If you are in China that would be the best way to go. This August I will be in Xizhang visiting some schools to see if they want to hire me. I will see the schools and curriculum as well. But if someone is outside China, how else will they do if a good is good than by an internet search? It would be better speaking with a current or near current teacher.

Yes, it's sometimes possible to do that if you are already in China, but often much too costly for your average FT. You are right, it would be more practical to speak with other FT's on the telephone. Silverboy thinks every-body should have pots of money like him. Also, finding the time to visit schools may be a big problem if you wish to leave one school and go to another. No, find a recruiter, say you will accept a job, so you get the chance to quiz the school and the FT's- arrange everything before the end of term at your present school, if you have one- go on holiday-pick up your new Z if you can-bob's your uncle, fanny's your aunt... Do things properly and don't skedaddle like some hahaha