1. Don't spit anywhere
2. Don't stare at people
3. Don't point your finger at people
4. Say "excuse me" if you bump into someone
5. Stand in line
6. Don't blow smoke in someone's face
7. Follow the principle of "ladies first" as a form of politeness
8. Don't litter. Put your waste paper or empty cans in waste bins.
9. When talking on the phone, keep your voice low.
10. Do not hold hands with people of the same sex.
11. Keep an adequate distance when talking to a Westerner. Don't get too close.
"The Westerners have an idea or concept of personal privacy that is very different from the Chinese. In order to understand the idea of privacy, you should start by thinking of a nation's concept of 'territoriality.' If one enters a private house without asking for permission, one is likely to be accused of trespassing. It is also impolite to inquire about one's property. Likewise, if invited to a person's home, you should not look through their personal papers lying around in the house without permission (and it would be impolite to ask). These papers are also part of their private 'property' or belongings."
I love reading about our culture from another culture's point of view. It's always a bit amusing.
sorry i just now read the blogs... but this one is interesting. perhaps because hawaii is mid-pac between physical places, or maybe from the lack of space (being an island and all), these concepts are now foreign to me. maybe not the littering, but i work outside, as for personal space....we have none. reading your blog has totally reminded me of michigan. space....hmmmmm....ownership.....politeness