Cultural Considerations
These things will keep you comfortable or make your experience difficult .
Religion
Religion isn't a right, nor is it the popular as it in most of the West. It may be very hard to find houses of worship. Even if one is found, there's a concern for being arrested for worshiping amongst other believers. If this is important to you, do a lot of research before making your move.
Food
To piggy-back off of religion; if you have a dietary restriction because of your religion, it's best to cook your own food. Pork is probably the most commonly eaten meat. Sometimes there's little bits of pork found even in some vegetable dishes. If you have a seafood restriction: when asking the serving staff, some may tell you there's no seafood in the dish, but it may have been cooked with fish or oyster sauce. Be mindful to ask the RIGHT questions when eating out.
Health Concerns
China has a pollution issue. It's worse in northern cities such as Beijing and Shanghai. If you have respiratory issues, such as asthma or bronchitic, etc. you may want to consider some southern cities. Reference the AQI (Air Quality Index) for your desired city.
Social Dining
Every country has it’s quirks that makes it unique. When dining socially in China, everyone shares the same dishes. Everyone uses their personal chopsticks to eat and serve themselves with. If you aren't up for sharing meals in this way, but don't want to be rude, here's what I suggest.
Either get the first serving of each dish (informal settings) OR...
Mention your discomfort with someone before you get in the dining setting.
Personal Space: What's THAT?
In America (and other Western countries), there is generally a courtesy of personal space. You never want to stand too close to people. I don’t think that is something that’s a known courtesy in China. It's a very normal thing for people to stand close to each other. That was the first thing I noticed when arriving. It definitely took some time to get used to. Cutting in line is also normal. Don’t be alarmed if/when it happens. Just know it’s something that’s normal for them.
Curiosity
Lights, Camera, ACTION! (well, maybe not the lights part LOL!) Get ready to feel like a celebrity. Depending on your location, many people in China haven’t seen people from other countries. They become very curious. You may notice a few stares. Some people will try to ask to take pictures with you. Some want to practice English with you. Overall, there will be a cultural learning curve while there. I can share my experience, but everyone will have a unique experience. Keeping an open mind can make for a very interesting experience. Just remember to find the good in all situations.
