Don’t do this in China.
DON’T TAKE ILLEGAL TAXIS
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If you’re waiting for a taxi and someone stops shouting ‘taxi’ don’t trust them unless they’re a real registered taxi with a meter. Illegal taxi drivers are dangerous because, in the worst case scenario, many of them operate within gangs, and in the best case scenario, will rip you off.
DON’T TIP
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In China, tipping is not part of the culture. In fact offering a gratuity may be considered rude as it implies that the employee is not valued by their employer. Especially if you don’t speak any mandarin. Leaving a tip on the table at a restaurant will only result in confusion.
DON’T TALK ABOUT POLITICS
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The best way to avoid trouble is to not talk about any politically sensitive subjects to people you meet on the streets or even to your friends or neighbors, especially when visiting attractions like Tian’anmen Square or when talking to government officials or the police. It is also best to stay off these topics at other high-security areas like airports and train stations. Also, avoid criticizing China in public, as the Chinese are proud of their country and culture.
DON’T GET ANGRY
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When you are really angry, it’s really seen badly by Chinese because they don’t know how to deal with it and they seem uncomfortable, even more if the angry person is a tourist. Everybody will lose respect and that’s what you have to avoid the most. What Chinese appreciate the most is a harmonious group, with polite tourists.
DON’T MAKE SOMEONE LOSE FACE
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The worst thing you can possibly do to Chinese acquaintances is publicly humiliate or otherwise embarrass them. Doing so makes them lose face. Don’t point out a mistake in front of others or yell at someone.
The good news is that you can actually help someone gain face by complimenting them and giving credit where credit is due. Do this whenever the opportunity arises. Your graciousness is much appreciated.
DON’T DRINK WITHOUT A TOAST
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Chinese banquets include eight to ten courses of food and plenty of alcohol. Sometimes you drink rice wine, and sometimes you drink industrial strength Máo Tái, known to put a foreigner or two under the table in no time. One way to slow the drinking is to observe Chinese etiquette by always offering a toast to the host or someone else at the table before taking a sip yourself. This not only prevents you from drinking too much too quickly, but also shows your gratitude toward the host and your regard for the other guests.