When in London by tube with mainly English passengers, we tend to sit together in total silence. However, when I traveled in China, people sitting next to me often asked me about my age, salary, and even marriage. They were also willing to introduce themselves as much possible.

    On the first day I arrived in China, a Chinese professor invited me to dinner accompanied by his colleagues. After dinner, the professor paid for the meal alone, although the others also offered to pay for it. In Britain, we are accustomed to going “Dutch” while eating in a restaurant.

    One day, at a friend's birthday party, I met with a foreign friend and offered my hand, meanwhile he bowed to me. We were both at a loss for a moment, but soon he seemed to be conscious of something and shook my hand naturally.