So, one reviewer of Nanchang says it's an "oasis", another says it's a "shithole". I'm guessing the truth lies in the middle: that it's an average city, with all the dirt of other Chinese cities, but also with it's share of beauty (I'm personally hoping the lakes and smaller waterways are somewhat nice). I'm going to see if I can find a supplier so I can buy a canoe or two...

Both reviewers suggest Nanchang has a small expat community. I'm guessing this is in comparison to Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Beijing... I worry that it will be a dead town, though. I did find this web community for Nanchang: http://verynanchang.com/
It seems like the main online hub for expats in Nanchang.

Thanks to both reviewers for their input; I'm still hoping for other opinions, too!

Thanks Psyguy. I didn't know about the use of hotels. That's neat; I'll keep it in mind.

Hey all,

I'm going to be teaching in Nanchang, Jiangxi Province. Any experiences there? Thoughts on the city? Advice would be appreciated.

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The actual school will be Sino-Canadian Nanchang No. 2 High School. Anyone have any experience or stories from there, too?
This is the Chinese website for the school: http://www.jxncez.cn/Index.shtml
This is an old ad for ESL teachers (although I'll be teaching NS curriculum, not English): http://www.cathayteacher.com/index.php?post_id=11641

Thanks for your input!

Interesting that you all suggest to stay in the eastern 'tri-cities'.... do you not think Chongqing or Chengdu would have the same kind of amenities?

... For me, I'm not going to China to find America; I'm going to China to find China.

My fear is still based around location, though. I lived in Dalian for a year, and it was beautiful and had a great expat community when I was there. I now crave that same genre of experience, only in a new city. Community is very important to me... On that note:

***********QUESTION: Does anyone know of cities in China with great ex-pat scenes, or cities that are otherwise known for their great feeling of community? ************

I'm wondering what advice you'd give to yourself, should you be starting your first year teaching in an international school in China, again?

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Would you go somewhere different? Why?

Would you avoid certain companies or places like they were the latest Justin Bieber song?

What secrets did you come across, only too late?

What other tips and hints would you like to share with a young padawan?

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