While Changsha is best known for being the site of Mao Zedong's conversion to communism decades ago and the birthplace of Mao's first wife, it is now an important stop on the Beijing to Guangzhou railway and a major river port. Steeped in communist history, Changsha has a reputation for being a literary and educational hub, and Hunan University, Central South University, and the National University of Defense Technology are among the many learning institutions located around the city.

Changsha is located in a river-rich region, with the Xiang, Liuyang and Laodao rivers running through the province. Its sub-tropical location means Changsha experiences a monsoon climate with long, steamy summers and mild snow- and rain-less winters. July and August are the hottest months as temperatures ascend to 93F (33C), while winter lows rarely drop below 33F (1C).

Changsha's community of foreign nationals is bigger than it looks – most expatriates are scattered throughout the schools and universities in the area, and tend to get lost among the city's 2 million Chinese residents; but you'll typically run into an English-speaker or two at restaurants like Mona Lisa or Dyou Coffee.

Nightlife in Changsha gets rolling around 9PM, and most discos and bars close at 2:00AM – 3:00AM. Take a Friday night stroll down Jiefang Xi Lu and cruise the busy bars and pubs in the area – there's something for everyone. For a more integrative experience and a sample of the local bar culture, head over to Hedong Disco, the most popular dance club in the city, and get on the floor with some locals.

Like most second-tier Chinese cities, Changsha's property rental prices are comfortably low. Going through a local real estate agency will probably land you a mid-range 80sqm two-bedroom flat for RMB1,500 - 1,800 per month. Cheaper places are easy to find, some older or smaller apartments going for as low as RMB1000.

As Changsha is a bicycle-friendly city, most major roads feature a separated bike lane to protect cyclist safety. Over 100 city bus routes are currently in operation. Crossing the river remains easy with ferry boats and smaller crafts available to transport passengers at a small fee. And taxis, of course, are everywhere.

Those seeking international-standard medical care or requiring rare medicines should consider a trip to Shanghai, as local hospitals and facilities may not be able to accommodate your needs.