After living in Shanghai for nearly three months, we’re growing accustomed to our new lifestyle. Almost every aspect of our lives has had to shift somewhat. Here’s a glimpse into some of our new lifestyle changes that we love:

 

1. Our “China Home” : We feel lucky to have decided on this area of Shanghai, this neighborhood, and this house. It’s been essential in helping ease our transition into life in China. Although we’ve moved into the mega-city of Shanghai, it’s here that we are able to slow down and step away from the daily rush, noise, and congestion.

 

 

2. Dulwich College Shanghai : There are 42 countries represented at this school; all, of which, had a booth at the school’s international food festival this past week. Through Dulwich, we’ve been introduced to diverse cultures, various new sports and activities, as well as fellow expats and fundamental friendships. Jack enjoyed his first rugby season with a Division 2 Championship win and has been active in the school rock band. Kate has been helping with fundraisers for the school Charity Club as well as putting her voice to good use in the school choir. Luke often comes home from school singing new songs in Mandarin…but don’t be fooled: his favorite words to date are still “tooty bottom.”

 

 

3. Miao : Hiring a driver is second nature to Shanghai expats. Finding a good driver is difficult, but discovering one as humble, courteous, and professional as ours is unheard of. Our driver, Miao, speaks fluent english and knows the city inside-out. He’s played a huge role in helping with our transition into Shanghai.

 

 

4. Fellow Expats: Jack’s favorite thing about Shanghai is, “getting to know people from all over the world.” Not only have we learned a lot about the Chinese culture, our new friends have been opening our eyes to the rest of the world.

 

 

5. Mobikes : Our electric scooters give us more independence and allow us to explore the city on our own. The school, local stores, parks, mall, and metro are all within a short ride from home. Luke always thinks we are in a race, so he constantly yells, “go faster, faster!”

 

6. Facebook, FaceTime, and Skype: We are truly grateful for modern technology. Being able to see family and friends instantly helps reduce the distance emotionally.

 

7. Online Grocery Shopping (with next-day home delivery) : That’s right! I love being able to have a majority of my grocery shopping done within a few minutes. But then again, grocery shopping here is quite different. I’ve been on the search for Confectioners Sugar for a week now. I’ve been to all 5 store options locally… but when a shipment doesn’t arrive, that means nobody has it in stock. Another frustration you find when going to the store is the fact that they may have what you’re looking for…but you may not know where to find it. Items are simply “organized” while being “lost in translation.”

 

 

8. MOVIES!

 

 

9. Markets : Fabric markets, antique markets, lamp markets, and fake markets…just to name a few. Kate’s become my little accomplice in bargaining and has learned “tai gui le” and “pianyi yi dian” fast. (Too expensive/Make it cheaper)

 

 

10. Orion Pies : Although Luke says “elephant” is his favorite thing about Shanghai, I’m pretty sure orion pies should be at the top of his list. He calls these treats “minis” and they served as a major source of bribery during the first few weeks of school. It’s basically a cake dessert with a marshmallow middle…coated in chocolate.

 

 

11. Amazing 60-minute Massages…for $15! : Enough said. This should probably be moved up to #3.

 

12. Exploring the City and New Vacation Destinations : Kate’s favorite thing about Shanghai is, “all the new places to explore.” Not only are we discovering Shanghai, but our new location has changed our future travel itinerary. The list now includes Hainan Island, Beijing, Hong Kong,  Japan, Australia, Thailand, Singapore, and Bali.