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Q: Creative survival 101?
We've all heard the standard tips like don't drink the water or it's bad to leave your chopsticks sticking up in a bowl of rice.
But what special trick have you developed the survive the Middle Kingdom? What's the one technique you've developed that everyone reading will kick themselves for not thinking of first?
The tip if offer is what I used to save me from long nights of drinking baijiu without refusing to drink: I carry a flask of Everclear (190 proof grain alcohol) when I join a group for dinner. If someone wants me to drink baijiu and I'm not feeling like it; sure no problem, he just has to drink my "mei guo baijiu." Between the taste and the fact he is on the floor way before he expected, for some reason, he's happy with just enjoying a beer with me the next time.
12 years 28 weeks ago in General - Other cities
I would say don't do that because you are being rude. Why do want to make them loose face?
DaBen:
I keep it equal.... if one drinks, I make them all drink.... and if there is any left in my flask (bottle for big business dinner) I do a flaming shot to impress them and everyone is happy.
DaBen:
But that's not the point Master Alex... so what's your secret technique for surviving here?
Alex66:
DaBen, my secret is to go with the flow, I just do my job the best way I can, talk with the teachers and most of all keep out of trouble....like not being drunk and causing fights, wearing good cloths, helping when someone asks me for help etc etc etc
And Alex, I respect that. But I was hoping for some hint outside the realm of what most people think. Something like learn a couple of magic tricks with coins because it will win over any kid is afraid of the laowai, blow the mind of those's that just stare, get you free drinks at the bar, make the pretty girl curious enough she will forget to be shy, and hours of entertainment as they try to figure out what you just did. I have actually kept a table entertained for over 20 mins with the kid's trick of making it look like I can pull my thumb off.
DaBen, I suppose you answered it, what works for you would never work for me, but in saying that I can get children to trust me. Even pretty girls talk with me and go for lunch or dinner. It's hard to tell you what I do because it can't be put into a lesson plan....I think it is experience!
really the best thing i could tell you is to turn off your brain. you must remember this is not the real world. (if you have seen the movie the Village) this is exactly the same situation, except you are an outsider. sadly you must remember that this is not your country and the awful things you see here do not concern you. find good local friends.
Keep your cool, be nice, but don't trust people too easily.
And remember where you came from while trying to blend in, because you'll still be seen as a foreigner.
Grinder rule #359:
You can't win an argument with a taxi driver
Grinder rule #20:
Learn how to say "LOOK BUT DON'T TOUCH" in as many dialects as you can
you're welcome
DaBen:
Rule 359? So can we expect a full grinder book to be released anytime in the future?
deefoe:
Volumes...Epic Vol-u-umes Titled "Not a Really Good Fit: The American thats not White living in China"
Toe socks:
If you go to a foot massage place that puts your socks back on you for you... make sure to wear toe socks. The little girl won't be able to control herself from laughing at how strange this laowai is with socks that have individual toes. Between her trying to hold back giggles and watch her struggle to put the socks on your feet, you'll be able to have a good laugh. Let's you emotionally relax after a relaxing massage. It's hard to beat the double relaxed feeling without paying extra for a different type of relaxed feeling.
When going to the outside BBQ joints (heck, even inside) I always have my trusty music player and USB with my favorite tunes and the tunes suggested by my friends. After a couple of beers, I break it out, at first the locals dont know what to do but soon enough, they either hate it or we get the thumbs up. As the night goes on, the tunes get louder. Sure kills the noise pollution. (I have even brought extension cords and extra batteries to ensure to piss 'em off as much as possible.) And now, it's a part of our experience here. Not much trouble anymore
