Today was a lesson in distance, I began to learn the sheer size of the city. I knew I had a distance to travel for my class at one of the hi-tech classes (I understand that Berlitz has managed to take over most of the corporate market, beating their main competitors Wall Street and some other major English Language Schools) but nothing had prepared me for the traffic on the road or time it took to cross the city. Everyone here blames the amount of cars on the streets, but I truly found the sheer size of the ring roads encircling the city are what causes the major congestion. Looking like a monstorous spaghetti bowl, they stretch over the highways like the tentacles of an octopus - reaching at present to 5 ring roads and a sixth soon to follow.
Arriving at last, I had my first experience of 'hi-tech' China. An enormous complex with around 1000 employess, small considering the size of the population, a normal work day is between 8.30-5.30. Management sit overseas in Canada in this company's case, so hours are normal. If one of the employess either engineer or programmer is called upon to travel to an overseas branch either in the US or Canada, their working day will increase accordingly, but their salary stays the same. All expenses are paid, irrelevant of the months required, usually two or three, even up to nine or a year. Residence is taken up in a hotel and meals can be in China town or in any other of the local establishments. Salary though is paid as usual into their bank back home in their own rmb currency, so no extra monies can be made or saved.
They too, at the hi-tech companies, have had a slump around the year 2000, as most of the companies worldwide did, but have since recovered. Working in the industry is not considered
a prestigious job, but a comfortable one, with an above average salary.
Another job considered prestigious with travel opportunities and meetings with business people worldwide, is at a pharmeceutical company. Usually a position held by women, sales and marketing promotions being the better jobs. These women get to travel to conferences held at various locations worldwide, even Israel and take trips with their clients to either translate, ensure a smooth venture or moral support.
The class is made up of a mixture of students, not all exactly the same level, larger than those held at the Berlitz centre and held after hours. The students are enthusiastic, polite and eager.
They are proud of their qualifications and as many others that I have met in the industry, are married at a young age. More about that at another date.
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Day 2
As always (for those who know me) I cut the time a bit fine, jumped in a taxi and as usual as is my luck with public transport, got stuck at the traffic lights for 15 minutes!! I as you can well imagine, sat there fretting that I would be late 'for a change' to teach, but it finally changed! What a difference to Israel in terms of traffic, here they might mow you down on the road, even
a bicycle if you are not careful, but they wait quietly at the lights, no hooting or honking, just utter quiet - unbelievable.
Lessons at Berlitz are probably as they are at most Berlitz centres in the world, the lay out, color co-ordination, system and classsrooms look similar; here students fight with the teacher over the heating not the air condition, although I have been told it is quite unbearable in the summer months.
Most of the student assessments are done over the telephone, there are very few interviews held at the office and only level testing for corporate companies are taken at the premises. Children courses have the children in the classrooms at all times and they have both summer and winter courses running for two weeks. I didnt say that the children are co-operative or well behaved at all times, but they are used to discipline and conditioning. Mandarin is the major language at the centre with english coming a close second.
At the end of the day I found the secret to crossing the road safely, use the subway/underground passage! and once safely across I went to visit Beijiings 'local goods' store.
The richness of the silks and tradional clothes, had me wishing I was skinny, no tape measure needed, to see that only a well proportioned body would look good in their traditional gowns. Well you never know, by the end of the year if I am able to buy one, I will know that I have made it - but at present still only a dream.
Making my way home I stopped at a small greengroces and resisted the temptation of haggling over a box of strawberries that cost only 12 nis or 2.5euro. It seemed ridiculously expensive to me, which sounds ridiculous, but thrifty here is the name of the game. To my disappointment though they tasted rubbery and artificial, chemically treated, beautifully presented, but they soon found their way to the garbage.
a bicycle if you are not careful, but they wait quietly at the lights, no hooting or honking, just utter quiet - unbelievable.
Lessons at Berlitz are probably as they are at most Berlitz centres in the world, the lay out, color co-ordination, system and classsrooms look similar; here students fight with the teacher over the heating not the air condition, although I have been told it is quite unbearable in the summer months.
