Suzhou - Post Report Question and Answers
How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
The more Chinese you have, the better, but you can get by without it. Cell phone apps and bilingual signs help, but the lack of Chinese language skills will limit you here. Outside high-end establishments that cater to Westerners or the old French Concession in Shanghai, most Chinese don’t speak English. Tutors and classes should be available, often through one’s employer. - Jun 2019
Survival Chinese can be learned in 4 weeks. If you don't speak Chinese here, you're in trouble outside of SIP: ripped off, buying stuff, everything. - Jun 2007
