GEOGRAPHY

Much of China is made up of mountains and plateau areas. Tibet, a region in southwest China that is often called the "Rooftop of the World," is home to the highest mountain on the planet, Mt. Everest.

http://www.cbw.com/general/gintro.htm

CLIMATE

China has huge variations in climate. From the humidity in the south to the subzero winter temperatures of Inner Mongolia.
Traveler should be prepared for anything!!!
Be sure to pack sunglasses, warm clothes or an umbrella wherever you go. Be prepared for any climate, but don't weigh yourself down with too much luggage.

POLITICS

China has an open-market communist government and has been known to wield Big Brother-like power over its citizens. Even though China has put forth many market reforms, it does not necessarily mean China will easily conform to outsiders' ideas.

http://www.cbw.com/govern/index.html

RELIGION

China is officially an atheist country but there are large numbers of practicing Buddhists, Muslims and Christians.

http://www.expatsinchina.com/go/religion/index.html

CURRENCY

The Chinese form of currency, Yuan, is currently running at an exchange of about Y8 to the US dollar or Y6 to the Canadian dollar.

http://www.cbw.com/tourism/ttip/currency.htm

Currencty Exchange Rates can be found at:

http://www.xe.com/ucc/

COST OF LIVING

China is not an expensive country to live in. Most ESL teaching jobs in China pay enough to live on, to travel during the New Year holiday and to get yourself home.