Yeah, I don't think that Taiwanese people would actually frown upon farmers in general. I say they probably appreciate them. It's just that sandals/flip-flops are informal.
@@jamiehush Yeah many people in India wear flip-flops during the rainy season in some cities. But it is IMPOSSIBLE in many other industries where you have to deal with people during work hours. I will look funny if you are a banker and your customer see walking with like that...haha
I went everywhere in sandals (except school obviously) but I guess no one told me anything was because I was in the South hahaha My first host parents told me to never talk about politics and my third host family asked me immediately when I arrived "Any thoughts on China?" I knew they were Chinese so I didn't even think and answered "I've never been on mainland China..." they answered "We are from China, it's a bad place, don't go there, stay in Taiwan." RELIEVED
Melooffee - maybe your 3rd host family tried to trick you into telling them what you really think about them so that they know what kind of person you are. Sometimes some people do that just to feed their ego. I'm just saying.... and sometimes they have other reason. But it's NEVER good(for your safety) to even mention about politic/government or high official in Asia. I randomly happened to saw and read this one article about a Canadian-Cambodia guy went to Laos. He said something about the Cambodia government while he was in Laos and couple days later he got killed. It was really scary. Best things are to say nice things about the country.
Re the wearing sandals thing, I think the main reason behind it, it’s the Taiwanese work ethics which has been influenced hugely by the Japanese. Wearing sandals can give people the impression of being laid-back and this is especially not good when you are in the job position that requires face-to-face interaction and an extent of expertise (and maybe also authority) such as teacher, civil servant and banking sector. My suggestion is that at the occasion you want to show ‘you take it seriously’ then do not wear sandals, otherwise, sandals are quite acceptable in general life (cinema, restaurant, high street shop). For talking politics, I am quite surprised that you said foreigners are 'not' advised to talk politics!! I think the main quality that distinguishes Taiwan from China is that you actually can talk politics a lot! Having said that, you need to understand the issue of identity is somewhat sensitive and the fact that recently over 60% of the population (for the population under 40, the percentage is even as high as 80%) state that they exclusively identify with Taiwanese (not Chinese or both Taiwanese and Chinese). This is a situation opposite to how it was 10 years ago. I would say if you want to bring up the topic of politics (I am assuming you are referring to the traditional politics or ‘political party politics’) then you are expected to have an extent of knowledge in Taiwanese politics (such as the basic understanding of the KMT, DPP and New Power party) to conduct a meaningful discussion. I just want to say talking politics won’t get you any trouble (and reply to the other comment below, Taiwan is a part of East Asia where most countries have true democracy except N. Korea and China. The situation here is different from Southeast Asia) but it is not an easy topic to talk about (for both some Taiwanese and so-called ‘foreigners’). I think it is just like you don’t normally talk how you like/dislike the Tory and Jeremy Corbyn with your colleague or neighbour or etc.) in the U.K. Final thoughts, if you stay on the island long enough and you do identify with the lifestyle, language and the ways the Islanders do, then I guess most Taiwanese are willing to call you a Taiwanese provided they know you deep enough (not only judging on the facial features). the identity survey: esc.nccu.edu.tw/app/news.php?Sn=166 also head to sentinel.tw/ to see how Taiwanese politics is 'talked' by J Michael Cole.
hey! Im actually about to leave to go to Taiwan on exchange and i was wondering if you could give me some tips? like what kind of gifts should i bring my host family, or how did you talk to them when you first got there if they didn't speak english? two years later but hopefully you see this haha
@@jesslynn3206 Two years later and I'm still here! I brought my host families food from Belgium. I brought beer, chocolate, sweets and a CD of Pop Belgian Music that was huge at the time. I don't think they ever listened to the CD so it might be a bad gift but food was a huge success! You can also bring a recipe book. You'll notice quickly you don't need English to make yourself understand in the beginning and miming will be your main way of communication until it moves to miming and saying the Chinese word at the same time. You'll be speaking Chinese in no time if you spend time with your classmates and host families, they'll teach you silly songs, teach you the pronunciation and all that with a big smile on their face.
Jason as a chinese (not from China) sticking chopsticks into rice looks horrible on its own. Don't even talk about the superstition. It's like sticking a fork and knife in a steak and leaving it there for all to see
@@AO-iv6yr But the chopsticks roll off the bowl, whereas a knife and fork rest easily on a plate. Sticking a spoon in the middle of a bowl of pasta might be considered similar - one would 'tuck it in' to the side (and it would look 'odd' or even perhaps rude), but again, this is practical. Don't get me wrong - I observe the tradition and don't put chopsticks sticking out of my bowls, but have thought about it logically.
as a young Taiwanese , I have never heard of the moon.Then my elementary teacher’s signature is also a red pen.Because you go to the temple and have a strong religious belief, you will be corrected.Taiwanese are friendly and kind. Welcome to Taiwan.
I agree! Taiwanese are very kind. Culture is great! Food is mouthwatering! I had been to Taipei thrice already. And I’m planning to go back again. I think I’m in love with your country!
Thank you for giving me a chance to practice my English listening. Because I have a little knowledge of the topic, I can catch the point quickly. It makes me more comfortable when I practice my bad English.
Here in the Nordic countries (Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark) we also take our shoes off when entering our homes. It is quite understandable though: when winter snow is stuck in your shoes, it would make floors very wet just walking with the boots on.
There are also two other very "obvious" things not to do in Poland, the same as in Taiwan: - taking off shoes when walking into someone's house (it's usually very strange to stay in shoes in your own home too) - not declining a gift not from your close relative or friend (and sometimes even from your close relative or friend)
I went Taiwan many times, and I cant agree with all that you said. For example when you greet with someone you dont know (in meetings, friends of friend etc.) you should shake hands and bow a little bit with your head at the same time with smile( if you are meeting some person that has high position, you should bow much more). also when you receive gifts you should do the same (bow for respect that someone gave you something). Its what I notice travelling around taiwan, just my experiences, maybe it works different city to city.
Damn I coulda used this a few years ago when I went to meet my wife’s family. Well I get the opportunity to shine again on Christmas. Wish me luck. 1st and 2nd sister are coming with the fam.
actually about the sandal and flip flop thing, it's that people here associate them with laziness and things that are not formal....it's the same idea of wearing suit and ties in formal occasions...
I think the stubbornness of accepting gifts easily extends to paying for meals. I remember being embarrassed as a kid watching "mock fights" and sneaky maneuvers my parents would have with family friends at restaurants to be the one to pay the bill first.
