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Chinese Fun Facts

Tomorrow will complete my month in China. I still have a couple of stories that I think are blog worthy, but since tomorrow I fly to Thailand I thought it might be good to review some of the cultural differences I've experience in my time here. Many of you, have never been to China, just as I had never been to China before May 26. I would like to dedicate this entry to you so that in the event that you plan an around the world trip with a stop in China you will be well prepared.

I have compiled the following list of Chinese Fun Facts:

* Ebb n Flo. Chinese driving is on it's own system. In America we drive on the right hand side. In England, they drive on the left. In China, um, whatever. For example, In China you are allowed to drive on the left side of the road if someone is driving on the right in front of you. It doesn't matter if there are cars coming the opposite direction because they also can drive where ever they like. Bikes, scooters, and pedestrians all abide by the same rules. To be honest, I like it. It actually seems to work.

* In Hong Kong the Walk/Don't Walk are enhanced with the sound of a spastic cow bell sound.

* Pedestrians are allowed to walk in the middle of the road, just as bikers are allowed to swerve into the road at any moment.

* When you gotta go you gotta go. And as you know when you are a child you have much less control over when you gotta. So China has implimented the baby/toddler slot in the back of any pair of pants for children under the age of 5. Not only does this allow for instarelief, it also can be very cool and refreshing on a hot day.

* Drivers must be very careful to alert any moving vehicle, person, animal, or inanimate object at all times. The most effective recommendation is you use a long series of unending honking forever.

* Spitting. It is important to remember that in some countries it is a major offence to spit on a sidewalk or anywhere in public. China, however, understands that if there is something in your throat it needs to be out NOW. If you see someone and fear they may be choking or convulsing, please step back and count to 30. Generally (though not always) this is enough time for the person to have successfully cleared his/her throat onto the sidewalk. (Many close minded people will view this as 'disgusting', I on the other hand feel if you ever want to connect with a people you will need to embrace their traditions as well.)

* Spitting II. If when eating, a person finds a bone, gristle or any other undesirable item, that item should be spat directly onto the table.

* Neon. The best way to attract a person to your store is to cover the outside with neon lights that flash and move quickly.

* Staring. It is impolite not to stare.

* Every part of an animal is edible. Yes, that too.

* The Squatter. When in China you never have to use a toilet seat cover in a public restroom. That's because there are no toilets. (Actually, many of the nice hotels and local libraries do have toilets, just in case you are wondering.)

* Some languages require yelling.

* If you have had a disagreeable meal prior to taking an overnight sleeper train with a tall (and handsome) American, you are allowed to release that disagreement as loudly and often as you possible during the 12 hour train ride.

* Charades is NOT a universal language.

There are many more, but this should get you started. I will try to get a couple last China stories posted but tomorrow is my last day, and I trust Thailand will have a few stories of it's own.

By the way I did get to see the Great Wall, twice. One 'secret wall' and one restored wall. Both pretty amazing.

Good bye, lovely China. Good Bye.

posted by Travelin' D @ 7:46 AM