Some customs in China

1. eating rules

-every meal has several sorts of food; rice seperately
-speaking with a full mouth and smoking while eating is normal
-alcohol and drinking games are popular
-never refuse a drinking offer (it´s unpolite)
-do not give a tip
-do not snooze at the table
-do not eat all of the food what´s on your table (opposite in Germany)
-do not put chopsticks upright in the bowl with rice

2. eating invitation

-try to accept and give it back
-be on time
-always bring a present with you
-try every food that’s on the table
-always make make a toast in honor of the host
-give everyone something to drink before giving yourself

3. presents

-always wrap your present (not in white paper)
-no go´s: flowers, watches,umbrellas, green hats

4. general information

-spitting on the floor is normal
-swapping business cards
-do not stare at people

5. talk

-avoid too much eyecontact
-always be polite
-always try to agree after a discussion

6. others

-do never touch religious sculptures
-color white = bad luck
-color red = luck

(Helena and Nina)