Paid teaching In China
Visa
Health & Safety
Vaccination
Money Matter
Field Support and Supervision
Communication
Climate
Materials to Bring
Gifts to Bring Host Family

How long has Rustic Volunteer Travel been working in China ? Whom do you work with? Where are you located?

Rustic Volunteer Travel works with many public and private schools, colleges, and universities which are located in different provinces of China . We have set up an office in HangZhou , which is about 2 hour flight from Beijing .

Rustic Volunteer Travel's in-country coordinator is responsible for finding out about appropriate teaching projects as per the qualifications and skills of the applicant. Rustic Volunteer Travel's local coordinator has been keeping in close contact with various Chinese schools and institutions across the country, and places you directly into these positions. Before joining the teaching program, you will be required to sign a contract with the host school and will have to abide by the terms and conditions stipulated on your contract.

When should I apply? What happens once I submit my documents and application? How long does it take to process my application?

Teachers are suggested to apply at least 3 months in advance but if you want to expedite your application within less than three months time, please contact our office for more information. Once we receive your application, we carefully review and forward it to our China in-country coordinator to finalize a placement. He will find a teaching placement for you that best matches your qualifications. He sends placement details to us in as little as 2 weeks. Once we receive your acceptance letter and placement information from China , this information will be sent to you immediately.

School holidays in China

Chinese schools, colleges, and universities will be closed for the following holidays so please consider this when you apply for the program:

School Holidays:

• The first week of October
• Four to six weeks in January/February for Chinese New Year (all schools open by the 16th of February)
• First week of May
• July-1st to August 30th (summer break)

What documents do I need to submit with my application?

In addition to a complete application, teachers are required to submit:

• A resume
• A copy of your passport
• A copy of diploma/certificate/degree (high quality scan or fax)
• A letter of reference

All applicants are required to have a valid visa to teach English in China . The process will normally take about 1-2 weeks depending on method of application.

In case your visa expires while you are in China , it can be extended by the local Public Security Bureau (PSB) with the help of your local Chinese school. It is strongly advised that you are constantly aware of the expiration date on your visa. The fine for overstaying is very high - normally RMB500 Yuan/day.

A valid passport is required to enter China . China does not allow entrance if the holder's passport expires in less than six months; returning home with an expired passport is illegal, and may result in a fine as well.

It is a suggested that you have a photo-copy of your passport containing your photo, passport number, along-with your international travel insurance, air-tickets, and traveler's checks' serial numbers to help you recover lost or stolen information.

What kind of visa do I need to volunteer/paid teaching program in China ?

Type of visa depends on your length of stay in China . Normally, there are three types of visa that are applicable to suit your specific condition:

• Tourist "L" visas (If you stay China for 1-3 months)
• Visitor/business "F" visa ( If you stay China for 3-6 months)
• Working "Z" visa (single entry) If you stay China for more than 6 months

Short Term (Less than 3 months): L visa

Teachers/Volunteers intent on staying short term (less than 3 months) in China are advised to apply for a visitor's visa (categorized as L-type): Please download the visa application from the Chinese consulate home page online, apply in person or use some visa agents.

Medium Term (3-6 months): F visa (also known as Business Visa)

If you apply for long term commitment visas (3 - 6 months), we encourage you to apply for the "F"-type visa (business or working visa). This application process may require an invitation letter from the appropriate school in China (Rustic Volunteer Travel's in-country coordinator will send these documents to you).

Long Term (6-12 months): Z visa (also known as resident visa):

If you are planning to teach for more than 6 months, please apply for Z visa. Our China coordinator will send you an official invitation letter and documents needed for Z visa.

When to submit for visa?

Once you get your official invitation letter and visa documents from our coordinator in China , Please submit your visa application form with the letter of invitation for F and Z visa to your nearest Chinese embassy. This visa will usually be valid for ONE month after issue. Once you are in China , do remember to submit your passport to the school authorities for the local residency certificate, which is mandatory for all foreigners.

Rustic Travel DOES NOT guarantee your VISA. In some cases Chinese schools may ask teachers to come into China with a visitor's visa and then they will switch the visa status

What are the principle health risks?

Basically, every country in the world has potential health concerns and China is no exception. In the following, you will find some of the major health risks for your China trip. Do be careful!

AIDS : Exists in China and every country in the world. The things to avoid are well known. The blood supply is not as safe as at home.

Bronchial and Sinus ailments: High rates in cities with highest air pollution rates, especially Beijing , Shanghai and Guangzhou .

Cholera : Notably present in western China

Hepatitis A and B: Very common due to less than ideal food storage, handling and cooking.

Malaria : Mostly in more southern regions and away from cities.

Polio: A one-time booster dose is recommended if you have not had one.

High Altitude Sickness : Very common when you travel in Tibet just like any other mountainous area. Symptoms are temporary and go away as soon as the victim returns to a lower altitude.

