Things to avoid in China

The Far East and China have thousand of years of history and tradition. If you want to explore this spectacular area you have to be well prepared and aware of the rules you should follow. First of all you should know the visa requirements. Travel Visa pro can help you to avoid the stress and the worry of taking care of your travel documentation by yourself so you can concentrate on other parts of your journey. China is a huge country with several different areas and rules. This guide gives you a few advice what things to avoid in China according to Travelvisapro.com.

In China it is extremely important that you are respectful with the sites, with the people, with the food and with the culture in a whole. You might know that China has a different political system that most of the western countries. It is better to avoid sensitive political topics if you do not want to end up in a heated dispute. It is also not a good idea to compare China or Chinese people to other Asian countries especially Japan. They have had a long history of war and it is in the past now but still a painful topic. Death is another theme you should skip from your discussions and as the colour of grief is white in China it is better not to prepare white gifts or surprises.

Personal space and distance is something Chinese and western people think about very differently. In China you are not allowed to touch the other persons on purpose but because of the large population you cannot have your personal space on the public transport for example. During rush hours the subways are so crowded that people literally standing on each others foot.

If you go to a restaurant or take a cab do not try giving a tip. In China tipping is not common and can be seen offensive. Also you have to be careful with street taxis and guides as they might be illegal and can cause you some serious risks. Avoiding street food has a slightly different angle as your stomach might not be prepared for the spices or other ingredients. On the street you have to be careful with the too friendly persons as they might want to pickpocket you. However some of the Chinese people are fascinated by western looking people so do not say no if they are trying to take a picture with you. If you want to avoid that then you should not visit the greatest historical sites during the Chinese national holidays because at that times large number of local tourist are around. It also means that these sites are very crowded in these periods so it is better to go there on other days.

On the street markets is not just normal but almost expected to bargain so do not be shy when you are shopping. If you buy something for your Chinese friend or host be prepared that in China it is usual to refuse a gift in the first time around but you should offer again and again until it is accepted. It is similar with compliments.

When someone travels to China one of the first things we think is chopsticks. You are not obligated to eat with chopsticks but if you do you should use them properly. It means that you are requested to use them only for eating do not play or gesture with them. Table manner is highly respected in China.Furthermore every aspects of life is based on mutual respect and tolerance is China. If you are aware of the cultural differences and honour the local customs and habits you will have an amazing time in that wonderful country!