Do’s and Don’ts When Traveling in Chi na: Read Here First

My first trip to China was my most exciting! I didn't know what to expect at all! I was a bit scared, but from the moment I landed in Beijing, I felt right at home. Well…kind of. China is much different from other countries. Its ancient traditions and culture are found nowhere else. Since that first trip, I've moved to China to live and study Mandarin Chinese. Often, friends back home will ask me what to do and how to prepare for their first trip in China.

Here are 4 travel hacks that I always tell my friends visiting China:

1. Avoid cultural taboos that may cause misunderstanding or offense.
Many Chinese people are superstitious. For example: the number 8 is a lucky number because "八 (bā) eight" sounds much like "发 (fā)", which means "well-off" or "getting rich in a short time". Therefore, #8 is considered to be a number that could lead to great wealth. Phone numbers, car license plate numbers and house addresses that include #8 are more expensive and in high demand. On the other hand, the number "四 (sì) four" is extremely unlucky, as it shares the same sound as the Chinese word for "死 (sǐ) death". Also, never mention death in a conversation – this is a very bad omen as well. As for its "corresponding" number four, many elevators won't even list a fourth floor!

2. Be considerate and polite when having dinner with Chinese people.
Eating is central to Chinese life and culture. If you suggest going out for a meal or a drink with someone, this is considered an invitation. As the host, you can pay for the bill in this situation to show your kindness and respect. When you go to a restaurant, never order a ...Read more

Have you ever met someone and been very impressed by how down to earth they are? In Chinese we have a phrase which is an equivalent to this idea in English and it is "接地气 (jiēdìqì)". Native Chinese speakers often use it in daily life, when referring to a person or even more often, a celebrity.

Origin
"接地气 (jiēdìqì)" originated from a Northern dialect in China, and was often used amongst rural residents in Northern China. Now, with the onset of social networking, it is a phrase that is widely used on all levels of society.

Let's break this phrase down so you can understand its meaning fully:
接 (jiē): to connect; to receive;
地气 (dìqì): ground vapour. The character "地 (dì)" also refers to the people on the lowest rung's of society.

When you combine these characters you get a fresh meaning:
接地气 (jiēdìqì): down-to-earth (practical or direct in a sensible, honest way); practical and realistic, common touch. It means to be one with the majority, to reflect the desires of those at the bottom, and to adhere to the laws of nature. People like to use this phrase to describe the government officials and celebrities who are very affable, close and friendly (to the public).

Have you noticed any celebrities who seem particularly 接地气 (jiēdìqì) to you? Lately we have seen a lot of the Obamas. Instead of living a life of celebrity, they seem to be making a life that is much more down-to-earth. This comes as no surprise. Many people predicted that "After Obama retires, he and his wife's life will be ...Read more

Quiz:

A. Xi Jinping is a nice president because he often visits people here and there during Festivals.
B. Jin Hong is working in a ground vapour company.
C. Lu Xun wrote many realistic novels about people's daily life.
D. People often see super star Nichkhun eating street food in China
See Answer