Chinese Cross-Cultural Experience

China is safe.

China is an exciting new culture to immerse yourself in! It is one of the safest countries in the world for female travelers, solo travelers and families.

You are a star once you arrive.

Nowadays, more Chinese students study English at a very young age, and they are always looking for ways to practice. So if you meet someone, it should be easy to open up a conversation. Sometimes, strangers might even want to take pictures with you, as they may seldom see foreigners and they think you look interesting.

Bargaining is an art in China.

Don’t feel nervous about bargaining with Chinese merchants! Usually you cannot bargain in the mall where there is a regulated price tag, but when you are in the flea markets, always start by removing at least half the price the merchants offer you. When they see foreigners, they see profits, so beware.

No refunds.

Once you buy it in China, it is yours. Like in many foreign countries, make sure you are happy with the exact merchandise being sold to you because it is difficult to return the goods and get a refund. Inspect what you intend to buy, and not a sample with a "factory sealed" package to be delivered upon payment.

The myth about fortune cookies.

They NEVER ever exist in Chinese dining culture. It is invented by the Japanese, popularized by the Chinese, but ultimately ... consumed by Americans.

Bring medical masks… lots of them.

In Beijing, there are occasional sandstorms that are unbearable, even for the locals. Much of the haziness is also pollution. A medical mask could help you filter the particles.

Bring your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

Toilet tissue is rarely found in public restrooms in China. Carry your own supplies. Anticipate occasional squatting toilets.

Do not drink tap water.

In China, water is boiled before you drink it.