[KristofB]

Just thought I'd say something as an ex Hutong School student: I'm happy with it!!
Lanaier, you're right about competitors try to slur each other! There aren't many competition laws here (Starbecks coffee anyone?) so business is normally carried out with good will. And also, you really need to check out any company you want to come out with. But go beyond "Scam?" websites and check if they have a facebook, linkedin, etc presence as well as the local media reviews.

From my point of view, I had a great time and got what I wanted - a job, new language, living in a new country and a great twist to my career! I'm loving Beijing!!

Oh, and Leena is Belgian, I'll take the piss out of her English for this!

[Chinese Bee]

Hi everyone (Da Jia hao),
My name is Ruby. I am a native Chinese speaker and also a fluent English speaker. I have been living in Ireland for the last decades and have a good understanding of both Chinese and Western Culture.

I am experienced in teaching Chinese and Chinese Culture on a One to one basis and also on a group basis.

I make the learning easy and fun because I always adapt the learning method to the western thinking and also facilitate the learning with plenty of practice.

I focus on pinyin (pronunciation) as well as speaking. I will tailor the course to individual basis.

Suitable for those:
* who want to travel in China.
* who want to do business in/with China.
* who want to learn Chinese as a second/ third language.
* who like to gain a general understanding about China and Chinese culture.

please contact me at rubyliming@hotmail.com.

[bacon?]

Hey guys, if you're coming to China to learn Chinese, then I highly recommend Yangshuo, in southern China... it's the ring of Kerry of China... It's one of China's mos scenic spots, there's karst mountains everywhere, bit like Avatar.

It's in southern China, so the climate's better, less pollution than the big cities, much cheaper living costs, awesome outdoor stuff, rock climbing, mountain bike, kayaking etc

This is the school I was at, www.omeida.com.cn and a bit more on Yangshuo, http://www.omeida.com.cn/yangshuo/

I volunteered here, sometimes they need volunteers, you get accomodation and food free, and free or cheaper lessons.

I'd be happy to answer any questions, you can pm me if you like.

[aidehua]

Hey, can anyone recommend a good (and reasonably priced!) tutor for one-on-one evening classes in Dublin? Thanks

[Lanaier]

Originally Posted by bacon?

Hey guys, if you're coming to China to learn Chinese, then I highly recommend Yangshuo, in southern China... it's the ring of Kerry of China... It's one of China's mos scenic spots, there's karst mountains everywhere, bit like Avatar.

Indeed, and I believe they even used that very landscape as a basis for the those areas in the film.

One thing to note is that in the south the accent and way of speaking Mandarin is different to what is considered the "Standard" of Beijing-Mandarin.

Now it just so happens that they speak Mandarin in a much nicer way in the south, and that Beijing Mandarin (Gold standard or not) is a nasal, whiny accent that sounds like someone is strangling a cat and makes me want to.
Still, Beijing accent for whatever baffling reason is preferred by many when doing business.
A shame, I know.

You would also probably have more fun in Yangshuo that Beijing these days.