Most of the student assessments are done over the telephone, there are very few interviews held at the office and only level testing for corporate companies are taken at the premises. Children courses have the children in the classrooms at all times and they have both summer and winter courses running for two weeks. I didnt say that the children are co-operative or well behaved at all times, but they are used to discipline and conditioning. Mandarin is the major language at the centre with english coming a close second.
At the end of the day I found the secret to crossing the road safely, use the subway/underground passage! and once safely across I went to visit Beijiings 'local goods' store.
The richness of the silks and tradional clothes, had me wishing I was skinny, no tape measure needed, to see that only a well proportioned body would look good in their traditional gowns. Well you never know, by the end of the year if I am able to buy one, I will know that I have made it - but at present still only a dream.
Making my way home I stopped at a small greengroces and resisted the temptation of haggling over a box of strawberries that cost only 12 nis or 2.5euro. It seemed ridiculously expensive to me, which sounds ridiculous, but thrifty here is the name of the game. To my disappointment though they tasted rubbery and artificial, chemically treated, beautifully presented, but they soon found their way to the garbage.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
First Day
Well, today I probably had my last european breakfast - went out and took my first impressions of the city. How easy it is to say that all Asians lookalike and how untrue that expression is. Like every other nation in the world they come in all shapes and sizes, especially the men.
The women on the whole, if they are above school age and are in university or at work, generally seem to dress conservatively, slacks, smart jeans and some kind of smart top (not a t shirt or sweatshirt or a business suit), the men on the other hand if they work in business or even hi-tech wear a shirt and smart sweater above, or in some cases a jacket, not necessarily a business suit. Of course the higher the hierarchy, the more formal the dress, suits for both male and female.
As to the youngsters, their clothes are warm, padded, uncolorful and not overly fashionable. The
haircuts of the young teenagers are more trendy in the boys than the girls, the girls opting for the bangs (fringe) and straight hanging down look.
Watching a mother with her childen, which is uncommon in China, as the law is for one child per family unless you are able to afford the fine, it is obvious that the boy child is the more important. It was surprising to see a parent openly slap a child in public, as this is unforgiveable today in the west, but more about the relationship of parents and their children at a later date.
Smoking! Well everyone does it openly, on the bus, in the restaurants, on the street; pollution laws do not apply here. My first day has been spent coughing away, the air and smog so dry, that it has caught in the back of my throat, how terrible to believe that in time I will get used to it!! what a dreadful thought. Some Chinese, not foreigners, walk around with theatre masks on their mouths, I have been told that most of them are filled with charcoal and for some have become the norma after the ''Sars'' scare.
Crossing the road - well, here you can be runover by a bicycle! To go over to the other side is not a question of looking right to left, but more the case of putting your life in the hands of your feet, depending on how quickly you can move. Please let me stress that this includes zebra crossings, the green/red man and red traffic lights, the only safe place is the pedestrian bridges, as they are too high for a car to drive up.
Spitting as of yet I have not seen, but after suffering the choking sensation in my throat, it is not a wonder that they do! I of course as any european will restrain such urges to a private corner and use of a tissue. Nevertheless, I have managed to create a stir with my yellow crocs and brightly colored socks, I have become an object of curiosity. (Not to think for a moment that it could also be because of my blonde hair and colorful clothes!) Living in Israel for the last 22 years has given me a thicker skin than I even knew I had, I have managed to ignore all stares and snickering and walked the city boldly.
After my visit to my future place of employment (tomorrow), I was warmed by the welcome and effort made to make me feel at home both by an ex-pat and young Chinese woman, as well as my future boss and employer both.
(Even though this story took place during the second week of January, it will take me a while to catch up with the pages, so bear that please in mind whilst reading).
First impressions: People are people, human nature is the same worldwide, some are friendly, others are shy. As to the weather in these early days: not to cold, still managing to walk around without tights and in my usual cardigan (no shawl) and scarf. English: a little, those that can speak will actually stop you on the street and ask to try it out. Taxis: available most of the time and cheap over the short distance. (Remember that at present I am still with monies from abroad, when it will be on the local salary, it could appear different).
