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| 203 |
Shanghai Population Hi Jian Shuo - I thought you might find this study interesting (and even a little scary)... kind regards, Pete http://www.mckinsey.com/mgi/publications/china_Urban_Billion/slideshow/main.asp |
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10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai @Gweilo - wow, you are so articulate. *that's sarcasm* - I have been to all the countries you list, and suspect I am much more widely travelled than you (over 100 business trips to all parts of the globe annually) - Shanghai still ranks number one in my mind. The topic is "10 thinigs you love/hate about shanghai" - agree, not "10 most racist and shallow things I can think of to insult people in the city where I live" - to then go ahead and insult my wife - perhaps you can't get a woman (or maybe you don't want one - your gay lover might suffice your needs). Wanker. |
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Shanghai to Beijing? Train is Better than Air Thanks Jian Shuo and Michelle - this is so very exciting for me... I don't know what happened, but it really is unblocked now in mainland China. Yoohoo!!! Now our family can see our blog! |
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Shanghai to Beijing? Train is Better than Air Sorry to post this on this particular thread Jian Shuo, but I have just noticed that I have started getting traffic on my blog coming in from Beijing and Shanghai... this has never happened before, as previously discussed, it was blocked by the GFW. I used my 'testing' tools, and it seems it really is now unblocked, so just wanted you or one of my other mates to check if you really can access it now from the mainland?? This is such good news if it's real and stays unblocked... I've been getting over 1,000 visits a day, without 1/6 of the world's population able to access until now... :D http://www.aussiepete.com/ |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners This thread just got ridiculous. |
| 198 |
Top Commenter of 6 Years Hoho - congratulations to the winners... I feel special making the Top 5!!! |
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Update about Yifan Thanks Jian Shuo... just today back from Chicago... yes, I spoke to Sammi and we think that would be a great idea. Let's talk offline and aim at a meetup (perhaps dinner) when we're back in Shanghai next CNY... :D |
| 196 |
Update about Yifan Hi Jian Shuo - from Aussie Pete's blog entry for Jaime's birthday: Jaime's First Birthday And ZhuaZhou 27th August, 2008 saw our baby turn one year old. We celebrated in a mix of Chinese and Western cultures and 'old and new' traditions. I also took the opportunity to take a well-deserved vacation day away from the office. JAIME ZHENG JIAYANG - BIRTHDAY AGENDA - Visit to the Singapore Zoo - Opening Birthday Presents - ZhuaZhou Ceremony - 抓周 - Birthday Party ZHUAZHOU (抓周) The articles we chose and meanings we associated with them (some traditional, others are own interpretation): Shoes - represents a Traveller Paint Brush - represents an Artist or Writer Spring Onion - represents a Lawyer (or someone clever and adept in speaking) Orange - represents someone with Good Luck - or getting things with little effort Software CD - represents Computers (eg. programming, computer engineering, etc) Book - represents a Scholar or Teacher Chopsticks - represents Epicure and also the Food or Restaurant Industry Calculator - represents a Scientist or Engineer Money - represents an Entrepenaur or Stock Broker Rubber Stamp - represents a Politician or association with the Government Mobile Phone - represents the Telecommunications industry or an Electrical Engineer Pocket Knife - represents a Strong Body (eg. Sportsman, the Army or Police Force) Tape Measure - represents an Architect BP Monitor - represents a Doctor or Medical related field Sunglasses - represents a Movie Star or Celebrity We found that Jaime was probably more interested at first in the video camera recording him - maybe this represents the film industry?? Anway, after a little coercian, he made it clear which items he was not interested in, by throwing them away. The article/s he showed most interest in, were first and foremost the money, then perhaps the orange and finally the shoes (near the end of the selection). From this, we deduced that his future path may be something like this: "A successful entrepenaur who will have much luck and assitance in creating his own business/es, and his dealings will lead to (or include) much global travel." You can see the video here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9H3HjPbjMMw Kind regards, Pete... |
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Update about Yifan Hi Jian Shuo... how time flies!! It is such a joy watching our babies grow up... Jaime is now also starting to walk (while holding my hand of course), but can stand on his own without any assistance for very long periods of time. I couldn't resist the opportunity also to let you know that tomorrow is Jaime's 1st Birthday!! Jaime Zheng Jiayang Breitkreutz - Born 27th August, 2007!!! Blessings to you all... :p |
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10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai Hi autumn - per all the above comments - this was not the intention of my words. I know now that I could have been wiser with the way I structured my sentence. Please forgive and forget. :p |
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10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai Hi @Griffin - mate, apology totally accepted - consider it forgotten, my friend. Please also accept mine. :D |
| 192 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @DB - good post by the way. Understand your analogies and point completely. |
| 191 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Hi budong - I certainly understand the point you are trying to make. As far as advantages - Sometimes I cannot help but feel I'm the one who has taken advantage of the beautiful in-laws I've inherited - they have accepted me unconditionally. They are much better off financially than I was accustomed to growing up. My wife was already very 'worldly-travelled' before we met and a successul business woman in her own right... in short, she didn't need my passport, money or assets (pittance in comparison to what my in-laws have). I've never worked in China on an expat package (local package - we've covered this on another thread). The only thing left on your list is my white skin (which has black heritage)... we all looked past that many years ago. Race and culture blending can be a beautiful thing. My mum in Australia loves and boasts about the fact that my wife is Chinese. We married out of love for each other - absolutely no hidden agendas - and we are completely dedicated to each other, our families, our baby boy and our life together. I also know other couples with similar circumstances to ourselves... it may not be the norm, but it happens. :p |
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10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai Hi Jen. Thanks for the comments. I've fogotten about the other 'stirrer' now - I think I was more suffering from a bad day than too worried about what he said. We have a saying in Australia - "it's like water off a duck's back". It was really great to meet you and the team last week also, and I did hear that I made the news. :D One of my colleagues has video-taped it for me - I'm really interested to see how I come across with my voice over-dubbed with Malay. I should be in Thailand around end of September. Sammi and Jaime will visit our families in Shanghai for a few weeks while I'm in Chicago (after Jaime's 1st birthday on 27th August - their first time flying alone without me). I'll make a quick stop in HK, then will pick them back up again from SH - unfortunately I won't get to stay more than a couple of nights this time. Oh well, CNY will be back again before I know it and I'll take the regular 3-weeks vacation then (and will surely gain the 10kg back that I've spent all year losing). Just sent you an email with some suggested date/s for TH. |
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10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai @Griffin - what's up your ass? - we all have made our peace here, so why are you trying to inflame it all again... Ling and I are both long-term contibuters to Jian Shuo's blog and had a quick misunderstanding... FYI - I'm happily married to my wife from Shanghai and have a beautiful baby boy... you are the one being unpleasant now, and for absolutely no reason. You don't know me, nor me you... I have no understanding about your youtubue comment - strange. Finally, I give aussies a bad name? - lucky you can hide behind a post on the internet, you gutless little man. Nothing more to say. Take care. |
| 188 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Heh - this thread always comes back... I know guys similar to the one described by budong - also know ladies similar... I think the point is that nationality or country is not the factor here - once a dog, always a dog... it could be a chinese lady and chinese man, or american lady and american man, or a lady from finland with a man from africa... if a person plays up on his partner I don't see how nationality or heritage plays a part?? Any situation and characters could get written into any story and made sound relevant. |