As a Navajo/Pueblo we don't point at the moon and rainbow. We just mention them if we want another person to look at the moon or rainbow. When we get a gift, we find a gift (of the same value) to return the gesture. We have taboos and superstitions too. No owls (eg.home decors, as a pet, artworks etc.)...major taboo because owls are a bad "sign."
Nathan's information is quite accurate among the older generation, but you should make friends your age and ask them what they think. For most of taboo things mentioned in this video, it is not a big deal. But you should always take off your shoes in someone's house.
About the gift-giving, I immediately accept it due to some of them get offended when you don't. They have the impression that you don't appreciate their efforts. Thank them and make sure they felt the sincerity of your gladness for the gift. They're genuinely happy for being appreciated.
Thanks for sharing this information! I`m going to Taiwan in a few days and I was afraid I could make some mistakes during the first days. I love your channel :)
PLEASE make a video showing Taiwanese street fashion. I'm curious how it's different from Mainland China street fashion. I know punk rock was the trend 10 years ago and hip hop is the trend today.
I am a Taiwanese American and yes the last tip is a big one. I see it with my parents and my uncles and aunts and now even with myself and my friends. It is common practice to decline a gift or even the last item from a dish, almost as a way to demonstrate delight and surprise at an unnecessary act of kindness from someone. Declining a few times and then accepting it is basically equivalent in western culture to be a "Oh really? For me? Naw, you didn't have to" = a sign of strong appreciation and gratitude.
I see some fellow Taiwanese disagree with the last one. So it may actually vary from city to city or even person to person. It may also depend on the circumstance. From my understanding, if someone much older than you or is in a higher position of authority than you (e.g. grandpa, teacher, boss) offers you a gift, you probably should accept it right away as a sign of respect. If you are offering a gift to someone around the same age or someone you are close to. , it is probably more likely that this "decline, decline, accept rule" applies.
Oh gosh, pointing at the moon, it's a big no no here ~ hahaha I'm actually half Taiwanese, and I didn't know anything about until one day I pointed at the moon in front of my GIRLFRIEND!!!! Then I got a hand mark on my face soon after that. LOL
The escalator etiquette is generally the same in Ontario, Canada; but it depends a bit on how many East Asian people frequent where you are. These sorts of things only work well when compliance is very high; if even one person on your escalator is in the wrong lane and doesn't know or care, then it's all for naught.
The escalator thing in Japan is the other way around (stand on the left to let people pass you on the right). In Australia (and as far as I can tell, here in China), you just stand wherever you like.
It depends, usually people don’t care and you just try to gauge the situation. I’ve had a couple instances where I ended up “dancing” with people because we both were trying to go the same way, and it always ends in a laugh, never anger. Although I guess this could depend on where you are at, I’ve only ever lived in the rural south (where I grew up and back at now) and California (about 1 1/2 years to 2 years)
Bowing culture actually originated in China but only Korea and Japan kept the custom whereas Chinese people Westernized their greeting more. Bowing is still used in certain formal occasions such as weddings, funerals, apologies, New Years, respect to elders. It is customary to slightly nod or lower your head downwards when greeting, saying goodbye, or thanking someone in Taiwan.
We filipinos follow the "stand on the right,walk on the left"law in our country the Philippines too.I think it is more convenient for different people in my country.
If only people actually did lol. I’ve been living in the Philippines for 7 years now, not once did I see a packed escalator where everyone did follow the rules. But let’s be real, not just Filipinos but most people from different countries just don’t give a crap, it’s just that Taiwan and Japan are an oddity in this specific scenario.
I think most is correct but there are a few things. The pedestrian crossings have improved a lot. Most city drivers yield these days. Talking about politics may not work well if you are a foreigner asking. It may seem arrogant or intrusive. But normally politics is often talked about and the news have shows discussing or mocking politics. And about bowing. It is incredibly important. Perhaps, since you appear as a foreigner they don't expect you to bow, but lowering of the head while or before shaking hands is customary. Bowing is still quite common when thanking someone, rejecting a gift, saying goodbye, bumping someone in the metro etc. most greetings are done with small bow unless you are formally meeting someone. there are various degrees of bows and normally a 25-45 degree bow or a deeper head nod is sufficient. 90 degree is for a formal or corporate apology only.
I'm ethnically Chinese and southeast Asian it just doesn't look nice to wear thongs (what we call flip flops in Australia) in formal or public places. I know here In Australia it might be ok to wear thongs to many places but it is just quite rude to wear thongs to work in the first place. Same things for compliments as for gifts - asians tend to be very unassuming so we don't like to immediately say 'thank you' or cheers when someone compliments us - we tend to decline the compliment or say we are not. However on the whole, chinese culture (including Taiwan or any overseas Chinese community) is much less rigid than Japanese or Korean culture so you have more space to 'be yourself'. There are some negative things about chinese culture/behaviours though that I do not like myself eg some Chinese people like to scrutinise others without scrutinising/criticising themselves first or weighing their words before speaking even in just plain social situations.
@@motoliao Indeed, each gift should always be returned by a gift to make the situation equal...also, gifts are not 'opened' in front of givers, but later, so they do not appear greedy.
My parent have always taught me there’s time for everything. It depends on what occasion it is. Dress appropriately in showing respect for yourself and to others is very important . Asian parents don’t like to lose face toward anyone especially when it’s comes to family relatives or friends.
Some of the thing mentioned here I have not heard of in my 25 years in Taiwan. Taiwan is such a mixed country, everyone has their own culture. No flip flops to school, but I saw Chinese teacher with very short shorts? Very strange?
The escalator thing is pretty common in big cities in the UK. London for example many people are rushing around, so many people stand to one side to let other people pass through if they are busy. Also the UK is the birth of the queuing culture. In some other countries around the world the queuing concept doesn't exist and this quite surprised me.
the escalator thing is only in Taipei, so when people from other cities see someone standing on the right side of the escalator, they immediately know this person is from Taipei lol
Do not wear sandals or flip flops to work, or any kind of formal occasion or formal setting - Gee, it is like that in the west also, at office workplaces, especially for men.
I would say, 90% of people understand that you are a foreigner, they don‘t expect you to know these already, they would give you time to learn the culture. You only need to know to take off your shoes when entering someone‘s house. So, relax!! Haha... just my opinion. Nathan, always love your video, excellent quality.
Chris Lee I agree. Most of them are very understanding & accommodating and don't expect you to be familiar with all the ins and outs of the culture. Cheers!
If you're traveling somewhere, you should research the local customs. But I agree, they shouldn't expect you to know every single custom and the local language. Taiwanese are much more lenient, then Japanese and Koreans when it comes to foreigners and local customs.
