On the 8th day of August 2008, a most significant day for the Chinese people, the 2008 Summer Olympics, will officially open in Beijing, China. Here are a few handy tips to learn Chinese and act like them if you are traveling to China to watch the XXIX Olympiad games.

The Rules

There’s a list of dos and don’ts provided for Olympic visitors by China. Though the Olympics is about freedom and brotherhood, keep in mind that China has very rigid rules that Westerners and Chinese alike should comply with. You must be aware of and abide by these rules, lest you encounter inconveniences.

Studying Chinese quickly can greatly help you since this list is in Chinese. With conversational Chinese, you can make yourself understood when you are asked questions, in need of help, or lost.

Military bases and other areas are declared by the government as off-limits. Visitors with mental handicaps, STDs, and anti-China opinions will not be tolerated. Hence, your ability to study Chinese quickly might spell the difference between having your visa granted and getting you deported most quickly.

Understand the Culture

Admittedly, Chinese culture is thousands of years old, and understanding it takes more than a lifetime. But you need to learn Chinese culture, even if it only spells how to deal with the person on the street in China.

Business relationships typically grow into personal relationships. You have more opportunities of sealing deals on your own terms if you build a warmer personal relationship. Try to engage in banter and show interest in a store keeper when haggling. You are sweetening the sugar, so to speak. Hence, study Chinese in order to bargain and banter.

Seniority is very important to the Chinese. Rather than referring to a person by Mister or Miss, addressing them by their designation (Director/Chairman) is excellent practice. Also, hand out and receive business cards with both hands outstretched; make sure that the name on your business card faces the recipient so that he can see it right away.

Show sufficient respect according to importance in terms of rank and seniority. “Face” is very important, so never embarrass a Chinese in front of others. Thus, leave your tactlessness and terseness at home. Also, give small gifts as tokens of appreciation and never refuse a present.

Also keep in mind not to plaster a permafrown on your face, put down Mao Tse Tung and other revered Chinese leaders, compliment the Japanese in any way, and air pro-Taiwan and pro-Tibet feelings.

You’ll do very well to do as the Chinese do when in China. For fluent communication, study Chinese online.
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