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Planning a once-in-a-life time trip to China? Make sure you’ve done your research to determine everything you’ll want to see and do. China is a vast and somewhat imposing country – a combination of the exotic and industrial, of tradition and technology. It’s a country that has so much to offer travel-wise, but to reap the most benefits, you really should consult with experts.
If you visit The China Travel Company website at http://www.thechinatravelcompany.co.uk/, you’ll find a wealth of information to help you organise your trip. They are experts in the travel industry, and specifically for travel in China. They’re not an agency that dabbles in many areas – they’re primarily dedicated to China travel – so their knowledge is vast.
Chinese cultural traditions
Being culturally sensitive is essential when travelling to countries with vastly different customs. Here are things you need to know when travelling in China:
- Many homes and temples require or greatly prefer if you remove your shoes.
- Don’t show the soles of your feet. It’s considered rude.
- White may be the symbol of purity in the U.K. and in other countries and you may use white to wrap baptismal, communion and confirmation, as well as wedding gifts. However, you do not do this in China. White represents death.
- Speaking of death, don’t – speak about death – it is a taboo topic.
- Don’t try and discuss incidents of historical significance or anything political. The Chinese are very uncomfortable with this kind of conversation.
- Hello – not everyone speaks English. In fact, in some of the more rural areas, you’re going to find that many people do not speak English. Don’t over gesticulate with trying to communicate with your hands. Don’t use a single finger to point. Use the palm of your hand.
- Back off – some Chinese are not, by nature, affectionate people. It’s actually better to offer a verbal greeting rather than shaking hands. Don’t touch them. And, certainly do not hug or kiss them. Don’t condescend by patting someone on the head or playing with their hair. Yes, it seems incongruous, but they really do smash up against each other on public transport.
- Gifted – they like to receive gifts, but may refuse initially. This is common.
- Some things are perfectly acceptable at home in the U.K. may not be in China, so take heed. As an example, since white is, as mentioned above, associated with death, don’t give white flowers. Dark colours are associated with bad luck. Don’t give chrysanthemums, either.
A Few More “Don’ts”
- Clocks are associated with death, so this isn’t a good idea for a gift, either.
- Don’t give gifts of fours (the Chinese word for “four” sounds like death), but do give gifts of eight, which is considered a lucky number and good omen.
- Don’t give green hats (it means the man is a cuckold to an unfaithful wife).
- Don’t give umbrellas because the Chinese word for it sounds like the word to “split up.”
- Don’t tip – it is not done in China and you risk offending.
- Don’t try to pay when you’re invited out to eat by Chinese people – and don’t start ordering before the host, who will order all dishes.
- Don’t gesture with your chopsticks and don’t play “air drum,’ either.
- Don’t get worked up or “mad” publicly – don’t make a scene, but be kind and patient.
Don’t hesitate to seek help from tours and holidays specialists such as the aforementioned company. For any agency that specializes in a specific area, not only are their agents extremely familiar with the must-see locations, but the many different types of vacations as well. If you’re traveling alone, with family, with friends, they can help you create an itinerary for trips ideal for those on short stopovers or for those who plan longer-than overnight stays at any destination on the rail.
Take note of the tips provided above whenever you’re planning to visit China. With all these tips, you can be certain that your China trip will be fun and worry-free.
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Source: pommietravels.com