Top 10 Rules of China

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Those with me in China are well-aware of my #1 rule of China below. I say it at least a few times a day. And, quite frankly, it's incredibly true. But there are many rules to live by in this country, and the more you remember to follow them, the better your life here will be.



This list is in reverse order to build up the suspense for the #1 rule, which really is a rule to live by.



10. You probably don't want to know what you're eating anyways.



9. There are 1.3 billion people, so enjoy the rare moments of quiet or personal space.



8. Never pay the posted price at a hotel. Only foolish tourists do that.

In general, at least try to bargain for everything - save for things like metered taxi rides. If it's not up for bargaining, they'll let you know quickly. But if it is, you just saved yourself some money.



7. What you don't know can't hurt you.



6. 99% of the population has no clue what you're saying, so say what you want.



5. You'll get stared at no matter what you do, so do whatever the hell you want.



4. Don't trust anything English. It's probably wrong.



3. Until you're willing to throw an elbow at grandma, you will never make it to the front of the line or get a seat on the subway.



2. Just laugh it off, man.

If this becomes too difficult, beer can help. And it costs 3.50 kuai for a tall one at your local convenience store!



And finally, rule #1, which I seriously do (ask anyone with me in China!!) say several times a day:



1. It's China. Don't ask questions.



-Dafne

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Comments

[ElyseandPete]

Right On
We lived in China for 2.5 years and traveled there for a week 2 years before we ever moved there. I couldn't have said these rules better.

[Dafne]

One of the highest compliments I've been paid for my blog - thank you!!