China Local Custom Tips by gaolei

I have worked all over China during the past 20 years and I found the Chinese very gracious people. They will treat you the well and try to anticipate your every need. Some things to know:
You should try to know which hotels are in the area and try to get a western oriented hotel if you are a beginner in China.
Chinese cities are safer than US cities, but stay out of the dark alleys and don't go into places you wouldn't go into at home.
Chinese cook their food well and can't understand why we eat bloody meat, so you can eat nearly everything and not worry. Stay away from uncooked food and fruit that is not peeled. Remember green salad is a killer, not the meat.
Don't drink the tap water and wash your tooth brush in hot water, or the boiled water they leave in the rooms in many hotels.
Try all of the food no matter how different. You will find some real gems that you just can't get at home.
Chinese are very friendly. Smile and try to communicate with everyone.
They do not see you as a dollar sign.
Many people speak English, you will find some when you least expect it.
In general, enjoy the country, the people and the food and you will have a great time. I always did, and I learned to love rice porridge with preserved eggs and duck tongues.

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