China Romance
General Discussion and Useful Links => Ask An Experienced Member => Topic started by: seagull on August 27, 2009, 09:49:56 pm
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Hi brothers, I am from Australia and have been writing to a lady in Wuhan and now we have reached the stage where I may be going to visit her.
I haven't made any promises or commitment to her, I just said that I would visit her and we would see what happens from here. So the relationship may not be as strong as some of the other members who have visited their ladies.
She agreed to this. However, the excitement of this has sort of changed to worry, I have a few questions, maybe some experienced members can answer? :)
1) For those who have done this already, how long did you go on your first trip? I was thinking 14 nights, but I am concerned this may be too long. Especially if things do not work out with the lady. I asked the lady and she said I would only know once I meet her.
2) The lady lives in Wuhan and I said that I wanted to also visit Shanghai. Mainly because I find after travelling all the way from Australia to China, I would like to do some tourism and see a major city. This is no big deal, but I thought I would make the most of my trip to China. I study Mandarin and am very interested in China, so I wanted to incorporate more China sight seeing into my trip. I haven't asked the lady if she wanted to travel to Shanghai with me just because I do not know if she is able to or the expense of this. So I was thinking of just going there for a few nights on my own. Did anyone else do something like this on their trip? Or did you only visit the lady's hometown? It just seems like a long way to travel just to visit a backwater place, if you know what I mean. :)
3) The lady wants to use a translator because she says that she is nervous about meeting a foreigner for the first time. I said that I am happy with this. How long did you use a translator for? Was it expensive? Is this a good idea?
4) How did the lady find the time to see you with work and other commitments? My lady says that part of the time I visit will be on a public holiday so she will be able to see me. But what about the rest of my time there? I know I can't expect her to drop everything in her life to see me, but by travelling all this way to see her, I am doing that for her.
5) Is it customary to bring a gift for the lady? What did you bring? As I said before, I am not initially visiting China to marry her immediately. So I think I would be better off giving her a small token rather than making a grand romantic gesture.
I am sorry if these sound like silly questions. I just do not know where to start with this. Thanks in advance to anyone who can answer any of my questions. At first I was really excited about this, but now reality has set in. Ha ha. But in a worse case scenario if things do not work out, I am hoping just to have a good holiday in China.
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Hi brothers, I am from Australia and have been writing to a lady in Wuhan and now we have reached the stage where I may be going to visit her.
Hi there seagull....greetings from Perth
Its quite easy to get around China by air...OK, major centres only, but even many smaller towns are well served by China Southern or local airlines and the prices are unbelievably cheap compared to what we are used to paying to get around Aus !!
In the bigger centres, you can JUST get by with no Chinese language, but if you are able to communicate because you study Chinese you will be better off than most !
I have been there 10+ times and never had any problems with security, local hostility or such...lovely place. lovely people, lovely food...but they will all try to take as much money off you as they can...BARGAIN hard for anything and everything.
Again, if you have some language and a reasonable language computer (I use the Yishen880) you wont need a translator for all the time you are with your lady. But first up, for 1 or 2 days it makes life easy, she is more relaxed with the translator there...after that...up to you both. Transators cost about $50 per day...pretty cheap IMO.
As for gifts...take her a stuffed Koala from the Aus souvenir shop...they love 'em...(but cut off the "made in China" labels first :):)...and also you can get a bag of 24 mini koala key rings for friends, translator etc...a bit corny I know, but works for me !!!
These Women dont get much time off work and they dont get 4 weeks holidays like we do, maybe she can organise a couple of days either side of the Pub. Hol ?...ask her (nicely) !!
I usually go for 8 to 10 days each trip...long enough to be good if things work out...short enough to get out after a bit of sightseeing if they dont !
Onr thing I WILL guarantee is that you will fall in love with this place....the attitudes, the sheer hustle and bustle of it, the evidence of a life richer and simpler than ours is overwhelming....but you will HATE the pollution after the champagne air of Australia
Good luck
DavidE
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I am sorry if these sound like silly questions. I just do not know where to start with this.
These are not silly questions at all. You are off to a good start in asking these questions. I will let some of the more seasoned veterans answer your questions, as most of them really do not apply to my situation from when I went, so i don't know how to answer your questions.
I can answer #5. I brought a few things. I brought a large chocolate in the shape of a heart...a necklace with a gold heart pendant with three small diamonds in it...some perfume, and a couple of shirts from Canada. I also brought an engagement ring...but this does not sound like it applies in your case.
Hope it helps.
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# 1 14 days is ok.Yes she will probably have to work.No big deal alot to see and do in Wuhan on your own.
#2 no I always stayed with my wife.But it could be done if your Chinese is fairly descent.You will learn alot more.And have a better time if you do have a local as a guide.
#3 yes my first trip we had a translater for the first 2 days.The translater was so my wife would feel more comfortable.about 35.00 a day at the time.translater prices change from agency to agency.
#4 my wife just took the time off from work.She is a plastic surgeon so she could scedule her own time.If your lady can't do that.You can wonder around wuhan by yourself.
