Shanghai Is Wearing Me Out

[@igafried]

I guess it's true what they say about the Chinese cities: you are either a Shanghai type of person or a Beijing type of person, 二者不可得兼！I did love my time in Beijing, but Hangzhou is my fav forever. Which city is your favorite? 🧐

[@张浒]

As a Chinese I feel you girl,I work in international school and I lived in Australia and US.Quite often I'm the guy with a Chinese ID to help out my expat coworkers out with banking and shopping.

[@miahconnell23]

This is very kind of you. There exist many things regarding banking, SIM cards, work contracts etc.: things that we foreigners would not be able to figure out without help. I don’t think we should monetize kindness, *but* because I personally know how valuable a person’s time and help is, I hope someone from your job or your municipality recognizes that you ought to get some extra monetary compensation for what you do. You and I have ever met, but I’d like to say “thank you.” In Chinese-speaking Asia, one or two work-friends became trustable real friends through doing exactly what you’ve described. Oh, the zany stories I could tell…

[@sportsonwheelss]

Way to go girl. giving it real, say it like it is. As for being seen as an outsider no matter how long you live there, it seems to be like that everywhere. In the States where we pride of diversity, there 4th generation Amreican Chinese still being called Chinese..

[@igafried]

@@sportsonwheelss I hate that this is STILL a thing in the 21. century! I think we need an alien invasion to unite us as the Earthers 😅

[@walhdamaskus2408]

Dude its same in koren or japan. These countries the majority are the locals and expats are so much in percentage, also they are very traditional nation. Its takes time to go so diverse like in US. US was much diverse since it was born. Also Europe since a a colonial period. China, japan etc. started to open more after 20th. But even in these day i lived in some small local town in Europe, the local still seeing me as a foreigners and yet i have been lived here for decades. Also in USA diversity is visible, but still different racial and ethnicians are not so much mixed as people think.

[@BBme]

@@igafried haha, I have that idea too for years! But the alien must be forefathers of human who left earth because real aliens will again racist.

[@distrustful.000]

China is a huge country, surely there are these types of weird people,also have to depend on luck.Sometimes you get rain, sometimes you get sunshine.

[@funnyz1112]

every major city in the world is facing the same problem, you can move to smaller cities near shanghai or Chongqing, the lifestyle is better and you will feel less stress, most young ppl hate Shanghai

[@funnyz1112]

if you are not rich, big city is always related to words like expensive and stressful, not matter where you live

[@bfair6284]

This lady is just in a wrong place. If you go or live in a foreign place and use your own standard from back home, it is just your problem.

[@igafried]

Fair point! I’d say it’s a trade-off. For example, this lady has always appreciated how safe China (and even Shanghai!) is. This lady’s country is only safe for straight white Christian biological males, looking and identifying as such. Needless to say, this lady is clearly in a wrong place - but she’s working on it! 😉

[@callumtoomey1689]

This is exactly the video I needed to reconfirm my view when I went travelling 😮, thank you

[@callumtoomey1689]

Literally, the phone addiction shocked me! No ones looking where they are going and they just stop whereever. The getting on and off the train, far out, let those get off the train first and then get on, so much more efficient

[@igafried]

@@callumtoomey1689 Right? I was so amazed when this started happening. I really think that working 996 just makes some people give up on the real life and enter the digital. I guess that's why mobile gaming is booming 🤔

[@XiDingArt]

as someone who grew up in Shanghai, your rants made me a bit home sick :-)

[@igafried]

@@XiDingArt aww I hope you're doing great, wherever you are now! As my friends are telling me: Shanghai isn't going anywhere, you can always go back!

[@MagicDonut00]

​@igafried go back to what? Shanghai has long become just an empty husk of itself. Its unique identity is gone, the local dialect is dying out, tradional shanghai tastes are a thing of memories only, taken over by tastes from china's other regions. You can't even get the old shanghai wonton soup taste anymore.

