Beijing’s international profile soared ahead of the 2008 Olympics. This, combined with China’s increasing wealth, has seen more international firms arrive. They have brought an expat influx and subsequent change in atmosphere. Only a few years ago, westerners were a rare sight. Now, there are more than 100,000 living in Beijing. You’ll still stand out among the city’s 15 million inhabitants (and get some curious stares), but it is becoming easier for westerners to live here.

Although visa regulations have been tightened considerably, teaching English remains one of the easiest jobs to get. The city realises that being bilingual is crucial for future business opportunities, and the government encouraged locals to learn English before the Olympics.

Other opportunities do exist for foreigners, but applicants who speak Mandarin are often considered above those who cannot. This only begins to change at more senior levels.

Chinese bureaucracy can appear complicated and unintelligible at first, but remember that rules are set in stone, and if you follow them everything should run smoothly. Employers should help to process the copious form filling. The language barrier is by far the most significant obstacle for anyone moving to Beijing.