My Experience With VPN in China

Returning to China after nearly seven years in the Netherlands has been an eye-opening experience. While adjusting to life here, one of my biggest concerns was staying connected to the global internet—crucial for my work and personal life. Thankfully, with some preparation and a VPN, I’ve managed to maintain access to essential platforms like Google, Gmail, and YouTube.

Adapting to Internet Realities in China

Before my move, I did extensive research on VPNs to ensure I’d be able to access the sites I rely on daily. Based on recommendations, I purchased a one-year subscription to a reliable VPN and installed it on all my devices, including my laptop, iPad, and phone. Testing it in the Netherlands gave me some confidence, but the real test began when I landed in China.

To my relief, the VPN worked seamlessly upon arrival. I was even able to message a friend through WhatsApp while waiting for my luggage—a small but significant moment that marked the success of my initial transition back.

The Good and the Not-So-Good of Internet in China

China’s internet infrastructure is impressive. It’s fast, stable, cheap, and highly accessible. While I haven’t explored 5G yet, I can already imagine how transformative it will be for mobile users here.

However, there’s a catch. Uploading videos to YouTube, for instance, can be slow. I initially thought this was a VPN issue, but it turns out the Chinese government intentionally slows down upload speeds to monitor data leaving the country. While this can be frustrating, it’s a manageable inconvenience in the bigger picture.

Reflections on Returning

Returning to China has been a blend of challenges and opportunities. While the restrictions of the Great Firewall can be limiting, solutions like VPNs allow me to stay connected to the global digital world.

For anyone planning to move or travel to China, my advice is to prepare in advance. Choose a reliable VPN, test it before you arrive, and stay patient with the occasional hiccups in connectivity.

The journey back to China is just beginning for me, and I’m looking forward to sharing more insights about life here. Whether you’re considering a similar move or just curious about life beyond the Great Firewall, stay tuned for more updates.

Thank you for reading, and I wish you all a great day! 🎉