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Cultural Connections - Telling the good from the bad?
Mar 22, 2009 01:44
  • A2BONDFN
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  • Join Date: Mar 22, 2009
  • Status: offline
Hi there! I was hoping some of you sage travelers could give me some advice. I'm backpacking with my dad through Southwestern China (Guangzhou, Guilin, Sanjian, Kunming, Shangri-la/Zhongdian, Chengdu, Chongqing) and I've been reading as much as I can to be prepared. My dad and I are Chinese, though I barely speak cantonese, and he's fluent in both mandarin and cantonese. One interesting thing that I've read is that occasionally locals will invite you to their home for perhaps cultural exchange, including a meal! I would love such an experience, but I've also heard sometimes unscrupulous locals will try to roll you (extort you, accusing you of agreeing to pay money in advance, etc.). How do I tell the difference? I'd hate to turn down someone who is genuinely trying to make a connection (if this sort of thing actually happens), and of course, I'd hate to be rolled. Is it something where I just have to rely on my instincts?

Also, I've been told that I should refrain from any discussion of politics, particularly as it has to do with the Chinese government, and especially if it's criticism. What else should I do to watch myself?

Sigh...
Mar 22, 2009 02:41
#1  
  • WANHU
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  • Join Date: Feb 20, 2007
  • Status: Offline
Some are real friends that would treat you like a family. Business people will try to get maximum profit from you. If you were to purchase a travelling bag today at RMB200, the same model of bag still you need to bargain the next day at the same shop with the same salesperson. Try to avoid discussing religious and political inclinations openly unless you are with real friends.

Wan
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