Arrival Observations

All –

As you can imagine, the new sights, sounds and experiences are coming fast and furious.  I love it here. Rather than try to capture all the unique experiences in boring voluminous detail, I thought I’d just give some quick insights which will allow you to read between the lines.  If some of these sound “judgmental”, they’re not. Simply recognizing cultural differences, some of which seem odd to Americans. I’m well aware that the Chinese find many of our ways odd. Wonder how American’s stack up to a similar analysis…

1.       Unless you can withstand butt-cramps for 16 hours at a time and enjoy watching Korean movies with Chinese subtitles – avoid flying on China Eastern Airlines.

2.       Regardless of how scary the taxi ride is, remember it’s his car and he’s the LAST one that wants to get in an accident. Close your eyes if you have to.

3.       As a group (say, on the subway) the Chinese seem cold and aloof – but one-on-one they are fun and friendly.

4.       Pushing isn’t rude, it’s just how things are done here. When in Rome….

5.       At times my Chinese Language seems waaaay better than I anticipated.  At other times, not so much.

6.       Shanghai is ENORMOUS, but well laid out with efficient subway and cheap taxis, thus easy to get around.

7.       Prices here seem about the same as in the US for everything from restaurant food to sundries to clothing.

8.       You can get an unusual array of interesting menu items at a standard “fast food” restaurant (shrimp, octopus, mushrooms, etc.). On the other hand, McDonald’s fries are exactly the same as the US, the Coke is too sweet and the Chicken Sandwich is clearly made for the Chinese palette.

9.       A facial mole with 3 inch hairs growing out of it is a sign of wisdom – even for a 30+ year old guy.

10.   For women – black skinny jeans or leggings or spandex tucked into any form of fashionable boot.  For guys – baggy black coat of a t-shirt with jeans.

I’m cleared to start work on Wednesday and am looking for slightly more comfortable digs. (My hotel room is REALLY small with no drawers and a tiny closet).

Cheers.

Jay