Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to join the Guangzhou Women’s International Club?

Our yearly membership is 750 RMB for the year calculated from 1st July to 30^th of June, of the following year. Membership applications are accepted throughout the year. Membership renewals commence each May.  We also have a Basic Membership (400 RMB) that does not include free entrance to the monthly Coffees and Teas.

What does my membership provide?

Your yearly membership provides 9 gazette issues (September through to June), a member directory (published in January), free monthly coffees and teas throughout the year (for Premium Members), discounts at GWIC events and discounts at shops, restaurants and services in Guangzhou. All newcomers are provided with a welcome kit including a GWIC bag filled with useful information about Guangzhou.

Who can join the Guangzhou Women’s International Club?

Membership is extended to women holding a non-PRC passport or whose husband holds a non-PRC passport. Proof of citizenship is required.

How do I join the Guangzhou Women’s International Club?

To join simply attend one of the monthly events.  For new Guangzhou arrivals we suggest our newcomers meeting. or you can attend the coffee or tea where you can meet our newcomers and membership coordinators who will welcome you and arrange for you to join our club. Alternatively, you can give your membership form and dues to a Housing Representative in your area.

How many expatriate women are in the club?

Our membership varies by year as many expatriates are on contracts lasting from one to five years. On average we have around 400 members annually.

What language does the club operate in?

The most common language amongst expatriates is English and is the language for all our club communication. We do have language representatives who volunteer to assist anyone with English language difficulties. There are also many different nationalities within the club, so there is opportunity to speak your native tongue.

How many different nationalities are in the club?

We have members from many countries. These include Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Lebanon, Libya, Macau, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia-Montenegro, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, Uruguay,  Venezuela, and Vietnam.

Why are there less activities held during summer?

Many expatriates, particularly those with children, choose to travel during the summer months due to school holidays. Summer is also traditionally a time for contracts to end and people to move on. For those here during summer the GWIC coffee, tea and lunches are still held each month.

I would like to start an expatriate activity group. How do I do this?

We have regular activities groups each month. However if there is not one to suit you – you can start your own activity club.  In the past we have had scrap-booking, hiking, and flower arranging. If there is an activity you would like to coordinate please contact us, we can help get you started and advertise in our Gazette and webpage.

How can I get more involved with the organization?

There are currently 23 positions on the GWIC Board of Directors.  Elections are held each May at the Annual General Meeting (AGM).  If you do not want to be on the Board, but would like to help, there are many activities and events throughout the year when extra bodies are needed for the success of these events.  This includes a variety of special events for different charities that we support (visits to Leprosy villages and orphanages, Bi-Annual Shoe Sale, and fairs); helping with the Children’s Christmas Party or Holiday Bazaar; and membership drives at the beginning of the GWIC calendar year.  If you are interested in helping or becoming a board member, please see a current board member.

What do I do if lose my membership card?

Contact our membership coordinator at the welcome desk at either monthly coffee or tea for a replacement. There is a replacement fee of 50 RMB.