#5 yes bring a gift for the lady something simple.I liked Davids suggestion as far as gifts go.
China is easy to get around.Invest in a handheld translater.Well worth the price.Have a good time and good luck.
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Hi DavidE - thanks for the reply! That was very helpful. I think after reading your post, I will visit Wuhan for about eight nights. That sounds about right, enough time to get to know the girl and see Wuhan, but not too long in case things do not work out. I don't think I will visit Shanghai like I originally wanted to and will just stick with Wuhan.
The prices of a translator sound reasonable and thank you for the gift ideas. I guess anything with an Australian flavour would be good.
BTW I am also from Perth. It is nice to meet another WA person here!
I am sorry if these sound like silly questions. I just do not know where to start with this.
These are not silly questions at all. You are off to a good start in asking these questions. I will let some of the more seasoned veterans answer your questions, as most of them really do not apply to my situation from when I went, so i don't know how to answer your questions.
I can answer #5. I brought a few things. I brought a large chocolate in the shape of a heart...a necklace with a gold heart pendant with three small diamonds in it...some perfume, and a couple of shirts from Canada. I also brought an engagement ring...but this does not sound like it applies in your case.
Hope it helps.
Thanks for the encouragement there Martin and the gift suggestion.
# 1 14 days is ok.Yes she will probably have to work.No big deal alot to see and do in Wuhan on your own.
#2 no I always stayed with my wife.But it could be done if your Chinese is fairly descent.You will learn alot more.And have a better time if you do have a local as a guide.
#3 yes my first trip we had a translater for the first 2 days.The translater was so my wife would feel more comfortable.about 35.00 a day at the time.translater prices change from agency to agency.
#4 my wife just took the time off from work.She is a plastic surgeon so she could scedule her own time.If your lady can't do that.You can wonder around wuhan by yourself.
#5 yes bring a gift for the lady something simple.I liked Davids suggestion as far as gifts go.
China is easy to get around.Invest in a handheld translater.Well worth the price.Have a good time and good luck.
Thank you Maxx. Even though I study Mandarin I have very little experience speaking it, so I don't think my Chinese will be anywhere near sufficient to get by. I'm hoping to pick up a bit more of the language when I get over there. I will invest in a handheld translator though, I think it will definitely make things a lot smoother when I am there.
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When I went to Hong Kong I found 14 days was too long, but that was mostly because I did too much walking in the tropical heat & humidity - try and take it easy (although being from Oz you'll no doubt be used to heat).
Yes Chinese ladies work hard (often 9-6, 6 days a week), and I am aware that mine is making a big sacrifice of her holiday time to see me. Depending on what they do, they are also expected to make quite a few business trips out of town. I'd guess you could sightsee during the day then see her during the evenings.
As far as gifts go, I think I will get something from my own country, but try and avoid something that was made in China in the first place. I also have a fabulous book I found with pictures of abolutely everything and their English and Chinese names. If you get the honour of meeting her parents/siblings/other family members you might like to think about what they would like as well.
Also it's often a good idea to talk to your lady outside of the EMF before you go - I've talked to mine on MSN so I now know that I am falling in love with a real girl and not a translator.
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seagull,
Do you really think 8 nights is enough to get to know your lady to a suitable level?? If your serious about finding a Chinese wife, then i don't think your going to achieve that much in just 8 nights. As others have said here, there are plenty of things to see and do in Wuhan, just save the evenings for your lady. If things go pear shaped as some have, just lately, then have a back-up plan, which could be what you were talking about in your post ....visiting a major city!!
I really think trying to split 14 nights, between your lady and visiting a another city is not a good idea, if of course your serious about this lady. For most of the guys on this site, the top most priority of there first visit to meet their lady, is to get to know them as much as possible, by spending as much time as possible with them. Just seems you have other priorities, that have nothing to do with this lady!!
David....
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Seagull
I think play it by ear. If it's going really well spend the whole 14 days with her. If it's not, then do something else.
You have to have a back-up plan. Work out the details. Because if the relationship doesn't work out you need something to get you out of hotel room. There's nothing worse than spending days holed up in your hotel room. Don't ask me how I know - I just know *laughs*
I am going back for my second visit in a couple of weeks. It might work out and it might not. I damn well hope it does work out. I will give it my best shot. But I am going to have a blast whatever happens.
Danny
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Agreed - a backup plan is good. I have a couple of backup ladies I might try and meet if my favourite lady is not for me. I think also that your lady's agency will be more than willing to fix you up with alternative ladies (although someone who has already been to China can confirm or deny this for me!)
I do find it difficult to keep more than one lady on the go though, so I am prepared for the fact that this is a medium term objective and I may need to make several trips to find my special somebody.
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Seagull---- from my experiences i would go for at least 2 weeks. and spend
as much time with your lady as you can. if every thing goes well i think and
from past experience she will find more time to be with you when you are
there. bring something small and inexpensive for her on your first visit. i
brought something from my hometown here in the states. get ready for
what will be a really great experience for you and maybe you never know
she might just be the one. and oh yes just be careful crossing those streets
when there. the first visit years ago that was a whole new experience for me
and if you do find or have time by yourself when she is working venture out
as you will meet some really great people when there. if it all goes well when
your time is up and you go home well that is a sad day and you will be trying to
figure out when you can go back.