My attitude after arrival and day one - positive... looking forward to starting work in the morning.
The women on the whole, if they are above school age and are in university or at work, generally seem to dress conservatively, slacks, smart jeans and some kind of smart top (not a t shirt or sweatshirt or a business suit), the men on the other hand if they work in business or even hi-tech wear a shirt and smart sweater above, or in some cases a jacket, not necessarily a business suit. Of course the higher the hierarchy, the more formal the dress, suits for both male and female.
As to the youngsters, their clothes are warm, padded, uncolorful and not overly fashionable. The
haircuts of the young teenagers are more trendy in the boys than the girls, the girls opting for the bangs (fringe) and straight hanging down look.
Watching a mother with her childen, which is uncommon in China, as the law is for one child per family unless you are able to afford the fine, it is obvious that the boy child is the more important. It was surprising to see a parent openly slap a child in public, as this is unforgiveable today in the west, but more about the relationship of parents and their children at a later date.
Smoking! Well everyone does it openly, on the bus, in the restaurants, on the street; pollution laws do not apply here. My first day has been spent coughing away, the air and smog so dry, that it has caught in the back of my throat, how terrible to believe that in time I will get used to it!! what a dreadful thought. Some Chinese, not foreigners, walk around with theatre masks on their mouths, I have been told that most of them are filled with charcoal and for some have become the norma after the ''Sars'' scare.
Crossing the road - well, here you can be runover by a bicycle! To go over to the other side is not a question of looking right to left, but more the case of putting your life in the hands of your feet, depending on how quickly you can move. Please let me stress that this includes zebra crossings, the green/red man and red traffic lights, the only safe place is the pedestrian bridges, as they are too high for a car to drive up.
Spitting as of yet I have not seen, but after suffering the choking sensation in my throat, it is not a wonder that they do! I of course as any european will restrain such urges to a private corner and use of a tissue. Nevertheless, I have managed to create a stir with my yellow crocs and brightly colored socks, I have become an object of curiosity. (Not to think for a moment that it could also be because of my blonde hair and colorful clothes!) Living in Israel for the last 22 years has given me a thicker skin than I even knew I had, I have managed to ignore all stares and snickering and walked the city boldly.
After my visit to my future place of employment (tomorrow), I was warmed by the welcome and effort made to make me feel at home both by an ex-pat and young Chinese woman, as well as my future boss and employer both.
(Even though this story took place during the second week of January, it will take me a while to catch up with the pages, so bear that please in mind whilst reading).
First impressions: People are people, human nature is the same worldwide, some are friendly, others are shy. As to the weather in these early days: not to cold, still managing to walk around without tights and in my usual cardigan (no shawl) and scarf. English: a little, those that can speak will actually stop you on the street and ask to try it out. Taxis: available most of the time and cheap over the short distance. (Remember that at present I am still with monies from abroad, when it will be on the local salary, it could appear different).
My attitude after arrival and day one - positive... looking forward to starting work in the morning.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Departure
Well of course last minute hiccups, I bought myself a nice new quilt which I managed to burn, so a mad dash to the supermarket to buy a new one!! Some unfriendliness at the airport, overweight
of course, I can't travel anywhere without my books, Scoobydoo, red hippo and blue elephant.... more about those particular friends at a later date.
A tearful wave, hug and kiss, followed by a mad dash to the gate (I always swear I never run) as they were calling my name, a smooth flight after being told to move my seat to make way for an
airhostess.. so much for flying the flag, but an otherwise smooth flight. Nine and a half hours later to the dot, we landed. Everyone is very solemn at the airport, one has to remember that this is a 'C' country, no sign of guns, but officials dressed in green uniform all over the airport, solemnly watching your every move.
No hassle with the visa, no questions asked, a brief and pleasant entry, but a long hike - this I was soon to discover a normality in China, everything is a distance, even your local supermarket.
