Chinese Etiquette

It is common to give gifts when the chinese visit their friends and family. The gift wrap should never be white or black because it symbolizes death. Red is the best color for the packaging. It is also common to give two gifts because even numbers are considered good luck. However the number four is not good luck and is avoided as much as possible because it sounds like the chinese word "death." The chinese give the present to the person with both hands. The chinese believe that it is polite to open presents after the person who gave it to you leaves. This is unlike our culture, people usually always open the present when the person gave it to them. I think it is more polite for someone to open the present you gave them while you are around so you can see their reaction and they can thank you. I also found that in the chinese culture people shake hands firmly but shortly. In our culture we do shake hands firmly but longer then one shake. I find it very interesting how cultures can be so different. Something normal in our country can be taboo in another.

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