Rabies : Rabid dogs are a problem in most of the rural and semi-urban sites of China . You, therefore, should remain aware of and away from non-domestic or freely roaming dogs in China .

Typhoid: Consider a vaccination for long stays and if you are an adventurous eater.

Numerous others exist, but not in abnormally high or epidemic proportions.

What health precautions should I be aware of and tend to?

Be sure to consult your doctor or a travel health specialist before your trip to China . We suggest

• Check your medical records to assure you are current with your shots and vaccinations.
• Make sure you have had a recent TB test or chest x-ray (may be required for the Chinese visa).
• Get immunized against Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid. 
• Have an HIV test and bring the test results with you (make sure they state your name)
• Remain in good health well before your trip as some vaccines will require several weeks before they effectively protect you and some require two doses over a period of time.

Also, if you plan to travel to rural areas of China you should get the vaccination for Japanese Encephalitis and obtain pills to protect yourself against Malaria. If you intend to stay in cities, these are not required. If you plan to travel to western China or Tibet , it is generally recommended to get a Rabies vaccination.

Is the food safe if I buy from a street vendor?

While you are in China , food safety should be the major factor in your decision to abstain. You can hardly resist the temptation of the novelty of street vendors and food variety. Our suggestion is to avoid eating on the streets until you get familiar with the general situation. The food will likely taste quite different than anything you have had before. Food safety problems can range from chemicals and contaminants, to bacteria as well as some other diseases. In China , poor food cooking, preparation, and storage, as well as improper cleaning and disinfecting of cooking supplies is very common among street vendors.

How safe is China ?

Compared to many other countries, China is considered one of the safest countries in the world for personal security. But, petty crime has increased in recent years, especially in and around the major cities. However, serious crime against foreigners is relatively rare. Petty crimes such as pick-pocketing and purse-snatching occur somewhat frequently (especially in crowded areas such as stations, markets, shopping areas, sightseeing destinations, etc.). So, it is wise to be cautious with your personal possessions in public places. Following are some precautions to avoid potential problems:

• Do not show off your wallet or valuable goods in public
• Keep enough money for your immediate needs in your pocket, and hide the rest on your body or leave your backup supply in a safety deposit box at your hotel
• Always keep valuables in a safety deposit box at your hotel instead of leaving them in your room
• Remove any jewelry that may draw a thief's attention before you go out for strolling
• Never wear a bag or purse on your street-side shoulder in order to avoid becoming a target of the "snatch-and-ride"
• Never carry your passport/visa, credit cards, traveler's schedules or other travel documents in your shoulder bag.
• Be aware of the values of different local banknotes to avoid being deceived
• Be particularly cautious about your possessions in crowded areas such as local festivals, markets, tourist sites, railways, bus stations, or on trains and buses.
• Always let your hotel or guides know where you are on your free days during your tour.
• Respect the customs of the local ethnic groups.
• Do not quarrel with anyone during your trip.
• Any disputes should be reported to your local guides for resolution.
• Avoid traveling in areas or sites that are not open to foreigners.
• Do not voice publicly any opinions contrary to China 's laws and code of ethics and morals.

We strongly recommended volunteers to get vaccination before travel. Recommended Vaccinations and Preventive Medications by CDC (http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinationCambodia.aspx)

The following vaccines may be recommended for your travel to China .. Discuss your travel plans and personal health with a health-care provider to determine which vaccines you will need.

Routine: Recommended if you are not up-to-date with routine shots such as, measles/mumps/rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria/pertussis/tetanus (DPT) vaccine, etc.

Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG): Recommended for all unvaccinated people traveling to or working in countries with an intermediate or high level of hepatitis A virus infection (see map) where exposure might occur through food or water. Cases of travel-related hepatitis A can also occur in travelers to developing countries with "standard" tourist itineraries, accommodations, and food consumption behaviors.

Typhoid: Recommended for all unvaccinated people traveling to or working in Southeast Asia , especially if visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas and staying with friends or relatives where exposure might occur through food or water.

Polio: Recommended for adult travelers who have received a primary series with either inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) or oral polio vaccine (OPV). They should receive another dose of IPV before departure.

Japanese encephalitis : Recommended if you plan to visit rural farming areas and under special circumstances, such as a known outbreak of Japanese encephalitis, see country-specific information.

Hepatitis B: Recommended for all unvaccinated persons traveling to or working in countries with intermediate to high levels of endemic HBV transmission (see map) and who might be exposed to blood or body fluids, have sexual contact with the local population, or be exposed through medical treatment, such as for an accident, and for all adults requesting protection from HBV infection.

Rabies : Recommended for travelers spending a lot of time outdoors, especially in rural areas, involved in activities such as bicycling, camping, hiking, or work. Also, children are considered at higher risk because they tend to play with animals and may not report bites.

Are ATMs easily available? If yes, which debit and credit card are accepted?

Credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, JCB, Master and Visa are accepted at the local large hotels or tourist stores. You also can withdraw cash from most international banks and credit cards from ATM machines, but $2-4 USD surcharges apply for each transaction.

What is the local currency and how do I know the exchange rate?

RMB is the only currency to be used in China . China 's currency mainly consists of notes, which come in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 RMB. Money exchanges by cash or traveler's checks can be made at various branches of the Bank of China or Commercial Bank of China . Current exchange rates can be found using our currency converter. Currently, $100 USD bought RMB (CNY) 798 Yuan.

Where do I exchange my money and how much?

You can cash your traveler's checks or exchange your paper notes at the various branches of the Bank of China, hotels and tourist stores, airport bank offices, etc. Therefore, we recommend the exchange of small bills at all times.

How much money should I bring with me?

It is suggested that you bring US$300 and cash it into Chinese RMB after arrival at a Chinese airport. The money will be sufficient to cover the first 2-3 weeks for shopping and groceries.

Is it safe to carry cash with me?

Carrying cash is not safe. Please don't carry a large surplus of cash because many Chinese are concerned with thieves.

Important Reminder: Retain your receipts whenever you exchange any currency or traveler's checks to Chinese Yuan. You may be asked to show proof of the exchange. Without receipts, you will not be able to exchange Chinese currency back to any other currency upon your departure.

How do I make contact with Rustic Volunteer Travel s local coordinator?

Our China in-country coordinator is Mr. Jeff. He is living in Qingdao City , Shandong Province. We will provide you with his contact information in your placement. The information will be included in the pre-departure informational packet as well.

How do I contact my family after I arrive in to China ?

International Direct Dialing within China is available in most cities. Phone cards are widely available and calls can be made from post offices, hotels and phone booths on the streets. In hotels, local calls are generally charged at a nominal fee. The Chinese mobile phone networks are very advanced. Operators use GSM networks and have roaming agreements with most international operators. Internet cafes are available in most towns although they can sometimes be noisy as they are a popular spot for the youth to play online games. You can use any type of communication to call back home. You also can bring your cell phone (with a new SIM card installed, which maintains your personal numbers in China as well as provides your number to your family). Calls to the USA and Canada from China will cost 2-10 cents/minute depending on your service carrier.

Are internet services easily available?

Internet cafes are available in most towns, although the cafes can be very noisy as they are a popular venue for the youth to play online games.

How can my family members contact me?

Once you settle down at the host school, you will be offered a phone in some schools, or equipped with a local cell phone. In case there is no telephone provided, ask the school to provide you with the office telephone number so that you can set a time to receive family calls.

Can I bring my telephone from my home country?

Yes, you can but the charge will be extremely high and it is suggested that you use a local SIM card after you settle down.

Can I purchase phone service once I arrive in China and how much it cost?

Buying a Chinese Telecom SIM card costs you about RMB100. With this you get RMB
50 in calls, the other 50 covers the price of the SIM card number. The SIM card will go into all major brand phones (if you bring your own) and works perfectly. But do notice that before buying a Chinese SIM card; check that your current cell phone is internationally capable.

What is weather like in my placement?

You can check China weather at the website below:

http://211.147.16.25/ywwz/products/

When is the best season to travel China ?

China is a vast country with very wide-ranging climatic conditions, so a decision about when to go should be based on the regions your trip will cover and what type of weather you enjoy. Normally, the most comfortable season is early autumn (September to early October). At that time, temperatures are reasonable (about 50 -71.6 F) throughout China . Rain falls sometimes.

Spring can be delightful and the average temperatures (50- 71.6 F) are roughly the same as that in autumn. Since the weather is unpredictable, you should prepare clothing both for chilly and warm weather.

Summer (from June to the end of August) can be extremely hot with a temperature above 71.6 F, especially in the rather famous 'furnaces' of China : Wuhan , Tianjing, Chongqing and Nanchang . It is also the time that most rain falls. So investing in an umbrella and plastic sandals is very necessary and highly recommended.

Winter can be incredibly cold in the north, but there are also compensations. If you want to attend the Harbin Ice Lantern Festival, winter is the time for you.

It is a good idea to check the weather conditions of each city on the itinerary very carefully. Of course, if you choose the most attractive season to visit, you also choose the time when tourist spots and hotels are most occupied. Nevertheless, whenever you choose to visit, China is more than capable of offering you various charming scenes around the country.

It is a common courtesy to bring a small gift for the family that will be hosting you. You are not required to do so, but if you choose to bring something it can be pretty simple. We suggest a box of chocolates, a t-shirt with a hometown logo, or pictures of your family and some local post cards.

If you want to bring gifts for your project (and if you are working for an orphanage or a school please bring pencils, pens and paper, art supplies like markers and construction paper pads, and games. Remember that every child will need these items so you may wish to bring a bunch of one thing.