Courteous readers;

I only have a few big tips and that is to keep an open mind and try to learn some of the language. People will appreciate it and you will go far in making friends if you do these things.

Try not to discuss politics such as Taiwan. It is too sensitive. I have lived on Taiwan and find the thinking alien to the Mainland and vice versa.

Most people I meet are shy and won't discuss things so openly with us as outsiders. Topics such as those which contain adult content make most people feel uncomfortable, but that seems to be changing.

I guess the most challenging thing I have ever done was to go from a weight of 300 pounds in 3 years to 180 pounds where i am now.

Just keep trying, whatever it is you are doing and you will get it right one day and succeed. Do not be put off or have your heart broken by failure.

Success comes to those who are pateint, especially if you are learning English. I find Chinese very challengiing and rewarding.

Happy journey.
Gary