We are Australian expats currently living in Dubai and considering an assignment in Shanghai. We have some specific issues which may make Shanghai unsuitable but in order to determine that I am looking for the objective advice of people who know and live in the city. I will probably sound like a real yokel, but just want to get the honest advice from people who don’t have a vested interest in whether we come or not. So thanks for reading…
We have 2 boys, aged 8 and 12. One is an asthmatic and has kidney issues. While both of these aspects are well-managed at present, I am concerned about air quality and access to decent western doctors should things be upset.
Are there plenty of activities for kids to do during their down-time? eg Entertainment venues, parks, access to safe bike paths etc? I don’t want them sitting at home playing PC games for 2 years.
My husband’s office is apparently located in Pudong. We’d be looking for housing and schools with easy access to this area. The kids are presently at an IB School and if possible, we’d like to continue that curriculum. If it’s not possible then we’ll be looking for British Curriculum. Are there decent schools in that part of the city and if so, what are their names?
We have an older dog (15 years) who will be accompanying us. Having read a thread on here I am now also worried about quarantine. Is this a realistic worry?
I’m pretty sure, from what I’ve heard that supermarkets sell a range of western food and access to safe fruit, vegetables and meat is fine. Please correct me if I’m wrong.
I’m assuming expats tend to either have drivers or use public transport. Is that the case?
Thanks in advance for all your comments, opinions etc.
