Let's cut to the chase and be real here. Shifting focus to China can be a major culture shock. From the cuisine to the climate, and even communication styles, navigating life in China can be a daunting task. But don't let that discourage you! With an open mind and willingness to learn, the experience can be an incredibly rewarding one. So embrace the challenge and take the plunge! Who knows what amazing adventures and personal growth awaits you in China.
There are several things really could not get my head around when I first time I've learned over the years love. Here are six things I hated about China
Photo :. RecycledStarDust 1.
Chinese food unrecognizable
When I got here, I thought I loved Chinese food. Except Chinese food I loved was the Chinese who had grown up with in the West. I loved the fried noodles, sweet and sour pork, and chicken with sweet corn, but could not handle spicy and exotic dishes that turned out to be the Chinese 'real' kitchen.
He also used it to bother eating in a group, I could not just ask for my own dish as I'd like to go home. Expected everyone to share.
Now I can not stand the bastardized versions sosos that get in restaurants back home Chinese dishes.
What's more, I love the huge variety and complexity of many Chinese cuisines, and have also learned to love the Chinese way of eating family style, so you can try many different dishes and control the amount you eat. In addition, having everyone gathered around a Lazy Susan is a great social way to enjoy a meal. 2.
The epic odysseys train
When I got here, my mind was blown by train travel between countries in China. They were longer than most international flights and hated being on a train during that time. I used to deal with train travel in China with more fear than there was a long haul flight.
Now I love these walks long as they provide a rare opportunity to really stop, read a book, take stock of things, or made the day correspondence with old friends and family. You will also get to watch the country for its window and you can use the time to practice your Chinese with other passengers. train travel in China will give a great insight into everyday life and Chinese culture.
3. The extreme climatic conditions crazy
I really underestimated how time in China can go from one extreme to the other. In the move to southern China, I sweated miserably until spring, summer, and most of autumn, and then I found cold and sad, unheated in winter.
There was no enjoyment to be had at that time.
I began to appreciate the climate much more when I changed the way I see it, though. During the summer, now I go to the outdoor pool for the day and pretend I'm in a holiday resort.
In the fall, I'm going to the park for a stroll or late afternoon picnics. In the winter, I take advantage of the cooler weather and hiking gear. How do you feel about the time depends on how it is used.
4. The absolute heaviness of the tongue
A the same as most expats in China, I found very frustrating initially learn Mandarin and was depressed by how hard it was. The characters seemed incredibly complex, while subtle tones seemed a practical joke played on unwitting foreigners.
Now, I've learned not to stress on the tongue. Over time, gradually it begins to make more sense. Learn about the characters is fascinating and there is a level of history and culture of each that is incomparable to any Western language.
I also found that I express myself naturally in China, sometimes even when back home, just because some Chinese phrases perfectly sum up an expression or feeling better than they could ever English. I learned to have fun with the limited knowledge of the language that I have and not worry too much about the immensity of what I do not know. 5.
The prevalence of daytime naps confuse
When you came here, I was so confused about culture nap during the day. All my colleagues were sleeping on their desks after lunch and I just thought it was unprofessional. Naps were for babies and people with hangovers.
Now, when we still do not nap at work, I get it from a practical point of view, especially when you consider how difficult that many people work here. I have to admit I have even started taking naps at home over the weekend ... 6.
Culture of unknown massage
Massage is not a very common pastime that people in my country, especially not for men. Massages are associated with day spa and spa days are for women. Massages are an important part of Chinese culture such, but it was a part that I was uncomfortable with trying, especially with the stigma surrounding massages and prostitution.
Now I love a good massage (healthy variety). A quick foot and shoulder massage can do a world of good when you are stressed with work or sore from the gym, and there are few places in the world where massages are so readily available, affordable and good. They also provide a great opportunity to practice Chinese, as you are one-on-one with a masseuse for an extended period and their undivided attention.
Categories:
China,
Culture
Shock,
Chinese
Food,
Train
Travel,
Climate,
Mandarin.,