Ted
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As mentioned in another post above. Try to have some contact outside EMF's before you go. Web cam throught the agencey or something like that. Just to make sure that you are talking to a real person and that she know that you are coming. Do not need to be several times or long conversations. Sure you have read the stories about translators writing on behalf of the woman. I travelled from Norway to Guangzhou just to find out that things what not as when writing. Lucky i had a back up plan for what i wanted to see & do. So i had a great time and i liked it so much that i have travelled to China after my "failed" trip, and will go again, when time and money allow :icon_cheesygrin:
(Probably things are ok, but unfortunant things are know to happen with thse agencies, so be a little bit sceptic).
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I just came back from Wuhan. We are now back at home in Beijing. we stayed at the Howard Johnsons in Pearl City. Beautiful Hotel overlooking the Yangtze River. A park along the river to walk in. You will pay about 600 Yuan a night, it includes breakfast and internet. When making hotel reservations make sure what is included and what isnt. The beds are also very good. In some hotels the beds are like laying on a piece of plywood covered with a 1/2" piece of cotton. This is how the Chinese sleep, really takes some getting used to. . Wuhan is one of the hottest cities in China so be prepared for the heat. There are actually three cities in Wuhan. They are a good bit from the airport. I would definitely have a backup plan because while Wuhan is a good city, there is not much touristy things to do. The lake is one. A river boat cruise is another. My wife is from there so that is where we had to go for our wedding. So if you get in a big jam, call me as my brother in law is a detective there and has a lot of pull. I wouldnt use him for little things but if in a jam ok. Do take her for a stroll along the river. Lots of things happening there. Everyone is out at night in the park. They sell these neat kites with lights on them. As far as the rest goes, I agree with the brothas.
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I am going back for my second visit in a couple of weeks. It might work out and it might not. I damn well hope it does work out. I will give it my best shot. But I am going to have a blast whatever happens.
Danny
Well at least you know that you will have a warm beer loving, randy pommie to console you in your hour of need. I mean over a beer not on my shoulder. Now if you were a thirty year old Sheila - well!!!!!
Willy
Have you decided on hotel yet. I stayed at the Tourist hotel when I first arrived.
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Willy did you like the tourist hotel? I Didn't We allways stay at the greenery hotel right across the street.From the tourist hotel.Much better hotel.for a couple of dollers more a night.Nanayang seascape hotel is nice to .But it is getting to expensive.
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Willy did you like the tourist hotel? I Didn't We allways stay at the greenery hotel right across the street.From the tourist hotel.Much better hotel.for a couple of dollers more a night.Nanayang seascape hotel is nice to .But it is getting to expensive.
Maxx - Maybe I should recommend the Greenery instead. I have a ulterior motive for the Tourist Hotel - It is one place my first girl wrote down for me and I still use it if I want to get to the shopping centre nearby.
For those visiting, get your ladies to write addresses for you in Chinese and if you are out and about on your own then just show it to the taxi driver.
Willy
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Hi David5o,
Thanks for your comments, you seemed to be able to read my mind there. I will definitely take into account your comment about the length of time I will spend there. My main worry is being stuck in Wuhan for a long time if things did not work out with the lady. I am also not sure whether to book all my accomodation before I leave, or just book a few nights and which would keep my options open if things did not work out.
You're right when you said that I have other priorities that have nothing to do with the lady. Unfortunately, I am just trying to keep my expectations low. So that I just go to China and have a great holiday and come home happy regardless of what happens. If things work out with the lady, then that is a bonus. If not, then hopefully she would still be willing to be a friend and continue to show me around. I do obviously like the lady but I just can't have any strong feelings to her until I meet her in person. I wish I could be like others on this forum, but I have always been cautious about these things. Thanks for your feedback, I appreciate it.
seagull,
Do you really think 8 nights is enough to get to know your lady to a suitable level?? If your serious about finding a Chinese wife, then i don't think your going to achieve that much in just 8 nights. As others have said here, there are plenty of things to see and do in Wuhan, just save the evenings for your lady. If things go pear shaped as some have, just lately, then have a back-up plan, which could be what you were talking about in your post ....visiting a major city!!
I really think trying to split 14 nights, between your lady and visiting a another city is not a good idea, if of course your serious about this lady. For most of the guys on this site, the top most priority of there first visit to meet their lady, is to get to know them as much as possible, by spending as much time as possible with them. Just seems you have other priorities, that have nothing to do with this lady!!
David....
Hi Brett, thanks for your input. I have just bought a webcam and will hopefully be chatting to her soon. I think I will feel a lot more comfortable once the "middle man" (translator) is cut out, as after reading some of the posts on this forum, it is always in the back of my mind whether the EMF letters are real or not! :)
When I went to Hong Kong I found 14 days was too long, but that was mostly because I did too much walking in the tropical heat & humidity - try and take it easy (although being from Oz you'll no doubt be used to heat).
