Babies in Beijing

Posted by Clairebear (1430 days ago)

Hi there,

We're expats in Dubai and considering an offer to move to Beijing next year. We have a young son and will probably try for another baby if we move.

I have loads of questions, sorry, and would really appreciate it if you could share your experiences in these areas:

- is it a good place for women with babies (eg are there expat social networks, playgroups, access to baby equipment, services, health etc....)

- are the hospitals up to Western standards for obstetrics or should I be planning to return to my home country to give birth?

- are there opportunities for English-only-speaking women to get some part-time or casual work?

- would I need to learn a Chinese language to get by? Which one?

- is it normal for expats to have domestic help and a driver?

Many thanks in anticipation.......

Clairebear

Find what you are after in our Beijing A-Z Directory

Posted by Lily_08 (1373 days ago)

-Maybe some other expats with babies can answer you this question

-There are many international standard clinic provide a complete spectrum of healthcare services with English speaking staff and western physicians. Specially the following clinics have obstetrics service included: Beijing United Family Hospital and Clinic, Beijing Vista Clinic, Hong Kong International Medical Clinic( Beijing)

-I think there are opportunities for you to get some part-time work if you want. Usually English-teaching is one of the job opportunities that are easily available.

-If you plan to stay longer than, let’say, half or one year, learning a little bit Mandarin would definitely do some good to you.

-It’s normal for expats to have domestic help. As for the driver, it’s good for new comers to have a driver to help go around in the huge city. But the question is few of them speak English. If you want to find someone to help out, just let me know when you need it.

Lily (homechina2004@yahoo.com)