Etiquette Tips in East

[Shirley08]

I had a tour in East Asia last October including China. I think my tour is fantastic. Since the 2008 Olympic Games is coming, I think most people will go to Beijing. Here are some etiquette tips for you, wish it could be helpful.

(1) Banquets. You don't have to eat everything (you can't possibly anyway, there will be too much food). But try a little of every dish by putting some on your plate or rice bowl. You don't try something, your host will be embarrassed—and most likely, will put it on your plate for you.
(2) Bargaining. Open markets, privately run stores are best for bargaining. (Large department stores have set prices.) Remember to establish a friendly rapport first. You are creating a relationship with the merchant, not a price war. Think of it this way: Bargaining is to the Chinese what seduction is to the French. Shouting, arguing, and pointing are not very seductive. Smiling, being friendly, offering to buy more for a better price are. And don't be afraid to ask, "Can you offer me a better price?"
(3) Cars. Never, ever assume pedestrains have the right of way. Cars will not necessarily stop for you. Cross with a group if possible at a designated crosswalk. A car won't stop for a single person necessarily but will stop for a group because the driver doesn't want the car to be dented. Chinese really love their cars.
(4) Chopsticks. Don't point with them at other people's faces. Don't lick them. And by all means don't stick them upright in your rice bowl—that's how the Chinese honor the dead at graves.
(5) Face. Never shout even when someone has done something wrong. Losing your temper will only make the other person feel that he or she has lost face (i.e. dignity) and will often cause that person to refuse to take responsibility for a problem. Best to smile, keep friendly, and persistedntly ask the person to help you solve whatever problem has arisen.
(6) Male-Female Relationships. The image of the loose American woman perpetuated by Hollywood movies is alive and well globally including in China. If a man makes unwanted advances to you, say loudly the Chinese word for "No," which is pronounced like the English word "Boo!" If you are a man, don't be touchy-feely with Chinese women, or they think you are propositioning them.
(7) Public Displays of Affection. While younger Chinese can be as openly demonstrative as Westerners, if not more so, older Chinese are not used to PDAs. Be aware of your suroundings. Around older Chinese anything more than holding hands with you partner or a quick peck on the check might embarrass people.
(Respect for Elders. It's fine to open doors and give up a seat to an older person of either gender. And don't be offended if younger Chinese—male or female—offer you an arm going up stairs or other assistance if you are older. They don't think you are infirm. They're just trying to be polite.
(9) Smiling. Chinese smile for more reasons than American. A smile can mean the person is embarrassed, trying to be helpful, curious, happy or friendly. In the middle of an argument, smiling means that the speaker doesn't want this to become personal. When all elso fails, smile in China. It shows you have no ill intentions and can work wonders in getting better service.
(10) Tipping. If you plan to return to a restaurant, then tip. Guidebooks say not to, but in fact most Chinese know enough about the Western world to know that tipping is practiced regularly in other countries. Tips are rarely refused and create goodwill.

[matthew26]

Nice tips. Thanks!

[rachael24]

Im looking to travel to Asia next year, these tips will surely come in handy