Yes Chinese ladies work hard (often 9-6, 6 days a week), and I am aware that mine is making a big sacrifice of her holiday time to see me. Depending on what they do, they are also expected to make quite a few business trips out of town. I'd guess you could sightsee during the day then see her during the evenings.
As far as gifts go, I think I will get something from my own country, but try and avoid something that was made in China in the first place. I also have a fabulous book I found with pictures of abolutely everything and their English and Chinese names. If you get the honour of meeting her parents/siblings/other family members you might like to think about what they would like as well.
Also it's often a good idea to talk to your lady outside of the EMF before you go - I've talked to mine on MSN so I now know that I am falling in love with a real girl and not a translator.
I didn't expect to receive so many detailed responses! Thanks brothers. And JimB, cheers for the tourist info on Wuhan. I have now bought a travel guide so hopefully will get to see as many sights as possible.
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seagull book a few nights and play it by ear. If things workout, you can stay there the whole two weeks. I'm curious did you meet this woman at the 509 agency? A word of caution...many women in Wuhan play games! This is an unfortunate situation, for even men that marry women in Wuhan...they are still looking for action...even being married! I find this to be disturbing! Not all the women there are like this...but be cautious! If you feel you are being played...move on and enjoy yourself in Shanghai!:icon_cool: I have visited the 509 agency and they are not as bad as many other agencies! I helped a translator teach an English class there, for a day, and the women did look very sincere about their convictions!
Also, seagull...I stayed at the Sentosa and Ramada Plaza in Wuhan. Both are very nice and both have internet and English television channels. Sentosa is a great priced hotel! Many beautiful women work in this place! lol!:icon_biggrin:
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Hi 'abigbutt', it is indeed the P509 agency. I did a search on this forum about this agency and they seem to get mixed feedback, but mostly positive. Wow, I had no idea about women in Wuhan! Reading this forum it seems that a lot of people ended up meeting their lady in Wuhan, so I thought it was a good place to find someone reliable. I was not aware of this reputation and if I wanted game playing, I'd stick to the women in my home country! Ha ha, thanks for the heads up. I am going to try and chat with my lady via a webcam for the first time. And after this, I'll have to make the decision to go or not. This forum has opened my eyes as before I was just going to jump in blindly. Cheers. :)
seagull book a few nights and play it by ear. If things workout, you can stay there the whole two weeks. I'm curious did you meet this woman at the 509 agency? A word of caution...many women in Wuhan play games! This is an unfortunate situation, for even men that marry women in Wuhan...they are still looking for action...even being married! I find this to be disturbing! Not all the women there are like this...but be cautious! If you feel you are being played...move on and enjoy yourself in Shanghai!:icon_cool: I have visited the 509 agency and they are not as bad as many other agencies! I helped a translator teach an English class there, for a day, and the women did look very sincere about their convictions!
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Hi 'abigbutt', it is indeed the P509 agency. I did a search on this forum about this agency and they seem to get mixed feedback, but mostly positive. Wow, I had no idea about women in Wuhan! Reading this forum it seems that a lot of people ended up meeting their lady in Wuhan, so I thought it was a good place to find someone reliable. I was not aware of this reputation and if I wanted game playing, I'd stick to the women in my home country! Ha ha, thanks for the heads up. I am going to try and chat with my lady via a webcam for the first time. And after this, I'll have to make the decision to go or not. This forum has opened my eyes as before I was just going to jump in blindly. Cheers. :)
seagull book a few nights and play it by ear. If things workout, you can stay there the whole two weeks. I'm curious did you meet this woman at the 509 agency? A word of caution...many women in Wuhan play games! This is an unfortunate situation, for even men that marry women in Wuhan...they are still looking for action...even being married! I find this to be disturbing! Not all the women there are like this...but be cautious! If you feel you are being played...move on and enjoy yourself in Shanghai!:icon_cool: I have visited the 509 agency and they are not as bad as many other agencies! I helped a translator teach an English class there, for a day, and the women did look very sincere about their convictions!
Shay is a great lady/translator! Her boss also is very nice! They will do their best to see you happy! They took me to dinner, a locals only hangout, in a real shady place...haha...the food was great and we had fun!:icon_biggrin:
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Seagull, i asked my wife. She is originally from Wuhan. About the women playing games. She says she does not know any that do that. But, every place has some women who do this.
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Seagull, i asked my wife. She is originally from Wuhan. About the women playing games. She says she does not know any that do that. But, every place has some women who do this.
I have met a few that do play games and have read on different forums about the same situation! Not all are bad in Wuhan, I know some good women there also...just use caution...if your gut is telling you to go to Shanghai...like Ben Stiller said in "Starsky and Hutch": Just do it! lol!
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I asked my lady if she wanted to chat on MSN or QQ, but she said she felt uncomfortable doing this due to her poor English and preferred to stick with EMFs.
I am happy to stick with the EMFs but just wanted to try and chat to her separately from the translator to get a better feel for things. Unless this is the translator interfering. The lady said in a previous EMF that she spoke a little bit of English when I told her I was worried about the language barrier if I met her. Now she says she is not comfortable with it.
