

112 beijingkids

Home & Relocation Guide 2014

How are 怎么样啊？Z you? ěnmeyàng a?

I’m ok, how ab 还好，你呢？ out you?

Háihǎo, nǐ ne? pretty good 很好 hěn hǎo not ba d 不错 bú cuò just so so 一般 般/马马虎虎 yì bānbān / m ǎmǎ hūhū not good 不怎么 样 bù zěnmèyàng

on / I beg your pard at? th at pe Could you re 再说一遍 你 请 / ? 吗 能重复一遍 yí biàn ma? / Néng chóngfù yí biàn sh Qǐng nǐ zài uō

Goodbye (form al) 再见 Zàijiàn Goodbye (info rmal) 回见 Huíjiàn

Do you have … ? 你有...吗?

Nǐ yǒu…ma?

e is ...

My nam jiào ...

Wǒ 我叫... al) (inform name? énme? r u o y What’s 么？Nǐ jiào sh you 你叫什 to meet Pleased 认识你 很高兴 nsh i nǐ oxìng rè Hěn gā

I want… 我要...

I don’t w Wǒ yào … ant… 我 不要...

Wǒ bù y I have… ào 我有...

Wǒ yǒu …

I haven 我没有 ’t any… ... Wǒ méiyǒu

Who 谁 shéi When (lit: what time?) 什么时候 shénme shíhòu

What 什么？shénme How 怎么？zěnme Why 为什么？wèishénme

(1) a kids’ menu 儿童菜单 értóng càid ān (2) a booster chair 加高座椅 jiā gāo zuòyǐ (3) a baby cup 婴儿杯 yīng ér bēi (4) a play area 儿童游乐区 értóng yóulèqū (5) a non-smoking area 禁烟区 jìnyā nqū (6) a spoon 勺子 sháozi