Become a Local Laowai

BECOME A LOCAL LAOWAI (A Laowai is a local foreigner who is experienced with chinese culture) 10 Key Steps China is a wonderful and interesting place to visit regardless of whether you are going there on business, pleasure, or to meet the love of your life. Keep in mind that you will most likely find yourself struggling with some culture shock. Therefore, here are some key points to keep in mind whilst visiting China; follow them closely and you will be more than just another foreigner. You will be a local laowai! 1 English Is Not Widespread – But A Little Effort Trying To Speak Chinese Goes A Long Way GREETINGS NUMBERS Mello Good morning Good ofternoon Good evening Bye bye Nice to meet you Although you will see the word "International" written on almost every hotel, shopping mall or school in China; the only thing international about them are the flags hanging outside. Most Chinese people cannot speak English well or are sometimes horrified to even try. Being able to speak a little Chinese will not get you too far, but at least you can amuse them by trying and eventually win their admiration. 08 09 TAXI DRIVER ID Steer Away From Fake Taxis 010101 **** In China, not everybody that offers you help is your TAXI M4 friend. As a rule of thumb, if someone offers to willingly help you, they might actually be helping themselves. Taxis are a precious commodity in large Chinese cities these days so if a taxi driver comes looking for you, then your alarm bells should start to ring. Toilets Are Sometimes 3 Holes In The Floor Don't go to a public bathroom in China if you are suffering from knee problems. You will be required to do a lot of squatting, so make sure you are in good shape. Avoid further surprises by always having a pack of tissue paper with you. You will find out why soon enough. 4 Taboo Topics: Do you want to talk about a big red pimple on your nose? Feel like chatting about that haemorrhoid operation you ACCES DENIED had last year? Not in the mood? Well, that is how Chinese people feel about these taboo topics. Avoid them and POLITICS TIBET TAIWAN HUMAN INTERNET you should be okay RIGHTS CENSORSHIP 20¥ 40 30 On Your Marks. Get Set. Bargain! The Emperors Are Gone And Cash Is Now The New King! If you thought Kung Fu was China's national sport, then think again. The art of bargaining is where Chinese people excel. Unless you are in a fixed price store or a There is an ATM on almost every corner in China these days, but carry enough cash at all times just in case they're not working. Plus, many places prefer not to branded goods shop, never accept the first price you get and fight hard for that extra discount. take credit cards. Avoid Referring To The Elderly By Their Actual Name Ye Ye At last, something that remotely resembles western culture! Just like in most western countries, it is considered impolite to call seniors by their first name. In China you should avoid using their names altogether. GRANDFATHER R.I.P REST IN PEACE 8 9. 10 4 (Four) Sì Numerology Is A Prominent Issue Not Every Gift Will Be Received With A Smile Never Put Your Chopsticks In A Bowl Of Rice In China In China, gifts hold secret Don't Ruin Everyone's Appetite - How would you feel if someone Superstition plays a big role in China. And, in the land of meanings. If you don't want to insult someone, or be insulted, superstitions, numbers are key. Keep in mind that the numbers wrote your name on a grave? That's exactly how the Chinese feel when you stick your chopsticks like this in your rice. 3 and 8 are considered to bring good fortune, whilst the number 4 is, like many other things, make sure you get your gifts right. Don't ever give a man a "green hat", as that would be the same as calling him a cuckold. Clocks and white wrappings should also be avoided since they carry the Instead, lay them balanced on the edge of the bowl. associated with death. meaning of death. This infographic was brought to you by: Learn Mandarin Now