I just received some “charm school” guidelines for China—have you ever given US coins as gifts when

Longacre · July 12, 2007 10:52PM

Maybe people think I am uncouth, but I just got emailed some “charm school” guidelines for my upcoming trip to China. I copied and pasted them below. As you can see, the guidelines suggest that it is appropriate to give a gift of nominal value to my China hosts. I was thinking it might be cool to give my host a US mint proof set or something like that. I don’t know if it is a good idea or silly. Has anyone else done something like this, or should I just stick with fruit like the charm school guidelines suggest?

**************

General Cultural Tips
• Conversation during a meal should focus heavily on giving compliments to the chef.
• It is customary to arrive slightly early for social engagements.
• When dining in a restaurant, discussing illness, death or tragic events is not appropriate as it is seen as bad luck.
• The Chinese do not typically use exaggerated gestures or facial expressions while speaking, and may find them distracting when done by others.
• Gift giving is important and somewhat ritualized. Avoid gifts of great value, as they may embarrass a Chinese person and may be declined.
• People often decline a gift several times before accepting it. Be persistent until they accept.
• It is customary to bring a gift when invited to someone's home such as fruit, candy or a souvenir from your home country.

Business Cultural Tips
• Introductions are usually quite formal. The Chinese traditionally nod or bow slightly when greeting. However, handshaking is also common and appropriate.
• If greeted by the somewhat uncommon custom of applause, the appropriate response is to applaud back
• Appointments should be made in advance.
• Punctuality is very important in China for both business and social engagements.
• Bring numerous business cards, preferably printed in English on one side and Chinese on the other.
• When referring to the nation on formal documents or speeches, it is appropriate to use the full title: The People's Republic of China.
• Business is not generally discussed over a meal, though you may be treated to a banquet during your stay. If possible, you should always return the favor.
• Business dress is conservative. Men should wear a suit and tie, while women should wear either a dress or a skirt and blouse.

claychaser · July 12, 2007 10:58PM

You could bring them a bunch of phony Trade Dollars purchased from the flea market or E-Bay......

partagas · July 12, 2007 11:01PM

Been there on business trip, it is an interesting place to visit. I am in no hurry to go back.

That meal was very nice, what was the main meat dish? Was it dog, rat or cat.

The food we had wasn't bad, but I will say after hearing all this media today I wonder what harmful crap I ate.

Mesquite · July 12, 2007 11:05PM

Define expensive? I think what you're describing can be purchased for as little as $10. The clad 10 piece statehood quarter (depending on the year) that has your state's quarter can be had for ~$50. How many of these do you need? (One host, ten hosts?). A very nice 1988 Olympics two piece (silver $1/gold $5) proof set can be had for ~$175 - this would tie in well with the upcoming Olympics in China. Just some random thoughts.

PerryHall · July 12, 2007 11:05PM

<< You could bring them a bunch of phony Trade Dollars purchased from the flea market or E-Bay...... >>

zeus135 · July 12, 2007 11:08PM

Or take counterfeit Chinese Panda coins?

UtahCoin · July 12, 2007 11:15PM

I was advised at one time not to give a coin as a gift when I traveled to Korea. I was told the host might misinterpret the gift as a monetary payment for their hospitality, which could be offensive to the host. If your host was a known collector of U.S. coins, I'm sure it would be different.

That was 5 years ago in Korea.

jabba · July 12, 2007 11:18PM

I would give them a roll of circulated Morgans, silver is good any where in the world.

COINB0Y · July 12, 2007 11:21PM

Gift giving is important and somewhat ritualized. Avoid gifts of great value, as they may embarrass a Chinese person and may be declined.

A gift will NEVER be declined, but if expensive, it could be embarrassing.

I have found that a gift from a local Company from your home town is really appreciated. It shows thought and consideration behind the gift no matter how small.

