Settling-In Tips
From Crown Suzhou
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Crown Relocations has made every effort to present accurate information. However, regulations, rates and other
variables are subject to change and Crown Relocations cannot accept responsibility for the errors that might
result. Should you have any questions or need additional information, please contact your local Crown
representative.
INTRODUCTION
What is special or unique about your city?
Suzhou is located on the lower reaches of the Yangtze River and on the shores of Lake Taihu in the
province of Jiangsu, China, only an hour drive from Shanghai. The city is renowned for its beautiful
stone bridges, pagodas, and meticulously designed gardens, which has made it one of China’s top
tourist attractions.
Suzhou is the largest economy in the Jiangsu province which accounts for 19.6% of the total provincial
GDP. The Suzhou municipality consists of three cities: Changshu, Zhangjiagang and Kunshan,
spanning an area of 8,488 sq. km. with a population of approximately 5.91 million of which 2.17 million
live in the city proper.
Suzhou has a number of state level development zones, Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP), Suzhou Hi-tech
Development Zone and Suzhou New District (SND) being the main ones. Currently, there are over
5,500 foreign enterprises operating in Suzhou. In 2002 the cumulative utilized FDI reached US$28.2
billion, accounting for 25% of the Jiangsu province's totals.
Of the world's top 500 multinational companies, 85 of them already have presence in Suzhou, more
than 30 have set up R&D centers there and these figures continue to grow. Suzhou SIP and SND are
populated by many big name companies including Philips, Siemens, Kraft, Bosch and Samsung as
well as many others. Suzhou's expatriate population now stands at approximately 20,000, with a high
proportion of Japanese, Taiwanese, Singaporean and European expats.
What are a newcomer's first impressions of your city?
Most newcomers are struck by the abundance of traditional architecture, greenness of the city and the
many canals and bridges lining the streets. Suzhou can also seem very crowded at times especially
during peak tourist seasons. This is due to development restrictions in downtown, Suzhou streets are
narrow and conspicuously devoid of tall buildings.
Are these impressions likely to change?
Suzhou downtown with all of the tourist attractions, old streets and buildings is a poor representation
of the city as a whole. Most foreigners reside in the industry parks where the infrastructure is better
developed, there is less traffic and it’s less crowded. Many visitors have likened the Suzhou industry
park to living in Singapore and people have little need to venture out to the more chaotic center of the
city.
What is the local language?
Natives to the city speak the local dialect. Everyone understands and nearly all speak standard
Mandarin -- as required by the government for state employees (police, health care workers, taxi
drivers, etc.). In Suzhou you are likely to encounter people that speak a little English, especially in
Tourist areas and the industry parks.
How easily could I live in this city without knowing this language?
In Suzhou, English competency is among the best in mainland China. Staff in most hotels, for
example, speak some English. Most other non-English speakers such as taxi drivers are getting used
to visitors, but are still only able to understand "yes", "no", "hello" and "good-bye."
Learning a few key Mandarin phrases definitely helps. Suzhou also has an extensive support network
of long term foreign residents with the hub being the Suzhou Expat Association who offer mentoring
and downloadable taxi cards from their website. Taxi cards are also available from most good real
estate agencies.
What are good things to remember in order to avoid offending the other residents of this city?
It would be advisable to steer clear of talking about certain political issues involving China.
When handing over a name card, do so using both hands at the same time. This is a sign of respect.
If you find yourself in a conflict situation, a better way to get what you want is not to raise your voice
but to calmly persist. Local residents tend to react to another’s anger equally or more strongly. Loud
voices are used quite frequently and often what sounds like an argument is just a lively discussion --
for example, when bargaining for goods at a local market.
How might the local weather affect my daily life?
Suzhou is a comfortable place to live, experiencing mildly cold winters and humid summers. Its annual
average temperature is 15.7°C and in January, the coldest month the temperature averages between
1°C and 8°C and in July the hottest month you can expect temperatures from 24°C to 36°C although
the high humidity can sometimes make the air feel much hotter.
Is there anything else I should know about the overall character of your city or its people?
Due to its proximity to Shanghai, Suzhou has reasonably liberal and forward-thinking residents. They
welcome foreigners living in their city and are eager to learn more about international cultures.
Some of the less pleasant aspects one comes across include: spitting in public places, nose blowing
without tissues, pushing on public transport and on the pavement (sidewalk) and an apparent
obliviousness to queuing.
