The Real Dirt on Shenzhen (Pure Rant Edition)
-
Hey there, bro! I'd like to share with you what it's like to live in Shenzhen, and give a heads up for those foreign friends visiting for the first time:
-
Pesky Critters:
- With summer comes a shocking number of mosquitoes, so much that mosquito repellent seems like a game - they're just not effective! The daily commute feels like hiking through a jungle.
- Heads Up!: You might spot some particularly large "African giant snails" on the road. While they look unique, don’t even think about touching them! These guys could potentially carry unpleasant bacteria or parasites. Just admire them from afar.
-
Endless Rain (Rain, Rain, Go Away... But It Won't):
- In Shenzhen, the rain could come just anytime, and once it starts, it never stops. Whether you have an umbrella or not, your pants will definitely be half-wet. So, local folks always bring their "magic item"—slippers! Come on, get yourself a pair, too.
-
Overwhelming Humidity:
- The air here is perpetually drenched, feeling just like a sauna! Things tend to grow mold quickly, and if your skin is sensitive or prone to allergies, it might feel uncomfortable.
- Friendly Warning: If you're extra sensitive to damp weather, or your respiratory system isn't doing well, be mentally prepared before coming to Shenzhen. Remember to open windows more often for ventilation (if it doesn't rain outside), or use dehumidifiers appropriately.
-
Puzzling Scents:
- Walking down the street, sometimes you’ll smell all sorts of bizarre scents: perhaps the sewage fumes rising upwards, or the fresh odor of herbicide being sprayed, occasionally the air quality isn't good (we’re talking PM2.5), which can make it a bit suffocating. There’s always something that will stick in your mind.
-
Traffic Nightmare:
- Oh, man, traffic in Shenzhen! It feels like roads are always under construction, after the subway construction comes the gas pipeline construction – so, there’s always something being dug up. And then comes the traffic jam, non-stop. No matter which district you’re staying in, if you want to avoid these jams? Good luck!
-
The "Wild" E-bike Riders:
- Safety Alert!: When walking on the road, especially near bus stations, be extra cautious of e-bikers! They honk constantly and turn abruptly without looking at anyone. Some of the e-bikes have huge umbrella-like structures on them, and they might stick out in front of you while turning—a potential blind spot. Be alert and watch your surroundings when walking!
-
Money 'Slimming' Guide:
- Be mentally prepared, everything's quite expensive here! Eating out won’t be cheap, and living costs (even for short stays) are high. Wanting to save a considerable sum easily in this city? That really takes some skill!
-
-
How much does a meal cost? I'm about to start an internship.
-
Around 20 yuan in the canteen, 30-40 for takeout.
-
I agree, renting is definitely expensive and full of pitfalls. But the food isn't really expensive; it feels much cheaper than in Shanghai. For 10-20 yuan, you can get a bowl of pig's trotter rice that includes vegetables, soy products, meat, and small pickles. Plus, there's free tea, condiments, and chili sauce. It's cheap and nutritious.
-
Is Shenzhen very humid in November, December, and January?