I spent December 2013 through May 2014 in Guangzhou China, and June 2014 through October 2014 living in Hong Kong.  Living abroad was a highly educational, humbling, empowering and motivating experience.  I made many friends, picked up a toddler's level of reading/listening/speaking skill of Mandarin and made memories that last a lifetime.  Feel free to reach out to me about the experience if you're considering something similar or want recommendations in southern China!