We have a Candy Company in my hometown that is especially good that I have used. (Though it is tough to take in the summer months)

RWB · July 12, 2007 11:22PM

Agreed. Take along a nice selection of Chineese fake coins, pirated DVDs, adulterated toothpaste, and maybe some of those nice steamed buns made from cardboard, assorted chemicals and pig fat (washiongton Post 7/12/07).

Or maybe a current proof set - a nice presentation item.

Given Longacre's stature on the trip, he really should be giving out gold proof Buffalos.

Weiss · July 12, 2007 11:24PM

I'd love to see what the "experts" in etiquette have as the corresponding protocols for Americans:

*Conversation during a meal should focus on your crappy day and Paris Hilton's latest escapade
*It is customary to arrive pretty much when you want, then complain that the food's cold/gone.
*When dining in a restaurant, discussing illness, death, or tragic events is typical
*Wildly flail your arms, lips, eyes, and feet at every possibility. The more a spectacle you can make of yourself, the better.
*Gift Giving is for Christmas and Bar Mitzvahs. But pick up something nice. And leave the receipt in the box.
*At Christmas and Bar Mitzvahs, gifts are often exchanged. At the store, for credit. Not with each other. That's what the receipt was for.
*Trader Joes always has Charles Shaw wines.

COINB0Y · July 12, 2007 11:27PM

General Cultural Tips
• Conversation during a meal should focus heavily on giving compliments to the chef. - Bull Sh*t = BS
• It is customary to arrive slightly early for social engagements. - Universal!
• When dining in a restaurant, discussing illness, death or tragic events is not appropriate as it is seen as bad luck. - Universal!
• The Chinese do not typically use exaggerated gestures or facial expressions while speaking, and may find them distracting when done by others. - BS
• Gift giving is important and somewhat ritualized. Avoid gifts of great value, as they may embarrass a Chinese person and may be declined. - BS on Declined, True on embarras

• People often decline a gift several times before accepting it. Be persistent until they accept. - BS
• It is customary to bring a gift when invited to someone's home such as fruit, candy or a souvenir from your home country. True, Home Town Better

Business Cultural Tips
• Introductions are usually quite formal. The Chinese traditionally nod or bow slightly when greeting. Never BOW! That is Japan ONLY and they HATE Japan!
• However, handshaking is also common and appropriate. - Universal
• If greeted by the somewhat uncommon custom of applause, the appropriate response is to applaud back only if opening a Factory!
• Appointments should be made in advance. Duh! Universal!
• Punctuality is very important in China for both business and social engagements. Duh! Universal!

• Bring numerous business cards, preferably printed in English on one side and Chinese on the other. True
• When referring to the nation on formal documents or speeches, it is appropriate to use the full title: The People's Republic of China. - True
• Business is not generally discussed over a meal - BS
• Though you may be treated to a banquet during your stay. - True
• If possible, you should always return the favor. - Good Luck!
• Business dress is conservative. Men should wear a suit and tie, while women should wear either a dress or a skirt and blouse. - True

AVOID wearing White shirts = Death

MrHalfDime · July 12, 2007 11:28PM

I'm not sure if this qualifies, but I visited Ireland last summer (purely a pleasure trip, and not business). I took with me a roll of Maine statehood quarters to pass out to people along the way as souvenirs from my home state. Maine may be the state closest to Ireland, but it really isn't well known there. Many just stared at me with a confused look on their face when I told them where I was from. Others, attempting to be polite, nodded acknowledgement, but still with that look of confusion. I found a great ice breaker, though, when I mentioned the New England Patriots. Everyone in Ireland knew the Patriots, so I soon gave up telling people I was from Maine, and simply mentioned the Patriots when asked where I was from.

I did receive many Irish (Euro) coins in return, many from other European countries, and many with beautiful designs.