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Beijing Airport Terminal 3 (T3) Opens Hi DB - good to hear from you - I think to answer your question, it totally depends on the company one works for and the package offered. Sorry for the long-winded response following - so difficult to explain all the nuances without citing some of my own experiences... The package you described seems very attractive indeed - if this was offered to me, perhaps I'd think about switching jobs! The reason many MNCs are opting away from expat packages is so as not to be liable for many of the elements to which you have referred (to increase shareholder sat and earnings). The tax advantages of accepting a local package is one of the biggest benefits for me, and I do get tax advice as part of my package, however I really wish tax-equalization was on the table. Then I would not have had to liquidate all of my assets in Australia (inc. property, shares, etc) so as to avoid any income from there, and remaining an Australian 'tax resident'. And yeh, my salary is much, much more than a local in a similar role - it needed to be for me to move my whole life. Of course, my experiences are specifically referring to Australian citizens... Once one opts to become a non-tax resident like I have (and most Aussies working in SG within the same company for which I work - otherwise, no tax advantage, no sense in relocating financially), one forfeits any social security coverage, medical benefits etc back in Aust... so I had to ensure that part of my package was a strong local healthcare scheme... as a SG income earner, I am only earning the nominal CPF capped amount for retirement as opposed to the very attractive superannuation schemes mandated by the Aust govt... Annual leave is around 25% less than if I was on an expat package, I don't receive 'R&R' (1 week every three months vacation with airfares included), local housing provision, driver and car..... and many other things included in standard expat packages. After 1st year or two, foreign residency status obligations are passed on to the employee - specifically in SG, this introduces a whole new slant... does one stay as a P1 (professional employee from a foreign country), or does one apply for PR (permanent resdient status) which offers further tax advantages? If one was to go 'all out' and become a SG citizen - substantially less tax to pay again... we have opted for PR, because without it, we would've needed to keep paying the HUGE rental amounts in SG for accomodation - unless one is PR status, one is not allowed to purchase an apartment of any kind - even as a PR, the best we can do is condo apartment or 5-yr old HDB apartment (one is not eligible for the same as citizens). Nor can a PR purchase 'landed property' regardless of money in the bank, money earned, assets owned or anything else. The biggest downfall to becoming PR is the fact that our son is now liable for Singapore NS (National Service)... if we decide to leave SG before his time to serve arrives, then the liability goes away (along with our PR status), and the really unfortunate thing there is that although he may have done nearly all his schooling in SG, there is a good chance the govt will never again allow him to work or study in SG because we have revoked his NS liability by leaving the country - this is a choice I've had to make for my son, even though he's now only 10-months old, but it could effect the rest of his life. Anyway, you probably think I've gone way off topic, I think I could go on and on for a long time (you've stated four points around the differences between expat vs local packages, but I could probably come up with at least another 100+ that I needed to take into account - and still considering now, years later - when relocating my family and entire life to a different country). The important thing to note, is that all the things (and more) that I've mentioned above, salary related, family related, residency status, etc all become relevant when on a local package - if I was an expat, I'd just accept the benefits, keep all my assets in Australia, bank nearly all my earnings, never pay for housing or transport or education at the top private international schools or travel, enjoy better vacations with free travel... then head back to Australia at the end of assignment a much, much wealthier individual... Take care, my friend - hope this answers your question? |
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10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai Hi - no, the SG government will take talent from anywhere as long as they fit certain criteria - education level, no criminal record, etc... |
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10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai You have a nice weekend too, Ling :D God bless. |
| 184 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai Whoa - read what u said - u were shallow and insulting... you still don't acknowledge that perhaps you jumped to an early conclusion before insulting me... As for NS - I totally disagree that every male in SG is mandated for NS... but that is a totally different debate, and many SG citizens also disagree with it and would not undertake military training if it was not mandatory - you should know this. On this, you may have your opinion, but it has nothing to do with my contribution to my new country. Nor does it have anything to do with patriotism - as a PR, my son is liable for NS whether I like it or not... hopefully by the time he's old enough the laws may have changed. Historically, when SG has been at war, many other countries have assisted in fighting off the enemy (including my very own Grandfather who was captured by the Japanese in SG and made work on the railway in Burma)... this is what compassion and cooperation is all about.... Oh by the way - when did you complete your NS? You do know that it is compulsory for girls in many countries too... once again, nothing to do with their love for their country - but since you are so passionate about it - I'm sure you have done your bit... This is getting nowhere - I in no way bad-mouthed SG people or the country - you have started all this from nothing... give it up and try and pick a fight with someone who doesn't love Singapore... THIS IS MY HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Whether you like it or not!!!!!!!!!!!! Get over it that OUR government want westerners to immigrate here - we have a problem with reverse population growth and the talent loss of emigrating locals... you also know this!! |
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10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai @Ling - your comments had so inflamed me, that I have relooked at my post to hardlinejuan. I am in no way apologising for my post, but I can now see where you have incorrectly interpreted my words... I was sticking up for the honour of ALL women... hardlinejuan made a comparison between the women of two locations, which is degrading and offensive... I reiterated his words and told him 'he must be joking'... you interpreted this to mean that I was suggesting that Singaporean women were unattractive - this is a totally incorrect assumption, and anyone that has read any of my posts or comments in the past would know that I would never suggest something so downgrading or in fact, bordering racist. Should you have questioned my comment and sought clarification of the intent of my words, as opposed to 'jumping down my throat', I probably would have apologised for not being clear enough in my comment. However, given you ridiculous suggestion that I should leave my home (Singapore) to go back to my country of heritage, I am so offended that I will be apologising to you for nothing at all - you don't deserve it. Finally, just because your ancestors (or past generations at least) played a part in building up Singapore to where it is today, does not in anyway suggest or mean that you contribute anything more or less than me in today's SG multicultural society - perhaps we are just seeing the true colours of Ling in terms of her attitude toward westerners working and living in Singapore. Hmmm???? This is my home too - not just yours!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Tch tch... |
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10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai @Ling - You have chosen to try to read implications (that don't exist) into what I wrote - I did not put anyone down. For you to infer I meant anything other than what I have said is showing your defensiveness... why? And further to tell me to go home - what for?? I love this country and I love the people - I have always emphasised this point. Next time, before you jump to incorrect and inappropriate conclusions, you should look hard at yourself and the reasons why you wish to insult people that contribute to your (our) country, when you have clearly misinterpreted my words. Thank God the rest of this beautiful country are not as shallow as you, and respect me for my value-added contributions to my society. At least you have used the word 'assuming' - ass-u-me... please keep your degrading comments to yourself. I've not put anyone down (except hardlinejuan for the insults he posed to Shanghai and its people) - your wish here is to put me down - a little bit of the pot calling the kettle black, don't you think!! A group of my Singaporean friends (male and female, attractive and unattractive alike) are here now at my home, and I have showed them your post... they are disgusted for your words and apologising on your behalf... I've told them not to, I know that the majority of SGpeans are not as shallow and insulting as you. I think an apology directly from you for your incorrect assumptions, inapproriate inferences and narrow-mindedness would suffice!! ANGRY NOW!!!!! You are so wrong in every statement you have made in your post (on so many levels)!!! |
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10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai @hardlinejuan - it sounds very much like your 'hates' are actually your problems and perceptions, not those of the beautiful city or the people... On your opening comments - attractive Asian women (in Singapore) - compared to Shanghai?? You MUST be joking right???????? If you can't say 'f**k off', then you obviously havn't lived in Shanghai long enough yet. Anyway - if you hate it so much, why don't you just 'f**k off' home instead of complaining? |
| 180 |
Beijing Airport Terminal 3 (T3) Opens No this is not the case, DB... I have never experienced no wireless access at any airport in the world in the last 2 years (except for India). We were all talking in the lounge, and we all had the same problem. All told, about 30 of us. The airport management were very aware of the problem and very apologetic, but that did not help any of us. This is an absolute 'gimme' as far as basic requirements of a business lounge at an international airport and MUST be rectified. No one in any of the multinational companies (at any level) for which I've worked has a GPRS card (with the exception of some lower level sales people who travel internally in their country but not internationally, and operate remotely nearly 24/7 on the road with no office to attend) - we have smart phones with GPRS so we can do email, but this does not enable VPN access to company networks and infrastructures. As an aside, you will see that most multinationals are beginning to move away from 'expat' packages and overseas assignments are paid via local means (albeit very good packages). |
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Avoid Blog Blocked in China @Meg - I have a widget that will test urls on servers in Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong - just type in your URL, verification code and click 'test it'... if the widget doesn't display the first time you enter the following link, just refresh the page. http://www.aussiepete.com/2008/04/blogging-goes-live-great-firewall-of.html |
