Culture Notes: China

All items translated into Chinese should be in “Reformed Chinese.” (This does not apply to Taiwan, where Mandarin is used.)

Touch is disliked, but Chinese will stand closer than Westerners in speaking. Keep hand gestures to a minimum. Silence and long pauses are considered a virtue, so don't fill every bit of dead air with talk.

If introduced in a public setting, you are likely to be greeted with applause as a sign of welcome.