I've met far too many drifters on my travels and unless they get lucky at some stage in their life, they will have to face the boring and mundane responsibilties of getting older.

You are in China, yes? Is your public gig paying your pension and medical insurance? Are you making contributions back in the UK...bear in mind you are not entitled to anything for 3 months upon your return, and have to catchup on all your NI contributions?