China is the new expat hub for digital nomads

Digital nomads and freelance writers are now heading for new experiences in the world’s oldest culture.

In line with the development of the internet across the world, a new style of expat has emerged and can be found in dozens of far-flung locations as well as in the more established expat destinations. A favourite in spite of its attempted controls over access to the world-wide web is China, with its millennia of history and exotic culture attracting digital nomads as well as entrepreneurs. The beauty of online work is that it can be done anywhere, from the heart of a mega city to remote areas new to internet access.

China is a fascinating destination for location-free writers and bloggers as well as online English teachers and marketers of orientalia. Networking is easy, opportunities are many and the vast country’s visa procedures aren’t too onerous. There’s a choice of locations, from smog-ridden Beijing with its freezing winters through cosmopolitan Shanghai with its cultural events and exhibitions to Shenzhen, China’s answer to Silicon Valley. For those who don’t mind intermittent internet services, the hinterlands are a revelation of Chinese life and its welcoming locals, perfect for digital nomads looking to learn as well as earn.

At present, although familiar Western social media sites are all blocked by the country’s infamous censors, VPNs are still in use and can help with what passes for speed as well as with connectivity. As long as slow broadband is acceptable and the strict censorship policy doesn’t interfere too much with online research, working online is doable in most semi-rural areas as well as in the cities. In the major cities, co-working spaces are easily available, with many offering fundraising and marketing assistance for local project creators as well as a friendly, international crowd of like-minded expats. Once you’re settled in, remember to book yourself some free time to explore the history of this amazing country and its achievements over 5,000 years and more.