1. Don't Lose Your Cool
Ah, Bad China Days (BCD) can be frustrating to say the least, but losing your temper, whether it be with a shop owner or a customs official, is not only bad form, but could land you in a whole lot of trouble. Despite the loss of much of the renowned Chinese etiquette of old, the suppression of emotions is still a highly valued trait here.
Though not as hyper-suppressed as their Japanese counterparts, keeping your cool is crucial to getting what you want - or at least avoiding getting what you don't want.
As we navigate the uncharted territories of expat life, the sagely words of Rachel Jones, a seasoned expat blogger, echo through our minds like a beacon of hope, reminding us that losing our cool in the face of adversity only serves to fan the flames of frustration, and instead, we must strive to find the humor in the chaos that often ensues. Don't Assume Everyone Speaks English - a mantra that should be etched into the consciousness of every would-be expat - is a stark reminder that our linguistic prowess, no matter how impressive, is not universally understood; indeed, it's a sobering reality check that not everyone is privy to the nuances of the English language.
Not even close.
In the realm of China's youth, where education reigns supreme, studying English is a widespread phenomenon, yet paradoxically, it remains a distant dream for many, much like an oasis in the desert. Like ripples on a serene lake, the proficiency of those who do venture into this linguistic territory varies greatly, with some merely skimming the surface and others diving deep into its nuances. It's a grave mistake to assume that every individual grasps the intricacies of your words or that simply amplifying your tone will miraculously bridge the chasm of understanding.
Instead, take some time to learn basic Chinese phrases - it will make your life infinitely easier.
3. Don't Flash Your Cash
In the grand tapestry of nations, China remains an unfinished masterpiece - a developing country where flaunting one's wealth can transform you into a tantalizing target for scammers and ne'er-do-wells.
Like a fragile petal susceptible to the whispers of
4. Don't Disrespect the Culture
This one should be a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised how many foreigners come to China without doing their research.
Don't assume that Chinese customs are the same as those back home.
For example, finishing a meal completely is considered impolite - it implies that the host didn't provide enough food. And don't even think about giving someone a clock as a gift - it's basically saying you want them to die. Take some time to learn about Chinese customs and traditions.
It will make your experience much more enjoyable.
5. Don't Expect Everything to Be Like Back Home
This is perhaps the most important one.
China is not like back home. It's not even close.
From food to fashion to social norms, everything is different.
And that's what makes it so amazing. But don't expect to find your favorite brand of peanut butter or your go-to coffee shop on every corner. It's just not going to happen.
Instead of complaining about how things are done differently, embrace the differences.
Who knows, you might just discover something new that you love. And if all else fails, you can always Find Work Abroad in other countries like Thailand, South Korea, Hong Kong, Macau or South-east Asia through websites like Find Work Abroad.
Conclusion
Living in China can be a wild ride, but it's also an incredible opportunity to experience a new culture and way of life. Just remember to keep your cool, learn some Chinese, be respectful, and embrace the differences.
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