Useful Links
More Suzhou Magazine: www.moresuzhou.com
Suzhou Expat Association: www.suzhouexpats.org/
Suzhou Expat: www.suzhou-expat.com
DUSA (European Business Association): www.dusa.cn
VISAS AND PERMITS
As a foreign resident, what is my status in your country?
Your status in China depends on the length of your stay and the type of Visa you have been issued.
Your status can either be as a tourist (L visa), business visitor (F visa) or holder of a temporary
employment visa (Z visa).
What kinds of visas are available?
"L" visa = tourist - is valid up to 30 days; transferee's dependants usually enter China with this visa.
"F" visa = business - is valid between three and six months and can be renewed for a period not to
exceed 12 months; transferee may enter China with this visa.
"Z" visa = temporary employment visa - is valid up to 30 days; visa holder must convert the same to a
working permit and residence visa within 30 days upon entry into China. This visa is required of
employees of companies with registered capital less than USD3M and can only be obtained at an
overseas Chinese Embassy (ie., HK). Requirements for application of Z-visa include an Alien
Employment License and Z-Visa Invitation Letter, both of which must be applied for in China.
What is required to obtain these visas?
The transferee must provide a clear photocopy of his/her passport, ten passport-sized photographs
and a copy of his/her resume. If accompanied by a spouse, a copy of the marriage certificate needs to
be provided. If accompanied by children, a copy of each child's birth certificate needs to be provided.
For de-facto spouses, a visit to the local consulate is necessary to obtain a relationship certificate (in
lieu of the marriage certificate) so that the non-working partner may apply for a residence visa. Kindly
check whether your local consulate will issue this letter.
Once in China, transferees, and any dependants over 18 years old, must undergo a health check. A
personal appearance is also required at the Public Security Entrance and Exit Bureau (PSB).
Companies usually appoint a person/agent to take care of the complicated documentation procedures
that are required.
The visa application process is complex, so contact Crown Suzhou for assistance.
Are spouses permitted and/or likely to find work?
Spouses are not allowed to work with a visitor's visa. However, if they find a job, they can apply for a
work permit before starting the job. Teaching English is an occupation that is high in demand and little
or no experience is required.
What are the main forms of identification and how does a newcomer obtain them?
Other than a work permit, a newcomer is also required to apply for the resident visa. The resident visa
can only be applied for after the work permit is completed. Dependants must have a residence visa in
order to stay in China legally for the long term.
Are there any other important permits I must obtain, or places where I must register right away?
Upon moving into your permanent residence, you should register with the local police (to obtain the
Registration Form of Temporary Residence - a requirement for the residence visa application) and the
local consulate.
What items should I avoid bringing into the country?
•
•
•
•
•
•
weapons (ammunition or guns)
pornography
drugs
politically and religious sensitive material
plants
electrical appliances
Do note: Alcohol and tobacco above duty free limits are heavily taxed.
Is there anything else I should know about entering and remaining in the country legally?
Make sure that you do not overstay your visa, as this can result in heavy fines or jail time.
Please note that Chinese immigration laws change with very short notice or none at all. Please
contact Crown Suzhou for the most updated information.
Useful Links
Visa Requirements: www.traveldocs.com/cn
MONEY
What is the local currency?
China's currency is the renminbi (RMB) or the yuan, which means "people's currency."
In spoken Chinese, the yuan is referred to as kuai.
What denominations does it come in?
The currency has three units: yuan, jiao and fen. One yuan equals ten jiao, and one jiao equals ten
fen. The following denominations are available:
Notes: 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, 1 yuan; 5, 2 and 1 jiao; and 1 fen
Coins: 1 yuan; 5 and 1 jiao; 5, 2 and 1 fen
Do note: due to the very low value, fen notes and coins are almost useless.
What is the best way to exchange currency?
You may exchange money at most branches of any of the larger domestic banks (Bank of China,
ICBC, China Construction Bank, China Agricultural Bank). You may also do so at international banks
such as Citibank, HSBC and Standard Chartered; the rates are competitive but the bank fees are
higher.
Currency is only exchanged freely from foreign currencies to RMB. Freelance moneychangers
outside (and sometimes inside!) banks are usually more economical and commonly used. However,
beware of counterfeit bills.
Bank of China ATM machines can accept foreign ATM cards.
What are commonly-used forms of payment for everyday purchases (such as groceries)?
