Beijing is a vibrant blend of various ethnicities and cultures. People from all over the globe enjoy their time in this city, which has a lively and inviting atmosphere! In this diverse community, we've put together a list of ten types of expats. Continue reading to discover which type you are.
1. The “I Miss Home” Type
If you fall into this category, you're often reminiscing about your life back home. The bright lights of Beijing can never replicate the comfort of your hometown. You think of home when you wake up and again when you go to bed. Your friends are tired of hearing you talk about returning. You're constantly searching for flight deals, as you dream of getting back to your cozy bed. You feel out of place, and anyone who knows you realizes that all you want is to be at home.
2. The Super Extrovert
The person you were in your home country is now a thing of the past. You're now an outgoing expat who makes friends on the subway. You chat with elderly women at Wu Mart and know the names of the dogs in your housing complex. You're sociable, the life of any gathering, and you've embraced Beijing wholeheartedly, just as the city has embraced you!
3. The “Fascinated by Chinese Culture” Type
If you're mesmerized by this country, you belong to this fascinating expat group. You appreciate the architecture, cuisine, and the people – oh, the people! You admire the richness of this wonderful culture and take joy in its many wonders. You remember how delightfully your taste buds reacted to Sichuan peppercorn and relish the moments spent among enthusiastic dancers in the local park.
4. The Grumpy Expat
Like the dwarf from Snow White, you find yourself grumpy about everything. You struggle to navigate apps, the language characters overwhelm you, and you have difficulty communicating with your Didi driver. You can't even ask the Taobao delivery person to leave your package at your door when you’re away. You're frustrated and everything feels like a challenge. Finding good bread is tough, cake creams taste off, and you long for the day your assignment is over so you can enjoy real sourdough again.
5. The Wanderluster
If you have a wandering spirit, the chaotic energy of Beijing calls to you! You've taken trips everywhere, viewing the world as your playground. You're adept at booking cruises, flights, and train journeys, always ready to explore. As a true wanderluster, you're uncertain about what tomorrow holds, but your list of places to discover is endless.
6. The Keen Learner
You resemble Hermione Granger among expats, with Beijing as your study guide. You've become fluent in the language in just a few months, the locals admire your culinary knowledge, and you can easily tackle any Chinese tongue twister. You’ve immersed yourself in Chinese culture, learning and exploring like a pro, and your commitment to understanding this nation continues to expand your horizons daily!
7. The Chinese Trend Follower
As a trend-savvy expat, you've effortlessly picked up the latest Duoyin makeup trends, sampled viral noodles on Line 10, and wear the chic styles favored by local fashionistas – you're in the thick of it, and you're excelling! You keep your finger on the pulse of fleeting Chinese trends, and no one does it quite like you.
8. The PR Hunter
If you're a PR seeker, you likely fell in love with this country the moment you arrived. Your affection runs deep, and you yearn to make it your permanent home, with nothing standing in your way. You're actively seeking guides and agents on WeChat to assist you. We’re cheering for you to secure that PR!
9. The Scared Expat
If you relate to being the anxious expat, you're constantly worried about unintentionally breaking rules. If it were your choice, you might never leave your home. You meticulously verify if specific permissions are needed for various tasks, and you're exceedingly cautious about travel and activities, fearing jail or deportation. You adhere strictly to regulations, and your first stop after landing at the airport is the police station. You're committed to doing everything right in China.
10. The Vlogger
You may not have previously explored videography or photography, but becoming an expat in China has opened up a new career path for you. Your Instagram feed is gradually filling up with sunset photos from the Summer Palace and snapshots of the charming lake near Tongzhou Beiguan subway exit C. Your family and friends know about your passion for Lanzhou noodles, showcased in your weekly Friday posts. You're documenting every detail of your expat life in China, and the world is captivated!
You might identify with just one type of expat or a combination of a few. Regardless, living in a different country reveals new aspects of ourselves. Embrace this new facet of your personality and make the most of your time here! Also,
In this diverse mix of individuals from various countries, we have compiled a list of ten distinct types of expats.