The Beijing Olympics: Best Opportunity to Study Chinese

The date August 8, 2008 for this year's Summer Olympics was picked for a reason - this is a very lucky day for the Chinese. If you're one of the fortunate people going to China to watch the XXIX Olympiad, learn Chinese and follow these tips for acceptable actions in China.

The Rules

You still need to follow numerous rules, even if the Olympics is meant to bring unity to the whole world. You'll do well to avoid trouble by studying China's extremely strict rules for both visitors and locals alike.

Because the laws are in Chinese, it will pay to learn Chinese. If you can speak the language, talking with the locals will also be simpler. If you require directions or any kind of help, this would certainly be handy.

Military bases and other areas are declared by the government as off-limits. Visitors with mental illnesses, sexually transmitted diseases, and anti-China opinions won't be tolerated. The approval of your visa or deportation depends on being able to converse in Chinese fluently.

Be Aware of the Culture

Understanding the Chinese culture will require more than a lifetime because it's thousands of years old. But you must learn Chinese culture, even if it just means how to deal with the man on the street in China.

Building personal relationships will aid you in your business dealings, even if you're only shopping. You can sweeten the sugar and possibly close negotiations the way you want it if you banter while you haggle. This is an extremely good reason to learn Chinese.

Give out your business card with both arms outstretched and your name facing the recipient. Also, designation and seniority is extremely essential to the Chinese. You will earn brownie points by addressing a Chinese national with his correct designation, instead of the common Mister or Miss.

You must give more respect to important people with seniority and rank. Never say no to a gift that's offered to you, and you must also give gifts yourself. Most of all, "face" is extremely important, so don't embarrass a Chinese person in front of others.

Also bear in mind not to walk around with a permafrown on your face, put down Mao Tse Tung and other exalted Chinese leaders, praise the Japanese in any way, and mention pro-Taiwan and pro-Tibet opinions.

To paraphrase a popular phrase, "when in China, do as the Chinese do." To be able to fluently converse, study Chinese online.

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