Something my school does is when a student hurts another student (accident or otherwise), they will have the offending student say sorry and then bow to the other. I wonder if bowing is more apologetic here in Taiwan?
In capitalist America, people stand wherever they heckin please on an escalator. It's actually incredibly obnoxious. People also stop in the center of intersections of major aisles in crowded stores to just wait, talk amongst a group, or look stare into space. That's also annoying. A lot of these things don't even seem like they should be chalked up to cultural differences...it seems like if you are just polite and aware of your surroundings much of these things will fall into place. Think about others and your behavior in the context of whatever system you are participating in/utilizing. I'm sure a large part is rural/urban as well. For instance we rural folk in the US are easily spotted in US cities due to our inability to move in a crowd or where to stand out of the way when not moving.
In Ireland it is also bad luck to write your name in red. From my area anyway and also the whistling at night (my Nigerian friend also says they don't whistle at night in Nigeria.)
In regard to eating, in most Asian cultures, unless the dish calls for filleted fish/shell-less prawns/boneless meat, the default is to use meat on the bone/with the shell because to Asians the bone or the shell gives the dish flavour. Of course, no one eats the bones. It is also normal to see people people picking meat out of bony parts with their mouth (spitting out the bones), cutlery or hands and this is considered normal and not rude. In traditional Asian cuisine, filleted meat is considered inferior because you don't taste the whole animal, you don't get as much depth of flavour and isn't nice to the eyes because you don't see the meat for what it is (with the bones). Also, off-cuts are prized in Asia because of their more complex flavour and acquired taste - hence why chicken breast may be revered in Western cuisine but isn't as appetising to the Asian palate.
Not talking about death or politics is not true. I asked my Taiwanese friends (in Taiwan) and they didn't hear about it, one mentioned it's on TV all the time: politics, death (accidents) so that's definitely something you only encounter with very VERY few people here, if ever. I actually found they love to discuss politics, local politics as well as international. Talking about a funeral, death due to accidents etc is also not too unusual, as I said it's on the news and those strippers at funerals are also well known
In the US people tend to stay to the right to allow others to pass on an escalator, but it's less formal here. If a person wants to pass, s/he might just say "excuse me" if someone is in the way. On the flat "moving sidewalk" machines, staying to the right is more of a rule.
Escalators- Nope! It is considered very rude where I live in the United States to walk past someone on an escalator. You are considered pushy, inconsiderate, and again, rude. You might cause an elderly person, someone who is ill, or a parent holding a child to be harmed because you feel your time is more important than courtesy or manners.
All depends then how you walk by a person yet if the person takes up the whole escalator as well. I carry huge tool cases with me and always ensure I tuck in to the right so people can get buy or if poss take a lift but yet I find very often there are rude people blocking the way because they think the world evolves around them. Escalators in train stations and metros should not be blocked the traffic going through them and people rushing for a train when travelling sometimes results in missing a train then the plane and possibly losing huge amounts of money. In shopping malls I'd get your point people aren't in a rush there.
well, actually our government(Taiwan) wants us not to do that anymore, it will make escalator break down much sooner because of uneven pressure, but we just didn't change that.
In Singapore, we are asked to stand on the left side. I went to Melbourne Australia years ago, a youngster scolded a group of Chinese tourists harshly because they did not stand at the side but blocking his way down the escalator.
It's funny about the flip flops because the new trendy thing in the USA is to wear flip flops to work on Fridays even with your dress suits. We also have casual Friday which you can dress down depends where you work you may not be able to wear jeans. But most offices you can.i find the refusing the gifts annoying and childish ugh.
Taiwan and many other Asian countries are well-organized society and behaving accordingly to certain customs and laws is expected from everyone, locals or visitors alike. Western countries are a free country and you can do everything you want to do as long as it is legal. What is legal in the West can be illegal in Asia. In the USA and many Western countries, possession of fire arms is fairly easy to obtain and is legal as long as you get a license. Many Asian countries are like nanny states which I think is fine.
I thought you weren't supposed to walk and move on escalators. In Iran, it is often mentioned not to move on escalators. Peopel might do that if they are in a hurry but it's not a thing. Tipping is also not a thing, here. We also take off our shoes in IRan before going to anyone's house, unless the owner says it's fine to wear shoes. Not accepting a gift soon, totally a thing here. It's called Ta'arof in Iran. You can look it up. And the bow thing, I didn't know it was mainly a Japanese thing since I think I've seen people do that either in dramas, either in chinese tv shows.
Unlike some Western cultures, it is very normal for Chinese people to talk about food and critique food. Of course, it may not be too appropriate to critique food your friend has cooked for you though many aren't ashamed of doing so. Talking about food and eating is a sort of recreation (surpasses sport, politics etc) in Asia whilst this may not be the case in certain Western cultures.
Hi. In my company in Taipei, many people (include Taiwanese) wear sandals or flip-flops! I have done during summertime. I have not seen any problem so far! Working in an international engineering company
In Australia since we follow the British system of driving on the left we stand on the left on the escalator and let the right pass. Most of the world doesn't tip including UK and Australia - its mainly the Americans who tip.
I got THREE GHOSTS following me after whistling at night! I went to a buddist temple on 貓空山 Maokong in southern part of Taipei, then, Bao An Temple 保安宮, and finally a Taoist Master near Yuanshan in Taipei,, he exonerated me in the eyes of the ghosts and i got back to normal immediately NO MONEY was involved. I LOVE Taiwan!
As a Taiwanese, I think I can answer this question based on my understanding. I think the main point of the video is that when you first met the locals, it is not a good choice to start with a political topic. In addition, what the video does not make clear is, that politics is not a taboo. In fact, in modern times, especially in the younger generation, most people do not shy away from talking about social issues, but also cares about social and political topics. Talking about this is not taboo, just not as a topic in the first stage of understanding. And I think the depth of talking about politics also depends on the individual, at least in my echo chamber, this topic is not taboo. But I believe there are some Taiwanese with different experiences and views about it. After all, a society with different voices is also the cornerstone of democracy.
As an extension to discussing politics, certain colors are strongly associated with the 2 major parties there. Namely, green is associated with the DPP (民進黨) and blue with KMT (國民黨). This is the same with newspapers and news channels, as I’m sure is the case in many other countries. Outlets such as 聯合報 and 華視 tends to lean towards blue, while others such as 自由時報 and 民視 tends to lean towards green. At hotels, it is interesting to see which newspapers are left out for the guests, and there is a subtle geographical trend to this as well.
