Westerns in China

        As I mentioned earlier, a lot of westerners, both European and American live in China. Predominantly they seem to be young kids like me, either studying abroad or living there and teaching English. In both places I visited (Beijing and Nanjing) I ran into various westerners. A surprisingly large number from Northern Europe. I've met people from Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. Of course a fair number of Americans, French, and English entered the mix as well.

        I have learned that you can teach English in China for ~150-200 Yuan and hour (~7 RMB – 1 USD exchange rate). Not half bad for under the table wage. I think this accounts for the number of people in the country. In addition, living expenses are virtually non-existent. It would be very easy to live on 5 dollars a day, including drinking and partying.

        I'm seriously considering doing it after I graduate. Somehow get to China, and figure it out from there. Despite the language gap, it was surprisingly easy to get around, and I've found the Chinese to be extremely helpful when they are capable.