I am starting to have second thoughts about this whole thing. I don't know why but this has discouraged me. I've started to think a bit more about the language barrier and it would be difficult indeed. I'll write to her for a few more days and ask her how she thinks the language barrier would affect the changes of having a relationship and then have to make a decision whether or not I will go. If I do not go then I will probably give up on Chnlove altogether. I am not sure if this is for me now. On the other hand I really want to visit China, so I am tempted to just take a leap of faith with this girl and translator, as it is a good opportunity to go there with the possibility of a relationship with a nice girl, get real practice with my limited Mandarin, and have locals to show me around Wuhan! :) Agh, such a tough decision.
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Where is the tough decision Seagull , if you buy a Besta electronic translator , my latest I fluked on Ebay , latest , was only 3 months old , and is really a mini computer even has wifi , although this is not necessary , you could travel in China for ages without getting lost and the ladies think it is cute , in the main area [ central square ] of ChongQing apart from nearly going blind with the passing parade of beauty [ I was allowed to look but not touch ] at the hotels you will always find people who want to practice their English , in fact in the lift one day by myself a very pretty young lady and I got into a good conversation and I missed my floor , so my advice go with a backup plan , get the information of a 2 nd agency , if the first does not work the other agency will be around to collect you very quickly , as Alex found out in Changsha when he met up with problems , regards Robert .
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Thank you Robert. I will look at getting a translator, I'll have a look on ebay for one. I was worried about the language barrier, but every time I have a concern, it seems that a brother here has a solution :)
Actually, your post really cheered me up. I was on the verge of writing a fiery letter to my translator moments ago. Because in an earlier EMF, it said that my lady spoke okay English and that I would have no problem if I came to visit her. Then once it became obvious that I was serious about meeting her, she said she felt nervous about meeting a foreigner for the first time so wanted to use a translator when I visit. Fair enough, I thought. Now when I suggested chatting on MSN or QQ, something which I thought wasn't that threatening, I get a response saying that she is not confident in her English and wants to only communicate via EMF.
I suspect that the translator is toying with me. It seems that all my lady's fears play right into the translator's hands and convinently fit the translator's interests, but that would be understandable to me if not for the lying about the lady's English ability at the start of our EMF relationship, which really annoys me. Also some EMFs I receive seem great, and others lacking any detail. I suspect that some of the EMFs are not coming from the lady herself. So when you are not sure if you are being played, it does make this a tough decision. But cheers for your advice, you may have saved me from doing something stupid :)
Where is the tough decision Seagull , if you buy a Besta electronic translator , my latest I fluked on Ebay , latest , was only 3 months old , and is really a mini computer even has wifi , although this is not necessary , you could travel in China for ages without getting lost and the ladies think it is cute , in the main area [ central square ] of ChongQing apart from nearly going blind with the passing parade of beauty [ I was allowed to look but not touch ] at the hotels you will always find people who want to practice their English , in fact in the lift one day by myself a very pretty young lady and I got into a good conversation and I missed my floor , so my advice go with a backup plan , get the information of a 2 nd agency , if the first does not work the other agency will be around to collect you very quickly , as Alex found out in Changsha when he met up with problems , regards Robert .
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You should get your girl a plugin for MSN - mine knows little English but she has some magical thing that makes her English pretty good on MSN. She can certainly understand what I'm typing as well.
We are only sending messages to each other, but I have just bought a webcam so I can see her as well.
In fact, we're communicating so well, we'll probably just keep the EMFs for important stuff like travel plans.
Communicating outside EMFs is great, although my girl's translator is well above average, and pretty much everything I ask my girl gets answered in her reply.
Incidentally, don't rely on what the girl puts as her level of English on chnlove, it's pretty subjective.
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Seagull, Roberts advice is right on. Even if you do not hit it off with her so what. you will be in a country that you have never been in with people here and there that will help you along. All you need to do is go. Everything else will work out one way or the other. I know it is scary. I had doubts my first trip also. It turned out ok. I did not meet the lady that I was supposed to. But met a couple of kids that I had a ball with. They showed me around just to practice their English. One of them is still a friend of mine. So you have nothing to lose by going and have an adventure. You might meet the lady of your dreams like I have or just have a great time.
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... Even if you do not hit it off with her so what. you will be in a country that you have never been in with people here and there that will help you along. All you need to do is go. Everything else will work out one way or the other. I know it is scary. I had doubts my first trip also. ... I did not meet the lady that I was supposed to. ... So you have nothing to lose by going and have an adventure. You might meet the lady of your dreams or just have a great time.
