China Daily published the results of its so called “2011 Amazing China” survey – the only survey which is apparently 100% based on expat inputs / feedback. The results are actually both surprising and sort of not — i.e. expected. The “expected” part is that cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen were expected to do well in the rankings because they are home (especially Beijing) to largest concentration of expats and as a result they offer more schooling options as well as work opportunities.
Some of the inputs / results are surprising — for example, Beijing was ranked high and feedback identified in the article is that “…The strong efforts being made to improve air quality and traffic control will make Beijing even more enjoyable,” said William Peter Poirier, vice president of Westinghouse Electric and recipient of the 2009 Friendship Award.”

I am not sure what “traffic control” is being referred to in the quote above, but in my opinion Beijing has horrible and disorganized and congested traffic. I would like to see how Mr. Poirier will flag down a cab in downtown Beijing….And how he can drive his car during most hours of the day in Beijing… My answer is “Bad experience, not possible, frustrating….”

At the same time Shenzhen certainly has much more organized and low stress traffic during most hours of the day….
The article also published a map of the key cities:

Source: http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2012-04/11/content_15023183.htm

Long story short, these types of surveys are always resulting in more debates than conclusions, but all in all, good to get some perspective.

What is your personal experience / opinion on best places in China?