Avoiding Misunderstandings - A Traveller's Tips

When travelling along the Silk, which links to countries of different cultures, it is of utmost importance to know the fundamental basics of manners etc. in order to blend in with them - and not to cause a chaotic trip. However, the cultures of so many different countries is nearly impossible to cover - we will only emphasise on some of the eye-catching ones; and the common ones - of the past, and of the present.

What to bring:
1) First-Aid
2) Maps
3) Compass
4) Water

What danger to expect on the journey:
1) Bandits who wants money/goods that you are travelling with
2) The natural-occurring disasters

What did Zhang Qian, our traveller, do in order to survive?
As Zhang Qian travelled along with his companions, though he had his fair share of chaotic and poor countries, he encountered prosperous and peaceful countries that welcomed them too. However, with his great negotiating skills, he managed to overcome them all, and, of course, the superb protection granted by Emperor Han Wudi - though he was still captured later. Zhang Qian was very surprised at the wealth of these lands, especially their goods like jade and agricultural products like grapes and wine. Many products they found were all unknown in China, till they found them! Zhang Qian also found that these countries were quite interested in the good he and his companions carried. They had prized silk which only the Chinese knew how to make. Now the Han knew that there was so much opportunity for trade and wealth if they established contact with the countries of the west - thus, these routes filled with merchants carrying chinese silk and art. In return for their trades like jade, wine and horses, Zhang Qian's adventures of trading led to the start of a long march of merchants across great land through spans of history.

As it is also stressed that these countries, blessed with the influence of the Silk, they might have the same cultures and religions, but different ones still existed. Nevertheless, a temple is still one of the most common sights when one decides to explore the rich cultures. Therefore, here are some tips to ensure a pleasant and enjoyable trip to one of the most important spots of the route, the temple:

Yonghegong (雍和宮) also known as the Lama Temple, in Beijing, China; converted from a court into a monastery in 1722

When addressing a monk, “shi” or “fashi” is the honourable title for the monks and Taoists. For the Governing monk (the head monk who oversees everything), however, it is necessary address them as “zhanglao”, “fangzhang” or "chanshi”. Do not address them as “heshang” or “chujiaren” as it is seen as quite an impolite way to address a monk.

A statue of revered Buddha in China; one of the most sacred religion, Buddhism.

When meeting with monks, put your palms together and lower your head. If you are attempting to handshake, do not touch or embrace the head of the monk as it is sacrilegious to them. Topics relating to killing, marriage and eating meat are forbidden to talk about there. Do not touch or deface any religious artifacts and be silent and non-judgemental during religious ceremonies. Be sure that the temple that you are visiting is open to public and if you are female, please note that some are restricted to females.

How to visit the families of ethnic groups:

When travelling, if you are fortunate enough, families of another nationality may invite you.

Keep in mind that different people have different customs, taboos and living styles.

So - be grateful enough and do not be too choosy about their living styles. This can ensure a smooth and pleasant visit.

The best time to visit is in the afternoon; however, busy festivals periods should be avoided. Orderly and clean clothing is a symbol of politeness. Avoid wearing short trousers, waistcoat and hats, as they are impolite.

The best thing is to find out and understand more about their culture so it won’t be that difficult to understand and get along with them. Gifts should be prepared for a first visit. Don’t bring things they consider taboo as it would be a bad start and it would be best not to touch their utensils in their house.

When they host you their local food, it is impolite to refuse the food. If you really cannot accept it due to any reason, thank the host and give a realistic and reasonable reason why. When the host toasts you, receive the cup and toast the host first before drinking it. If you cannot finish the wine by yourself, ask someone to finish it for you.

And now, to one of the most concentrated on issues - money. Now, China may be one of the most safest country to visit, but it is still better to be wise enough and keep your money close to you at all times and not take any unnecessary risks. In hotels, leave it in a safe place. Beware of crowded places like bazaars, bus and train stations, since pickpockets and day packs are common. The best prevention is a money belt worn inside your clothing.

Overall, this is all we could relate to you. However, please note that whatever cultures and religions you have practiced in your homeland, something so familiar to you - might not be as familiar to those of the foreigners - and that goes without saying that this is also vice-versa. Thus, broaden your narrow minds and try to be in the shoes of them. This will surely minimise any unwanted misunderstandings.