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Guides for Living, Learning and Exploring China

Practical stories and resources for students preparing for family life, Mandarin learning, travel and cultural exchange in China.

Latest Guides

Start with the Questions That Matter

Clear, thoughtful reading for students and families preparing for a cultural exchange in China.

Au pair preparation

How to Prepare for an Au Pair Interview in China

Prepare thoughtful questions about children, routines, communication, accommodation and the everyday fit with a host family.

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Practical preparation

Safety in China for International Students: Practical Preparation

Build a thoughtful routine for documents, transport, connectivity, host-family communication and independent travel.

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Cultural exchange

Cultural Exchange in China: Building Connections Beyond Travel

Discover how host-family life, Mandarin, food, friendships and shared routines create a more personal experience of China.

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Travel and culture

China Travel and Culture: Weekend Experiences for International Students

Plan thoughtful weekends around food, culture, transport, host-family communication and the pace of real student life.

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Gap year guide

Is a Gap Year in China Right for You?

Consider cultural exchange, Mandarin learning, daily family life and the questions that lead to an honest decision.

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Culture guide

Chinese Culture for Newcomers: Family Meals, Festivals and Everyday Etiquette

Learn through shared meals, home visits, festivals and respectful communication with a host family.

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Program guide ·

How to Become an Au Pair in China: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to prepare a thoughtful application, understand the matching process and arrive ready for everyday family life.

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Program guide ·

What Is a China Au Pair Program?

Explore the cultural exchange at the heart of the experience, from home life and language learning to shared expectations.

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Daily life ·

Living with a Chinese Host Family: What Daily Life Can Feel Like

A realistic look at routines, communication, meals, privacy and the small moments that turn a new home into a shared life.

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Life in China ·

Life in China for Foreigners: Your First 30 Days

Prepare for the practical routines, new experiences and steady confidence that shape a first month in China.

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City guide ·

Best Cities in China for International Students and Cultural Exchange

Compare city rhythms, culture, food and weekend possibilities to find a place that fits your priorities.

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Language guide ·

How to Start Learning Mandarin Before Moving to China

Build a useful beginner routine for pronunciation, everyday phrases and more confident conversations after arrival.

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Content Pillars

What Students Want to Understand

Living in China

Daily life, transportation, mobile payments, healthcare and settling in.

Ask an Advisor

Chinese Culture

Tea, food, festivals, family traditions and cultural etiquette.

Why China

Travel Guides

City weekends, landmarks, nature routes and student-friendly trips.

Explore China

Language Learning

Beginner Mandarin, useful phrases and confidence in daily conversation.

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Stay Connected

Learn Before You Land.

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