You might want to email Gerry Fortin at his Liberty Seated dime webpage ( www.seateddimevarieties.com ) as he lives in China, and has significant input on these issues.

slipgate · July 12, 2007 11:31PM

<< I'd love to see what the "experts" in etiquette have as the corresponding protocols for Americans:

*Conversation during a meal should focus on your crappy day and Paris Hilton's latest escapade
*It is customary to arrive pretty much when you want, then complain that the food's cold/gone.
*When dining in a restaurant, discussing illness, death, or tragic events is typical
*Wildly flail your arms, lips, eyes, and feet at every possibility. The more a spectacle you can make of yourself, the better.
*Gift Giving is for Christmas and Bar Mitzvahs. But pick up something nice. And leave the receipt in the box.
*At Christmas and Bar Mitzvahs, gifts are often exchanged. At the store, for credit. Not with each other. That's what the receipt was for.
*Trader Joes always has Charles Shaw wines. >>

ROFL! Made my morning!

Mesquite · July 12, 2007 11:40PM

BTW, I traveled to Turkey in October 2001 to participate in an International Confrence hosted by US-educated Turkish professors, one of whom had been my graduate student. I took several MS statehood quarters with me as gifts - they were well received and appreciated as I recall.

Hugegut · July 12, 2007 11:46PM

Bring them a huge portrait of George Bush.

Longacre · July 12, 2007 11:46PM

<< BTW, I traveled to Turkey in October 2001 to participate in an International Confrence hosted by US-educated Turkish professors, one of whom had been my graduate student. I took several MS statehood quarters with me as gifts - they were well received and appreciated as I recall. >>

Istanbul is one of my most favorite places to visit in the entire world.

Longacre · July 12, 2007 11:47PM

<< AVOID wearing White shirts = Death >>

I only wear white shirts with suits. I might need to do some shopping before the trip.

Mesquite · July 13, 2007 12:39AM

Maybe a 1988 Prestige set that contains the Olympic silver dollar? Keeps the Olympic theme and provides some very nice cameoed coins. Istanbul was outstanding. I ended up at the Karadeniz Technical University in Trabzon (right on the Black Sea) very close to the Georgia and Iran borders. The University was interesting - patroled by black-clad guards carrying submachine guns. Don't think that would fly here. One of the most interesting people I met was a Kazakstani professor (female) - quite outlandish - she drank like a fish, danced and sang. Quite a sight to behold. It brought back memories of the first Indiana Jones movie where they had a drinking competition at the (Mongolian?) bar.

mhammerman · July 13, 2007 12:50AM

Just to add a little to the discussion...

I've been studying a combat form of tai chi for about 8 years and study under a grand master with lineage, we call him "Master". He is from interior China and came up in the rural, traditional way, he's 57 now and his english still sucks and he still can't write in english and he's been here more than 10 years in the US. It is customary for students to give Master gifts. People give him inks with rice paper for calligraphy, fine teas, Chinese wines and generally, nice things that he wouldn't probably buy for himself. Some of the gifts I have given him over the years includes a trade dollar, a morgan, and most recently, an '07 SAE. He was very happy with the ASE. I have found that the Chinese value silver as a gift, I won't say they like it more than gold but silver has always been a traditional and well accpeted gift. A silver US coin is an excellent gift and the ASE was a suprise hit so...there ya' go.

Coin ON!

Pentimento · July 13, 2007 1:01AM

<< I'd love to see what the "experts" in etiquette have as the corresponding protocols for Americans:

*Conversation during a meal should focus on your crappy day and Paris Hilton's latest escapade
*It is customary to arrive pretty much when you want, then complain that the food's cold/gone.
*When dining in a restaurant, discussing illness, death, or tragic events is typical
*Wildly flail your arms, lips, eyes, and feet at every possibility. The more a spectacle you can make of yourself, the better.
*Gift Giving is for Christmas and Bar Mitzvahs. But pick up something nice. And leave the receipt in the box.
*At Christmas and Bar Mitzvahs, gifts are often exchanged. At the store, for credit. Not with each other. That's what the receipt was for.
*Trader Joes always has Charles Shaw wines. >>

ROFL! Made my morning! >>

That was a pretty funny post .