| 178 |
Beijing Airport Terminal 3 (T3) Opens Hi Jian Shuo... as you know, I am a very frequent business traveller. As fate has dictated, this week was only the first time that I got to use the International arrivals and departures of the new Terminal 3, and my impressions are this: Firstly, the architecture and size etc are really amazing... a job well done. As far as the logistics are concerned, they have a very, very long way to go in order to get ready for the 2008 Olympic visitors. I arrived at T3 in Beijing on a red-eye flight from Singapore (SIA) at 7:20am on Tuesday morning. Due to the class travelled, the status of my kris flyer membership, and the APEC card I hold to move through the diplomatic channel at immigration, I was the first to arrive at the baggage collection - so far no problems. After collecting my bag from the carousel, I was the first to head toward customs to exit the terminal. This is where things went very wrong. The signage (of which there is very little) for arrivals is very misleading. After asking a security office for directions to customs, I ended up in a queue, and after 10-min waiting was asked for my boarding pass. When I explained that I was arriving, the attendant could not speak english and my mandarin was too poor for her to understand. She called another security person to talk to me, who then advised that I was in fact on the wrong floor - I needed to leave floor 2 and go to floor 4. Even though I was dubious about this, I got on the elevator to floor 4, where I exited into the main part of the terminal (in departures) with absolutely no security or customs check - lucky I was not a terrorist or drug trafficker!! Then I had to cross to the other side of the terminal, get an elevator back to the 2nd floor (where I saw that I was on the outside of the customs area), and an escalator ride down to where I eventually caught a taxi - total time after collecting baggage was about half hour, and no security checks - as a traveller who visits numerous airports, this was a very daunting and amazing experience for me - goodness knows what infrequent travellers will go through in August?? When I was departing - I went up the diplomatic channel again at immigration... this time there was no-one in attendance, and once I was on the other side (unchecked), I had to ask someone at baggage scanning to get someone to go back and stamp my passport for me (which they did) - otherwise they would think I was still in China. Once I cleared immigration and baggage scan, I headed up to the BGS premier lounge - the common lounge for nearly all airlines - only to discover that the wireless internet connection was not working - I was advised that they had not finished setting it up... I lost 2 critical hours that I needed to complete some urgent work. I sat there frustrated with a huge number of other business people looking at laptops with no online access... In all, I was very disappointed with the experience, after all the hype... I was looking forward to visiting T3... my colleagues that also landed in to Beijing this week all had similar (or even worse) experiences... I sincerely hope that they fix all the bugs before the Olympic traffic hits... it doesn't matter how pretty or state of the art the design, runway, architecture ete etc is, without the proper logistics and support for the traveller, it's similar to travelling through sub-standard airports like those in India. Disappointed!!!! |
| 177 |
Car Towing at Owner's Expense? Hi 'The Cyndicate' - I actually cannot even remember what I wrote on this post it must have been so long ago. I'm not familiar with American law, but certainly in Australia, parking offences are covered under legislation. They are covered under the 'Australian Road Rules', which is a document developed by the National Transport Commission in consultation with all Australian governments through their transport agencies and police, the Commonwealth office of Legislative Drafting and the Parliamentary Counsel's Committee. Illegal parking can cause siginifcant danger on the roads (as well as inhibiting and affecting undeserving innocent companies)... I say that the authorities should enact the laws and throw the book at these people who show no concern for their fellow citizens - if they cannot honour the road rules and respect their fellow countrymen, then they should use public transport, cycle, or walk to their destination - in many countries, driving is a privelege. |
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The World is Not Created by Genius - Part II Here are some data that a friend sent me today... What Makes 100%? What does it mean to give MORE than 100%? Ever wonder about those people who say they are giving more than 100%? We have all been to those meetings where someone wants you to give over 100%. How about achieving 103%? What makes up 100% in life? Here's a little mathematical formula that might help you answer these questions. If: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z is represented as: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 It is obvious that H-A-R-D-W-O-R-K 8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98% And K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E 11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+5 = 96% But A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E 1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5 = 100% While B-U-L-L-S-H-I-T 2+21+12+12+19+8+9+20 = 103% Finally, and most effectively A-S-S K-I-S-S-I-N-G 1+19+19+11+9+19+19+9+14+7 = 127% So, one can conclude with mathematical certainty that while Hard Work and Knowledge will get you close, and Attitude will get you there, it's the Bullshit and Ass Kissing that will put you over the top ! :D hehe - numbers don't lie... |
| 175 |
Happy Children's Day Hi Jian Shuo... Happy Intl Children's Day to Yifan (hehe - and you and Wendy) - ahhh... and cannot forget wonton (we're all kids at heart). :D Lucky baby Jaime Zheng Jiayang gets to celebrate 3 children's days now - China (1st June), Singapore (1st Oct) and Australia (4th Wed of October - this year, the 22nd). Many countries place more emphasis on Intl Childrens Day than others, but most countried 'officially' celebrate to some degree... for example it is only just beginning to take on some meaning in Australia. Here's an extract (by country) from the blog entry I wrote on this today: Australia Australia celebrates "Children's Day" on the fourth Wednesday of October. In 2008, it falls on the 22nd of October. It is part of a week long celebration of "Children's Week". It is a time when children of all ages receive gifts and celebrate their special week. Argentina Children's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of August. Brazil Children's Day is celebrated on October 12, which is also the day of Our Lady of Aparecida, a public holiday in Brazil. Bangladesh In Bangladesh, Children's Day hasn't been celebrated in a manner that may let know the community know about the importance of Child Rights. However on November 20 YCM(Youth Change Makers) plans to inform people of Children Day by holding huge children competitions and fashion show. Though it wont be considered as a holiday. Canada Canada's "National Child Day" is held November 20th each year as enacted in Bill C-371, otherwise known as the Child Day Act, by the Parliament of Canada in 1993 to fulfill Canada's commitment to the United Nations General Assembly's recommendation to observe a Universal Children's Day.Canadian Children's Rights Council It is not a holiday in Canada. Central Africa On Congo, Congo DR, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Chad, Central African Republic, São Tomé and Príncipe Children's Day is celebrated in this country on the December 25 to honour all the children. Chile Children's Day is celebrated the first Sunday of August. Colombia In Colombia Children's Day is celebrated in the last weekend of April. Costa Rica Children's day is celebrated on September 9 in Costa Rica. Cuba Children's day is celebrated in Cuba on the third Sunday of July. El Salvador In El Salvador, Children's Day is celebrated on October 1. Former and current Communist and Socialist countries In Russia, as well as other former Soviet Union states, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Estonia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, other former or current communist states, Albania, Angola, Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic and Slovakia, Ethiopia and Eritrea, Germany, Laos, Republic of Macedonia, Mongolia, Montenegro, Mozambique, Poland, Serbia, Slovenia, Tanzania, Yemen, Children's Day is celebrated on June 1. This list includes 25 countries which regained independence from USSR, seceded from Yugoslavia Federation, as well as Czechoslovakia, Ethiopia after their respective splits. Germany During the Cold War, the Children's Day (Kindertag) was handled quite differently in the two states. The date was different (GDR: June 1, FRG: September 20), the name was slightly different (GDR: "International Children's Day" ("Internationaler Kindertag"), FRG: "World Children's Day" ("Weltkindertag")), and most notably: the customs. In the GDR, the holiday was introduced in 1950, and was from then on a yearly highlight for the children. On this day of the year, one typically received congratulations and presents from one's parents and did special activities in school, such as field trips and the like. In the FRG, Children's Day did not have such meaning to the children, and was even mostly unknown to many people. Since the affiliation in 1990, the date and name used in the FRG have become the official ones for the former GDR as well. This however was not accepted by large parts of the former GDR population, so that still many parents celebrate with their kids on the former date, June 1, and even Children's Day public events take place on the old date. Guatemala In Guatemala Children's day is celebrated on the first day of October. Honduras In Honduras Children's Day (Día del Niño) is celebrated on September 10. Hong Kong Children's Day is celebrated on April 4 each year (the same day as the Republic of China (Taiwan) since ROC established the Children's Day on April 4 in 1931. The ROC government combined Women’s Day with Children’s Day on April 4 in 1993, officially calling it Women’s and Children’s Day, making it a day for women, mothers, and children. The practice is still observed by both the Hong Kong SAR Government and the public after the handover in 1997, though this festival has not been a public holiday before the