Practically all of the teachers at my school and my girlfriends school wear flip flops, it seems to be the norm and I would be very surprised if my boss told me I shouldn't wear them. Perhaps other schools are different.
Thanks for bringing it up mate. It's always good to get additional points of view on various topics. I have heard of schools here and there which don't mind. I think it depends on a few variables, such as the director, where in taiwan you are, the actual establishment itself & the clientele etc... It's more of a generalisation based on a combination of my experiences & research. Cheers!
Hi, great video. I know its 2021. But, I think bowing is OK. It's just a matter of do you pull it off? Sometimes taiwanese don't know if you are 'trying too hard' or if you don't like it. Kind of like do it if you really want to. It is true to not too readily accept a gift. It is hard to explain. But play the game and it will be internalized eventually. I think some westerners are rather cool. They might appreciate this. Rather than a quick grabbing the gift and thank you it is more played out (role played). I think chinese like to give nice gifts/things of value, they are quieter, thoughtful, want and like appreciation.
I believe that is done in most countries, including here in the US, except in shopping malls. I don’t know why, but shoppers are the only people here who never stand on the right side.
Talking about proper behavior on escalators - you should not do it in Poland either :-) - it would be very rude to block the escalator. Exceptions are when the escalator stairs are anyway blocked, usually in shopping centers and rather not in metro stations.
"sort of like a game for them" Well, it is not a game for us. If we ever want to give you something, that's because we really wanted to. There is no games in gifting something to someone. If you reject it the first time, we will think that you are too shy to accept and therefore we try again. Now who's game are we playing? Just accept the gift with grace and sincerity the next time. It's not a fun game.
Would you like to collaborate cause I am Taiwanese but studying in England at the moment... I am returning back to Taiwan soon hence I would like to collaborate with someone that is english and look "english" Cause I look Taiwanese cause I am hence it might not work, if you intrusted plz do reply :)
Interesting opinions. Pointing at the moon is now scoffed at by most people. Cab drivers love tips if you give them. The sandals and flip flops one for work I get. But weddings? The majority of weddings I have been to people wear bermuda shorts, flip flops and 99nt t-shirts (basically beach wear). I made the mistake of wearing a full suit mid-summer once...never again. I don't go as far as the flip flop wearing locals but I dress more casual to weddings nowadays. The shoe indoors one makes me laugh. During an adult class a few years back I mentioned this to my students. I assumed it was a religious thing and they laughed and said it was just because they didn't want a dirty floor. I lost a tiny bit of respect for people who ask you to do that simply because they can't be arsed to mop the floor. In the West we don't ask people the same , when in fact carpet is far more expensive and time consuming to clean than laminate flooring.
Talking politics is fine. Go to a wedding in a roadside tent in southern Taiwan. You’ll quickly notice flip-flops are perfectly ok to wear at weddings.
Last last but not least, do not call your elders by their first name. Do not use their first name. They are auntie or uncle or anything else but not by their name. My niece is from Taiwan I am not called by my name ever
farmers are the most important part of a country and should be respected just like doctors etc. they feed the country
No
Yeah, I don't think that Taiwanese people would actually frown upon farmers in general. I say they probably appreciate them. It's just that sandals/flip-flops are informal.
@@redhidinghood9337 yes, you butt holes have no idea where you get your food from do you? 💀💀
I’m pretty sure wearing flip flops to work or a wedding is a stupid ass idea in every country on the planet haha.
You can get away with it as a software engineer in California. I agree though, it’s a stupid ass idea
Yeah, even when I worked at an office in Hawaii I wouldn’t have been able to get away with it.
@@jamiehush Yeah many people in India wear flip-flops during the rainy season in some cities. But it is IMPOSSIBLE in many other industries where you have to deal with people during work hours. I will look funny if you are a banker and your customer see walking with like that...haha
I went everywhere in sandals (except school obviously) but I guess no one told me anything was because I was in the South hahaha
My first host parents told me to never talk about politics and my third host family asked me immediately when I arrived "Any thoughts on China?" I knew they were Chinese so I didn't even think and answered "I've never been on mainland China..." they answered "We are from China, it's a bad place, don't go there, stay in Taiwan." RELIEVED
Melooffee I often wear flip flops when going out & walking around outside in summer.
Melooffee - maybe your 3rd host family tried to trick you into telling them what you really think about them so that they know what kind of person you are. Sometimes some people do that just to feed their ego. I'm just saying.... and sometimes they have other reason. But it's NEVER good(for your safety) to even mention about politic/government or high official in Asia. I randomly happened to saw and read this one article about a Canadian-Cambodia guy went to Laos. He said something about the Cambodia government while he was in Laos and couple days later he got killed. It was really scary. Best things are to say nice things about the country.
Re the wearing sandals thing, I think the main reason behind it, it’s the Taiwanese work ethics which has been influenced hugely by the Japanese. Wearing sandals can give people the impression of being laid-back and this is especially not good when you are in the job position that requires face-to-face interaction and an extent of expertise (and maybe also authority) such as teacher, civil servant and banking sector. My suggestion is that at the occasion you want to show ‘you take it seriously’ then do not wear sandals, otherwise, sandals are quite acceptable in general life (cinema, restaurant, high street shop). For talking politics, I am quite surprised that you said foreigners are 'not' advised to talk politics!! I think the main quality that distinguishes Taiwan from China is that you actually can talk politics a lot! Having said that, you need to understand the issue of identity is somewhat sensitive and the fact that recently over 60% of the population (for the population under 40, the percentage is even as high as 80%) state that they exclusively identify with Taiwanese (not Chinese or both Taiwanese and Chinese). This is a situation opposite to how it was 10 years ago. I would say if you want to bring up the topic of politics (I am assuming you are referring to the traditional politics or ‘political party politics’) then you are expected to have an extent of knowledge in Taiwanese politics (such as the basic understanding of the KMT, DPP and New Power party) to conduct a meaningful discussion. I just want to say talking politics won’t get you any trouble (and reply to the other comment below, Taiwan is a part of East Asia where most countries have true democracy except N. Korea and China. The situation here is different from Southeast Asia) but it is not an easy topic to talk about (for both some Taiwanese and so-called ‘foreigners’). I think it is just like you don’t normally talk how you like/dislike the Tory and Jeremy Corbyn with your colleague or neighbour or etc.) in the U.K. Final thoughts, if you stay on the island long enough and you do identify with the lifestyle, language and the ways the Islanders do, then I guess most Taiwanese are willing to call you a Taiwanese provided they know you deep enough (not only judging on the facial features). the identity survey: esc.nccu.edu.tw/app/news.php?Sn=166 also head to sentinel.tw/ to see how Taiwanese politics is 'talked' by J Michael Cole.
hey! Im actually about to leave to go to Taiwan on exchange and i was wondering if you could give me some tips? like what kind of gifts should i bring my host family, or how did you talk to them when you first got there if they didn't speak english? two years later but hopefully you see this haha
@@jesslynn3206 Two years later and I'm still here! I brought my host families food from Belgium. I brought beer, chocolate, sweets and a CD of Pop Belgian Music that was huge at the time. I don't think they ever listened to the CD so it might be a bad gift but food was a huge success! You can also bring a recipe book.