That is exactly the same way I feel, everyone should go with this intention!!!:icon_biggrin:
Although I have other arrangements made (in theory), I intend going with having an adventure and good time. Even if it blasts up in my face with Keren, I have something else to focus my attention on, and then 'ladies of China...LOOK OUT':blush::angel::icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
I too am like you. I'm communicating through Emf's, but every now and again I get emails from her which are few and far between,(I know they are from her because of the language and spellings etc), plus they are only about three lines long hehehe. :huh:
I was angry, mad, sad, felt rejected that my lady only wanted to use the chnlove system, and not go outside it,:@ however I have 'HER' phone number and spoke a couple of times (even though her English is not good), we have email address's,:icon_biggrin: BUT we still use Emf's, as Jim said for the real important stuff, and mate I've been that way since November. The thing that makes it different for me is 'trust', i have trust in my 'own' gut feeling, I trust her and the translator..if it fails, I have no one to blame except my self...:icon_cool:
Oh and BTW..I am bloody Petrified... BUT, I also the knowledge that there is a place that I can go to for help if I need it, this place is called www.chnlove.info...
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Go for it Rob,
I am sure that if anyone can make it work first time it will be you. You know I failed at the first, but now, hopefully, a new chapter has been opened. If that fails then I will be sad, very sad but there are more doors to be opened. As my eldest sister said to me tonight 'Keep following that dream' I intend to. China is my home now and you will 'Follow that dream' Rob.
My God your dream has been one of the longest on this forum so just go for it and enjoy it. You know where to go for help, but if my apartment is rocking then don't bother knocking!!
Willy
PS how come you have time to be on this forum should you not be in countdown soon?
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It's ok Willy I'll bring some Dumplings, they may be wet because of the tears but hey ho 'Cest La Vie':angel:
Hehe I know mate, I'm think I should be drawing my pension...lol
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Well at least you know that you will have a warm beer loving, randy pommie to console you in your hour of need. I mean over a beer not on my shoulder. Now if you were a thirty year old Sheila - well!!!!!
Have you decided on hotel yet. I stayed at the Tourist hotel when I first arrived.
Hey that's a nice surprise. I was sitting reading through the posts and suddenly I see one of them addressed to me.
I really am looking forward to catching up with you. I didn't want to be a nuisance for you. But I am really looking forward to it.
I have been practicing the words for ice cold beer: ????
When I am over there it is going to be the grand final of the real footy (australian rules football).
Now this is a real game:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwNHXcJ3rXs
I can't work out how anyone can watch soccer. It's no wonder you poms bash each other senseless before, after and during the game. It just bores you silly. And the way your Europeans buddies (especially the Italians) play it, faking free kicks. You just knock into them and they fall over and carry on like they have had their legs chopped off. It doesn't happen in Aussie rules, that's for sure *laughs*
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I really am looking forward to catching up with you. I didn't want to be a nuisance for you. But I am really looking forward to it.
I have been practicing the words for ice cold beer: ????
When I am over there it is going to be the grand final of the real footy (australian rules football).
Now this is a real game:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwNHXcJ3rXs
Auusie rules - Well at least i have reason to misdirect you to the ladies instead of the gents. After Xia did this to me I soon learned the Chinese sign for women so beter start learning. But I know you Aussies -you'll send your daughter in first and then take the opposite one!!!
The only thing I know about Aussie rules was when we did and the world was nearly all a pinky colour.
Do you remember those days Rob?
Look forward to meeting you in Zhuhai - I think you will miss Ted's wedding in Guangzhou. I want to go to see how its done. And I do mean the marriage and not the nuptials.
The nuptials I can catch up on when sharing their bed for the weekend!!!!!!!:icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
Willy
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I really am looking forward to catching up with you. I didn't want to be a nuisance for you. But I am really looking forward to it.
I have been practicing the words for ice cold beer: ????
When I am over there it is going to be the grand final of the real footy (australian rules football).
Now this is a real game:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwNHXcJ3rXs
Auusie rules - Well at least i have reason to misdirect you to the ladies instead of the gents. After Xia did this to me I soon learned the Chinese sign for women so beter start learning. But I know you Aussies -you'll send your daughter in first and then take the opposite one!!!
The only thing I know about Aussie rules was when we did and the world was nearly all a pinky colour.
Do you remember those days Rob?
Look forward to meeting you in Zhuhai - I think you will miss Ted's wedding in Guangzhou. I want to go to see how its done. And I do mean the marriage and not the nuptials.
The nuptials I can catch up on when sharing their bed for the weekend!!!!!!!:icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin::icon_cheesygrin:
Willy
Willy,
Yes you can have the bed we will stay at the grand hotel that night
hahahahaha
Ted
Ok Willy,
I am going to hve to send batman
to have a chat with you
hahahaha
Ted
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Aussie Rules...isn't that a game where aal the guy's want to do is grope each other???:blush:
Pink I remember mate, A glowing Empire were everyone knew us... hehe:icon_biggrin::icon_biggrin:
But now look what has happened since we gave the Australians, Americans and others back their countries:huh:
Here hold on:huh::huh: What am I doing agreeing with an Englishman....lol:angel:
Your lot murdered William Wallace:@
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Here hold on:huh::huh: What am I doing agreeing with an Englishman....lol:angel:
Your lot murdered William Wallace:@
No No No. we did not murder him we butchered him. I know I saw Mel Gibson die like a Saturday night Scotsman in the film. Arms ands legs outstretched and 'dead' to the world.
Willy
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???? ? How the heck do you say that?
