Taiwan
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Taiwan?
We asked people in Taiwan if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"My first Chinese New Year I was invited to dinner at my local friend's house. I had been eating and drinking at a large table with the host's family and friends, when my friend suggested I go to a smaller, vegetarian table to meet one of his cousins who had been living in Australia. At that table the guests invited me to share in their vegetarian dishes. I took food from the communal bowls as is the custom in Chinese society. However, it wasn't until the next day that my friend informed me that I had used the same chopsticks as I had used at the non-vegetarian table, which I hadn't even considered. Although the guests were concerned enough to tell my friend about it, they didn't want me to lose face. I was pretty embarrassed nonetheless," explained one expat living in Taoyuan, Taiwan.
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"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when visiting Taiwan. It is considered rude to point with your index finger, so it is best to use an open hand when gesturing. It is also important to be respectful of religious sites and to dress modestly when visiting temples. It is also important to take off your shoes when entering someone's home. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to dining etiquette, such as waiting to be invited to eat and not starting to eat until the host has begun. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local customs when it comes to gift-giving, such as not giving sharp objects or white flowers as gifts," said another expat in Taiwan.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Taiwan?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Taiwan?
- Will I be able to find a job in Taiwan?
- What is life like in Taiwan?
- What do expats in Taiwan appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Taiwan?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Taiwan accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Taiwan like?
- What are healthcare services like in Taiwan?
- What are medical services in Taiwan like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Taiwan?
- What are emergency services like in Taiwan?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Taiwan?
- How are local medical facilities in Taiwan?
- As a foreigner living in Taiwan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Taiwan?
If you live in Taiwan, newcomers to Taiwan would love to hear your answer to this question.