You'll notice quickly you don't need English to make yourself understand in the beginning and miming will be your main way of communication until it moves to miming and saying the Chinese word at the same time.
You'll be speaking Chinese in no time if you spend time with your classmates and host families, they'll teach you silly songs, teach you the pronunciation and all that with a big smile on their face.
In Australia we stand on the left hand side of the escalator and leave the right hand side open for those in a rush.
Plus: do not stick your chopstick into rice, in any way.
Jason as a chinese (not from China) sticking chopsticks into rice looks horrible on its own. Don't even talk about the superstition. It's like sticking a fork and knife in a steak and leaving it there for all to see
I did that once as a child and my mom slapped me 🥴🤘
I did that accidentally once and my stepdad yelled at me then gave me a whole lesson🤦
It associated with death
@@AO-iv6yr But the chopsticks roll off the bowl, whereas a knife and fork rest easily on a plate. Sticking a spoon in the middle of a bowl of pasta might be considered similar - one would 'tuck it in' to the side (and it would look 'odd' or even perhaps rude), but again, this is practical. Don't get me wrong - I observe the tradition and don't put chopsticks sticking out of my bowls, but have thought about it logically.
as a young Taiwanese , I have never heard of the moon.Then my elementary teacher’s signature is also a red pen.Because you go to the temple and have a strong religious belief, you will be corrected.Taiwanese are friendly and kind. Welcome to Taiwan.
I agree! Taiwanese are very kind. Culture is great! Food is mouthwatering! I had been to Taipei thrice already. And I’m planning to go back again. I think I’m in love with your country!
I'm french and we do stand on the right in a escalator
i am german and we do it too
I live in the UK and we do that here.
Same here in uk
Thank you for giving me a chance to practice my English listening.
Because I have a little knowledge of the topic, I can catch the point quickly.
It makes me more comfortable when I practice my bad English.
Love the traditional music at the end. Very beautiful temple as well.
Here in the Nordic countries (Finland, Sweden, Norway, Denmark) we also take our shoes off when entering our homes. It is quite understandable though: when winter snow is stuck in your shoes, it would make floors very wet just walking with the boots on.
fraktaalimuoto That makes good sense. Cheers mate!
There are also two other very "obvious" things not to do in Poland, the same as in Taiwan:
- taking off shoes when walking into someone's house (it's usually very strange to stay in shoes in your own home too)
- not declining a gift not from your close relative or friend (and sometimes even from your close relative or friend)
I went Taiwan many times, and I cant agree with all that you said.
For example when you greet with someone you dont know (in meetings, friends of friend etc.) you should shake hands and bow a little bit with your head at the same time with smile( if you are meeting some person that has high position, you should bow much more). also when you receive gifts you should do the same (bow for respect that someone gave you something). Its what I notice travelling around taiwan, just my experiences, maybe it works different city to city.
Hana R Interesting. Thanks for sharing your experiences. It’s always good to get an additional POV about a certain topic.
Also when toasting at a wedding and such it is polite to bow slightly.
I was going to say the same!
Omg i don't know this but I do this all the time when I was in Taipei!!
Thank you. Will be travelling to Taipei with family next year. Your video is very much appreciated
4:25 in Canada we stand to the right on an escalator to let folks go buy on the left. Or at least...the considerate people do.
Damn I coulda used this a few years ago when I went to meet my wife’s family. Well I get the opportunity to shine again on Christmas. Wish me luck. 1st and 2nd sister are coming with the fam.
Good luck!
5:32 in NZ, many people don't even wear shoes in the mall.
In Sweden we line up on the right side of the escalator to let people in a hurry pass by. Same thing with the shoes part.
actually about the sandal and flip flop thing, it's that people here associate them with laziness and things that are not formal....it's the same idea of wearing suit and ties in formal occasions...
Thank you Very much for your Video, I'm living in Taipei Since 2 months ago and This tips help me a lot!
In australia you stand to the left to allow people to pass on the right.
I think the stubbornness of accepting gifts easily extends to paying for meals. I remember being embarrassed as a kid watching "mock fights" and sneaky maneuvers my parents would have with family friends at restaurants to be the one to pay the bill first.
Eileen Lin Haha. It still happens to this day. They’re pros!
@@iamnathank Oh yes! That reminds me of another...if you are invited, you are not expected to pay at all.
As a Navajo/Pueblo we don't point at the moon and rainbow. We just mention them if we want another person to look at the moon or rainbow. When we get a gift, we find a gift (of the same value) to return the gesture. We have taboos and superstitions too. No owls (eg.home decors, as a pet, artworks etc.)...major taboo because owls are a bad "sign."
I just arrived in Taiwan, so this is useful information.
Nathan's information is quite accurate among the older generation, but you should make friends your age and ask them what they think. For most of taboo things mentioned in this video, it is not a big deal. But you should always take off your shoes in someone's house.
About the gift-giving, I immediately accept it due to some of them get offended when you don't. They have the impression that you don't appreciate their efforts. Thank them and make sure they felt the sincerity of your gladness for the gift. They're genuinely happy for being appreciated.
Thanks for sharing this information! I`m going to Taiwan in a few days and I was afraid I could make some mistakes during the first days. I love your channel :)
Safe travels
PLEASE make a video showing Taiwanese street fashion. I'm curious how it's different from Mainland China street fashion. I know punk rock was the trend 10 years ago and hip hop is the trend today.
Actually, hip hop was already the trend in Taiwan when I was in high school 20 years ago. It might still be, I don’t know.
I am a Taiwanese American and yes the last tip is a big one. I see it with my parents and my uncles and aunts and now even with myself and my friends. It is common practice to decline a gift or even the last item from a dish, almost as a way to demonstrate delight and surprise at an unnecessary act of kindness from someone. Declining a few times and then accepting it is basically equivalent in western culture to be a "Oh really? For me? Naw, you didn't have to" = a sign of strong appreciation and gratitude.