I've just spoken to my lady on MSN/Skype and her pronunciation of words like "Guangzhou" is leaving me really very perplexed :huh:. Oh well, her English is much better than I thought and I don't even think I will need to hire a translator, or even buy a translation device. And as a bonus she can understand Cantonese.
I would love to arrange a Guangzhou meeting in October with my fellow brothers. I think I am available on the 5-7th October inclusive. I am meeting my beloved on the 8th, so I'd better not drink too much the night before lol.
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???? ? How the heck do you say that?
.
I would love to arrange a Guangzhou meeting in October with my fellow brothers. I think I am available on the 5-7th October inclusive. I am meeting my beloved on the 8th, so I'd better not drink too much the night before lol.
Brett
If you can resist seeing her for three days on your arrival you can put it off for another four or five!!!!! Having had a week back in UK and arrived back on the evening of the 6th I will not get out of bed until 8th or 9th at earliest.
I am sure she will not mind!!!!!
Willy
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I am around in Guangzhou on the 12-14th as well I think although I don't know for certain as it depends how long I will spend in Hubei province. Hell, if we get on well I might not come back to the UK lol.
I think if we decide we are really good together then I will go out again at Christmas, being in China with my beloved would beat turkey and the Queen's speech.
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No No No. we did not murder him we butchered him. I know I saw Mel Gibson die like a Saturday night Scotsman in the film. Arms ands legs outstretched and 'dead' to the world.
Willy
And look what a mess you made of him. After you finished with him, only a gold digging Russian singer would have him. Poor fellow *laughs*
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Brett,
when your in gz message me and maybe we can meet and have a drink.
i will see if willy can gat out of bed to go along also he is not that far away.
its tough for him after a trip the old man needs his rest hahahahahaha
Ted
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No No No. we did not murder him we butchered him. I know I saw Mel Gibson die like a Saturday night Scotsman in the film. Arms ands legs outstretched and 'dead' to the world.
Willy
And look what a mess you made of him. After you finished with him, only a gold digging Russian singer would have him. Poor fellow *laughs*
Danny
Which one of us Aussies is gonna put the Scotsman straight about Aussie Rules Footie ???? :huh::@
DavidE
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I think if we decide we are really good together then I will go out again at Christmas, being in China with my beloved would beat turkey and the Queen's speech.
Hey Ted is he talking about us. I know we said we will try to meet up but this is a bit much.
Willy
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Hello Seagull
I just read your post . I think a lot of people is concerned about their first trip in other countries . Usually speaking , most foreigners will choose two weeks for their meeting , but someone only have three days or one week ,that depends on different situations .
If your meeting is successful , you may stay longer in Wuhan and shorter in Shanghai or other cities you want to visit , but if both of you feel not comfortable, you may stay longer in other cities . I think the plan is flexible , but some plans is also necessary . You may book five or seven nights firstly in Wuhan and then change depends on the situation .
You study mandarin and you also want to visit other scenic spots in China , I think that is available . During my working period , there are many foreigners I guide to visit other places when their meeting is not successful . But seagull , you may consider which places do you want to visit this time , that will help you make some plans , such as where do you want to visit in Shanghai ? Or whether you want to visit Great Wall ,forbidden city or other scenic spots in Beijing ? Of course , if you have any other ideas , you can tell me , I would love to exchange more with you and give you some suggestions .
As for the translator , if both of you can communicate with each other easily , you may hire the translator shortly , If not , I think a true translator will be useful for your communication , yes, I think the cost is not expensive in Wuhan .
Speaking of the time both you will spend together , I think both of you would better talk about the exact time before you come to China .But a plan may not be able to keep up with changes, if both of you feel comfortable , I think the lady will get more days off . But sometimes that depends on different jobs the ladies do .
Lastly , I meet a lot of foreigners who bring a gift to the ladies for their first meeting , including different kinds of gift and the special things from their own hometown ,but someone doesn't bring any gift at all . If you want to send a gift to your lady , you may talk to her and understand what's her favorite .
Anyway , please take care of your first trip and if you have any other questions or meet some problems in China ,especially in Beijing , please tell me . I will take my efforts to help you . Wish you have a nice and safe trip in China ! Enjoy yourself ! :heart:
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Hi "Chinese Knot", thanks for your long and encouraging reply.
I decided that I will probably just stick to Wuhan for my first trip and spend around 9 nights there. I bought a guide on China that has info on Wuhan and there seem to be a lot of things to see there. I would love to visit Beijing, Shanghai and the rest but my funds and time are limited for now. I will likely be in China for the October 60th anniversary of the PRC celebration and would love to have been in Beijing to see that but I'll be happy enough just to be anywhere in China to see what the festivities will be like.
I think if things are unsuccessful with the lady I correspond with, I will ask the agency if they have someone else and will just enjoy the sights of Wuhan. Other than that, I am not sure what other "back up plan" I can have other than pulling the plug on the trip altogether.
