Living In China Info

China contains many different and exciting food styles which vary greatly from region to region. You will normally have a large choice of available foods wherever you are. Your choices will include a range of prices from the ridiculously expensive to the unbelievably cheap. In most regional centers and large cities a wide selection of Western foods are available in restaurants and supermarkets - although usually with a premium price tag attached.

Follow up:

Locally produced foods, fruits, vegetables and groceries tend to be generally inexpensive in comparison to western prices. Local markets can also offer a dazzling array of foods at very reasonable prices. There is a scarcity of western-style breads - most local breads and pastries are sweet.

Water: Boil it or buy it in bottles. DO NOT drink tap water. Not even the locals drink it!

The food in China is one of the major attractions to most of us. It is cheap, healthy, plentiful and different! Enjoy discovering some new favorites and try stepping out of your comfort zone occasionally to try something new.

Chinese hospitality often revolves around food and sharing a meal with friends and family. You will be invited to eat with people you meet - usually in a restaurant, but sometimes in their homes. Etiquette requires the person making the invitation to pay for the meal. Offering to pay the bill, or split the bill is considered bad manners and continuing to insist can be extremely insulting to your host.

Graciously accept it, as it is appropriate for you to return the favor at some time in the future. Be aware that if you have made the invitation to someone to join you for a meal they will be expecting you to pay the bill. Splitting bills, or "going Dutch" is pretty much unheard of.

We'll have some more for you on the foods from different areas of China in later editions.