I see some fellow Taiwanese disagree with the last one. So it may actually vary from city to city or even person to person. It may also depend on the circumstance. From my understanding, if someone much older than you or is in a higher position of authority than you (e.g. grandpa, teacher, boss) offers you a gift, you probably should accept it right away as a sign of respect. If you are offering a gift to someone around the same age or someone you are close to. , it is probably more likely that this "decline, decline, accept rule" applies.
Oh gosh, pointing at the moon, it's a big no no here ~ hahaha
I'm actually half Taiwanese, and I didn't know anything about until one day I pointed at the moon in front of my GIRLFRIEND!!!!
Then I got a hand mark on my face soon after that. LOL
Lol
The escalator etiquette is generally the same in Ontario, Canada; but it depends a bit on how many East Asian people frequent where you are. These sorts of things only work well when compliance is very high; if even one person on your escalator is in the wrong lane and doesn't know or care, then it's all for naught.
microcolonel A fair point! Admittedly, this unofficial rule is not always adhered to in Taiwan. Haha
Escalators in UK same rule taking off shoes when going inside house is a must in my house too wherever I buy one
The escalator thing in Japan is the other way around (stand on the left to let people pass you on the right). In Australia (and as far as I can tell, here in China), you just stand wherever you like.
Ian Hollis it's called Taiwan dumbass
Ian Hollis Good to know. At least I now know that this doesn't happen in all countries. Cheers mate!
Ian Hollis In Tokyo the stand on the left, everywhere else in Japan stands on the right.
In America we try to stay to the right on escalators (mainly in airports) and in hallways etc
Martina Madeleine Good to know.
It depends, usually people don’t care and you just try to gauge the situation. I’ve had a couple instances where I ended up “dancing” with people because we both were trying to go the same way, and it always ends in a laugh, never anger. Although I guess this could depend on where you are at, I’ve only ever lived in the rural south (where I grew up and back at now) and California (about 1 1/2 years to 2 years)
Bowing culture actually originated in China but only Korea and Japan kept the custom whereas Chinese people Westernized their greeting more. Bowing is still used in certain formal occasions such as weddings, funerals, apologies, New Years, respect to elders. It is customary to slightly nod or lower your head downwards when greeting, saying goodbye, or thanking someone in Taiwan.
I think about which part you have to stand on escalator is the same as which side people drive in that country.
We filipinos follow the "stand on the right,walk on the left"law in our country the Philippines too.I think it is more convenient for different people in my country.
If only people actually did lol. I’ve been living in the Philippines for 7 years now, not once did I see a packed escalator where everyone did follow the rules.
But let’s be real, not just Filipinos but most people from different countries just don’t give a crap, it’s just that Taiwan and Japan are an oddity in this specific scenario.
I think most is correct but there are a few things. The pedestrian crossings have improved a lot. Most city drivers yield these days. Talking about politics may not work well if you are a foreigner asking. It may seem arrogant or intrusive. But normally politics is often talked about and the news have shows discussing or mocking politics. And about bowing. It is incredibly important. Perhaps, since you appear as a foreigner they don't expect you to bow, but lowering of the head while or before shaking hands is customary. Bowing is still quite common when thanking someone, rejecting a gift, saying goodbye, bumping someone in the metro etc. most greetings are done with small bow unless you are formally meeting someone. there are various degrees of bows and normally a 25-45 degree bow or a deeper head nod is sufficient. 90 degree is for a formal or corporate apology only.
I'm ethnically Chinese and southeast Asian it just doesn't look nice to wear thongs (what we call flip flops in Australia) in formal or public places. I know here In Australia it might be ok to wear thongs to many places but it is just quite rude to wear thongs to work in the first place. Same things for compliments as for gifts - asians tend to be very unassuming so we don't like to immediately say 'thank you' or cheers when someone compliments us - we tend to decline the compliment or say we are not. However on the whole, chinese culture (including Taiwan or any overseas Chinese community) is much less rigid than Japanese or Korean culture so you have more space to 'be yourself'. There are some negative things about chinese culture/behaviours though that I do not like myself eg some Chinese people like to scrutinise others without scrutinising/criticising themselves first or weighing their words before speaking even in just plain social situations.
OMG the last point with refusing the gifts 2-3 times explains so much things I experienced in Taiwan!! Now I know why, thanks!
Sebastien Haha, yeah. It also confused me a bit when I first got here.
台灣的送禮文化比較含蓄一點，大家喜歡推拖一下再假裝勉為其難的接受，一方面也有一點稱讚送禮的人"盛情難卻"的含意，另外收禮後，最好未來有機會也回個禮給對方，這個在中文叫做"禮尚往來"。
大家喜歡推拖一下再假裝勉為其難的接受-------本人從沒感受過．
I thought that one was a bit strange.
@@motoliao Indeed, each gift should always be returned by a gift to make the situation equal...also, gifts are not 'opened' in front of givers, but later, so they do not appear greedy.
it's so true about flip-flops. my mom gets super mad every time she sees me wearing flip-flops lol she thinks it's disrespectful.
My parent have always taught me there’s time for everything. It depends on what occasion it is. Dress appropriately in showing respect for yourself and to others is very important . Asian parents don’t like to lose face toward anyone especially when it’s comes to family relatives or friends.
Well u don't have to wear it so that your mom will not get angry....
Thank you for watching this video.
Well u don't have to wear it so that your mom will not get angry....
Thank you for watching this video.
Well u don't have to wear it so that your mom will not get angry....
Thank you for watching this video.
@@peterying4677 oh no I still wear them haha I don't care about her getting mad lol it's so dumb getting upset over this
Some of the thing mentioned here I have not heard of in my 25 years in Taiwan. Taiwan is such a mixed country, everyone has their own culture. No flip flops to school, but I saw Chinese teacher with very short shorts? Very strange?
In the UK the stairs rule is the same
Wow 😘what a beautiful smile on your beautiful face 😊how are you doing today?
The escalator thing is pretty common in big cities in the UK. London for example many people are rushing around, so many people stand to one side to let other people pass through if they are busy. Also the UK is the birth of the queuing culture.
In some other countries around the world the queuing concept doesn't exist and this quite surprised me.
They do the escalator thing in my country (Singapore) but on the left
As a Taiwanese, I don't agree the last one.
I just came back from Kaohsiung and most people don't do the escalator thing there.
the escalator thing is only in Taipei, so when people from other cities see someone standing on the right side of the escalator, they immediately know this person is from Taipei lol
"Usually people line up on the right to give way for those in a hurry"
4:12 *\*SUITCASE BARRIER! \* *
Awesome video... I would like to know about the song at the end.. Or the melody... Is that the ERHU instrument?
