Ah, so this Indian fellow works for the school, I see. Simply put then they did find someone locally, and as I thought the person they found accepted less money. You Adrian were simply the back up plan, the person they would hire if they could not find anyone else by the very last minute. That is not the right way to run a business, as integrity is, or should be everything. Having taught here a long time myself I know exactly where you're coming from. I'm not sure some of what you asked was very reasonable, such as airfare upfront. Also not so sure about your judgment in regards to this matter, as you seem to have taken way, way too much on faith. I think that's just a matter of hoping for the best, but it seems like there was also some closing ones eyes to very clear warning signs that were popping up, continuing to hope for the best. Not saying it's your fault, this Indian fellow was dishonest, and likely had little intent of hiring you, you were just a last resort it seems. That said, this is China, and if you've taught here a while, well I'd expect someone who has to be a lot more cautious. Like coming here on an F when you "can" get a Z before arriving, I'd have never done that.

Sorry for what happened to you, the guy and his school sound like a real joke, which is not a big surprise, but after hearing more, I do think you should have known better, but I'm not blaming you at all. I just think that with your experience that the warning signs, which were plentiful, could have saved you a lot of time and effort that in the end is what you are angry about.