Cultural Differences

We spent the morning part of the day exploring the great 2008 Olympic sites; the Water Cube and the Birds Nest. What a site to see. Many of us circled the track; where great Olympians were once competing. Then we made our way to a very upper-class restaurant called Duwang Duck. Many Chinese Celebrities visit here to share in the fun atmosphere and the exquisite food. We were given the chance to make dumpling with the staff and two other “secret” recipes. We also were treated to a 4-star lunch; some made with our own two hands! We then ventured to a metro-art area to view the local contemporary art at 798 District. What a blast that was. Dinner too, was a treat. We dined in a cute little Café’ that served “Western Style” meals. We had Panini’s, French fries, and salad. That was a treat!!

I found a huge difference in the eating habits and cultural styles of my culture and this culture in China. Meals in China are done in layers and taken hours to complete. This is very similar to their history; they have kept detailed records and intricate layers of information to “preserve” their culture as they preserve their dinner time with one another. This resonated with me. China has something neat to take note of here; preservation of family time and also of heritage!