Efrain Ortiz Thanks. I honestly have no idea which instrument they used to make that song :/ It could be an ErHu
Nah, the moon pointing thing is obsolete. People now say it as a joke lol.
my mom still believes in it lol and if i do so she would ask me to stop lol
Do not wear sandals or flip flops to work, or any kind of formal occasion or formal setting - Gee, it is like that in the west also, at office workplaces, especially for men.
I would say, 90% of people understand that you are a foreigner, they don‘t expect you to know these already, they would give you time to learn the culture. You only need to know to take off your shoes when entering someone‘s house. So, relax!! Haha... just my opinion. Nathan, always love your video, excellent quality.
Chris Lee I agree. Most of them are very understanding & accommodating and don't expect you to be familiar with all the ins and outs of the culture. Cheers!
If you're traveling somewhere, you should research the local customs. But I agree, they shouldn't expect you to know every single custom and the local language. Taiwanese are much more lenient, then Japanese and Koreans when it comes to foreigners and local customs.
Something my school does is when a student hurts another student (accident or otherwise), they will have the offending student say sorry and then bow to the other. I wonder if bowing is more apologetic here in Taiwan?
In capitalist America, people stand wherever they heckin please on an escalator. It's actually incredibly obnoxious. People also stop in the center of intersections of major aisles in crowded stores to just wait, talk amongst a group, or look stare into space. That's also annoying. A lot of these things don't even seem like they should be chalked up to cultural differences...it seems like if you are just polite and aware of your surroundings much of these things will fall into place. Think about others and your behavior in the context of whatever system you are participating in/utilizing. I'm sure a large part is rural/urban as well. For instance we rural folk in the US are easily spotted in US cities due to our inability to move in a crowd or where to stand out of the way when not moving.
我記得小時候指月亮後第二天耳朵下方跟頭部連接處都會有傷口，發生很多次，所以之後我就不再指月亮了，不小心指到也會立刻雙手合十跟月亮道歉，第二天就不會有傷口，真的是這樣，但不知道為什麼？幾十年後已經習慣不會去指月亮了......
現代醫學的說法是小孩子本來就容易以濕疹，好發在耳朵下方，所以只是巧合....
Very helpful, whistling in Hawaii at night is a big no no... a lot of cultures it's a no no..
In Ireland it is also bad luck to write your name in red. From my area anyway and also the whistling at night (my Nigerian friend also says they don't whistle at night in Nigeria.)
Awesome video man:))))) I love them!!!!!
Daniel Hsu Thanks bro!
In regard to eating, in most Asian cultures, unless the dish calls for filleted fish/shell-less prawns/boneless meat, the default is to use meat on the bone/with the shell because to Asians the bone or the shell gives the dish flavour. Of course, no one eats the bones. It is also normal to see people people picking meat out of bony parts with their mouth (spitting out the bones), cutlery or hands and this is considered normal and not rude. In traditional Asian cuisine, filleted meat is considered inferior because you don't taste the whole animal, you don't get as much depth of flavour and isn't nice to the eyes because you don't see the meat for what it is (with the bones). Also, off-cuts are prized in Asia because of their more complex flavour and acquired taste - hence why chicken breast may be revered in Western cuisine but isn't as appetising to the Asian palate.
Not talking about death or politics is not true. I asked my Taiwanese friends (in Taiwan) and they didn't hear about it, one mentioned it's on TV all the time: politics, death (accidents) so that's definitely something you only encounter with very VERY few people here, if ever. I actually found they love to discuss politics, local politics as well as international. Talking about a funeral, death due to accidents etc is also not too unusual, as I said it's on the news and those strippers at funerals are also well known
Why did you even need to mention the flip flop thing? In what country would it be ok to wear flip flops to work?
You’d be surprised... Haha
We do stand on the right side of the escalators in canada
I think it's cool that they don't tip. It tends to make services better.
Not wear shoes in the house - It's like that in the west also, in places where there's ice and snow in winter.
In the US people tend to stay to the right to allow others to pass on an escalator, but it's less formal here. If a person wants to pass, s/he might just say "excuse me" if someone is in the way. On the flat "moving sidewalk" machines, staying to the right is more of a rule.
Escalators- Nope! It is considered very rude where I live in the United States to walk past someone on an escalator. You are considered pushy, inconsiderate, and again, rude. You might cause an elderly person, someone who is ill, or a parent holding a child to be harmed because you feel your time is more important than courtesy or manners.
M M where in the US do you live?
All depends then how you walk by a person yet if the person takes up the whole escalator as well. I carry huge tool cases with me and always ensure I tuck in to the right so people can get buy or if poss take a lift but yet I find very often there are rude people blocking the way because they think the world evolves around them. Escalators in train stations and metros should not be blocked the traffic going through them and people rushing for a train when travelling sometimes results in missing a train then the plane and possibly losing huge amounts of money. In shopping malls I'd get your point people aren't in a rush there.
The escalator thing I thought was Universal. I always stand on the right....I am American
definitely not universal. In most countries that drive on the "wrong" side of the road, including Japan, you stand on the left.
Joseph Studley Untrue. In Tokyo they stand on the left. Everywhere else in Japan stands on the right.
well, actually our government(Taiwan) wants us not to do that anymore, it will make escalator break down much sooner because of uneven pressure, but we just didn't change that.
Well... they don't do it in NY
lol
In Singapore, we are asked to stand on the left side.
I went to Melbourne Australia years ago, a youngster scolded a group of Chinese tourists harshly because they did not stand at the side but blocking his way down the escalator.
It's funny about the flip flops because the new trendy thing in the USA is to wear flip flops to work on Fridays even with your dress suits. We also have casual Friday which you can dress down depends where you work you may not be able to wear jeans. But most offices you can.i find the refusing the gifts annoying and childish ugh.
Taiwan and many other Asian countries are well-organized society and behaving accordingly to certain customs and laws is expected from everyone, locals or visitors alike. Western countries are a free country and you can do everything you want to do as long as it is legal. What is legal in the West can be illegal in Asia. In the USA and many Western countries, possession of fire arms is fairly easy to obtain and is legal as long as you get a license. Many Asian countries are like nanny states which I think is fine.
Yes, in other places it is common to line up on the right of the escalator to leave the left for passing.
You cant wear sandals just being out and about picking up groceries?
You can. No one cares especially if you live here in the south.
Thanks for this 😭
I thought you weren't supposed to walk and move on escalators. In Iran, it is often mentioned not to move on escalators. Peopel might do that if they are in a hurry but it's not a thing.
