I arrived in China at around 9:30pm, this was when my visa was stamped and I set foot on Chinese soil.
The timing of my arrival was perfect; I got through Hong Kong immigration and looked at the screen for where my baggage was. Walking to it I was looking with the hope my baggage would be coming although I doubted it then what do I see? That’s right it was my bag, I ran across and grabbed it, prepared the rest of my bags and went to find CTS who operate the coach service to Dongguan, As I was walking through ‘Nothing to declare’ the customs officer said to me jokingly “Is that a bomb?” referring to my box that was wrapped in brown paper and copious amounts of parcel tape, I was quick to say no thinking if I play along with his joke it could be taken seriously instead….How unfair is that? The customs can have a joke about bombs but if I had have done it I would have been swiftly whisked away to a dark room somewhere.
The journey to Dongguan was comfortable, having had to run to the coach departure point as I had 5 minutes before it left departed and I was still buying my ticket. Luckily I made it in time; it was the last bus of the night!
Once I had made it through all the immigration leaving Hong Kong and entering China I got on another coach, During the journey I started to chat to or rather he started to chat to me was some random Chinese guy and his friends, His English was awful but he wanted to learn.
On arrival at the house I was a little worried as the lobby and corridors looked a little dodgy, but once inside the apartment I was very pleasantly surprised, the apartment has been recently renovated and whilst it is small, it is very modern. Look out for the photos that I will upload as soon as I can.
My first day at the office has been easy, So far it has just involved walking around the area being shown where things are. So after work I will head to Wal-Mart to buy some groceries. I have been measured for a suit and shirt combo that I will be picking up in around 1 week and I can’t believe how cheap it was just 400RMB which is $57.
I am now going to read through the teacher’s manual before watching one of the teachers as part of my induction.
On one final note, Astrid has decided to come to China in July, so now I have a new countdown to prepare….4 months and counting!
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Hi Robert,
Im new, please tell me about your school and accommodation in Jakarta. I have been to JKT twice in the past 12 months, but not to teach. Am considering doing a TEFL course so would love your input please...no holds barred either if you don't mind. I know what JKT is like so please dont try to gloss it with me.
I am more interested in the accommodations and the school and working conditions there.
Cheers
Hey Robert :)
Can't believe how quick that has come round!!
So has Astrid got employment in China then?
Thats something i'm very worried about (the apartment.) I've read so many horror stories that i won't feel settled until we actually move in i don't think...haha...I have seen photos and the apartment looks nice, but you never know.
So, how is your new English First school? Do you like it as much as the EF you left in Indonesia?
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