What you should know before going to China

 The customs and traditions of different countries depend on their culture and the surrounding environment. Environmental and climatic factors are among the main factors that shape the culture of a people and thus the way of life they follow and practice their rituals in life.

Traveling to China embodies many meanings about this ancient civilization and the customs, traditions and culture of the people. In recent years, China has become one of the tourist destinations that attract visitors from all over the world, but before you think about traveling to a country with a population of one billion and four hundred million people, there are some Rules you should know to have a good trip:

1- Bargaining in buying and selling

Traditional Chinese markets have a special feature that distinguishes them from other markets in the world, and bargaining is the only effective way to ensure a successful shopping experience. This rule applies to all markets, from buying fruit and clothes to buying gifts. What is important in this rule is to strive to get half the price of the goods, in terms of the beginning of equality.

2- Be friendly in public places

In densely populated China, residents are used to having smaller personal spaces than usual, so it's not surprising to find them surrounding you.

3- Don’t forget to bring with you souvenirs that reflect your country.

It is a common custom among Chinese to exchange gifts among themselves, especially with strangers. If you intend to visit or meet some people during your trip, it is a good idea to have a small token gift ready for such encounters.

4- The most famous word in the English language is “Gouda.”

Since many people do not communicate in English, except for some young people, you will find that the official language of buying and selling is sign language, and calculator language is the more serious language. The most commonly used word there is “Gouda.” “Gouda” is a linguistic corruption of the word “good,” meaning that what you want is good or that is the final price.

5- Forget the tipping culture.

Do not give money as a tip when you take a taxi, when you ask a waiter for help in a restaurant, or when you deal with a hotel employee.

  In order to reduce the effects of air pollution, masks with different designs and colors have become fashionable recently and their wearing is encouraged.

6- Wearing masks.

As a result of China's industrial boom, the Chinese have paid a heavy price for their health and environment. Smog is widespread in many large cities, polluting the air at more than twice the globally accepted rate. It is recommended to use protective masks to mitigate the effects of air pollution. Recently, masks with different designs and colors have become a popular trend and are encouraged to be worn.

7- Go to appointments with plenty of time.

Beijing is the most populous capital in the world, so if you have an appointment, avoid traffic jams and give yourself plenty of time to get there.

8- Do not use the number “4” or “13”.

This is because the word "4", which means death or bad luck, is pronounced "shih" in Chinese, meaning "death". Also, don't use "13" which means "crazy."

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