Tipping is also not a thing, here.
We also take off our shoes in IRan before going to anyone's house, unless the owner says it's fine to wear shoes.
Not accepting a gift soon, totally a thing here. It's called Ta'arof in Iran. You can look it up.
And the bow thing, I didn't know it was mainly a Japanese thing since I think I've seen people do that either in dramas, either in chinese tv shows.
Unlike some Western cultures, it is very normal for Chinese people to talk about food and critique food. Of course, it may not be too appropriate to critique food your friend has cooked for you though many aren't ashamed of doing so. Talking about food and eating is a sort of recreation (surpasses sport, politics etc) in Asia whilst this may not be the case in certain Western cultures.
Hi. In my company in Taipei, many people (include Taiwanese) wear sandals or flip-flops! I have done during summertime. I have not seen any problem so far! Working in an international engineering company
Thanks for sharing! That’s interesting.
What if u point at the sun?
In Australia since we follow the British system of driving on the left we stand on the left on the escalator and let the right pass. Most of the world doesn't tip including UK and Australia - its mainly the Americans who tip.
I got THREE GHOSTS following me after whistling at night! I went to a buddist temple on 貓空山 Maokong in southern part of Taipei, then, Bao An Temple 保安宮, and finally a Taoist Master near Yuanshan in Taipei,, he exonerated me in the eyes of the ghosts and i got back to normal immediately NO MONEY was involved. I LOVE Taiwan!
Good video. But I am puzzled. How does Taiwan hope to develop a mature democratic society if it is taboo to talk about politics?
As a Taiwanese, I think I can answer this question based on my understanding. I think the main point of the video is that when you first met the locals, it is not a good choice to start with a political topic. In addition, what the video does not make clear is, that politics is not a taboo. In fact, in modern times, especially in the younger generation, most people do not shy away from talking about social issues, but also cares about social and political topics. Talking about this is not taboo, just not as a topic in the first stage of understanding. And I think the depth of talking about politics also depends on the individual, at least in my echo chamber, this topic is not taboo. But I believe there are some Taiwanese with different experiences and views about it. After all, a society with different voices is also the cornerstone of democracy.
In Moscow, people are also standing on the left side of the escalator, and let rushing people run.
Useful tips 👍
Glad you liked it
As an extension to discussing politics, certain colors are strongly associated with the 2 major parties there. Namely, green is associated with the DPP (民進黨) and blue with KMT (國民黨).
This is the same with newspapers and news channels, as I’m sure is the case in many other countries. Outlets such as 聯合報 and 華視 tends to lean towards blue, while others such as 自由時報 and 民視 tends to lean towards green. At hotels, it is interesting to see which newspapers are left out for the guests, and there is a subtle geographical trend to this as well.
Practically all of the teachers at my school and my girlfriends school wear flip flops, it seems to be the norm and I would be very surprised if my boss told me I shouldn't wear them. Perhaps other schools are different.
Thanks for bringing it up mate. It's always good to get additional points of view on various topics. I have heard of schools here and there which don't mind. I think it depends on a few variables, such as the director, where in taiwan you are, the actual establishment itself & the clientele etc... It's more of a generalisation based on a combination of my experiences & research. Cheers!
I am from Taiwan!
If you block the left hand side of the escalator in London, you're gonna get thrown to the bottom of it 😭
Hi, great video. I know its 2021. But, I think bowing is OK. It's just a matter of do you pull it off? Sometimes taiwanese don't know if you are 'trying too hard' or if you don't like it. Kind of like do it if you really want to. It is true to not too readily accept a gift. It is hard to explain. But play the game and it will be internalized eventually. I think some westerners are rather cool. They might appreciate this. Rather than a quick grabbing the gift and thank you it is more played out (role played). I think chinese like to give nice gifts/things of value, they are quieter, thoughtful, want and like appreciation.
Lining up on the right on the escalator-- We do that in California!
I believe that is done in most countries, including here in the US, except in shopping malls. I don’t know why, but shoppers are the only people here who never stand on the right side.
Hi 👋
Talking about proper behavior on escalators - you should not do it in Poland either :-) - it would be very rude to block the escalator. Exceptions are when the escalator stairs are anyway blocked, usually in shopping centers and rather not in metro stations.
"sort of like a game for them" Well, it is not a game for us. If we ever want to give you something, that's because we really wanted to. There is no games in gifting something to someone. If you reject it the first time, we will think that you are too shy to accept and therefore we try again. Now who's game are we playing? Just accept the gift with grace and sincerity the next time. It's not a fun game.
Are u also not allowed to laugh during a movie
You forgot to mention the untold rule to avoid to use the red color as much as possibile ;p
Would you like to collaborate cause I am Taiwanese but studying in England at the moment... I am returning back to Taiwan soon hence I would like to collaborate with someone that is english and look "english" Cause I look Taiwanese cause I am hence it might not work, if you intrusted plz do reply :)
Thanks. Useful... I'm in my 6th day in Taipei
HelioMuza Awesome mate! Hope you enjoy your time here.
Thanks you!
escalator is dumb we allway do that in canada
Interesting opinions. Pointing at the moon is now scoffed at by most people. Cab drivers love tips if you give them. The sandals and flip flops one for work I get. But weddings? The majority of weddings I have been to people wear bermuda shorts, flip flops and 99nt t-shirts (basically beach wear). I made the mistake of wearing a full suit mid-summer once...never again. I don't go as far as the flip flop wearing locals but I dress more casual to weddings nowadays. The shoe indoors one makes me laugh. During an adult class a few years back I mentioned this to my students. I assumed it was a religious thing and they laughed and said it was just because they didn't want a dirty floor. I lost a tiny bit of respect for people who ask you to do that simply because they can't be arsed to mop the floor. In the West we don't ask people the same , when in fact carpet is far more expensive and time consuming to clean than laminate flooring.
Funny last one,If they say:Take this
Me:say no more hahaah
Talking politics is fine. Go to a wedding in a roadside tent in southern Taiwan. You’ll quickly notice flip-flops are perfectly ok to wear at weddings.
I don’t think Taiwanese think people who accepts the gifts immediately are greedy
I uses to talk bout death and politics with my Taiwanese friends! Not taboo for them!
I talk about politics with my relatives all the time and there fine talking about it
I'm here for future reference.
Last last but not least, do not call your elders by their first name. Do not use their first name. They are auntie or uncle or anything else but not by their name. My niece is from Taiwan I am not called by my name ever
its called taiwanese politness