Julian · July 13, 2007 1:04AM

I have sold coins to people that were going abroad.

Normally, it has been items in the $20 range, and was to be given to attendees at conferences, or business associates that they were visiting.

I have always provided exactly the same item for each group. Silver Eagles, one time, Bi-centennial proof sets, another.

pxli · July 13, 2007 1:05AM

<< I have found that the Chinese value silver as a gift >>

I agree with that. So bring some silver state quarters and emphasize they are silver coins. Also any gift you bring has to be made in USA. Avoid any gift that is made in China.

CaptHenway · July 13, 2007 1:27AM

<< You could bring them a bunch of phony Trade Dollars purchased from the flea market or E-Bay...... >>

.....dipped in rat poison........

LALASD4 · July 13, 2007 2:14AM

General Cultural Tips
• Conversation during a meal should focus heavily on giving compliments to the chef. Only if the host is the cook.

But don't say the food is bad either way.

• It is customary to arrive slightly early for social engagements. Agreed.

• When dining in a restaurant, discussing illness, death or tragic events is not appropriate as it is seen as bad luck. You only discuss that with close friends.

• The Chinese do not typically use exaggerated gestures or facial expressions while speaking, and may find them distracting when done by others. I think it is true in the South.

• Gift giving is important and somewhat ritualized. Avoid gifts of great value, as they may embarrass a Chinese person and may be declined. Expensive gifts are only accepted from close friends.

• People often decline a gift several times before accepting it. Be persistent until they accept. True.

• It is customary to bring a gift when invited to someone's home such as fruit, candy or a souvenir from your home country. Usually fruit or candy.

Barry · July 13, 2007 3:47AM

I vote for Chinese made Trade Dollars. What goes around, comes around...

Also, don't eat anything from any street vendors. I read an article on cnn.com recently saying their dumplings are made of 50% cardboard!

PerryHall · July 13, 2007 3:53AM

<< I read an article on cnn.com recently saying their dumplings are made of 50% cardboard! >>

Good source of fiber in your diet.

LALASD4 · July 13, 2007 3:55AM

Tastewise, the food here taste like cardboard. I had a friend traveled with me one time into the rural areas and he would eat nothing but vegetables after seeing all the different animals they had in the markets.

I wish they have real Chinese food here.

Elcontador · July 13, 2007 4:15AM

Cultural tip #1: Do what a former employer of mine did - Go up to people, slap them on the back, and inquire, "how you doin', boy?"Yes, he actually did this.

Cultural tip #2: Belch loudly at a meal, in some parts of the world, this is considered to be a compliment to the chef.

Gift - I believe in karma. I'd give them some tainted Chinese toothpaste, fake Trade dollars, or a defective automobile tire (all made in China). Or, you can bring a pirated video of Paris Hilton doing what she does best.

Eating - Whatever it is, make sure that they eat it first, and wait awhile before you start eating.

PM me if you want to learn an obscenity or two (don't know many more than that).

au58 · July 13, 2007 4:24AM

SOME coins may be suitable to give to SOME of your hosts.
The gift should reflect you as a person, not you as a representative of the U.S. (unless you are there as part of a delegation) or some sort of U.S./China exchange program or goodwill venture.

CaptHenway · July 13, 2007 4:38AM

<< I vote for Chinese made Trade Dollars. What goes around, comes around...

Also, don't eat anything from any street vendors. I read an article on cnn.com recently saying their dumplings are made of 50% cardboard! >>

Actually, it was 60% ground cardboard, and 40% pork fat as a binder. This was for the "bun" of some dish that was the cultural equivalent of a pushcart hot dog.
TD

BAJJERFAN · July 13, 2007 6:14AM

<< However, handshaking is also common and appropriate. - Universal >>

Is it ok to say "don't hand me that chit"?

mrearlygold · July 13, 2007 8:23AM

Offer to buy lunch

Beijing steamed buns include cardboard

BEIJING - Chopped cardboard, softened with an industrial chemical and flavored with fatty pork and powdered seasoning, is a main ingredient in batches of steamed buns sold in one Beijing neighborhood, state television said.

