One of my adult students went for an interview for manager of the "new Starbucks" in Kunming, so it's definitely on the way. I also heard on good authority that there's already one near Metro in the north of the city?

Strange. I shopped there 3 days ago and it was heaving with imported food. The workers seemed really busy too - closing down aisle after aisle to restock the shelves... Sure it was Metro you went to?

Does anybody know why flights to Europe seem to have suddenly increased by 50%? I'm planning a return flight Kunming to London in July/August. A few months ago this was about 7000RMB, now it's over 10,000RMB! Anybody seen any deals or know of discount travel agencies??

Thanks JingWei. Very useful. I'm British and fiancee is a 'minger (Kunminger!). So it "should" be relatively straightforward, I think. Your advice is much appreciated. Thanks to you (and others) for taking the time.

BillDan - yes, you're right. Robert's is a private language school, primarily catering for kids. I got confused by your use of "school" which doesn't imply college/uni in British English. Sorry! Robert's arranges "Residents Permits" for it's foreign teachers - valid for a year, multiple entry.

Queensway - I think perhaps you've been misinformed. I'm not aware of any "alcolohics" having worked for the school. With about 100 staff, people do join and leave now and again, but teachers being "fired" is extremely rare. That's partly due to the robust screening, training and support given to new teachers. Foreign teachers, for example, have to be be well-qualilfied and professional (degree/TEFL/experience) in order to qualify for the Resident's Permit.