Travel Guides & Tips in this video
- Tip 1Always let the elders be seated first at the table and wait for them to start eating before you begin. This is a sign of respect in Chinese culture. (0:41)
- Tip 2In China, the toast is called 'Ganbei,' which means 'dry cup.' When someone says 'Ganbei,' you are expected to empty your glass, which is a sign of respect. (1:11)
- Tip 3In China, it is customary to try everything on the table, even if you are unsure about the food. Making positive remarks is also appreciated. (1:40)
- Tip 4When giving gifts in China, avoid clocks, white or yellow flowers, and pairs of items like pears or umbrellas. These are considered bad luck. (2:53)
- Tip 5When receiving a gift in China, receive it with both hands and open it later, not in front of the giver. Initially refuse the gift a few times before accepting. (3:31)
- Tip 6Punctuality is highly valued in China. Meetings typically start exactly on time, not before. (6:24)
- Tip 7Avoid being too physical with handshakes and hugging, as this can be seen as aggressive. Public displays of affection should also be avoided. (7:09)
- Tip 8Greet elders first with "Ning Hao" instead of the general greeting "Ni Hao." This shows respect for seniority. (10:27)
- Tip 9When visiting temples or monasteries, walk in a clockwise direction, remove your head covering, and dress modestly. (11:25)
Lizzy's China travelogue unveils surprising cultural nuances. From the art of the 'Ganbei' toast to the significance of gift-giving (avoid clocks and white flowers!), she shares essential dos and don'ts. Learn about unique table manners, the importance of 'face,' and how to navigate social interactions to truly experience China like a local. Prepare to be entertained and enlightened!
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This video by Because I'm Lizzy explores the dos and don'ts of Chinese culture, offering valuable insights for travelers. Lizzy, a seasoned traveler, shares her experiences and observations, highlighting unique cultural practices and potential pitfalls to avoid. The video covers a wide range of topics, from table manners and gift-giving etiquette to social interactions and business practices.
Regarding dining, Lizzy emphasizes the importance of respecting elders by letting them be seated and eat first. She explains the concept of 'Ganbei,' a toast that requires emptying one's glass, and the surprising custom of slurping noodles to show appreciation. She also details etiquette around chopsticks, such as avoiding playing with them or pointing them at others. Tipping is discouraged, as it can be considered offensive.
Gift-giving is another key area. Lizzy cautions against giving clocks, white or yellow flowers (associated with funerals), or pairs of items like pears or umbrellas (symbolizing divorce and separation). She shares a humorous anecdote about gifting white and yellow flowers and the resulting cultural faux pas. Conversely, alcohol, cigarettes, and quality pens are acceptable gifts. The video also touches upon the importance of 'face' in Chinese culture, highlighting the need to be mindful of one's words and actions to avoid causing offense.
Lizzy further discusses punctuality, noting that while Chinese people are never early, they are also never late. She explains the avoidance of the number four, which sounds like 'death' in Chinese. Physical touch is generally less common than in Western cultures, with firm handshakes and hugging being discouraged. Public displays of affection should also be avoided. Lizzy also shares her experience of the cultural differences surrounding personal questions and the sensitivity around comparisons between China and Japan.
Finally, Lizzy delves into etiquette in historic and religious sites. She advises walking clockwise in temples and monasteries, removing head coverings, and avoiding sleeveless shirts or short pants. Photographing people in temples and touching Tibetans on the head are also discouraged. The video concludes with a discussion of business card etiquette, emphasizing the importance of receiving them with both hands and showing respect. Overall, Lizzy's video provides a comprehensive and entertaining guide to navigating Chinese culture, offering practical advice and humorous anecdotes along the way.
