Asia
Job opportunities may arise in China, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
A work permit is required to work in any of these countries. Living and working in Asia can be something of a culture shock. Before setting out, it is advisable to find out a little about the social etiquette of the country you are going to. International schools are usually found in the major cities. Private medical insurance will be required.
GJN Consulting will guide you through visa and work permit requirements as well as healthcare and educational issues.
China
The currency is the Yuan and the official language is Mandarin. Due to its vast size, the weather differs from region to region.
Beijing, the capital, is in the northeast. Shanghai, the largest city is in South China and of course, there’s Hong Kong.
All the major cities have excellent facilities for eating, shopping, entertainment and the arts.
For more information on Hong Kong visit www.discoverhongkong.com
Japan
The currency is the Yen. Japanese is the official language. English is widely spoken, particularly in the major cities. The climate ranges from arctic in the north to tropical in the south. In September and October, typhoons can develop over the Pacific.
Tokyo is the capital and the largest city with a population of around 12 million. It has to be one of the most amazing cities in the world.
For more information on Japan visit www.seejapan.co.uk or www.japan-guide.com
Malaysia
The currency is the ringgit and the official language is Malay. English is widely spoken. The climate is tropical with lots of rain. Temperatures range between 25°C and 35°C. There are two regions: Peninsular Malaysia, which lies between Thailand and Singapore, and East Malaysia, on the island of Borneo.
Malaysia is a multi racial, socially well integrated country. The main groups are Malays, who are Muslims, Chinese and Indians. Most Malays wear western style clothes except on special occasions.
Kuala Lumpur, often referred to as KL, is on the west coast of the Peninsula and is a mix on the old and the new. The Petronas Towers, the world’s tallest, dominate the skyline.
For more information on Malaysia check out www.visitmalaysia.com
Singapore
The currency is the Singapore dollar and there are four official languages Malay, English, Tamil and Mandarin. English is the language of business, administration and technology. The weather is warm and humid all year round. Temperatures range between 25°C and 32°C.
Singapore is at the southern tip of the Malaysian peninsula. The main island is just 26 miles from east to west, and 14 miles from north to south.
Singapore is often regarded as a model of a well integrated, multi racial society.
The city skyline is breathtaking, particularly at night. Excellent choice of restaurants, clubs, shops, arts and entertainment.
For more information on Singapore visit www.contactsingapore.org.sg
Thailand
The currency is the Baht. Thai is the official language but English is widely spoken particularly by professionals. The weather is tropical with temperatures usually between 25°C and 35°C. August and September are usually the wettest months.
Bangkok, the capital is a vibrant multi cultural city. Whether your interests are shopping, culture, arts, eating out or sport, Bangkok will delight.
For more information on Thailand visit www.tourismthailand.org
Vietnam
The currency is the Dong. Vietnamese is the official language. English is taught in many schools. Whilst the south is tropical throughout the year, the north enjoys four distinct seasons.
Hanoi, situated in the north, is the capital and is a cosmopolitan city.
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is in the south. Both cities offer a wide range of cuisine, excellent shopping and sightseeing opportunities.
The Vietnamese are said to be amongst the friendliest people in Asia.
