* Bring a large supply of business cards.
* Keep in mind that in China, and virtually all other countries, that 3/6/00 means June 3, 2000.
* As a health precaution, it is advisable for international visitors to drink bottled water, even in hotels and restaurants.
* Bring basic cold and anti-diarrhea medicines and your own prescription drugs.
* Avoid talking politics or religion. Good topics: Chinese food, sports or places one should visit.
* If a Chinese person gives you a compliment, it is polite to deny it graciously. Modesty is highly valued in China.
* The Chinese point at objects with an open hand instead of the index finger. Beckoning to someone is done with a palm facing down. Avoid beckoning with your index finger facing up.
* Do not try too hard to ìgo Chinese.î Chinese do not expect you to know all of their etiquette, and they make allowances for foreigners. Be yourself.
* Learn a few words of Chinese. This shows an interest in your hostís language and culture. It also a very good icebreaker.