Having said that, some foreigners are too fussy, and only want to work in Shanghai and Beijing. Obviously 5000 a month won't go far there, even with a free apartment and utilities.

Silverboy, you are quite right, I can't disagree with any of the above you wrote!!

5,000 in a second tier city/smaller town is ok, esp if you have your own savings. Younger blokes in their 20s shouldn't be teaching in China, it is only good for us 35 years old and over blokes.