We've been in China a little over two years and Tony's received emails from Berlitz requesting that we attend a "repatriation etiquette class" for our return to the US. You've got to be kidding. I can tell you with most CERTAINTY that we have not adopted any of the horrible habits that is common with the locals. Such habits include but are not limited to spitting, nose picking, public urination, pushing and shoving, jumping the line, invading personal space, speaking loudly, littering, laying on park benches full length, parading around in pajamas or just skivvies, chewing and talking with our mouths wide open and last but not least, we have not adopted the repulsive habit of chain smoking while eating.
We declined to attend this class since it wasn't necessary for us to go. I have often said that if I started to behave like the locals, I would have to kill myself. I wonder how many expats have adopted these habits while living here. I think that Berlitz should offer the etiquette classes to the locals. The classes should be free and mandatory. China is becoming an economic power and there are plenty of nouveau riche. They may have the money to purchase very expensive cars, wear designer outfits, travel around the world and dine in fine restaurants but deep down inside, they really do not know how to behave.
A survey published about two years ago revealed how foreigners perceived Chinese travelers in their country. It was reported that in some Western countries, signs in Chinese have been put up in toilets, restaurants and museums requesting people from the "country with the time-honored civilization" to observe basic social rules such as flushing the toilet after use, eating silently, appreciating classic masterpieces and not spitting. It was reported that a travel guide said a hotel in France once canceled reservations by his company just before his clients were to arrive at the hotel. "It complained about the last group of Chinese tourists, who had shouted in the lobby and messed up the rooms. The hotel would rather pay the default penalty than put up with it again," said the guide. I even read about the behavior of a Chinese mother who had her child wipe his mouth on the sleeve of a garment at a department store. I often tell Matthew, "How you behave is a reflection on me". A mantra that he has heard over and over again.
As a result of this survey, the Chinese government launched a campaign to promote civil behavior among Chinese travelers. This campaign is supposed to last until the Olympic Games. So let me get this straight- after the Olympics is over, it's OK to revert back to the disgusting habits? Here's hoping the Chinese government can clean up the perception of the locals in this country. I think it's going to take a VERY long time.
