Taffeta and Taste: Friday Travel Observations: China

China will always be one of my favorite places in the world. Some of the most generous, intelligent, and giving people reside there. Each city brings its own uniqueness to the Chinese culture. Every place you visit tradition encompasses you and you can't help but to rediscover yourself. China is so completely different from the westernized life most of us know. It actually requires you to think and behave in a new manner. China is always a beautiful new discovery.

I've been to Xi'an, Beijing, Nanjing, and my second favorite city in the entire world, Shanghai. Throughout my travels these are my observations:

Americans are their fascination. So don't be alarmed if they ask for your picture, laugh at you using chopsticks, or think your life is like Gossip Girl. Just smile and try unsuccessfully to convince them otherwise.
There is no comparison anywhere outside of China for their food. Other cultures can try, but fail miserably. While in China, do not eat anything besides their food and you won't regret it (China McD's doesn't count as Chinese food).
Always use chopsticks (even if you feel like a fool, you will be a larger one when you don't).
Being a pedestrian is life-threatening. For the large intersections, cross only when it says or you will get smashed. Also pedestrian sidewalks are not safe, always be on the look out for small motor vehicles.
Don't wear a seat belt, it offends them. And yes you will be risking your life.
Negotiate when buying market items. They will start you off at $1100 yuan and you can easily get it down to $300 yuan (or cheaper if you are good). If you are with a local = bigger discount. If you pretend to be married to a local = you're golden!
Don't ask what you are eating if you don't know. Most of the time it's better not knowing (yes, Frog Ovaries are delicious)
Sing Karaoke. Best. experience. ever.
Walk Shanghai. Don't take a taxi. You can easily get from the Bund district, to the shopping district within an hour's walk. You discover so much more. Truly appreciate the architecture there, it's astounding.
Although the Terracotta Warriors are the main tourist attraction in Xi'an, you need to also visit the Imperial Hot Springs. The Imperial Hot Springs are by far my favorite tourist site in all of China (beating out the Imperial Palace and Great Wall). I believe the word beautiful was derived there. They are enchanting.
Learn how to say Hello, Thank You, numbers 1-3, and a pick up line in Chinese. They will love you for it.
Always have napkins or toilet paper with you at all times. Most restrooms lack these.
Nail the peace sign pose.
Understand you will be overwhelmed by the tradition and history, but learn as much as possible.
Observe the people. Learn their intricate ways of respect, love, and wisdom. You will be a better person because of it.