Chinese Culture, Know Before you Go.
Travel offers the opportunity to expand your mind as you immerse yourself into new, different cultures. While the world seems like it is getting smaller and smaller as technology gets better and faster, each culture is different. It's easy to see different as "wrong", and you won't always like customs and habits you come across.
China is particularly unique, and being aware of certain practices that may be seen as "unsavory" or "weird" by Western standards is the best way to make the most of your trip.
Here are five cultural habits you will likely come across on your trip to China.
1. Squat toilets
While most restroom facilities will have at least one western toilet, expect the majority to be squatting toilets in the ground. This style of toilet is common throughout Asia, and has been scientifically proven to be a healthy way to use the facilities. Not only is squatting good for your joints and muscles, but it provides a clear pathway to more efficiently relieve yourself.
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2. Spitting
It is perfectly acceptable in Chinese culture to spit on the street, and don’t be surprised if you hear it before you see it. Remember that you are an outsider looking in. You don’t have to like every aspect of a foreign culture, but you still need to respect it. To give a sense of perspective, many Chinese find the concept of sneezing or coughing into a handkerchief that goes back into your pocket completely repulsive. That’s the beauty of travel. You learn that there’s no “right” or “wrong”, and how people see the world and behave is a reflection of personal preference shaped by the respective culture.
3. Cutting in line
Lines are more often than not a free for all when in China. Locals will simply cut in front of you to place an order, make a purchase, or board a train, and you have to exercise a bit of forwardness to stand your ground. It is speculated that the roots of this cultural quirk date back to the food shortages and starvation caused by Communism. Pushing to the front to get food was needed to live, and old habits die hard.
4. Slurping
Audibly slurping down noodles and soup is a sign you are enjoying the food, and serves as a compliment to the chef. It’s a practice Western culture frowns down upon, but you’ll hear and see it throughout Asia, from China to Vietnam.
Slurping has a few practical uses beyond showing your enjoyment. To start, the inhalation helps cool down the noodles quickly so you can enjoy your soup before the fresh greens go soggy. Another plus of sucking up the noodles and broth is that it aerates the dish, which brings out the complex flavors in the same way decanting wine will enhance the taste. Finally, bringing the bowl up to your face allows you to better smell the dish, which enhances the taste.
5. Family photoshoots
The Chinese are fascinated by Westerns, particularly those with blonde hair, and they also love to take pictures. Don’t be surprised if someone asks to take your picture, whether it be solo or with a whole group. As to what they do with the photos, well, we aren’t too sure.
Final Thoughts....
If you get peeved by someone cutting you in line or are turned off by the sound of spit, remember, you are choosing to be there and are merely an outsider looking in. Different isn't "wrong", and being aware of such cultural characteristics will make you a more informed citizen of the world.
