Levine takes an approach to China very much in contrast to my own. From the article, it seems he spends most of his time travelling, relaxing with other expats, and teaching students that are excited about English. As for myself, most of my time is consumed by studying Chinese (a Mercer-like feat), work, and meals with friends (the cheap food costs make dinners out an everyday occurrence, not a once a week treat).

Despite the differences, we both seem to possess the same feeling that life in China possesses a relaxed quality that is hard to find. Even though banks, train tickets, and anything requiring an ID (for instance, internet cafes) can be a complete bureaucratic nightmare, day to day life has a certain peacefulness to it. Perhaps that peacefulness stems from the acceptance that the world around you is hectic and chaotic in a way that is at least somewhat hidden in the U.S.

Of course, other posters are correct in their assertion that you pay for that life in a number of ways. Pollution, reduced wages, poor internet, drinking water from jugs, hospitals operating while still under construction...But I for one feel it is worth it.

For those who have not, I strongly urge you to visit the country. I think you may be surprised by how much it differs from your expectations.

As an aside, I find it humorous that the OWS movement inspired him to move to China. The income inequality here is arguably worse than in his own area. You can buy a scarf on the street for 3 USD, walk a few kilometers and buy one for 100 USD inside a glitzy shopping center. Those at the top live lives of princely luxury compared to those at the bottom selling roasted sweet potatoes from their bikes.