Asian countries are known for their gift-giving traditions. China is, perhaps, a more delicate location than others when it comes to gift giving, as their communist government tends to see any gift given to an official as a bribe. For backpackers, this usually isn't an issue, as any gift you offer will likely be to a family or individual that has expressed hospitality towards you. Offering someone a gift in return for a meal, a place to stay, or work, is a nice way to show that you appreciate it and that you are grateful for what they have offered you.
As with any country, there are rules and protocols surrounding what is acceptable and what is not when it comes to both the gift and the act of giving. Taking time to understand these customs and rules will not only help you avoid embarrassment when you find yourself in one of these situations, but will also, in the case of China, help you avoid trouble with the law.
The following is a general list of the rules and customs that are followed when giving gifts in China.
1: Offer gifts that are best used by everyone in a family, if that happens to be the group you are presenting the gift to. Simple and inexpensive gifts are the best, as highly expensive gifts may be awkward and refused. Things like pen sets, a small product of food (grains, rice, etc), or similar, non-personal items are fine.
2: Wrap the gift in wrapping paper. Take your time and do a neat job of it. Don't leave the gift in a shopping bag. The gift should be wrapped in a color that is appropriate for the occasion. For example, a normal, happy occasion would require 'red' paper, a funeral would require black and white, and a wedding is best with gold and silver.
3: Expect the gift to be refused two or three times before accepted. This is customary, as it shows that the receiver is not being greedy. You, the giver, should offer it again after each refusal until the person accepts. If, for some reason that person continues to refuse it several times, then stop offering, as they really do not want it, and may not be in a position to accept it.
4: Do not be offended or disappointed when the recipient of the gift does not open it in front of you, but instead sets it aside or in a pocket. This is because of the Asian tradition of 'saving face'. If the gift ends up inappropriate, embarrassing, or disappointing, the person does not lose face when opening it in private. Most of the time, you will receive a call or letter to thank you, assuming that is an option.
5: Be careful about offering gifts to someone who is 'of importance'. If you offer a gift to someone who considered more or less 'powerful', or in a government position, it can easily be viewed as a bribe. You do not want this to happen. If you do find yourself in this position, be sure that any gift you offer is very cheap and of little value. While likely to be seen only as an offer of gratitude and friendship, it is still best not to raise any suspicions. A bottle of wine, a nice pen, or something similar is fine.
6: Do not offer a gift to one person in front of a group - it will be embarrassing for the individual, and rude to everyone else who is not receiving a gift. Instead, offer it in private.
7: Always offer and receive gifts with both hands.
8: If you are offered a gift, you may be expected to open it in front of the giver, is that person is familiar with westerners and their traditions. Ask politely if you should open the gift now.
No comments:
Post a Comment