[@hehe-mq2bk]

@@MagicDonut00 dummy

[@nmymj]

@@MagicDonut00 shanghai is progressing fast generally in a good way for most people it is getting internationalized more and more, so it is not just for "locals" whose families more likely had/have lived there for no more than just a few generations anyway sorry for those who feel uncomfortable about all those changes, mostly good, again, for most people if some want to preserve their subcultures, find a new place closed to the outside shanghai, for its special geologic location, it is not meant to be closed to that extent big cities like shanghai and shenzen are more for competitive people who have little time to complain too much they are the people who are more likely change the cities and make themselves make adjustments

[@chaichad7227]

Everything you said is true, without any subjective comments. It sounds like you should go and live in cities like Yunnan and Dali, where there is vast land with a sparse population, beautiful nature, a slower pace of life, and a lower cost of living. In fact, many Chinese people are doing just that. But then you can't expect more job opportunities, higher income, and convenient life. Shanghai is the most competitive, fastest-paced, and costliest city in China, without a doubt. As a commercial hub, Shanghai and New York are essentially not different, except that there are no homeless people and gun shootings in Shanghai.

[@igafried]

@@chaichad7227 There are no words to describe how much I love Yunnan. The problem is still what I mentioned -- foreigners are foreigners, unless we are natives of English, the only places to find work are sadly in the mainstream.

[@seanxue0]

All good points. Nevertheless, it may be hard to imagine that some of the issues you are facing were five-time worse ten years before, and ten-time worse twenty years before. Shanghai and the whole China are moving fast. Hopefully five years from now, things will get better.

[@igafried]

I really wish I could see a positive change happening! I really want to believe there is a way for me to come back someday. It has been a few months since I've moved out of China, and I do miss some aspects of my life in Shanghai -- but I still do not miss the prejudice and never will.

[@youtuberx199]

Since you have complained so much, China's door is open. You may consider move to the U.S.

[@igafried]

Hahaha I think it's ironic that I was fighting so hard to come back here when China's doors were very much closed. Thanks, but I don't think I'll ever move to the US!

[@handaxia1251]

If you are Chinese, you should thank this woman, what she said is true which you can verify it yourself, CHINA and Chinese need honest people, or you all will on your way to become arrogant motherflickers!

[@AntiBolla_mumu]

It's so hard to live abroad and make a living. I lived in Tokyo for almost 8 years and finally chose to go back to China (my hometown is Xiangyang, a small 3rd tier city). I feel that all these economic center cities have similar problems. People are so busy making money that they lose a lot of basic respect.

[@igafried]

@@AntiBolla_mumu Oh boy, Tokyo must have been tough! I absolutely agree, everyone since the University always told me I have to get hired by a big corporation to be financially stable and secure my future. What do you know, all lies 🫠

[@kirkufc]

Interesting. Maybe Shanghai is not the type for some people. No matter foreigners or not. However, for my preference, I love to be in a competitive environment. Other issues are common to all cities in China, but things are changing better compared to that of 10 years ago.

[@spooder5022]

did you ever live or travel to Shenzhen or Guangzhou? Thoughts?

[@igafried]

@@spooder5022 I did not like Shenzhen that much, but I liked Guangzhou more than Shanghai. But I guess it's only because I never had to commute to work there, I hear Guangzhou has the busiest metro line in China 😅

[@hawkkim1974]

very good. it sounds like Shanghai is a living hell like any other major cities

[@igafried]

@@hawkkim1974 Well, I wouldn't call it hell exactly. Maybe purgatory 😂

[@krisstopher8259]

Good info. The china show should link to this

[@whyteaz1165]

老外整天除了抱怨这点屁事还会别的吗？有这时间发癫不如把中文学好

[@igafried]

@@whyteaz1165 是不是没听懂我的意思呢 🤔

[@Jamaicafunk]

I live in Hangzhou. All your points aren’t just Shanghai…That’s China.

[@igafried]

@@Jamaicafunk Oh no, I'm sorry to hear that! Hangzhou is 100% my favorite place on Earth, and it surprises me every time I visit. Somebody even gave up their seat in the subway for me when I felt sick 🥹 I still remember Hangzhou from 10 years ago, and I am amazed that they were able to build this entire subway without ruining the city (something Shanghai is yet to learn).