I was originally excited about all this and I was on the verge of booking the trip today, but suddenly some doubts entered my mind, just when after I entered my credit card details and was about to click "proceed" to book the hotel. I decided not to proceed with the booking. Instead I sent an EMF to the lady and asked her to be honest if she has any doubts about this at all. I'm sure she (or the translator) will come back and say that she has no doubts and that I should go ahead and book the trip. I will see what happens. Maybe it is just nerves getting the better of me. Cheers for your info :)
Hello Seagull
I just read your post . I think a lot of people is concerned about their first trip in other countries . Usually speaking , most foreigners will choose two weeks for their meeting , but someone only have three days or one week ,that depends on different situations .
If your meeting is successful , you may stay longer in Wuhan and shorter in Shanghai or other cities you want to visit , but if both of you feel not comfortable, you may stay longer in other cities . I think the plan is flexible , but some plans is also necessary . You may book five or seven nights firstly in Wuhan and then change depends on the situation .
You study mandarin and you also want to visit other scenic spots in China , I think that is available . During my working period , there are many foreigners I guide to visit other places when their meeting is not successful . But seagull , you may consider which places do you want to visit this time , that will help you make some plans , such as where do you want to visit in Shanghai ? Or whether you want to visit Great Wall ,forbidden city or other scenic spots in Beijing ? Of course , if you have any other ideas , you can tell me , I would love to exchange more with you and give you some suggestions .
As for the translator , if both of you can communicate with each other easily , you may hire the translator shortly , If not , I think a true translator will be useful for your communication , yes, I think the cost is not expensive in Wuhan .
Speaking of the time both you will spend together , I think both of you would better talk about the exact time before you come to China .But a plan may not be able to keep up with changes, if both of you feel comfortable , I think the lady will get more days off . But sometimes that depends on different jobs the ladies do .
Lastly , I meet a lot of foreigners who bring a gift to the ladies for their first meeting , including different kinds of gift and the special things from their own hometown ,but someone doesn't bring any gift at all . If you want to send a gift to your lady , you may talk to her and understand what's her favorite .
Anyway , please take care of your first trip and if you have any other questions or meet some problems in China ,especially in Beijing , please tell me . I will take my efforts to help you . Wish you have a nice and safe trip in China ! Enjoy yourself ! :heart:
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seagull: have you talked to your lady on webcam? It is a huge step forward from EMFs and you will both find it much easier to make a decision.
Incidentally, I think most agencies will supply you with other ladies to meet if your first one doesn't work out. There are some beautiful ladies in the Wuhan, Yichang, Changsha area!
Also if you've not travelled long haul before then take care as crossing 8 timezones is pretty tough on your body & mind.
Check wikitravel for travel tips as well, I found some fabulous non-guidebook listed sights in Japan from looking there.
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Hi Brett,
I have a new webcam but haven't had a chance to chat with her on it yet. I have chatted with her on QQ but we are hardly ever online at the same time. Fortunately, I am from Australia so it is "only" a 10-11 hour flight!
Something strange happened, she gave my QQ details to some guy without me knowing. I am only new to QQ so just accepting this person's friend request. I was online and he started chatting to me. At first I thought it was someone from the agency, because when I checked the details he was from Wuhan. But then it turned out to be a co-worker of hers. Really strange, I was chatting to him for a little bit and then I asked him why Kate (the lady I write to) gave him my contact details and then he disappears and goes offline.
seagull: have you talked to your lady on webcam? It is a huge step forward from EMFs and you will both find it much easier to make a decision.
Incidentally, I think most agencies will supply you with other ladies to meet if your first one doesn't work out. There are some beautiful ladies in the Wuhan, Yichang, Changsha area!
Also if you've not travelled long haul before then take care as crossing 8 timezones is pretty tough on your body & mind.
Check wikitravel for travel tips as well, I found some fabulous non-guidebook listed sights in Japan from looking there.
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Hi Brett,
I have a new webcam but haven't had a chance to chat with her on it yet. I have chatted with her on QQ but we are hardly ever online at the same time. Fortunately, I am from Australia so it is "only" a 10-11 hour flight!
Something strange happened, she gave my QQ details to some guy without me knowing. I am only new to QQ so just accepting this person's friend request. I was online and he started chatting to me. At first I thought it was someone from the agency, because when I checked the details he was from Wuhan. But then it turned out to be a co-worker of hers. Really strange, I was chatting to him for a little bit and then I asked him why Kate (the lady I write to) gave him my contact details and then he disappears and goes offline.
seagull: have you talked to your lady on webcam? It is a huge step forward from EMFs and you will both find it much easier to make a decision.
Incidentally, I think most agencies will supply you with other ladies to meet if your first one doesn't work out. There are some beautiful ladies in the Wuhan, Yichang, Changsha area!
Also if you've not travelled long haul before then take care as crossing 8 timezones is pretty tough on your body & mind.
Check wikitravel for travel tips as well, I found some fabulous non-guidebook listed sights in Japan from looking there.
Hello again seagull
I just come back to this forum . As for the thing you mentioned , you would better ask your lady about the reason . Hope both of you can talk to each other with your honest heart , after all , you will meet her soon . Please take care and have a good time ! :heart: