'My Chinese Working Day': An Australian's story

Bradley and his companion, Dorian, ride in a helicopter in Sanya, South China’s Hainan province. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

What are the differences between Chinese culture and your own culture? Any cultural shock during your stay in the past year?

I think what I like most about experiences such as this is the fact that we are not different at all. The more people from different cultures who come together and share what is important to them, the more you begin to realize how much we are the same. Everyone at the resort was enjoying a lovely holiday with their family and friends. The couple was so excited about their special day and just wanted everything to be perfect, which is no different than any couple back in Australia. I liked learning about Chinese culture from the hotel staff as we decorated the bridal suite. It was interesting to learn about different elements of Chinese cultures from displaying red knots and red décor for good luck to spreading seeds and nuts on the bed as a symbol that the couple will soon have children. I think it’s so important for people to keep their traditions and it was nice to share in that with the local Chinese people. For me there was no culture shock at all, although in saying that I have started learning Chinese, so for me I enjoy any opportunity to practice my limited Chinese skills. I think if other Australians were to go there as a holiday destination, the lack of English may intimidate some travelers. This is such a minor thing to overcome, however, as everyone was so lovely and friendly.