Cash is the most commonly used although larger supermarket chains and upscale stores will accept
local ATM/debit cards. Hotels catering to foreigners will accept international credit cards.
Will I be able to use my credit card around town? If not, list when I’ll need cash.
Hotels, restaurants and major shopping chains accept credit cards. It is still advisable to keep cash on
you at all times.
By what method are bills (such as rent and utilities) paid?
If you live in a serviced accommodation, sometimes payment can be made to the onsite management
center.
Different areas of Suzhou have different systems. For instance in the Suzhou Industrial Park some
utilities are paid in advance and others in arrears. In downtown Suzhou all bills are paid in arrears. It
pays to Check with Crown Relocations in Suzhou, your real estate agent or the management of your
apartment compound when you move in.
What are the requirements for opening a bank account? At what stage of the settling-in process should
I open it?
A passport and a small amount of cash are usually sufficient, although strictly speaking, a residence
permit is also required.
Will foreign residents be able to find banking services in their native languages?
The international banks operating in Suzhou (HSBC, Citibank and Standard Chartered) have reliable
English-speaking staff. However, they are generally not versed in other languages.
Are there any restrictions on services for those who are new to your country?
The yuan is not a freely converted currency. While it is easy to change foreign currency into yuan, it is
often more difficult to exchange yuan into a foreign currency without additional paperwork required,
such as proof of income tax payment. Additionally, transferring RMB out of China is not permitted nor
is transferring foreign currency that has originated in mainland China. Changing RMB to a foreign
currency is not permitted unless it is changing money back that was cashed using traveler’s checks.
What are typical banking hours?
Most banks are open from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm. Some domestic bank branches are also open during
the weekends.
Are automatic teller machines (ATMs) available around the clock?
Domestic banks have ATMs that are available around the clock.
Is there any other money information that might help me?
Check with your bank of choice for any changes that may have occurred or are about to occur in the
bank's policy.
Useful Links
Currency Converter: www.xe.com
Bank of China: www.bank-of-china.com/en/static/index.html
Western Union: www.westernunion.com
HSBC Bank of China: www.hsbc.com.cn
Standard Chartered Bank: www.standardchartered.com.cn/e_index.html
ACCOMMODATION
What are the top factors to keep in mind when searching for a place to live in your city?
Living costs in Suzhou are low compared to the larger cities of Beijing and Shanghai. Average Rent for
an Expat in the SIP or SND is about USD 7.5 per square meter, however this is dependant on the
popularity of the apartment complex and the individual landlords concerned (in practice it is easy to
negotiate rents). It is also dependant on the type of apartment: serviced or not, Western or Chinese
style living.
A family with one child living in the SIP could expect their utilities to amount to around CNY 1,118
(Electricity, Gas, Water, Telephone and Internet). It is still very cheap to eat in Suzhou especially if you
eat Chinese food as opposed to visiting Western style restaurants which often target expats with
higher than average prices.
What are the most popular neighborhoods in your city for expats?
Suzhou is divided into two main living areas popular with expats. The Suzhou New District and the
Suzhou Industrial park. Downtown is not a popular choice due to traffic congestion, overcrowding and
lack of quality apartment compounds. The two industry parks are expanding rapidly so popular
neibourhoods tend to be clustered around areas where the facilities are good however the choice is
astounding. Most expats live in highrise apartments which are located in fenced compounds with 24
hour security. Many compounds have their own shops, restaurants, swimming pool and gym. The
other option is renting a multi storey villa. This is more expensive, but might be more suitable for a
family with children. Currently, due to space the villa compounds are located on the fringe areas that
are fast developing so are not as close to shopping and restaurant areas but usually closer to
international school campuses.
Do expats tend to buy or rent their homes?
Almost all expats rent their homes, as assignments tend to last only two to three years.
Typically, will I be required to pay additional money up front (such as a deposit) before moving into
leased housing? If so, how much is common?
The standard practice is to pay a deposit equivalent to one or two months' rent in addition to your first
month's rent in advance of your actual check-in date. Depending on your requirements, this may be
as soon as the lease is signed.
Are utilities generally included in the price of rent, or are they extra?
As a general rule, these are not included. However, it is possible to negotiate inclusion of some in the
rental.
Are there special security concerns I should be aware of in regards to my home or choice of
neighborhood?
