Bits
and Pieces about Oriental Cultures
|
Be
aware that ...
"Individualities
are more significant than cultural differences"
|
These few cultural hints are given as a general motivation to improve knowledge, understanding and communication with "Asian guests", particularly in Europe. The purpose is to help teachers with Asian students, fellow students in European schools and hospitality professional in the tourism, hotel and restaurant industry. | |
|
"Despite the
eclectic nature of life, essentially we are all the same, we are
all one"
(Advertisement for Intercontinental Hotels on CNN and CNBC - 1998/99) |
Also
beware of over-generalization.
Asia is home of half of the World's population. Every rule
might have as many exceptions as there are individuals. Awareness of cultural
particularities should help to reduce noise and misunderstanding in human
communication.
| Do they always disagree |
?
|
Some Asians might seem to disagree ... when they approve. |
| What's so funny |
?
|
Laughing is not mockery. |
| They agree but don't do it |
!
|
"Yes" might be a polite "no" and "Yes Sir" can mean "I try to understand you". |
| They listen but don't care |
!
|
To ask no question is a mark of respect, not of disinterest. |
| Move that body |
!
|
Body language is very subtle and gestures are seldom used to emphasize communication. |
| Is this two or seven |
?
|
Signs can have different meanings in different cultures. |
| They are all "Chinese" |
!
|
At first they all look alike and seem to eat behave and think in the same way. A better understanding shows how different they actually are. |
| That not all folks |
!
|
Such interrogations and answers could fill several books. Want to know more? Just ... CLICK |
 Next |
chopard@thai.com
- Janvier 2001
