The Difference between Cantonese and Mandarin

"Chinese" is really a term to describe any language spoken in China. There are tons of languages spoken by the 55 different ethnicities, some estimates as high as 290, according to the CIA World Factbook. Cantonese and Mandarin are dialects spoken by the most people. Here's a little help from the YouTube channel Off the …

10 funny mistranslations

To help foreigners get around China, many signs are translated into English. Chinese is an awfully hard language to learn, but so is English. Sometimes mistakes happen, and there are many comical translations. 1.) Happiness is taking a trip, everyone. Actual Translation: "Happy Traveling" 2.) Don't stay too close together, you might enjoy each other's …

3 tips to stay healthy in China

China is a great place, but it is much different from the United States. China's sanitation standards and health risks are different than in The United States. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy in China. 1.) International Health Insurance We recommend all China Horizons participants have some kind of international health insurance. …

5 tips to combat homesickness

Homesickness is something that plagues most of our teachers. It can be hard to be away from your friends and family, but you can do it! To help you become accustomed to your new life in China, here are a few suggestions to combat homesickness. 1.) Walk around This seems a little obvious, but wandering …

Kung Fu Panda 3 is officially happening

The cuddly panda you know and love is back in the third installment in the franchise. Jack Black, once again, is the voice actor for Po, a panda who learns Kung fu; along with 5 other animals. The movie is set to be released January 29, 2016. It was going to be released around Christmas time, …

5 things you will only see in China

Among seeing the most Asians you've ever seen in your life, there are a few other things you will likely only see in China. Be sure to take pictures of everything, you never know what you'll miss or if you'll see them again! 1.) People practicing calligraphy on the street This is definitely something unique to …

6 gift ideas to give your students

Bringing gifts for your students is a great way for them to remember you and follows a social norm. As per usual in China, gift giving is really important and they will be so ecstatic to receive them. Chinese people are really interested in anything that relates to Western Culture so here's a few ideas …

7 tips for packing light

It can be hard to pack up your whole life in one 50 lb. suitcase. Here are some tips to help you get everything you need into your suitcase and on the plane. 1.) Roll your clothes Clothing can take up a lot of room if folded, but if you roll up jeans and T-shirts, …

How to speak like a native

If you want to sound like you really know Chinese, here are a few tricks. Watch this video from YouTube channel Off the Great Wall to learn how to speak like a native. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYggqunQ2yw Here's some other fun phrases that will impress Chinese speakers! 1.) Nă li (哪里) Use this phrase when someone gives you a …

The 8 great cuisines of China

In China, food is built on five main flavors; salty, sweet, sour, bitter and spicy. Each part of China emphasizes a particular flavor and has its own unique style. Although many dishes originate in a certain region, most can be found in all areas in China — but usually with a local twist. All different …