The guest chose Nepal because it is affordable. The cost of living and studying English in Nepal is less than 3000 RMB per month, which is cheaper than living in cities like Hangzhou, China. Additionally, the guest found out about this option through Xiaohongshu (a Chinese social media platform).
The primary religion in Nepal is Hinduism, which is the state religion. Buddhism is practiced by about 9% of the population, despite the common misconception that Nepal is a Buddhist country.
The guest describes Nepal as very safe, particularly for foreigners. They mention that while taxi drivers might overcharge foreigners, there is no risk of being scammed or threatened, unlike in some other countries like Vietnam or Laos.
Nepal has a population of approximately 30 million people, which is larger than the guest initially thought. The country is home to over 100 different ethnic groups.
The guest is learning English to improve their career prospects, as they are unemployed in China and find it difficult to secure a job in their 30s. They hope that improving their English will open up opportunities for them to work abroad.
The guest notes that English is widely spoken among younger generations in Nepal, although the accent can be heavy. Older generations may not speak English as fluently, but overall, English is well understood and used, especially in urban areas.
The guest finds Nepal to be very affordable, with living expenses, including food and accommodation, costing less than 3000 RMB per month. This is significantly cheaper than living in many Chinese cities, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious learners.
The guest focuses on immersive learning by surrounding themselves with English speakers and using English in daily life. They also use tools like AI to improve their writing and grammar, and they listen to English podcasts and YouTube videos to enhance their listening skills.
After completing their English studies in Nepal, the guest plans to travel to other countries in Southeast Asia, such as Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, to continue practicing English and exploring new cultures. They also consider moving to countries like Canada or New Zealand in the future.
The guest believes that learning English is crucial for career advancement, especially for those looking to work abroad. They emphasize that English serves as a 'gateway' skill, enabling access to better job opportunities and international markets.