handover. Hungary In 1931 Children's day started although then it was called Children's Week, but since 1950 it has only been a day technically the last Sunday in May. India In India Children's Day day is celebrated on November 14 every year. This date the marks the anniversary of independent India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Children's day is celebrated on this day in recognition of his lifelong passion and work for children. Israel Children's Day is celebrated. Italy Children's Day is not celebrated. Japan Japanese families fly carp kites on Children's Day.May 05 is Children's Day, called こどもの日 ("Kodomo no hi", こどもの日?) in Japanese; the festivities used to be called Boy's Day , called 端午の節句 (Tango no Sekku, 端午の節句?) in Japanese , to distinguish it from Girls' Day, called 桃の節句 (Momo no Sekku, 桃の節句?), ひな祭り (Hinamatsuri, ひな祭り?) in Japanese , March 3). Both of these days are marked with a lot of activities for children. On this day, children display samurai swords, armor, and Kintarō dolls. Two important symbols of Children's day are carps and irises. Traditionally, families fly carp kites with a carp .representing each son. Mexico In Mexico Children's day is celebrated on the 30th of April. New Zealand Children's Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of March each year. Children's Day provides New Zealanders with a special opportunity to spend time with their children, create positive memories, and take part in fun activities that start new traditions as well as continue old ones. The vision of Children's Day is to see children celebrated, nurtured and treasured by all. Nigeria Children's Day is celebrated on the 27th of May. North Korea North Korean Children's Day is celebrated on June 1 (국제 아동절). Before 1945 it was celebrated on May 1, But in 1945, it was changed to its current date. South Korea In South Korea, 5th of May is officially the Children's Day. Pakistan In Pakistan, Children's Day is celebrated on November 20. There is no holiday on this day but it is observed by NGO working on Child Rights. Peru In Peru, Children's Day is celebrated on October 14. Paraguay In Paraguay, Children's Day is celebrated on August 16, day of the infamous Battle of Acosta Ñu, where 20,000 thousand men of the Brazilian Army crushed a Paraguayan battle made up of 3,500 children ages six to fifteen - even though Paraguay had been already completely defeated (see more in War of the Triple Alliance). It's a national holiday, used to remember the atrocities the Brazilians committed during the five-year war. People's Republic of China In the People's Republic of China, Children's Day is celebrated on June 1 and is formally known as "The June 1st International Children's Day" - 六一国际儿童节). When the People's Republic of China was first established in 1949, the State Council (Cabinet) designated a half-a-day holiday for all primary schools on June 1st. This was later made into a full day's break in 1956 with The Announcement by the State Council to make June 1st Children's Day a One Day Public Holiday (国务院关于“六一儿童节”改为放假一天的通知). Schools usually organizes activities such as camping trips or free movies on Children's day to allow students to have fun, and Children of civil servants might also receive small gifts from the government. Entrance Ceremonies of the Young Pioneers of China (similar to boy scouts in the West) are frequently held on June 1st as well. Poland Children's Day is celebrated in Poland on June 1. The International Children's Day was introduced in Poland in the early 1950s. It coincides with the beginning of summer and it is usually treated as a holiday, as it takes place near the end of the school year. Schools usually organize special activities for the day of the celebration, and the first week of June is a time of the festivities organized in parks and entertainment centers for children. Parents usually buy some small gifts for their children. Portugal and former colonies In Portugal, and also at some of its former colonies - Guinea-Bissau, Macau, Cape Verde, East Timor - the Children's Day is celebrated on June 1. Romania In Romania the Day is celebrated on June 1. Singapore October 1 is the day which Singapore officially celebrates Children's Day, a similar event celebrated every year is Youth Day which is celebrated on the first Sunday of July each year. Slovakia In Slovakia, the day is called International Children's Day and is celebrated on June 1. Sri Lanka The Universal Children's Day is celebrated on the October 01. Sweden The International Children's Day is celebrated on October 2, though there are very few actual celebrations. Taiwan The Taiwan designates April 4 as Children's Day (兒童節), pursuant to Article 5 of the Order to Implement Commemoration Days and Holidays (紀念日及節日實施辦法). Despite not being a legal holiday, schools often hold special activities in order to celebrate the occasion. Due to pressure from parents that demanded to accompany their children in the celebration, the ROC government recognized Women’s Day with Children’s Day on April 4, 1993. Thus, the celebration is technically called Women’s and Children’s Day. Thailand The second Saturday of January is Children's Day in Thailand. Turkey In Turkey, Children's Day has been celebrated on April 23rd since 1935. It originated from the first gathering of Grand National Assembly on April 23rd, 1920, during the Turkish Independence War. After the Ottomans were defeated during World War I, Turkish land had been occupied by other European countries such as England, Italy and France. Ataturk, an Ottoman commander, broke his ties with the dying Empire and started the war for independence against Allied forces and the old Ottoman regime. After years of fighting Turkey won full independence. Turks consider Ataturk to be "The Father of Modern Turkey". After the war, Ataturk refused the role of Sultan or King and established a modern Republic instead. He gifted April 23rd to the children for the country, so that they would cherish the independence that cost so much, but at the same time walk the path of "Peace at Home, Peace in the World" On April 23rd children from around the world come to Turkey. They're hosted by families who have children of a similar age. Festivities last over a week and the visiting and Turkish children spend a lot of time together. Many children, often not even speaking the same language, create lifelong friendships. Several of the events are broadcast on television, showing the children in their traditional national outfits, dancing singing and exchanging gifts. The United Nations participates the events. Every year on April 23rd, the seats of Parliament are held by children, and a child becomes President for a day. The child President delivers a speech on national television. United States of America Children’s Day observations in the United States predate both Mother’s and Father’s Day. The celebration of a special Children’s Day in America dates from the 1860s and earlier. In 1856, Rev. Charles H. Leonard, D.D., then pastor of the First Universalist Church of Chelsea, Mass., set apart a Sunday for the dedication of children to the Christian life, and for the re-dedication of parents and guardians to bringing-up their children in Christian nurture. This service was first observed the second Sunday in June. The Universalist Convention at Baltimore in September, 1867, passed a resolution commending churches to set apart one Sunday in each year as Children’s Day. The Methodist Episcopal Church at the Methodist Conference of 1868 recommended that second Sunday in June be annually observed as Children’s Day. The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in 1883 designated the “the second Sabbath in June as Children’s Day.” Also in 1883, the National Council of Congregational Churches and nearly all the state bodies of that denomination in the United States passed resolutions commending the observance of the day. About this time many other denominations adopted similar recommendations. Chase’s Calendar of Events cites Children’s Sunday and notes that The Commonwealth of Massachusetts issues an annual proclamation for the second Sunday in June. Numerous churches and denominations currently observe the second Sunday in June including the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Church of the Nazarene. Children's Day, was proclaimed by President Bill Clinton in October 2000. He declared that it be held on November 16th. "National Child's Day" was proclaimed by the President of the United States of America, George W. Bush, as June 3, 2001 and in subsequent years on dates in early June. In 2003, he proclaimed June 1st. In 2004, he proclaimed June 6th. In 2005, he proclaimed June 5th. In 2006, he proclaimed June 4th. In 2007, he proclaimed June 3rd. The White House Proclamation by the President of the United States of America, 2001 Nowhere in any of the proclamations did the President refer to the United Nations or the UN Resolution about Universal Child Day. It is important to note that The United States of America is one of only two countries in the world that have not ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. As of November 2007, 193 countries have ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, (UNCRC). The only other country that has not ratified the UNCRC is Somalia. United States position on the UNCRC In 2007, Illinois Governor Rod R. Blagojevich issued a proclamation proclaiming the second Sunday in June as Children's Day. The mayors of Aurora and Batavia, Illinois, also issued proclamations. Uruguay In Uruguay, Children's Day is celebrated on January 6th. Venezuela In Venezuela Children's Day is celebrated the 30th of April. Vietnam Children's Day is celebrated on June 1 as ICD and on the full moon of the 8th lunar month during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Visit the full story (if you can get across the GFW): http://www.aussiepete.com/2008/06/advantages-of-mixed-cultures-children.html |
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Chinese Internet Turns Black and White Hehe - not-so-Chinese-savvy?? Nearly all aussies know what this term means in China... I'm with you on this one, Wonton!... |
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Chinese Internet Turns Black and White hi peter. i don't have time to write lengthy responses like u, but i wasn't inferring ignorance due to language nor was i defending aust or any other countrty u brought up. many of this person's comments were iignorant (point 1). point 2 to have german language and criticisng another country's govts position or stance gave me shivers. i think i'm alowed my opinion here am i not? or are u the post police? |
