There are great winter clothes available here in China at reasonable prices. It's not rocket science to find them for sale Full Comment>>

the only foreigners i know who cook food from their home countries are those who have invested heavily in their kitchen - they are not teachers. i would be hard pressed to source the equipment and ingredients for the recipes without having to resort to the internet, and then there is the whole issue of waiting for ... Full Comment>>

maybe because the single women are all looking for an unattinable ideal, rather than seeing the potentially good husbands with lower incomes. Full Comment>>

The reason for a 100% success rate is due to two things: Cheating in exams, and the fact that the teachers contract renewal is based on student pass rates. Most students I have encountered do the bare minimum work to pass, or they 'study' very hard without absorbing and processing the information they get. It is ... Full Comment>>

I agree - some of the commercials defy logic. What I can't understand is the number of commercials on both TV and buses in Changsha for fertility clinics, throughout the day....... Full Comment>>

the difference between the local and ex-pat salaries is large and is a source of resentment, especially as some ex-pat's are not only unqualified, but also a few are unfit for the job (I am referring to teachers). Unfortunately some schools are desperate for a foreign face in order to attract students, they don't ... Full Comment>>

Many 'gifted' children probably also have VERY poor social skills as well, and this in a country not known for the good social skills. Full Comment>>

the lovely parks that have messages broadcasting out of fake stones Full Comment>>

it is sad to think abortion is used as a form of contraception. Education is what is really needed. Full Comment>>

While acknowledging local customs is appropriate, it is difficult to change my own. at home we would accept variations of custom as long as good manners are adhered to, especially in cross-cultural situations. Full Comment>>

Whatever happened to the tradition of filial piety? Full Comment>>

basic question. Why didn't she use a condom? Full Comment>>

is it a coincidence that in many countries, there is a serious building frenzy before a collapse? Full Comment>>

it is the passport for train tickets and museum entries that gets me !! Full Comment>>

I love reading about any county that has a vanity project gone wrong. Who remembers the 'Dome' in London ? Seriously, there is nothing more obscene that such a waste of money in the name of self-aggrandisement. Full Comment>>

so it is alright to humiliate employees? great way to build staff loyalty !! Full Comment>>

there is also the fact that there is not much advance warning about working on the weekends: you know a holiday is coming up, but no one will confirm so you can plan ahead !! Full Comment>>

it struck me that with a lot of attention for the first time on the 'first lady', they are trying to copy the (in my opinion) unnecessary attention placed on Michele Obama, and previous wives of American Presidents. Full Comment>>

It is always good to hear perspectives like this, and I know I am not alone, despite what I feel. Thanks for sharing ! Full Comment>>

I have been turned down for teaching jobs just because I am female, despite having more experience than some male colleagues - go figure !! Full Comment>>