International Student Trips Powered By Discovery Education
China Adventure

Cultural Differences

Thursday, August 6, 2009

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 CafĂ©’ 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!

5 comments:

Rachel Castlen said...

Dinners that last for hours? I could deal with that :)

Discovery Student Adventures said...

That sounds like my kind of dinner. Isn't in fascinating how different our eating habits are?

Unknown said...

Sounds very European. Dinners in Italy were that way - starting at 7-8 PM and lasting until 10 or 11 PM followed by long walks, seeing your neighbors.

Anonymous said...

It is so amazing to read about the amazing time and experiences you and the students are having. I am glad everything is going well. In honor of you and the kids I am going to Chinatown with friends Saturday night. Keep the updates coming.
J. Simon

Karen Wells said...

I sounds like you guys are having a great time. I didn't think any destination could be as great as South Africa, but China is getting really close. After reading all the student blogs, I feel as if I am right there riding on rickshaws, making dumplings, camping on the Great Wall...

Essential Programs Details

Duration 15 days
When August 1st - 14th, 2009
Focus History/Culture
Martial Arts
Modern/Ancient Architecture