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Digital Nomad Guide to Shekou, China | Digital Nomad Exchange
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Digital Nomad Life in Shekou, China

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Summary: Shekou, China is a popular destination for digital nomads due to its low cost of living, convenient location, and vibrant culture. The approximate population of Shekou is around 500,000 people. The monthly cost of living for a digital nomad in Shekou is around $1,000 USD, depending on lifestyle. The cost to rent a centrally located, one-bedroom apartment with high-speed internet access in Shekou is around $500 USD per month. The best neighborhood to live in Shekou is Nanshan District, as it is close to the city center and has plenty of amenities. The weather in Shekou, China is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (10-30 Celsius).

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How do I meet people in Shekou?

When we asked people living in Shekou about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Shekou typically join a variety of meetup groups and associations, such as book clubs and outdoor activities. Many Shekou-based events and groups for expats can be found online. Expats may also find themselves socializing with those living in their neighborhoods, such as attending parties and local festivals. Additionally, many expats in Shekou have found that joining international companies or organizations such as churches and language classes have provided them with access to various networks and communities. Joining online forums related to Shekou is another great way for expats to meet people and learn about the local culture and activities," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Shekou, China.

What is life like in Shekou?

When we asked people living in Shekou what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Shekou is generally quite pleasant. The city is well-connected to the rest of the country, with easy access to public transportation and a wide variety of international restaurants and shops. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The local community is welcoming and friendly, and there are plenty of activities and events to keep expats and digital nomads entertained. With its convenient location and vibrant atmosphere, Shekou is an ideal place for expats and digital nomads to call home," said one person in Shekou.

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Where should I live in Shekou?

We asked digital nomads and expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Finding a place to live in Shekou, can be done through a variety of avenues. The most direct way is to use the services of local real estate agents. Most agents are familiar with the area and can help you find properties that meet your needs. Additionally, there are many online sites like RentFaster, 5i5j and SouFun that list available homes in Shekou. Additionally, there are many WeChat and other social groups dedicated to helping people find housing in Shekou. Lastly, you can use classified websites, such as 58 and Ganji, to search for and contact landlords who are renting properties in Shekou," said one expat who made the move to Shekou, China.

What do I need to know before moving to Shekou?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Shekou, they said:

"Before retiring in Shekou, expats should know that the cost of living is relatively low compared to other Chinese cities. Expats should also be aware that the official language used in Shekou is Mandarin Chinese, though English is also used in some commercial and expat areas. Expats should plan to get a valid work visa or residency permit in order to gain access to the public services, housing, and healthcare available in Shekou. For those retiring in Shekou, it may also be helpful to learn local customs as well as the laws, regulations, and tax rules that apply in the area," remarked one member in Shekou, China.

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What do people appreciate most about the culture in Shekou?

"Expatriates in Shekou appreciate the friendly and welcoming attitude of the locals, as well as the unique cultural customs and traditions of the city. The abundance of sightseeing and cultural attractions makes for an eye-opening and fun experience, and the locals are always willing to share information about their culture with visitors. Additionally, expats are drawn to the traditional Chinese cuisine, which is renowned for its delicious flavors and ingredients. Finally, expats enjoy the pleasant and temperate climate, which make outdoor activities and leisurely strolls a pleasure year-round," remarked one member in Shekou, China.

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Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.

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What do people find most challenging about the culture in Shekou?

"One of the most difficult aspects of Shekou life for expats to adjust to is the busy lifestyle. The pace of life can be particularly frenetic due to the large number of people living and working in the area. In addition, while Shekou is generally very accepting of foreign cultures and customs, navigating the Chinese culture and language can still be a barrier. Another challenge is the consumer culture that has arisen in recent years, as expats might feel pressure to buy the latest designer clothes or newest electronic gadgets in order to fit in. Finally, Shekou is known for its extreme weather, meaning that expats must be prepared for scorching summer heat as well as temperatures that can drop below freezing in the winter," explained one person living in Shekou, China, China.

What residency documents or visas did I need if I will be in Shekou for a while?

"If you plan to stay in Shekou for a while, you will need a valid passport and a valid China visa. Depending on the length of your stay, you may be required to apply for a Resident Permit (RP), also known as Temporary Residence Permit. Depending on your purpose for visiting China, you may need to have additional documents, such as a visa invitation from a Chinese citizen, a business visa issued by a Chinese embassy/consulate, or a work/study visa," said one person in Shekou, China.

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What cultural blunders should I try to avoid making in Shekou?

We asked people in Shekou if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. They wrote:

"It is important to remember that while Shekou is a modern port city, it is still located in mainland China, and it is important to be mindful of the local traditions. Avoid loud and disrespectful behaviour, particularly in public spaces such as parks. Take the time to research Chinese customs and avoid any behaviours that may considered offensive or disrespectful, including gesturing or pointing with the index finger or touching another person on the head; these manners are considered impolite in Chinese culture. Additionally, it is important to remove any shoes or slippers when visiting temples and other religious sites; this is a sign of respect. Lastly, when giving gifts, try to give items of practical use that do not hold any religious symbolism," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Shekou, China.

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What are healthcare services like in Shekou?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Shekou, they replied:

"Shekou offers a wide range of healthcare services to its residents. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide general medical care, as well as specialized services such as pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and mental health. Additionally, there are several pharmacies and medical supply stores in the area. Shekou also has a number of traditional Chinese medicine practitioners, as well as a few alternative medicine practitioners. The city also has a number of health and wellness centers, offering services such as massage, acupuncture, and yoga. Finally, Shekou has a number of medical research centers, which are dedicated to researching and developing new treatments and technologies," explained one digital nomad living in Shekou, China.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Shekou?

"Expats and digital nomads living in Shekou appreciate the city's convenient location, with easy access to Hong Kong and Macau. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and clubs to explore. Additionally, the city's low cost of living is attractive to many expats and digital nomads. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the language barrier and cultural differences to be challenging. Additionally, the air quality in Shekou can be poor at times, which can be a deterrent for some," remarked one member in Shekou.

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Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
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About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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