For a city of 13 million, Beijing is surprisingly safe. The Chinese are generally quite tolerant, but they’re very curious of foreigners. Apart from an occasional “haallloo” (hello) from passers-by, you’re more than likely to be left alone. There is a long list of small things to do to show politeness, but here are some of the more fundamental ones. Always refuse a gift when it is first offered, then accept it reluctantly. If it is wrapped, don’t open it unless asked to. When giving or receiving a present, do so with both hands. This is even more important when dealing with items of importance, such as business cards or official documents. A rather fun tradition is the clinking of glasses at the dinner table—be sure to make an effort to tap your host’s glass towards the bottom, as the lower you go, the more respect or ‘face’ you give your host.

Don’t leave your chopsticks sticking out of your rice bowl as it’s reminiscent of the incense sticks burned at Chinese funerals. If there is something that you absolutely cannot eat, put it on your plate anyway and carry on. Never refuse or make comments on what your host offers. Also, try not to finish all your food as this may be construed as the host having ordered either not enough food or the wrong dishes, leading to much embarrassment. If you’re invited to somebody’s home, bring a gift such as a bottle of wine or a basket of fruit.