These are 6 things I highly advise you to do when in China. I'm not talking right now about visiting particular monuments which are on every tourist's To-Do list, but everyday activities enriching your stay in China and making it even more fun!

1) Choose buses, taxis, and bikes as a means of transportation rather than the underground.

You will be amazed by how chauffeurs can create a five-laned street though there might only be three.

2) Visit at least one karaoke bar. 🎤

It is a popular leisure activity over there and is incredibly fun, no matter how great your skills are. ))

3) Bargain with local vendors. 

Like in any other touristic city, locals have a sense for foreigners and drastically increase the price of goods you are inclined to purchase. There's nothing wrong with asking for only a third the price as it might be the local value. The lack of Chinese knowledge should not be an obstacle for bargaining - body language and gestures are fortunately an international thing !)

4) Do some photo-bombing.

It might come as a surprise for you, but for some Chinese, taking pictures of tourists appears to be as normal as drinking tea with biscuits. Some ask you if they can take a photo with you, some, however, can just hold the camera one foot apart from you and film you while walking, eating, sitting, ... So, if the chance of being photographed is already pretty high, why not be the initiator and join a group photo? (The reactions are just delightful!!😄) 

5) Try the weirdest food you can find. 

I mean, you only live once, right? Beans-flavoured ice cream won't kill you but will shock your taste buds like the humidity in China when you exit the airport. Maybe one will discover one's new fav dish, who knows 🤷‍♀️ ( btw, I'm not joking - apparently, they include beans in the most diverse and craziest dishes: ice cream, pudding, biscuits,....) 

6) If we are already talking about food: Use only chopsticks. People say it is part of getting to know the Chinese culture. If you have never touched those sticks: don't worry, even the clumsiest person can become familiar with those tools after a short period, only if used frequently. Well, many local restaurants in Mainland of China only provide chopsticks... so I guess one does not have a choice. Better start practicing as soon as possible so you can save those embarrassing moments when the food is everywhere except your mouth🙈(but hey, nobody is perfect).

Those two weeks in China have enormously surpassed my expectations about its culture, people, and traditions. Those first 6 little to-do points are just what I have noticed during my stay and which pumped up my touristy days. BUT there is much more to share with you about China (among others those historical monuments)!!!

For now, 再见 (See you)!

XOXO

Diana