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Chinese Internet Turns Black and White I got a 'shiver' reading through these posts... memory went to past history... talk of oppressive govts, liberty of people, etc etc... then finish with 'Auf wiedersehen'... the language of what could well be regarded as the most oppressive and cruel govts of the 20th century... always love it when outsiders post in ignorance. |
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How We Can Help? Message just issued to employees from Motorola President, Asia Pacific: Motorola continues to support Sichuan earthquake disaster relief Total donation reaches RMB15 million Motorola today announced additional donations to support the disaster relief in Sichuan, bringing the total cumulative amount to RMB15 million in cash, mobile networking equipment, mobile handsets and two way radios plus related onsite technical services. Motorola employees in China and around the world are participating in the disaster relief effort by donating cash valued over RMB2 million, matched by Motorola funds amounting to over RMB4 million. We want to let you know that Motorola Foundation was overwhelmed by the extent of the tragedy and equally overwhelmed by the generous response of our employees worldwide. On Monday they called an emergency meeting of the Motorola Foundation Board to raise the amount of their matching donation to USD250,000 (RMB1.75 million). The Foundation will continue to work with the China Management team to provide further support for rebuilding activities in the future. Apart from the donation in cash, we want to highlight the rapid response and significant contribution from each of our businesses. Immediately following the earthquake we began working with our customers and partners to restore communications in the impacted areas and donated a wide range of equipment and services, including TETRA portable radios, CDMA mobile phones, Remote Speaker Micro-phone, GSM network equipment and services. As the extent of the damage has become better understood, our businesses have expanded these donations and our technical teams have moved onsite to work closely with the customers, partners and related organizations to provide communications for the affected areas as quickly as possible. This rapid and ongoing response is something we should be proud of! We are also touched by what Motorolans are doing to support the relief effort, whether through cash donations or voluntary donations of critical necessity items such as flashlights, blanket, and clothing for the people in Sichuan. The efforts are deeply appreciated. Once again, we want to express our sincere gratitude to all Motorolans who have helped through different ways. It is a blessing that we can give to those in need, but we must keep in mind that our individual and company aid and assistance will continue to be needed over the days, weeks and months ahead. Please continue to keep the Sichuan people in your thoughts and prayers. |
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Requirements for Websites Related to Earthquake It was sent also out by the govt in Hefei, Anhui province. |
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Requirements for Websites Related to Earthquake I posted a similar article on my blog Jian Shuo... one thing I noticed (as my wife uses it regularly) , is that although liba.sh is all black and white, the discussion and topics don't seem to be vetted in any way... just seems like 'business as usual' for them. |
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How We Can Help? @PLA man - for us our efforts have gone off perfectly - u are talking from some sort of personal experience? Or u just trying to inflame people in this time when people need our help? Be gracious and have a heart - take this strange line of discussion off this post please. |
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How We Can Help? @PLA man - I'm proud to say that all our help has gotten through completely fine - and as well as all the RMB millions worth of cash, equipment and infrastructure we have sent, we have many engineers successfully deployed and working on-site in the immediate affected area. This is in relation to emergency response communications equipment and mobile communications infrastructure equipment... we have had full co-operation from all authorities... no underground powers, no political influence - just complete support to help the victims... |
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How We Can Help? Hi @TibetanLady - I understand the criticism you were trying to make. My point is that this post is to see how we can help the victims of the disaster, not a platform to begin debate again on China / Tibet and the Chinese Govt - there are many other posts where you can (and have) posted your point of view. There are many people that do or do not support the Chinese Govt, but although they happen to work for the Govt, they too are actually human beings, and it is not nice to infer that anyone deserves what has occurred on 5.12 or for anyone to suggest that it was a 'mandate from heaven' (a statement which in many religions would be considered blasphemous). God bless!! |
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Thoughts after One Week of Earthquake Motorola continues to provide disaster relief support to China earthquake. Following the first announcement of donation valued RMB2 million in cash and equipment on 13 May and the grant from Motorola Foundation to International Red Cross, Motorola today announces to donate additional RMB5 million worth of cash, mobile communications infrastructure equipment, mobile devices and related field technical support and services for the disaster relief and recovery. To date, Motorola has donated over RMB7 million in cash, products and services. The second phase of donation includes RMB2 million in cash, of which the amount from China employees alone has reached over 1.65 million so far; and RMB3 million worth of equipment. Once again, we want to express our sincere appreciation to Ruey Bin Kao, president of China, and the local team’s immediate response and initiation to offer help and support to the affected area. The emergency response communications equipment and mobile communications infrastructure equipment that Motorola donated have already arrived Sichuan, and the mobile phones are also on their way. Our Motorola engineers are on-site in the affected areas working with our customers and partners to provide technical support. During this time when we are still coming to grips with this profound tragedy, we have been touched and are proud of what the employees, businesses and functions are contributing towards the disaster relief efforts. http://www.motorola.com.cn/news/2008/05/080513.asp http://www.motorola.com.cn/news/2008/05/080519.asp |
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How We Can Help? @TibetanLady - how can you even suggest this disaster is a 'mandate of heaven' on anybody in such a tragic time? So much loss and suffering. Yesterday was Vesak day - your post is not akin to the teachings of the Dharma. Shame on you to use this tragedy as a platform to criticise anyone and then try and disguise it with prayer. |
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How We Can Help? This blog topic is reaching out to ask how we can be of help to the suffering people, not a platform for people to air their political beliefs and agendas - there are many other topics here where one can do this. All should be respectful to the victims of this tragedy and take out the heartless political banter and criticism of the government from this particular discussion. We should all be united in this time of need!!! Think of others and not just yourselves - what if your family was affected by this tragedy?? |
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How We Can Help? @jian shuo - I'm proud to say that the company I work for, as well as donating a huge sum of money themselves, has setup a special web portal with the American Red Cross to allow Motorola employees to donate money for direct support (shelter, food, clothing, etc) for those victims in need. Every donation that we employees make, gets matched 'dollar for dollar' by the company. |
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How We Can Help? @DC - thanks kindly for your wishes... @Brian - what's up?? Why are you so heartless in this time of such tragedy and devestation? There are very few countries in this world (even on fault lines) - apart from Japan - that are prepared for earthquakes of this magitude. |
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My Google PageRank Increases to PR5 Hi Jian Shuo - not sure if u are aware, but you can now add html code to your FB profile... so what I did, was used my feedburner RSS feed to create a 'headline animator' and then copy and pasted the code into the html code application... so now I have a button on my FB profile that displays the latest blog post from my feed, and if users click on it, they can subscribe to my feeds... pretty neat in case you are interested.... :D |
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Earthquake is Much More Terrible than I Thought Hi Carroll - thanks for the concern - yes, my colleague is safe. Unfortunately though, they cannot go to work or go to their home. They are stuck living in a vehicle provided by the government right now. Given the suffering of so many others, I think they can probably count their blessings that they are unharmed. |
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My Google PageRank Increases to PR5 Hi Jian Shuo - by the way, this site is now PR of 6 in case you were not aware. I'm interested if after you blog, you ping? I understand that 'blog and ping' is a sure fire way to increase unique readers and therefore potentially more one way links. |
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Earthquake and Flee from 18th Floor One of my very close friends and colleagues (who lives and works not far from the epicentre) is still missing and we fear greatly for his safety. We cannot raise him by phone. My prayers to him and his family. |
