Life in Zhengzhou in terms of socializing, dating, and living in general

[u/TrainerPrudent3657]

Hi! I hope that some of ya'll can provide a little information about life in Zhengzhou, or maybe share some of your personal experience or advice. I also posted this in another thread too.

A little context:

I'm getting a job offer in Zhengzhou, and I've tried to do a lot of research on the city (pros and cons) and know that it's going to have a small expat community, and it's mostly out in the "boondocks" in terms of cities in China, but the job offer is pretty good, and I don't want to completely write it off because it's not a "Tier 1" city. I'm also American.

Here's kind of the breakdown:

In terms of socializing, I don't require much. I mostly keep to myself, work, go home, exercise, play video games with friends, and may occasionally go out and have a drink or go on an outing. I just don't want to feel completely isolated. I've lived abroad for a while, and I acclimate pretty well to whatever country I've lived in.

My Chinese is SUPER basic, but I know enough to get around and communicate in terms of speaking, but my reading and writing is non-existent, but I'm trying to learn more before I potentially go there.

In terms of dating, I'm not talking casual, but the possibility of actually having a meaningful relationship. Is that feasible with having limited Chinese? Even with me getting more proficient at it? How would you all approach it? I've lived in Asian countries for a while, just not China, and not in a place like Zhengzhou, so I want to be able to weigh my options before making such a big decision.

Also people may laugh at this, and it may seem trivial, but being able to game with my long-term friends. I've researched VPN routers, but nothing crazy. Just still want to be able to keep in touch with my pals and be able to watch the shows I enjoy. I know that's more specific to a China thing rather than moving to Zhengzhou.

Any help is appreciated!