If you’re reading this, chances are you want to visit China someday. Maybe you want to see the epicenter of the Orient … how the oldest surviving civilization—4,000 years—still operates. Maybe it’s the number of people, nearly 1.4 billion of them. Perhaps you just want to travel halfway around the world. Whatever the reason, you’ve made a wise decision. Before beginning your journey, here are five things to help you on your way.
1. Don’t Worry
China is one of the safest countries in the world. This goes for individual, female, and even travelers with kids. There are no vaccine requirements or travel advisories to worry about. If you don’t believe me, notice the lack of bad news. Nevertheless, China’s size, communist government and air quality might discourage some Western visitors. Don’t let it. You’ll be fine. Just ask one of the 56 million foreigners who visited last year.
2. How to Make Friends
Eastern thought is very different than Western. In China’s case, always refuse gifts with “no thank you” (pronounced boo-yon shey-shey) and compliments with “boo-shey.” A good guest is supposed to refuse at least once. A good host is supposed to offer at least twice. This is a foreign, but important, social norm. On a related note: give and receive gifts with both hands to show you appreciate the person. Smile with your eyes as much as your mouth when greeting others, and unless you know a person well, formally address them by last name as a sign of respect.
3. Act Like A Boss