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Meeting Place: Starbucks at Jinyan Road, Pudong @jian shuo - although the one you had looks like a 'lemon lamington', the most common ones in Australia are chocolate - here's the background and recipe: Chocolate Lamingtons: Small squares of plain cake, dipped in melted chocolate and sugar and coated in desiccated coconut. Said to have been named after Baron Lamington (see below), a popular governor of Queensland from 1896 to 1901. SPONGE CAKE 3 eggs 1/2 cup castor sugar 3/4 cup self-raising flour 1/4 cup cornflour 15g (1/2oz) butter 3 tablespoons hot water Beat eggs until thick and creamy. Gradually add sugar. Continue beating until sugar completely dissolved. Fold in sifted SR flour and cornflour, then combined water and butter. Pour mixture into prepared lamington tins 18cm x 28cm (7in x 11in). Bake in moderate oven approximately 30 mins. Let cake stand in pan for 5 min before turning out onto wire rack. CHOCOLATE ICING 3 cups desiccated coconut 500g (1lb) icing sugar 1/3 cup cocoa (extra cocoa can be added, according to taste) 15g (1/2oz) butter 1/2 cup milk Sift icing sugar and cocoa into heatproof bowl. Stir in butter and milk. Stir over a pan of hot water until icing is smooth and glossy. Trim brown top and sides from cake. Cut into 16 even pieces. Holding each piece on a fork, dip each cake into icing. Hold over bowl a few minutes to drain off excess chocolate. Toss in coconut or sprinkle to coat. Place on oven tray to set. (Cake is easier to handle if made the day before. Sponge cake or butter cake may be used. May be filled with jam and cream.) BARON LAMINGTON: Rt Hon Charles Wallace Alexander Napier Cochrane Baillie, Baron Lamington, GCMG, Governor of Queensland from 9 April 1896 to 19 December 1901. Whilst the origin of the name for the lamington cake cannot be accurately established, there are several theories. One of these theories is that it was originally the slang term for the homburg hat, worn by Baron Lamington, and these cakes were named for him. Another theory is that they were named after Lady Lamington, the wife of the Governor. |
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Meeting Place: Starbucks at Jinyan Road, Pudong Haha - @dezza - it does too - reminds me of the lamington drives we used to have in school!!! |
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Error in Western Media Report about Tibet Why the personal attack on Joyce? - although there is some opinion in her post, most of it is hard historical fact. Which part is offensive? |
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Introduce Yourself @jian shuo - I think you already know much about me over the years... in summary, Peter Breitkreutz - Australian living and working in Singapore - married to ex-colleague from Shanghai, Sammi (used to work together in Kodak). 'Mixed' baby Jaime Zheng Jiayang, born in Singapore on 27th August, 2007. Global Strategic Sourcing Manager for Marketing, Motorola. www.aussiepete.com |
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Error in Western Media Report about Tibet @rick - my ancestors are from Australia. - the aborigines were some of the first human beings to inhabit this planet... I'm confused - where did u want me to go to? I'm living in Singapore now - are u saying I should go back home to Australia? |
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Photos of Shanghai in May, 2008 @shanghai-ren... u are a very strange person. |
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Slow Internet Connection in Early May @wonton - thanks for the wishes - almost completely recovered now!!!! *Whew* - was pretty bad for a while there... am I correct to assume that you have a way to somehow get around the GFW of China to be able to view aussiepete.com?? Maybe you could share your secrets with me?? FYI (and Jian Shuo) - just posted the latest instalment on my blog which may be a little controversial give the online gaming culture here in SG - "Regulation of Cyber Cafes in Singapore (Internet Cafes) and Gaming Addiction of our Youths"... this topic is getting a bit of airplay here in SG media right now... take care... http://www.aussiepete.com |
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Slow Internet Connection in Early May Hi @Jian Shuo - after years of following your blogging site, you have inspired me to begin my own to keep track of our day-to-day activities and live as a tribute to our lives abroad. I have posted a link to this site on the opening entry. Please have a look at our site... I don't think the China GFW will allow you to visit the URL 'proper' so also post the direct blog link which (hopefully) can be accessed form the China mainland: http://www.aussiepete.com From mainland China: http://jaimezheng.blogspot.com Kind regards and thank for the inspiration... :D |
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Wired Photos... Long Time Ago @Jian Shuo - I hope you enjoyed an evening with no laptop!! I cannot imagine what that would be like - the computer is almost like an extension of me these days. I think I would feel very inadequate just one day without my laptop (although it would make my wife very happy I suspect) :D Very clever pictures!! FYI - Jaime turned 8-months old the other day, and now has his first two teeth - I hope Yifan is also doing well. @shanghai-ren - hmmm... what is your problem? Did you forget to take your medication?? |
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"Love China" Blooms on MSN Messenger @rat in hat - just saw your post to me - sorry I've been travelling for business and not had opportunity to visit this site for a few days... I beg to differ on your suggestion that Buddhism in China is more about culture than faith... I understand the point you're trying to make, but it's very a very general one (perhaps based upon your observations? - I'm not sure of your (strange) thought processes). I don't think it's really for you to say whether or not praying for luck is a valid form of faith - if one believes in something without hard evidence of it's existence, is it not faith? - this is the fundamental groundstone for any religion today. Most of my family and extended family in China are very strict in their Buddhist beliefs (them, and also many generations before them). My own immediate family are Christian - it would be naive of me to try and make a call on who is right and who is wrong - or which religion is better for that matter... I have my own beliefs and they are very personal to me. Regardless of your own faith or beliefs, I strongly suggest you refrain from insulting or pretending to understand the intricasies of others' beliefs - especially with the gross generalizations and inaccuracies of your last post on this thread - are you one of these self-proclaimed theologists perhaps?? I recommend you look to 'real history' rather than rely on media or anecdotal discussions to attain your knowledge. |
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"Love China" Blooms on MSN Messenger Just a point of note - after attending (and being swept along) with the sea of people at the Jing'an Temple in Shanghai for the last two years in a row on CNY morning... there is definitely some religious 'collective thinking' there... :D There are more people in attendance on this one day than at the busiest Australian Rules football match on a sell-out day at the MCG in Melbourne. |
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"Love China" Blooms on MSN Messenger @nick - I'm a 'western guy' but don't tell you or anyone else that I know yours or anyone else's country (or island) better than you... I am respectful - so no need for you to generalize - keep it impersonal hey? |
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"Love China" Blooms on MSN Messenger Hahahahaha - @belacqua - now things are getting really dangerous!! |
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Yifan in His 9th Month Wow!! Crawling...!!! These babies are growing so quickly - Yifan is so very, very cute!!! Jaime is no almost 8-months, and trying his very hardest to crawl... just not strong enough yet... :p I started a group for him on Facebook - would love for you to join!! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=17335466083 |
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"Love China" Blooms on MSN Messenger Hi @summer_go... ahem... ahhh... actually there is no such word in the English language "UNFREE"... :D |
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Real Pictures of China with My Experience @shanghai-ren... xenophobic is clearly not the appropriate descriptor. There are reasons behind everything (rightly or wrongly), but the Carrefour incident is clearly not due to a 'fear' of foreigners. |
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Friends Started to Boycott French Products @Richard - I am not agreeing nor disagreeing with your post (you are obviously very passionate - given your controversial proclamation that 'we were right on Iraq' - millions would disagree with you) - as I have said many times on these threads, it is not my position to do so (as an outsider)... most non-Chinese do not understand the intricacies of the situation or the history leading up until now (no matter how much they -we - think we are knowledgable or how strong the views). I would however like to make a brief comment on your statement: "why did they jail a non-violent political opponent for 6 years?"... on this point, I think it's open to interpretation - it depends on what one's definition of 'non-violent' is. I'd like to take the opportunity to repost this link from a couple of week's ago (apologies to those people whose servers are on the China mainland and may be affected by the GFW). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xsoc4-QnplY On the 'non-violent political opponent' descriptor, I think the jury is still out - does a person who makes 95% of his innocent country people suffer dire hardship and starvation under a 'theocratic' regime (in the name of religion) allow that person to get away unscathed because he is 'non-violent' by not physically hurting someone with a weapon? In other circumstances, what the theocracy had done in Tibet could be considered 'crime against humanity' and perpertrators could be subject to more than just 6 years jail (could it not?). Once again, I am not taking sides here - I am just suggesting that you should not learn your history from western media. Especially as it relates to China and Tibet. Take care and God bless!! |
