Cultural Differences

Before I leave for Shanghai tonight I wanted to share some of the biggest cultural shocks I've experienced so far. Although I am staying in a hotel in Beijing that feels very similar to home, I've already noticed some major differences from North American culture, of course this is to be assumed.

Splitting pants - these pants are made for the babies/children who are not potty trained. The pants have a piece at the back that is cut, so the children can go to the bathroom anywhere, and they do. What I've been told is that the Chinese don't believe in diapers, therefore these pants make it easier for the children to use the washroom. I would take a picture, but that's not going to happen.

Squat toilets - I was warned about these but it still doesn't prepare you. From what I've been told, Chinese don't like sitting on seats or flushing toilet paper as it's a very dirty way to live. So instead, there are holes in the ground that you use as toilets. It's very different and not something I would want to get used to. It's amazing how you can train your bladder to wait till you get back to your hotel.

Driving and pedestrians - I would never, ever ever drive in this place! People honk their horn constantly. There is a constant beep sound that lingers in the thick, polluted air. I can't tell you how many times I have thought we would get into an accident, either with another vehicle or hitting someone. Pedestrians stand in the middle of the road in rush hour traffic on major roadways playing human frogger, sometimes missing cars by inches. They don't get mad or even make a face when the car just about runs them over. I will photograph this, cause I just can't get over it. But even though it all seems so much more dangerous then how we drive, I would be curious to know how many accidents actually happen here.

These are some of the biggest cultural differences for me. I'm sure there will be much more and I'll share them all: )