[@Jamaicafunk]

@@igafried I love Shanghai. I was just there a few days ago. I still experience some times when no one sits next to me on a crowded metro train… (Like foreigners still have Covid or something. 🙄) Don’t get me wrong. I can deal with it. I like having an open seat next to me. 😏I’ve even filmed it. The mad race for a seat , pushing, and shoving is pretty standard for China wherever you go. But, I’ve had more times when people have been friendly.

[@luoderrick6912]

I think you cannot expect / hope a Financial hub to be cheap and good at the same time..? Trust me. Western country and some asian country like singapore or kl is much more ex. I feel weird when people start comparing comfort space / freedom / cheap / transport. If there such space in earth. Please let me know😊

[@hamburgermcgrath3493]

Shanghai is the worst city in China. I hated it there. Chengdu or Chongqng are the best places for expats in China and that’s a hill I am prepared to die on.

[@igafried]

@@hamburgermcgrath3493 I'd add Hangzhou to that pile! Hands down my favorite place on Earth 🤝🏻

[@AnthonyBoeyKumToh-tl4ud]

Shanghai....and China is a great place ....to visit. But to live there...no way!

[@ingalee5637]

Hi Iga why don't you go back to Poland since you are not happy living in Shanghai.

[@igafried]

Somebody finally remembered where I'm from 🥹 I'm truly touched!

[@miaouscleaumonocle]

I briefly lived in Shanghai and some of your points resonate. As a one-time visitor, the city is incredible. But after a few weeks, you feel like main activity there is to roam malls... Very good malls nonetheless, but with mostly brands you can't afford. After visiting Suzhou, Nanjing or Hangzhou, I felt these cities looked more interesting in the end, and are way cheaper rentwise. The key reason that drove me out of Shanghai was the housing market, with rents that are not aligned with the quality of the flats nor with the wages (you nailed it at 2:34 ). There are more interesting options in the cities nearby as I mentioned, or in other parts of China (Shenzhen, Wuhan, Chongqing, Chengdu...).

[@walhdamaskus2408]

Shanghai enviroment and housing development seem like as NY, Tokyo etc. The big cities in the world.

[@psforever8888]

moved to Thailand from China

[@igafried]

@@psforever8888 Sounds like a dream!How has it been going since then?

[@psforever8888]

@@igafried focused on becoming a digital nomad for few years, made online income streams then just made the move. I love it so far, 1/3 the cost of everything compared to SH, food is good, ppl are kind and polite, tropical weather, ton of expat communities, safe and good infra, great nightlife etc.

[@psforever8888]

Swimpool, gym equiped condo 35-40sqm room cost avg. $250-300/month, most local meal cost 10rmb per dish. It's a no brainer

[@igafried]

@@psforever8888 *adds Thailand to the list*

[@igafried]

@@psforever8888 I came to terms with doing a ping pong around the globe being a nomad from now on, this sounds like a great destination! Thanks a lot!

[@willww64]

I'm a non-local (外地人) striving to survive in Shanghai. I couldn't agree more with what you said. You didn't mention politics. I would like to add that as one of the ordinary Chinese, we are not only living like a beast of burden, but also has no political rights at all and even face political oppression from the authorities when things don't go well (摊上事儿了). What's worse, as one of the people who believe in freedom and democracy, we are also accused or even cursed by those brainwashed "patriotic" masses, some of whom are even our friends and relatives. But overall, 上海是中国的天花板. That's why I'm living here.

[@igafried]

@@willww64 Thanks for sharing! I'm sure you'll understand that, as 老外, I am not entitled to an opinion on this subject. The toxic patriotism however, I am very familiar with, even if not on the same level as you -- it was the very reason I left Poland in the first place. Wish you all the best!

