Written by Vanessa Mckinney
So, you’re considering traveling or moving to China. Before the coronavirus, people would’ve said it was a bold move. They might’ve even envied your decision. But after the virus forced the world into quarantine, people now just think you’re insane. Don’t let the haters stop you. China is still a beautiful country with so much to offer. Sure, things have changed since COVID, but you can still have a fun visit or thrive here should you choose to make it your home. You just need to know a few things beforehand. Here are 9 tips to help you navigate china post COVID 19.
Mask
Bring your own masks! Most major grocery stores still require you to wear a mask when you enter. Small shops and convenience stores usually don’t require it. If you’re unsure if you need one, keep one on you just in case and see if the store employees are wearing them. If they are, then you’ll most likely be required to wear one too. But as a safety measure always keep a mask with you.
Tempeture Check
You’re going to get your temperature taken. A lot. Along with requiring a mask, most major stores, government buildings, schools, etc. will have a representative at the doors stopping people to take their temperature. As long as your temperature is below 37.5 Celsius (99.5 Fahrenheit) , you’ll be allowed to enter. If you move into an updated apartment complex, the entrance to your building might have a body scanner that’ll scan you as you leave and enter. If your temperature is too high, they might block you from entering or exiting the building, or quarantine you in your room. Fun times! Don’t let this stress you out. It’s rare this ever happens. They’re just trying to keep you and everyone else safe.
Health Code
You’re going to need a health code. This is attached to your passport number and can be accessed through apps like Ding Talk or Alipay. You’ll have to fill out a survey for 7-14 days to show that you’ve not been hospitalized with COVID symptoms. After this, you’ll receive a green health square when you log into the apps. It’s like the stoplight system: green is yes, yellow means you’re a potential risk, red means stay your butt at home. This is your golden ticket to everything. Airports, malls, government buildings, etc. will require this square before you’re allowed to enter. Just be careful as you travel between provinces. If a province has a sudden outbreak, everyone’s health square automatically changes to yellow showing they’ve been in a high-risk area.
Not so social distancing
The whole 6 feet apart safety measure? That’s not a thing here. People will stand as close to you as they want to in checkout lines. Things have relaxed a lot since the number of COVID cases has gone down. Don’t be surprised if people pack themselves into an elevator like sardines in a can.
Xenophobia
People will be enamored with you, and terrified of you. At the same time. China has a lot of English training schools, which makes for a high population of foreigners. Still, residents are always shocked when a foreigner is walking down the street. You’ll be stared at by everyone. A few daring people might try to sneak a photo of you. But with the spread of corona and misinformation, a good chunk of people will also be afraid of you. Don’t be surprised if someone covers their face or whips on a mask at the sight of you. It’s not personal. Just ignore it and keep on doing you.
Coming for work?
If you’re looking to work here, do your research. Do other foreigners work at the company? If not, why? Did they all leave due to unprofessional work environments or low pay? When corona hit, most foreigners, especially foreign teachers, went from smooth sailing to shark-infested waters. Some employers threatened to revoke their visas if they didn’t agree to work for low wages or no payments for months. Make sure you’re not joining a company that’s on the verge of collapsing thanks to employees quitting after enduring terrible treatment.
Download WeChat
Add the WeChat app to your phone and join as many groups with other foreigners as possible. This will be a major lifesaver. There are countless groups to join to find new friends, get recommendations for bars and restaurants, or even seek legal advice if you need it. Ask them questions about the best and worst companies to work at in the city. They’ll have plenty of horror stories and guidance for finding the right position. You can even connect to people with furry friends for a pet playdate. The options are endless.
Keep an open Mind
Keep an open mind. Things are changing in more ways than we can imagine. But a few things remain the same. China is still gorgeous with many amazing sight, culture, food, and adventure. Whether you are here to explore or to live you will have a great time and be glad that you came.