Suzhou is a safe city. Most housing compounds are gated and have 24/7 security patrols. You should
always take care of your bags and belongings in crowded public places as pick pocketing and theft is
reasonably common.
I’m not sure if I should bring my appliances. What is the electric current, Hz and plug shape in your city?
The electric current in China is 220 volts. The electrical Hertz (Hz) is 50. Appliances in China are
relatively cheap and it maybe more convenient if you purchase regular items here after your actual
relocation. Voltage transformers aren't easily sourced.
The "official" plug type is like Type A, but slightly shorter and without holes in blades. Type "A" and "I"
outlets are common and Type "G" might also be found.
Below are examples of the types of plugs that are used in China:
Type A - flat blade attachment plug
Type I - Oblique flat blades with ground (inverted V)
Type G - Rectangular blade plug
Do you have any other accommodation information that might help me?
Suzhou like most cities in China is a city undergoing a lot of construction. It is always best to see if
your accommodation is close to a building site or is likely to be affected by a new construction site.
Often construction will be 24/7, creating an uncomfortable living situation for surrounding tenants. It
also pays to check when your building was built and check the walls and attachments carefully.
Workmanship in China has not yet reached foreign standards and tends to disintegrate rapidly.
Useful Links
Suzhou Expat Association: www.suzhouexpats.org
Maxxelli Real Estate: www.maxxelli.net
EDUCATION
What types of schools do most expats in your city choose for their children?
Expats tend to send their children to international schools in Suzhou.
What are some examples of these schools?
Suzhou has four main international schools; Suzhou Singapore International School, Suzhou Eton
House International School, QSI International School of Suzhou and Dulwich College.
Is there a lot of competition for spots in local schools?
For those with children under 10 years of age, spaces are at a premium. Do submit your child's
application as early as possible to secure a seat. Waiting lists are normal as we approach the
beginning of another school year.
For non-native English applicants, the admissions office may require your child to take a language
proficiency test and/or be subjected to an "interview". These are usually conducted at the school.
Are pre-schools also widely available (for children approx. 2 to 5 years old)?
The international schools have pre-school classes available. There are also many international
kindergartens/play-schools for expatriate children.
How are most kids transported to and from school?
Many children take buses provided by the schools. These buses stop at many of the serviced
accommodation compounds. Some children are taken to work by a parent, who is often provided with
a car and driver by his or her employer.
When does the typical school year start and end?
School typically starts during the last week of August or the first week of September. The school year
ends in mid- to late June.
Is there anything else I should know about local schools?
At local schools, classes are conducted in Mandarin. Classes range in size from 30 to 40 students.
School hours are from 8 am to 3:30 pm.
Useful Links
QSI International School: www.suz.qsi.org
Eaton House School: www.etonhouse-sz.com
Dulwich College: www.dulwichcollege.cn/dcz
HEALTH
Are there any vaccinations I should get or other health precautions to take as I prepare for my move to
your city?
There are no mandatory vaccinations for Suzhou. However, the following vaccinations are
recommended:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Hepatitus A and B
Typhoid
Diphtheria
Poliomyelitis
Japanese encephalitis
Tetanus
Measels-mumps-rubella
Children should also get BCG (Tuberculosis), Meningitis, Chicken pox, Haemophilus Influenza B, and
Pneumococcal.
In September of every year, Flu Vaccine begins to be available for anyone who wants to avoid the Flu.
This is especially recommended for anyone over 65 years old.
Before I get sick, what should I know about seeking medical care in your city as an expat?
Medical insurance is highly recommended. Medical costs are usually paid up front by the patient and
then reimbursed from the insurance company.
There are a number of hospitals in Suzhou, some of which offer a VIP clinic for expats with English
speaking and western trained doctors. There are also a number of international clinics cropping up in
densly populated expat areas such as the Suzhou Industrial Park.
Kowloon Hospital in SIP has a foreign/VIP clinic with an Indian doctor who offers a western style
consultation in private consultation rooms.
What is the word for "doctor" in the local language?
The local word for doctor is Yi-sheng.
What is the best way to locate a suitable health care provider?
Your insurance provider or employer should be able to provide you with a complete listing of available
doctors. For further assistance contact Crown Suzhou.
Do expats in the area tend to leave the city/area/country to seek medical care? If so, why and where do
they go?
In most cases, this is not required. However, many expats choose to go to Hong Kong because it has
the most advanced medical equipment as well as English-speaking doctors. Other areas of
preference are Singapore and Japan.