[@willww64]

@@igafried I'm very glad for your reply. Speaking of toxic patriotism, I can think of no country worse than China (just my personal observation, although I never lived abroad). 留岛不留人、中日必有一战、犯我中华者虽远必诛、若有战召必回、此生无悔入华夏，来世还做中国人。 These words are just some commonly seen online or even in everyday conversation, many even stick these words on the rear windshield of their car. Things are getting more and more worse after Xi took power. Now those extreme patriots are keen on hunting "汉奸" and "辱华" foreign companies. There have been several attacks targeting foreigners this year, most notably the attack on a Japanese school bus in Suzhou. Nowadays, even cosplay might be attacked as "unpatriotic". China is no longer the China that was striving to integrate into the world. The government policies are now very contradictory. Economically, they still need foreign investment, so they have to find ways to attract it. But politically, they are playing the patriotism card and incite populist sentiment. Yet, they also have to keep it under control so it doesn't go too far. Despite all that, China is still a relatively good place to 过日子. China will never go back to Mao era, and I hope one day it could get back on the right track. Wish you all the best too!

[@PatrickGao-ho1ob]

What’s your next destination then?

[@igafried]

@@PatrickGao-ho1ob I'm kick-starting my nomad life! I've never been to the South America before, so that's where I'm going. Next stop: Brazil!

[@PatrickGao-ho1ob]

@@igafried Cool! That would be so nice, good luck! BTW I’m also from Jiao Tong and last month I was in Gdańsk for Ed Sheeran concert haha. Many things you mentioned in the video I can relate to very well! I’m from Chongqing, not very much into the busy pace in Shanghai either…but I still have to stay in Shanghai for another year cuz I’m doing my masters atm lol

[@igafried]

@@PatrickGao-ho1ob omg!!!! I have an SJTU video in plans, lots of footage in store from my master's there! Would love your input when the time comes hahaha ❤️

[@PatrickGao-ho1ob]

@@igafried Hahaha nice I will stay tuned!🥰

[@alka-holic]

@@igafried Oh gosh, I hope you've been to Vietnam! If not I HIGHLY recommend it. Also 10000% try the orange juice there, it's incredible.

[@UnbreakableM1nd]

There is no room for snowflakes, losers, laying flat, self-pity in any major cities in China, actually make that anywhere in the world if you want to live a quality life. SH's safe, nice to live in, and you get a lot of white privilege if you are a pale foreigner. But reality is people live there, like anywhere else in the world, and they have to make a living. You can move around as much as you like trying to find a place that suits you... But at end of day you have to adapt to each place you live in. There are tradeoffs no matter where you are. There are a lot of people live in Shanghai with a slower paced lifestyle, they are analogous to established suburbs in North America. You just have to be determined to settle down in a place to truly enjoy a place. My family immigrated to Canada 20 years, and I still get treated like a foreigner sometimes. I think a lot of westerners just aren't used to being immigrants in other countries and starting from scratch. Where as for us immigrants in western countries, we learnt to deal with it. I think your situation is quite good, it's basically first world problems you are complaining about. Nothing close to the working conditions I see in some factories in Canada with lots of temporary foreign workers from poorer countries.

[@igafried]

@@UnbreakableM1nd Agreed! But I also think there is no shame in admitting that this life isn't for you. I can be a foreigner somewhere else, without selling myself out just for the visa to spend one more year in a city I don't like, just because that's where somebody decided to hire me. So I'm off to somewhere else 🫡

[@UnbreakableM1nd]

Try Jinshan ward in Shanghai, it might be a bit slower paced there. Maybe smaller cities in China might suit you better, but the salary will not be SH level.

[@enriqueagaton9515]

If you really need a Chinese ID why don't you get one yourself??...

[@igafried]

I know they say you can buy anything on Taobao, but they don't have these yet, I'm afraid 😂

[@enriqueagaton9515]

@@igafried I mean, what don't you get one legally??

[@igafried]

@@enriqueagaton9515 I see! I think best a foreigner can do right now is the Foreign Permanent Resident ID, it's similar to the Chinese ID (I believe from this year on the coding system is even the same), but the requirements are too steep for someone like me. Thank you though!