News & Announcements

Z-visa Letter of Invitation Now “Visa Notification”

The former Letter of Invitation is now apparently being referred to as the “Official Invitation Notice,” “Visa Notification,” …

Excellent Satellite TV Package For Foreigners in China

They offer three different packages, including the now defunct Dream TV, but the one that I have and …

China Mandates Preinstallation of Web Filtering Software

Effective July 1, 2009, computers manufactured and sold in China must contain a web filtering software package known …

Let Me See Your Papers!

For the most part, areas known for prostitution, drug trafficking, as well as “bar streets” and particularly night …

China News

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Is Chinese Female Preference for Western Men Just A Memory?

Is Chinese Female Preference for Western Men Just A Memory?

One anonymous 30-year-old poster on a Chinese internet forum said she had dated four foreign men, but that “while they might be more romantic and have better taste than Chinese men, they are not as good in some ways. One of my ex-boyfriends was very petty. We had to split the bill in a restaurant even after going out a long time, which rarely happens with Chinese men.”

Friendships in China

Friendships in China

For the most part, and there are exceptions, the doctrine of quid pro quo does not apply in regard to foreign teachers who are seen as “just passing through.” You were simply an “iron” that was “struck” while the opportunity was hot, i.e., you were simply exploited.

October 5, 2008 | Leave a comment | Read More »

Teaching English in China for Non-White, Non-Native Speakers

Teaching English in China for Non-White, Non-Native Speakers

My best advice is that if you are a highly qualified English teacher who also happens to be a non-native speaker and/or not white, do not waste your time even thinking about teaching oral English in China—unless you have some strong personal reason for doing so, like the Chinese-American woman I mentioned above.

December 19, 2008 | 18 Comments | Read More »

Opening Your Own School – Part Four

Opening Your Own School – Part Four

Your competition will send countless “spies” to check out your school. They’re not hard to spot—just look for the “parent” carrying a video recorder and a notebook, asking “Can you show me your school licenses, your teachers’ diplomas, and provide me with a copy of your curricula and lesson plans?”

October 7, 2008 | 2 Comments | Read More »

Op-Ed

What a Difference a Train Ride Makes in China

What a Difference a Train Ride Makes in China

The train ride to Hong Kong from Guangzhou is quite a pleasant one: just about two hours from the east train …

Feb 19, 2009 | 3 Comments | Read More »
How NOT to Apply for a Job Teaching English in China

How NOT to Apply for a Job Teaching English in China

Do NOT throw away your only chance at making a good first impression by asking if you should really …

Jan 15, 2009 | 6 Comments | Read More »
Are Foreign Teachers Who Date Their Students Unethical?

Are Foreign Teachers Who Date Their Students Unethical?

Foreign oral English teachers in China’s university system clearly exist outside the institutional, social, political, and academic mainstream. One …

Nov 1, 2008 | 10 Comments | Read More »

Other Articles & Feedback

Enough

Enough

I have a good friend back home who occasionally sends me spiritually-uplifting e-mails usually containing inspirational photos, PowerPoint …

May 5, 2009 | 1 Comment | Read More »
How China Saved My Life

How China Saved My Life

The language barrier was the worst part but not the only thing that tormented me. I hated …

Dec 30, 2008 | 7 Comments | Read More »
On Being Jewish in China During Christmas

On Being Jewish in China During Christmas

… in China, Christmas is nothing more than a day for gift giving and shopping. The holiday here …

Dec 30, 2008 | 3 Comments | Read More »
Six Years in China: Teacher, Student, Entrepreneur

Six Years in China: Teacher, Student, Entrepreneur

What a fascinating country China is and being a part of the fervor and progress is what makes …

Sep 29, 2008 | No comment | Read More »
Dating Etiquette, Relationships and Sex in China

Dating Etiquette, Relationships and Sex in China

Much to your surprise, and, paradoxically perhaps (in light of the relative importance of virginity at marriage), you …

Jul 29, 2008 | No comment | Read More »
What Are Chinese Girls Really Looking For in a Man?

What Are Chinese Girls Really Looking For in a Man?

… overall physical appearance is simply not considered a very important factor for women in mate selection in …

Jul 29, 2008 | No comment | Read More »