I've been living in China for nearly 3 months now, and hands-down it is one of the most interesting countries in the world. With twists and turns round every corner. As a student studying abroad this world is completely new to me and here are some of the things I've learnt.
1. Foreign people are basically like celebrities. If you go to a tourist attraction you will for sure be asked for a photo with people. You will be pointed at as people shout '外国人‘ and chuckle. Children will stop and stare at you blankly. And to tell you the truth, it takes a lot of time to get used to!
2. Foreign food will never taste quite as nice as home. I've tried everything, burgers, burritos, sandwiches and more, but it's just not the same. Especially the cheese. God I miss cheese.
3. Tourist attractions are so much better on weekdays; an obvious one, but an important one.
4. Chinese food is not the same as it is in the uk. I don't think I've had any spring rolls or even 1 portion of chow mien since being here. But EVERYTHING is so much better in china, the authentic flavours and the variety means you never get bored. Although to be honest I don't even know what I'm eating half the time!
5. The weather is so unpredictable, in the time I've been here its gone from 35 degrees to -5, and right now i am freeeeezing (at least this gives me and excuse to go shopping!)
6. You're probably gunna get hit by a bike at least once. There are so many motorbikes in Beijing and they seem to never obey traffic lights, or any road laws in that case. So you have to be extra careful when crossing the road because they come round the corner at the speed of lightening. You don't want to pay for hospital bills so be careful!
7. Baozi will save your life, especially pork ones. Hungover? eat Baozi, Ill? Eat Baozi. Poor? Good job Baozi is cheap. It's cheap, tasty and fills your stomach, what else do you want?
8. Never trust the alcohol in clubs (especially if it's free!) Speaking from experience, it'll give you a hangover from hell and you won't want to eat for at least 4 days.
9. Although you'll look stupid; wear a mask! The pollution is so dangerous, especially if it's over 100, and although they're uncomfortable and other people don't wear them, a mask will help you so much. The amount of coughs and illnesses from the pollution is crazy, why would you risk getting ill when you can just wear a stupid piece of cloth for less than an hour?
10. TAOBAO IS LOVE TAOBAO IS LIFE. (Although the sizes are a bit off!)
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