Great expat-ations: Karin Roots, 44, Swedish

(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-09-29 09:56

Why choose China?

The Chinese culture and philosophy have always fascinated me. My husband, for several years, commuted back and fourth between Sweden and China and I learned a lot about this huge country. The energy level, friendly people and pace of change in Beijing is so inspiring. So when my husband was offered a job in China for three years, the decision was not hard to make. Amazingly, both our sons were as positive to move as we were, and were convinced that this would be a great opportunity for the whole family.

Our original plan was to stay here for three years and than move back to Sweden but already after one year we knew we wanted to stay longer. Now we have an ongoing contract and hope to stay at least another four years.

What is your job?

I work for the Swedish Chamber of Commerce in Beijing as member service and sales manager. Sweden might be a small country but we have many big Swedish companies represented here in China. Our vision is to be a platform for Swedish companies and provide them with information, networking opportunities and to lobby for their benefit.

The language?

Haha, yes, the language! The Chinese language is my bad conscience. My sons learn mandarin and my youngest has already studied for three years and is by now almost fluent, my older son did not learn that much mandarin at school so now he is studying at the Beijing Language and Culture University in Beijing.

When I first came here I studied with a private tutor, and later on I went to bridge school for a couple of months. Since I started to work for the Swedish Chamber I have not had the time to put into my language training. My plan is to start with a new program at end of October.

Food?

I just love Chinese food, especially the strong Sichuan kitchen, but dumplings and noodles are not bad alternatives. Here in Beijing you are spoiled with all the great food served at the international restaurants. The Japanese food here in Beijing is my special favorite and in my opinion the best Japanese food I have ever tasted.

What did you find most difficult to adjust to?

The lack of nature and the polluted air, of course, I really miss not to be able to stroll around or jog in the forest and sense the fresh crisp spring and autumn air.

This can sometimes make me long for Sweden but during the summer I have the opportunity to stay in Sweden for a longer period. On the other hand Beijing gives you so many other opportunities so I think I can live with it.

Money?

The money I earn here is much less than I earned in Sweden. But since it was my husband's job that brought us here in the first place we are well provided for.