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Living Cost in Shanghai Hi @DB -I agree completely with the message you are trying to convey here, but disagree a little with the method. Let me briefly explain why... In absolute terms, you are quite correct, Shanghai doesn't even come close to being one of the most expensive in the world. In relative terms (your point 3), I do not have data to support my observations, but for the average local hard-working Shanghainese (let's say in the construction or manufacturing industry), I'm led to believe that the cost of living is extremely high. In the 'early' days of my marriage (whilst living in Shanghai), it was not uncommon for me to buy a particular item, and then make a statement as to how extremely cheap that item was (obviously when said item was bought from my Australian salary, and when the same item is compared to Australian prices). Such a statement actually put strain on my relationship (one of the very few issues we had when 'blending' our cultures) - my wife would immediately reply that it wasn't cheap - for us, and compared to Australia, yes it didn't cost much relatively, but for the average Shanghainese, the item was unaffordable and considered and impossible luxury. So I fleshed this out a bit more with my wife over the years, and now understand that although I may see something as inexpensive, it is not appropriate - and often downright offensive - to comment on the same to local Shanghainese - it can be perceived as showing-off or trying to act elitist (even though this was clearly never the intent). Nowadays, out of respect to my in-laws, my wife and I can discuss perceptions on living costs in Shanghai relatively (between ourselves), but would never again consider 'belittling' my Shanghainese relatives and friends by making the same relative statements to them. As I said - I have no data to support the relative cost for locals in Shanghai, but I do hear from many people who are struggling day-to-day to make ends meet - having said this, I know people in many other countries that are facing the same problems - if I talk to many SGpeans, I get the same response - cost of living is way too high relative to average wages (whereas I find SG extremely inexpensive - once again it's relative)... these days I find Australia very expensive (which before relocating to SG, I had never even given a thought) - I can buy an entire dinner for my family at the local hawker center in SG for the same cost as two soft drinks in a 7-11 in Melbourne (although I earn much more in SG than I did in Australia, partly due to the massive tax advantages in SG). Anyway, in summary, I agree completely with the point you are making on absolute terms, but I think for you to rate number (3) as a valid way of measuring cost of living in Shanghai, then you have been a victim of your own observations with your opening comment that "this is simply bullshit"... to your position and income, relatively perhaps it is - but for the local Shanghainese, such a comment could be considered offensive (the latter making up a large population of Jian Shuo's readers). Take care @DB... |
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Living Cost in Shanghai - Part II @Troy, I think to gain information on living standards and cost of living in Shanghai, you have certainly come to the right place for advice. However, as for the question concerning US citizenship and taxation implications, my advice to you is to seek professional advice. Although you may get some sound opinions and first-hand experiences here, this blog is not the appropriate forum for this sort of advice. Taxation is a very personal matter, and each individual will face different issues, depending on income, assets, investments etc (at home and abroad). To outline this a little further, let me share my own experience. I have lived and worked abroad for a number of years. Now I know obviously, Australian and SG tax laws are much different to the US and China - I am merely offering my case as an example of why professional advice is warranted. My family and I are currently, residing in Singapore on P1 employment pass and dependent passes. When I made the shift to SG, I was allocated the services of a 'global' taxation partner (PCW) through my company, who assisted in my tax matters in both Australia and Singapore. It became glaringly obvious early, that the state of my residence in SG had some (but very little baring) on my tax position. There are many taxation advantages by residing in SG whilst maintaining a 'non-resident for taxation purposes' in Australia.... this is the critical point - if I retained substantial assets back home (eg. house, shares, other investments, etc) or received any form of income (inc. significant interest dividends etc) in Australia, I would need to continue as a 'resident for taxation purposes' in Australia - this would negate any taxation benefits in SG, because I would have to pay an 'equalizing' tax (or if you like, double tax). By 'liquidating' and selling off Australian assets, I am now taxed only in SG at a much much less rate than I would be if I were still in Australia. This as I said, as an employment pass holder... we will become PRs (permanent residents) of SG in a month or two, which offers a couple more percentage points in tax advantage, but to move toward citizenship would offer only a further small incremental gain. This would not be acceptable given my loyalty to my country and heritage (Australian through and through, regardless of where in the region I reside). Also, although Australia recognizes dual citizenship, SG do not (nor do China), and I would not be relinquishing by Aussie status for one or two percentage points of tax gain - totally unacceptable to me. Finally, a very important point to note, is the usage of the term 'expat'. Although, all of us on overseas assignments 'generally' refer to ourselves as expats, it is critical for you to understand the business implications and translation of this term. If you are an 'expat' in it's true business sense, your company will be sponsoring all your costs (living away from home allowance, driver and vehicle, regular R&R and associated travel costs, etc etc), and this money would be paid from your home country (hence the potential for heavy taxes), but generally these packages are quite attractive - I suspect this is not the case for you, because a US$75K package wouldn't cut it (wouldn't even come close). Your HR dept should be able to advise you on this - that's what HR professionals are paid to do - they should have the knowledge base on this. Anway - I've been super long-winded - in short, you MUST engage professional advice on the taxation matters - as you rightly point out, this is a life changing opportunity and you should therefore give the decision the respect it deserves by doing your homework completely. PD: Disposable Income? - depends on you - how do you spend your time? Window shopping or shopping at Gucci? That's a real tough question without the background. |
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My Experience of Culture and Religion in Tibet @Wayfarer - please note that the 'concensus' on this blog is not that China places too much emphasis on English langauage or that the English requirement in schools should be dropped. This is just a line that three people have been pushing (yourself, Perkins and Gunyan) - and after studying the content and structure of the posts it is extremely obvious that you three people are one and the same person (remember, that Jian Shou records and can view IP addresses, so changing your name to post the same material is very obvious to him - this 'different personality' syndrome must be very interesting - if not amusing - to him). English and Chinese Mandarin are the two languages needed for successfully conducting business across Asia, and to suggest students in China should not study English language can be very damaging to the young folk reading this blog - please all young Chinese people, do not believe what this one person (with different personalities) is posting - keep up your studies for your own sake (and future success). In ours and your lifetimes, the schematics of global business language will not change (or have major shift). Anyway, to summarize - dropping English in schools in China is not the concensus of this blog - just the belief of one person. Take care... :D |
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More Discussion on Tibet Hi Gunjan...?? or is it Ambassador Perkins? Do you mind me asking which part of India you come from? I travel at least 1-month a year across most of the major cities in India, and it's important to note that not all schools are teaching Hindi. I've had this discussion numerous time with my colleagues in India, and many of their children do not study the 'official' language - in fact many people right across India cannot communicate (the dialects are just too diverse), hence the drive in our MNC for common English as the business unifier. |
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Error in Western Media Report about Tibet Just a quick note to @perkins... as far as international language is concerned - my experience is very opposite to yours. Having spent two decades living & working in various countries across Asia Pacific (south, south-east and north) and the US in senior executive positions in MNCs (predominately concerned with technology and telecommunications globally), I strongly recommend English and Mandarin as what you have decribed as your 'tier 1' languages in order to be a successful global player. I am fluent in both (oral and written - as well as average oral skills in Shanghai dialect, German, Malay and Tamil). Although Portuguese and Spanish would be a 'nice to have', it's easy enough to get by with in-company translators for the minimal ROI that Sth American countries offer (inc. Brazil). Asia (specifically China) is destined - as we are all aware - to become the world's financial superpower, hence the importance of Chinese Mandarin as we move forward. Also - in respect of Hindi - yes, it is 'officially' the national language of India, but unlike Chinese Mandarin, it is yet to be adpoted by the population as a 'common' language for all... to succeed in business across south and south-east Asia, one would be best to learn Tamil as opposed to Hindi (both would be almost ideal - as ideal as Indian languages are concerned - there would still be millions of people one would not be able to converse with). Finally, when you speak of 'Chinese', I assume you are referring to Mandarin (orally) and simplified Chinese characters?? If you just mention Chinese language in many parts of southern China & HK, the locals would be right to think you are talking of Cantonese (or even Hokkien in areas such as Fujian province). Take care.... :D |
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Error in Western Media Report about Tibet I am purposely keeping opinions on this entire issue to myself - I have had numerous discussions with my father-in-law in Shanghai on this and many other issues, and the main lesson I have learned is although I may have opinions derived from my culture and upbringing, enhanced by media (correctly, or incorrectly), I have no right as a foreginer to make comment. Anyone from the 'outside' who even thinks they have anything close to understanding of the intricacies of current events is delusional. I'll probably get 'slammed' from people for stating the above (especially by the supporters of the 'neocon' and other conspiracy theories - *sigh*), but the reality is that I cannot compare current events with anything that I have encountered in my (long) life. I do not necessarily agree with all of my in-laws' beliefs on certain issues (Tibet and Taiwan, to name just a couple), but I certainly have an understanding of the compelling reasons why many local Chinese people believe (historically) the things they do, and their passion for the same. For this reason, I restrain from posting my misinformed 'outside' opinions. In all, one thing I can say with confidence (and have done before), is that to use the Olympic Games as a political platform is just wrong, especially trying to relate current world events and perceived breaches of human rights to the games that bring the world together. Boycotting the games (or threats of the same) as a publicity stunt to promote political beliefs is so very wrong and is not, and will not, be tolerated by the Olympic organizing committee, or those people who understand the real reasons behind this great event... it has been tried before, and has failed with disastrous and deadly consequences... good luck Beijing and China for 08/08/08!!!! |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Question for "MRMA" - where did u get your stats? Mind me asking? |
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Why I Didn't Cover About Tibet @wonton - I've purposely not been stating my opinion on this subject - it's not for me to say. However - congratulations on your post!! It is the most sensible one I've read on this topic yet. |
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Why I Didn't Cover About Tibet Wow - conspiracy theory at it's best - and lengthiest. |
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Prostitution in China Hi @oncrest... hehe - I think I'd get in to big trouble if I go and checkout Geylang nowadays - I think I understood your point, but didn't make myself very clear - I have no doubt that the percentage of prostitutes in SG that are Chinese is high, what I was trying to say is that the percentage of the total Chinese national population in SG that are prostitutes is low - which is why the perception that all Chinese nationals in SG are prostitutes is wrong... it's sort of like saying that because most suicide bombers are of islamic faith, therefore every moslom is a terrorist bomber, or because most kebab shops are owned by people from Turkey, that every person from Turkey owns a kebab shop... anyway, you get my drift - I've actually been confronted with the misconception that all Chinese nationals are prostitutes many times whilst living in SG - there is no way that the people with this view can be swayed otherwise, and I find it a little strange... Cheers. Sorry all for going way off topic here. Oh - and my 'blind China lover' reputation precedes me.... lol :D |
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Prostitution in China @ - @oncrest - I agree with you on this incorrect 'perception', and would like to add that the % of prostitutes of total population of Chinese nationals is very low in SG... I love living in SG, but this deep-seeded 'perception' in some SGpeans you describe is very, very true - and very, very wrong. It will take some time for the 'old school' Chinese national-haters to ween out of mainstream. I'm so glad you understand the issue so well... Let's keep on the govt's back to clean up geylang, and let's keep the open discussion going to remove the incorrect perceptions of 'old school' SGpeans that all Chinese nationals are prostitutes. Interestingly, we got rid of similar incorrect perceptions in Melbourne many years ago (that most asian girls are prostitutes), by lobbying the local, state and federal govts to change advertising laws. At that time, some brothels were advertising services by 'Asian only' - and went further to define by country of origin - it was possible to call and book time with a SGpean (or Chineses or Japanese or Malaysian or Korean etc, etc) if that was one's requirement... this practice is now illegal in Australia thank goodness - the world's 'oldest occupation' attracts workers from every walk of life, every country and every culture - no one country or race is immune. |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @DB - *sigh* I don't even know why I'm wasting my time... you've confused me by your timeframe - I referred to your 'mini-attack' (the incorrectly spelt "ditto") in a single post - to u and to yippee... As for "and please please do yourself and ALL of us one favour" - contrary to your own beliefs in your own popularity, you are not the king (or queen) of blogging, and you don't have any right to speak on behalf of ALL other readers of Jian Shuo's blogs. As Jian Shuo rightly posted - keep it about the subject, not the person. Feel free to have the last say here, because I refuse to answer anymore little personal digs... just really wasting my valuable time by even responding to this last one. Gotta go - got some real work to do now. All the best!! |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @john - take it easy mate... @db - once again, you have agreed with my post - no substantaited data exists. Your real-experiences lack the appropriate sample size to be validly considered data (China's population is >1.4bln - foreginer population reading this blog? I'm not really sure)... everyone is entitled to their own opinions on any topic, and I encourage and applaud open debate (when it is meaningful). To post % numbers that are just subjective opinion is just down-right silly. As a statistican, I cannot accept opinion stated in terms of data... it is valid for a person to say something like "in my experience, most of the people I know..." or "I've witnessed a large % of people..." etc... but to quote actual numbers with no further substantiation of where they are derived - this is inadequate and ignorant... I merely asked the question "where did u get the data from?" - why are u so excited about me asking the question?? Have an opinion sure, but you cannot convince me that using data that is flawed or has no substance can lead to meaningful debate. Your real-life experiences (not data, by definition) help form your subjective opinion (which is absolutely fine), but in no way can be representative of the entire population of China or mixed-country relationships. PERIOD!! As far as "AussiePB" bashing - actually, MrMa (who was not the original poster of the 'data') suggested I lacked commonsense by asking the source of the data - I used the commonsense angle back to him - then you (unprovoked by me), used it also on me (by the way, "ditto" is spelled with two t's)... yeepee's comments then further inflamed this 'mini attack' by you. Let's leave it at that - we obviously disagree on this topic, and we are both entitled to our opinion - but please just re-read my post asking where the data came from (as I asked you to before) - you seem to have misinterpreted my question as something to be offended by or to warrant your 'mini attack'. Take care... |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @db - you have supported my point exactly... I wasn't sprouting data - someone else was... if it's not real, why post it? There are people that read stuff on blogs like this and believe it. Also completely agree that my experiences are not necessarily reflective of the entire population of China - I never once suggested otherwise. @yeepee - I didn't mention my wife in my most recent post about the substandard data that was posted. Actually what I do take offense to is people making pointed remarks at skin colour - since you are so hung up on colour, what colour would you decsribe my son as?? Be careful, coz it could lead to a punch in the nose in other circumstances - also FYI, not sure of your heritage or financial position, but since you brought up my wife - We met in a professional environment, she is well-travelled, extremely highly educated and comes from a very well-to-do family (much more well-to-do than mine actually), with no need for green cards, money or anything else you might suggest. Also, I'm not naive enough to believe that all cross-border relationships have the same base (just check with people who have experiences with Mexico and foreign relationships). You agree with db's post about data not being available in China, but then continue on to quote a number of 80% again - do you agree with db's post, or just his AussiePB bashing. To you both, please review my post in reponse to the data again... I never once generalized nor tried to offer any data. As a person qualified in statistical analysis, I will always question any data that is unsubstantiated... that's all I did and referenced my personal experience / circles... what's with the poignant attack from you?? Perhaps it is you who have issues with cross-cultural marriages and your way of subtly getting your feelings across is to bash me for a very innocent post questioning the validity of data that someone posted... when I questioned it, MrMa suggested that I lacked common-sense. My family are members of groups that socialize together - happily married mixed couples with children... western men/chinese women, chinese men/western women, african women/chinese men, european men/south american women, and many, many more combinations... some have them have just now read the above posts and cannot believe some of the negativity associated with many of these posts - especially this latest unwarranted 'attack' by yeepee. I implore you both to please re-read the previous few posts and allow me to question unsubstantiated data - please let's just continue with good-hearted, positive debate based upon opinion and experiences without the personal attacks - this is what I've grown to love about Jianshou's blog over the years... God bless!! :p |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners I speak to many people 'on the streets' everyday (maybe I move in different circles to you) - perceptions of biased individuals vs reality - it's difficult to convince people otherwise - commonsense?? - I suggest you use yours in this discussion. Show me data and not opinion - I want to know where this data came from - valid question to ask I think!! Fear not - wisdom will come with age and experience. In the meantime, feel free to have your opinion, just don't try and subsantiate it with substandard or invalid data. |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @mrMa - do you mind me asking the source of your statistics?? Or are you just making some numbers up for fun to suit your opinion? |