Out to the taxi ranks, an official hands you a paper with the taxi number on it in case of complaint, plus how much the taxi will cost. My driver was none to happy at the size of my
suitcase and took some persuading to pick it up and put it in the baggage, as tipping is not the
norma here, I understand his trepidation; but after a smile and a bow, on my part, we set off
on our way - arriving at my destination I collapsed from emotional tiredness, with no energy or
will to even undress or unpack, it would all wait for the morning.
of course, I can't travel anywhere without my books, Scoobydoo, red hippo and blue elephant.... more about those particular friends at a later date.
A tearful wave, hug and kiss, followed by a mad dash to the gate (I always swear I never run) as they were calling my name, a smooth flight after being told to move my seat to make way for an
airhostess.. so much for flying the flag, but an otherwise smooth flight. Nine and a half hours later to the dot, we landed. Everyone is very solemn at the airport, one has to remember that this is a 'C' country, no sign of guns, but officials dressed in green uniform all over the airport, solemnly watching your every move.
No hassle with the visa, no questions asked, a brief and pleasant entry, but a long hike - this I was soon to discover a normality in China, everything is a distance, even your local supermarket.
Out to the taxi ranks, an official hands you a paper with the taxi number on it in case of complaint, plus how much the taxi will cost. My driver was none to happy at the size of my
suitcase and took some persuading to pick it up and put it in the baggage, as tipping is not the
norma here, I understand his trepidation; but after a smile and a bow, on my part, we set off
on our way - arriving at my destination I collapsed from emotional tiredness, with no energy or
will to even undress or unpack, it would all wait for the morning.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Eve of Departure
Well here I am, a 50 year old woman, planning to leave home and begin an adventure on my own - till now, I have always been first a mother/father/breadwinner/workaholic (also out of necessity) and.... friend, life coach, guide ....
It all started 8 years ago when I first heard that the olympics of 2008 would be held in China, Beijing. I immediately rang my best friend and told her 'we'll be there, start saving!'. Today,my children now are grown up, one married and the other three have left the roost, finding their own way, the last leaving home in June 2007, it was now time for me to spread my wings.
At first I thought of Italy, what finer place to polish my italian, even after a year of study, all I can remember to say is 'my name is...', well with that limited knowledge of the language I decided against it; next was Vienna - beautiful city, elegant offices, but that seemed a little too close to home for the first adventure - so I looked further afield for a location more fitting. ThenI remembered my words from a few years back and so began a correspondence with China, Beijing - they said 'yes!, come as soon as possible'.
Of course that was easier said than done, first birth of a grand-daughter, work commitments to complete and tying up things at home, the date was set, January 6 2008, and the eve of departure upon me.
'You are so brave' some say, 'stay, stay' say others, 'go' say the kids and my mind is in turmoil - how to leave the children, the baby - friends, for those of you with commitments you can understand how difficult it can be, whether it be home, work, family or friends - all rolled together, but the decision has been made.
So passed an emotional weekend, bravely holding back the tears (somewhat unsuccessfully),voice wobbling, love overflowing, the time has come to go......
It all started 8 years ago when I first heard that the olympics of 2008 would be held in China, Beijing. I immediately rang my best friend and told her 'we'll be there, start saving!'. Today,my children now are grown up, one married and the other three have left the roost, finding their own way, the last leaving home in June 2007, it was now time for me to spread my wings.
At first I thought of Italy, what finer place to polish my italian, even after a year of study, all I can remember to say is 'my name is...', well with that limited knowledge of the language I decided against it; next was Vienna - beautiful city, elegant offices, but that seemed a little too close to home for the first adventure - so I looked further afield for a location more fitting. ThenI remembered my words from a few years back and so began a correspondence with China, Beijing - they said 'yes!, come as soon as possible'.
Of course that was easier said than done, first birth of a grand-daughter, work commitments to complete and tying up things at home, the date was set, January 6 2008, and the eve of departure upon me.
'You are so brave' some say, 'stay, stay' say others, 'go' say the kids and my mind is in turmoil - how to leave the children, the baby - friends, for those of you with commitments you can understand how difficult it can be, whether it be home, work, family or friends - all rolled together, but the decision has been made.
So passed an emotional weekend, bravely holding back the tears (somewhat unsuccessfully),voice wobbling, love overflowing, the time has come to go......
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