What is the number to call to summon help in an emergency? List medical/fire/police.
Emergency Numbers:
Fire: 119
Police: 110
Ambulance: 120
Traffic: 122
What do I do if there's an emergency in the middle of the night—or at another time when my normal
doctor/clinic is unavailable?
If an emergency occurs in the middle of the night either call one of the numbers above and wait for an
ambulance or have a family member or friend drive you to the closet major hospital in your area.
Major hospitals have 24-hour emergency clinics, so identifying the closest 24-hour emergency clinic
from where you live is an important first task once you have had a chance to settle in.
How will I recognize a pharmacy? What is it called in the local language?
Yao Dian or Yao Fang are the Chinese words for pharmacy. The Chinese symbol is:
.
To locate a pharmacy, look for the bright green cross on the outside of the building as shown below.
Is the water safe to drink?
It is advised that you do not drink the tap water unless it is boiled first. Bottled water is safe and is
widely available. Most homes get regular deliveries of 19 liter containers of bottled water priced around
8-20 rmb. Water dispensers should be provided by your landlord as a common kitchen appliance
when you first move in.
Useful Links
Suzhou Expats Website - www.suzhouexpats.org
TRANSPORT
Will I need to drive my own vehicle to conduct my everyday life (work/school/shopping) at my
destination?
Driving your own vehicle is not necessary. In fact, driving in China is rather difficult and dangerous -as the roads are packed with aggressive drivers. Many employers provide their expats with a driver
and vehicle. However, it is also easy to get around by taxi.
How can I legally drive a vehicle in this city?
If you already have a driver's license from your home country, you will need to obtain a Chinese
driver's license by taking a series of tests (which do not actually involve driving). All of this is done at
the Municipal Traffic Administration Bureau.
What side of the road do people drive on?
Vehicles drive on the right. Be sure to look both ways when crossing the road, as cyclists and moped
riders do not always obey the general traffic rules.
Describe typical public transportation an expat might use to get around the city.
Most expats are put off by the crowded nature of public transport and the fact that many passengers
tend to push. Taxis, therefore, are the overall favorite for expats. Fortunately, they are relatively
inexpensive. Many expats are provided with a driver by their company who transports them and their
family around Suzhou.
Suzhou does not have a subway system.
Could an expat also use public transportation to get out of the city—to surrounding towns, recreation
areas or suburbs? If so, list options.
There are long-distance buses that go to popular out-of-town destinations. Further afield, people take
the train. Bullet trains from Suzhou to Shanghai and Nanjing depart frequently and only take 25-30
minutes (22-26 Yuan) and are by far the fastest and most comfortable way to travel. These trains are
very clean, modern and spacious when compared to normal train travel in China.
Frequent buses to Hongqiao Airport in Shanghai depart from downtown. A ticket costs 50 Yuan and
the trip takes about 90 minutes. From Hongqiao you can connect with almost every Chinese airport.
In regards to transportation, are there any safety issues I should be aware of?
You should be wary of traffic conditions -- especially during the first few weeks of your assignment.
Drivers, cyclists and pedestrians have the habit of going where they want to go without looking. When
walking, driving, or riding a bicycle, it is important to never assume that someone has seen you and
will take action to avoid colliding with you.
Where do I buy tickets/tokens/etc. for the major public transportation?
Bus and train tickets are bought at the station itself or through agents.
Useful Links
Avis Rent a Car: www.avischina.com
List of Government Agencies: www.chinasite.com/government.html
SHOPPING
What are the items that I should bring with me because they’re not available (or are too expensive)
where I am going?
Deodorant is hard to find in Suzhou. It can be found in Watson's and select other stores. However,
selection is scarce so you may want to bring a good supply from home, as it can be nearly 40 degrees
Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit) in the summer.
It would also be advisable to bring a generous supply of any specialized medicines or vitamins that
you or your family use. These may not be available in the brand or form that you wish.
In addition, you may have trouble locating a good selection of western CDs and books in shops.
Will anyone have particular trouble finding clothes that fit?
Some people may have difficulties finding clothes that fit. However, there are good tailors in Suzhou
and Shanghai who charge reasonable rates.
What grocery stores do expats in your city shop at?
Suzhou pays host to two Carrefour and one Auchan supermarket that contain varying quantities of
imported groceries however there are also number of smaller "boutique" supermarkets that stock a
greater variety of imported goods albeit at a higher price.
Suzhou New District, Industrial Park and downtown all have a wide variety of international restaurants
and downtown is better known for shopping with its many department stores.
Where can other household items (such as cleaning materials and home furnishings) be found?
Carrefour and Auchan are actually the the most convenient place to buy most of these items. For
other things, there is a branch of B&Q in Suzhou or you could travel to IKEA in Shanghai. Many
streets also contain small stores that offer cooking, cleaning and construction materials.
What are factors that might affect my shopping habits in this country/city?
Some items may take a relatively long time to find. In addition, travel to some shopping areas and
stores may be difficult, depending on distance and/or your fluency in Chinese.
Useful Links
NETWORKING
How close-knit is the expat community in this area? How do I get involved with it?
Suzhou is a smaller more close-knit expat community than Shanghai. The Suzhou Expat Association
organizes lunches, outings and activity groups for the expat community. You can join through their
website.
Beside expat groups, what is the best way to make social connections outside of work?
Local chambers of commerce have regular meetings and events, DUSA being the most prominent in
Suzhou. Also many of the local bars and restaurants organize tours and events targeted at expats.
Many bars show foreign sports events to appeal to the expat community. The Blue Marlin a German
inspired bar chain in Suzhou caters for families and offers entertainment for children so expats often
congregate here. There are also parties for foreign festivals such as Octoberfest and Christmas.
Where can I meet other singles in this city?
Many singles meet at bars and clubs.
Are there any unique networking opportunities for accompanying partners?
Clubs for expat women or spouses are the main forums for accompanying partners looking to
network. The Suzhou Expat Association has a group for woman that holds luncheons, craft groups
and a Mahjong club (a popular Chinese game). The Suzhou Expat Association also organizes charity
fundraisers and a fair which partners can become involved in. Many spouses also get involved through
the international schools.
Useful Links
More Suzhou - local magazine: www.moresuzhou.com
Suzhou Expat Association: www.suzhouexpats.org/
Blue Marlin Group: www.bluemarlin.cn/
YOUNG PEOPLE
How well-equipped is this city for those raising infants/toddlers? Specifically, are there public places to
change diapers, maintained playgrounds, etc?
There are not many public places specifically set aside for changing diapers. In addition, playgrounds
are rare outside of schools and housing compounds.
Where can I get a list of reliable childcare providers/nannies?
The most reliable method of obtaining a nanny with experience and limited English is through a
referral from another expatriate. This may be done through word of mouth or via the notice board at
an expatriate supermarket.
Crown Suzhou can also assist you with this.
Discuss any safety issues for children in this city.
Local Chinese are often very caring toward children and are particularly fond of foreign kids.
The major danger is the roads that are crowded and drivers often drive with little regard for
pedestrians or the road rules. Most compounds are gated so this is not an issue. Otherwise Suzhou is
no more dangerous than any other large city in the world.
What are the most popular kid-friendly attractions in the area?
Suzhou Amusement Land is an amusement park in the SND which has something on offer for
children of all ages. Suzhou is also famous for its many parks and some apartment compounds have
playgrounds within.
What are the most popular activities for kids after school or on weekends?
The international schools organize many after-school activities. Entertaining kids at home is also
commonplace. DVDs and toys are cheap and in abundance in Suzhou, however foreign books may be
hard to find. It is also possible to enroll in private institutions offering mandarin classes, ballet lessons
etc.
What's it like to be a teenager in this city? Are there any particular challenges I should be aware of as a
parent?
Teenagers generally enjoy their time in Suzhou as the city provides many opportunities that wouldn’t
be found at home. There are many expat families in both Industry parks and local teenagers are eager
to make foreign friends. China does not strictly observe any legal drinking age so parents may want to
monitor their children's activities more closely. It is also very easy for children to purchase cigarettes.
Are there any organizations/social groups in the area that cater exclusively to young people ages 12-17?
Such groups exist only within the international schools.
I want my child to get the most out of our stay in this country. Are there any specific opportunities to
teach young people about the local culture?
In general, children tend to pick up a lot of the local language and culture (especially the language,
often becoming the "mouthpiece" for the family).
Those children who go to international schools receive lessons in Chinese tradition in addition to
learning the language.
Useful Links
Suzhou Amusement Land: www.szal.cn