A British woman who relocated to China has shared her astonishing experiences, detailing the unexpected cultural differences that left her both baffled and delighted.
From Tea to Toilets: A World of Contrasts
One of the first shocks came with something as simple as tea. "In the UK, we take our tea with milk, but here it's often served plain or with unusual flavours," she explained. Public toilets were another surprise – squat toilets are the norm, and toilet paper is rarely provided.
The Food Factor
Chinese cuisine proved to be a revelation. "The variety is incredible," she said. "From street food to banquet dishes, every meal is an adventure." However, she admitted some dishes, like century eggs, took some getting used to.
Safety and Social Norms
What surprised her most was the sense of safety. "I can walk home alone at night without fear," she revealed. The communal nature of Chinese society also stood out, with neighbours quickly becoming like family.
Language Barriers and Learning
While Mandarin proved challenging, she found locals incredibly patient with her attempts. "They appreciate the effort, even when I make mistakes," she noted, adding that language apps became her best friend.
Unexpected Perks
From lightning-fast internet to incredibly efficient public transport, she discovered many advantages. "The high-speed trains make UK rail look prehistoric," she joked.
Would She Go Back?
When asked if she'd return to Britain, she hesitated. "There are things I miss, but the quality of life here is hard to beat. It's changed my perspective completely."
