That's why many full-time foreign teachers who continue working as foreign teachers in China year after year have alternative sources of income from the west, or were well-heeled there before they came to China.

Sorry Alasdair, there may be some who fall into that category but most seem to have gone from the gutter to the classroom, so to speak.

I met one irish guy who told me he arrived in China, with some clothes that his "brother" donated to him, and very little else.

I know a few brits, who piss away more than they earn, and came here on empty pockets to begin with.

The well heeled set simply wouldn't bother with the PRC, when there are far richer pickings elsewhere,and far more to be earned...

Cheers on
SMGS