 Obviously, as anywhere, the cost of living depends on individual lifestyles. Beijing can be a very cheap place to live for those accustomed to western price levels. The cost of typical items is listed below.
The exchange rate is approx £1.00 = 11 RMB. (the Chinese currency)
(NB. Exchange rates are volatile at the moment so this is only a rough guide)
- Bus ticket – 1 RMB
- Taxi – 10 RMB for the first 3 kilometers – 2 RMB for each subsequent kilometre
- Fast food – 20 RMB
- Dinner for four in a Chinese restaurant – 20 RMB per person (meals in campus restaurants are cheaper)
- Can of soft drink – 2 RMB
- Bottled water – From 1.5 RMB
- New bicycle – 150 to 400 RMB
- Clothes can be purchased at a fraction of the cost of the West
Money
ATM machines are plentiful in Beijing and credit cards widely accepted. Opening a bank account for short stays may be difficult so it is advisable to budget for your living expenses by bringing travellers cheques, ATM or credit card.
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