How to Live Like a Local in China

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“When in Rome, do as the Romans do”. Likewise, when visiting, working or living in China or any other place why not try to experience it from a locals perspective? As an expat in China, you should learn the ins and outs of keeping expenses low and try to save as much as possible.

Eat Street Food

There is no better way than indulging in some of the delicacies prepared along the streets. Lower your guards down or better still get out of your different high horse and just enjoy a snack with the locals and have fun with it. The meals can range from an egg, pancake, BBQ skewers or even hot soy milk. It is not a big deal, and it doesn’t reduce you, instead it’s a big measure of character, how you trust the locals and how they can trust you back.

Don't Stand in Lines

No one queues. Noone. If you don't get with  the program you'll be waiting a long time toget on buses or into attractions. It's really not considered impolite so don't be afraid to get in there with your elbows and give someone a good old nudge.Even if there is something that resembles a queue don't be fooled, people will just matter of factly come and stand in front of you.

Ride a Bicycle

Buy or rent a bike and have some fun exercise while mingling on the wheels with other locals. With the unbelievable traffic jams in the main cities of China,a bicycle might be just what you need to save you the nightmare of the rich car life while giving you a taste of what’s local. Also, China’s trains are everything, modern, super affordable, stylish, comfortable and most importantly fastest. Why would you miss an opportunity of enjoying such greatness while saving some bucks while at it?

Don't be Afraid to Stare Back

Some people stare then chuckle in amusement when you wave or smile at them, others just poin tblank stare in dead pan disbelief no matter how wide your smile is. This takes some getting used to and you spend a while thinking a bird has shat on your head or something. However the positive is if you want to be nosey and checkout what someone's doing just go right over and have a good old look. Its considered normal to look up and down at someone like they’re a store manikin.

Go Sight Seeing for Free

As one great mind once said, “The best things in life are free.’ Therefore, some of the perfect ways to experience China do not ask you to pay a dime. Get the different mentality out of your head and do things that locals do such as strolling alonga beautiful lake, enjoying the county park temples and watching tai-chi in apark.

Don't Tip at Restaurents 

Waitresses and taxi drivers do not expect a tip and will think you're a weirdo if you offer it quite frankly. In fact in most restaurants you are asked to pay up front for your food as soon as you have ordered it anyway.

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