Immersion in China sounds intense, is it for me?

If you are worried about not meeting other international students, not being able to speak English or can’t live without McDonalds then this program is not for you and you should not go. If you are afraid of not being able to communicate, not knowing anyone or safety then there is no need to worry. People in Chengde are very welcoming towards foreigners. So as long as you are willing to join them, it is easy to make friends. Chengde is an incredibly safe city and a brilliant place to learn Chinese if you have the right mindset.

How much Mandarin can I learn?

While each person is of course different, how much Mandarin you will learn mainly depends on how long you are doing the immersion program and how far you are willing to go to be immersed when you are there. The intensive immersion program gets you ahead faster than the standard option. Students living in a homestay usually progress faster than those who do not. There are many variables but one thing remains consistent. Students who study in a place like Chengde get ahead faster than students in the more foreign-friendly cities of Shanghai, Shenzhen, Beijing and Guangzhou.

Can I go to Chengde with a friend?

Unless your friend is a native Chinese speaker and knows no English, then no! When you are together with a friend you will inevitably be speaking to each other and that means it completely kills the idea of immersion. It is possible to organize a program for friends or families together in Chengde, however then it will be just exactly that: a Chinese language course in Chengde and not a complete immersion environment anymore.

Who should not partake in an intensive immersion program?

You should not sign up for the Chinese immersion program if you are not willing to completely immerse yourself in Chinese culture and language. You have to be ready to leave all international and English contacts behind and dive deep down into what is a very different culture. Big Chinese cities offer expat bubbles left, right and centre, with plenty of support systems for foreigners struggling in China. Chengde doesn't. Don’t go if you are not ready for this.

What is life like, in a city like Chengde?

Life is fun, healthy and interesting, but completely different to other countries or big international cities like Beijing and Shanghai. You will need to be ready to explore and live in a completely Chinese cultural environment though.

Experiences Living in China | LTL School

Discover THE Fastest Way To Learn a Language

There is no quicker way to learn a language than immersing yourself into the language, the culture, the food and the people. Follow these steps…

Drinking Hot Water - China's Obsession, But What's The Deal?

Drinking Hot Water in China is a huge thing and not just in the Winter! Where does China's obsession with hot water come from though?…

11 Free Things to Do in Beijing

Free Things to do in Beijing - This is an amazing city; there are tonnes of things to do in Beijing in your free time away…

Do all Chinese eat Dog? What's the Truth?

Do Chinese eat Dog? What is the truth? The world is of strong belief all Chinese people love to eat dog. It’s time to kill…

Feng Shui // Achieving Balance and Harmony in Your Home

Discover Feng Shui with our guide. Learn practical tips to enhance your living space and attract positive energy for greater harmony and prosperity.

HSK vs TOCFL || Which Chinese Language Test Should I Take?

HSK vs TOEFL. Which test should you take? We review the differences and similarities between these two Chinese proficiency tests for foreigners.

The Complete Guide to the Chinese Lantern Festival 🏮

Chinese Lantern Festival is the 15th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar is 元宵节 . But what is it, why does it exist…

Living in China as a Vegetarian or Vegan // Is It Possible?

Vegan or Vegetarian in China? Can a Vegan or Vegetarian survive in China? Here's our top dishes for Vegans and Veggies and some great tips…

Chinese Gift Giving Etiquette 🎁 Top 5 Must Follow Tips (& Taboos)

Must Follow Rules for Chinese Gift Giving. Are thinking about buying a present for a Chinese person? These 5 golden rules (and taboos) will help…

Shanghai Language 🗣 Shanghainese or Mandarin?

What is the Shanghai Language? Mandarin or Shanghainese? Shanghainese is a part of the Wu Dialect family but should I learn Shanghainese?

What Are The 7 Main Differences Between Learning Cantonese and Mandarin?

What are 7 key differences between Mandarin and Cantonese? They're both Chinese, right? Well, for starters, when spoken, you'd barely even notice a similarity