China Charlie Revisited

For most of you life, you’ve probably heard that “it’s not as good as it used to be”, but as most Expats that have spent more than a couple of years in China can tell you, that’s not the case here. In fact, usually when “old hands” get together, the subject of conversation eventually will get around to how much change there’s been in China, and how much easier it is here now.

“China Charlie” will be basically an Expat’s view of  what China was over the past several years, and  some memories of experiences that some of us “old timers” have. Some of these will be serious, but most will be some of the funnier things we’ve seen and experienced

First, a general observation regarding China, especially for you new comers. Most Expats that I’ve met over the years absolutely hate China (including Hong Kong) for the first year, but find it difficult to leave after 12-13 months here in the “Middle Kinkdom” (and I did spell it exactly as I intended). If you arrived less than a year ago, and you’re having a tough time, just “grin and bare it”, it’ll get easier (if not better).

If you’re a new comer, you probably are having trouble locating things “from home” (particularly foods). Over the past few years, several shops have opened, that pretty much specialize in imported products. If you don’t mind paying the price, most things are available here (generally a person that’s been here for a while can help you find what you need).

Another thing is You’ll find that having China Experience is kind of like a rash. Once you get it on your resume (or CV), it’s becomes a major part of any job interview, and you’ll seem to keep coming back.

Another observation is that you’ll see things here that defy any Western Logic, and the only explanation that any of us have been able to come up with is “TIC” (This Is China). The weird thing is that most of the “TIC” situations seem to work.

One thing that hasn’t improved here is the traffic. 10 years ago there were a lot less vehicles on the road, but the roads were pretty bad. In 1990, it was normal to take a minimum of 8 hours to get from Shenzen to Guangzhou by highway. Today you can travel the same distance in 2 ½-3 hours, IF you don’t get caught in a traffic jam between Song Guan and Chun An. Another thing that has a major bearing on travel times here, is that being into the month of July, we’re in the “let’s create a construction zone and screw up traffic” season. One thing I’ve never seen here is a “Detour” or “Diversion” sign. If you haven’t already figured it out, be sure to allow extra time to get to scheduled appointments/departures.

Well that’s about all for this week. I’ll try to keep “China Charlie” a weekly thing, but if I miss a week, please understand that like everyone else here, my work schedule is pretty “flexible” and can get in the way occasionally