The report, aired late Wednesday on China Central Television, highlights the country's problems with food safety despite government efforts to improve the situation.

Countless small, often illegally run operations exist across China and make money cutting corners by using inexpensive ingredients or unsavory substitutes. They are almost impossible to regulate.

State TV's undercover investigation features the shirtless, shorts-clad maker of the buns, called baozi, explaining the contents of the product sold in Beijing's sprawling Chaoyang district.

Baozi are a common snack in China, with an outer skin made from wheat or rice flour and and a filling of sliced pork. Cooked by steaming in immense bamboo baskets, they are similar to but usually much bigger than the dumplings found on dim sum menus familiar to many Americans.

The hidden camera follows the man, whose face is not shown, into a ramshackle building where steamers are filled with the fluffy white buns, traditionally stuffed with minced pork.

The surroundings are filthy, with water puddles and piles of old furniture and cardboard on the ground.

"What's in the recipe?" the reporter asks. "Six to four," the man says.

"You mean 60 percent cardboard? What is the other 40 percent?" asks the reporter. "Fatty meat," the man replies.

The bun maker and his assistants then give a demonstration on how the product is made.

Squares of cardboard picked from the ground are first soaked to a pulp in a plastic basin of caustic soda — a chemical base commonly used in manufacturing paper and soap — then chopped into tiny morsels with a cleaver. Fatty pork and powdered seasoning are stirred in.

Soon, steaming servings of the buns appear on the screen. The reporter takes a bite.

LINKY

CaptHenway · July 13, 2007 3:11PM

Yum!

oxy8890 · July 13, 2007 3:35PM

<< You could bring them a bunch of phony Trade Dollars purchased from the flea market or E-Bay...... >>

It suggested a souvenir from your home country not something originally from their home country!

oxy8890 · July 13, 2007 3:42PM

<< I'd love to see what the "experts" in etiquette have as the corresponding protocols for Americans:

*Conversation during a meal should focus on your crappy day and Paris Hilton's latest escapade
*It is customary to arrive pretty much when you want, then complain that the food's cold/gone.
*When dining in a restaurant, discussing illness, death, or tragic events is typical
*Wildly flail your arms, lips, eyes, and feet at every possibility. The more a spectacle you can make of yourself, the better.
*Gift Giving is for Christmas and Bar Mitzvahs. But pick up something nice. And leave the receipt in the box.
*At Christmas and Bar Mitzvahs, gifts are often exchanged. At the store, for credit. Not with each other. That's what the receipt was for.
*Trader Joes always has Charles Shaw wines. >>

That's Funny!!!

Writersblock · July 14, 2007 1:37AM

<< and maybe some of those nice steamed buns made from cardboard, assorted chemicals and pig fat >>

While over here we make high fiber bread for the health conscience by adding in sawdust.

WTCG · July 14, 2007 1:53AM

The points on ettiquite are fairly accurate although a few more should be considered as well. Do not wear too much white (such as a white sport coat), do not play with or stab your food with chopsticks, and do not give clocks as gifts. I believe that coins (such as the presidential dollars, state quarters and silver eagles) make great gifts for foreign contacts regardless of their country of origin.

In Asian customs it is considered greedy to accept gifts from others without declining them a few times at first. Be persistent and your gift will be accepted with gratitude after a few refusals. Reciprocate the gesture when you are offered something.

I don't think giving a portrait of George Bush would win you fans in China fast. It's about as exciting for them to receive a portait of W as you are of receiving a portait of Hu Jintao in return.

I just received some “charm school” guidelines for China—have you ever given US coins as gifts when

Comments

Leave a Comment