Mark Fletcher – Practical China Travel Tips & Guides

Journey through 3,500 years of tradition with the vibrant celebration of Chinese New Year! From symbolic dishes like dumplings and fish to the energetic Lion and Dragon dances, discover the rich cultural heritage of the Spring Festival. Explore family-friendly activities, learn how to organize a traditional reunion dinner, and even craft your own lucky decorations....Read More

Culture

Meat-Free Delights: Exploring the World of Vegan Chinese Recipes

Craving authentic Chinese food but committed to a plant-based lifestyle? Discover a world of flavor with vegan Chinese cuisine! From classic Sweet and Sour Tofu to innovative Vegan Duck Pancakes with Jackfruit, explore exciting recipes packed with fresh vegetables, tofu, and essential Asian ingredients. Learn how to balance sweet, sour, and spicy flavors while mastering...Read More

Connecting in China: Chinese Social Media Trends and Culture

Unlock the secrets of China’s booming social media landscape! Discover how platforms like WeChat, Weibo, and Douyin (TikTok) are transforming Chinese culture and commerce, especially during key events like Chinese New Year. Learn how these platforms are reshaping consumer behavior, influencing purchasing decisions, and offering unprecedented opportunities for businesses. Explore the unique characteristics of this...Read More

Culture

A Short Guide to Chinese Social Media for Foreigners

Unlock the secrets of China’s massive 5+ billion user social media landscape! Discover how platforms like WeChat, Weibo, and Douyin (TikTok’s Chinese counterpart) are revolutionizing communication, marketing, and daily life. Learn how to navigate the unique challenges and opportunities of the Chinese digital world, from the Great Firewall to real-name registration, and harness the power...Read More

Culture, Other

Expressing Gratitude: How to Say ‘Thank You’ in Chinese

Master the art of expressing gratitude in Chinese! From a simple “xièxie” to the heartfelt “gǎn’ēn bù jìn,” this guide unlocks various ways to say “thank you” in Mandarin. Discover the nuances of formal and informal expressions, understand cultural context, and build stronger relationships. Start speaking the language of appreciation today! Important information Xièxie (谢谢):...Read More

Culture

Beyond the Basics: How to Eat Like a Pro with Chinese Chopsticks

Master the art of chopsticks! Originating in ancient China, these simple yet elegant utensils are more than just tools—they’re a gateway to cultural appreciation and enhanced dining. This guide provides a step-by-step approach, from basic handling to advanced techniques for noodles, sashimi, and various food textures. Learn proper etiquette to avoid common mistakes and discover...Read More

A Taste of the Streets: Exploring Popular Chinese Street Food

Embark on a culinary adventure through China’s vibrant street food scene! From savory jianbing (crepes) and fiery malatang (hot pot skewers) to sweet tanghulu (candied fruit), discover a world of unique flavors and textures. Explore regional specialties like Xi’an’s rou jia mo (meat sandwich) and Shanghai’s soup dumplings, each dish reflecting China’s rich cultural heritage....Read More

A Culinary Journey: Must-Visit Chinese Restaurants in Beijing

Craving an authentic culinary adventure? Beijing’s vibrant food scene awaits! From iconic Peking duck at Quanjude to the rustic charm of Li Qun, explore diverse flavors and dining experiences. Discover hidden gems in the hutongs, savor spicy Sichuan cuisine, and warm up with a traditional copper hotpot. Use the Dianping app to uncover local favorites...Read More

A Guide to Classics: Chinese Crispy Beef and Other Recipes

Craving that perfect takeout crunch? Discover the secrets of Chinese Crispy Beef, a delightful dish boasting a symphony of sweet, tangy, and spicy flavors. Learn how to achieve restaurant-quality crispiness at home with simple ingredients like sirloin, cornflour, and a special sauce. Explore various cooking methods, from deep-frying to stir-frying, and alternative ingredients for gluten-free...Read More

Plant-Based Feasts: Delicious and Authentic Vegan Chinese Recipes

Discover the vibrant world of vegan Chinese cuisine! Explore flavorful dishes packed with fresh vegetables, tofu, and plant-based proteins like wheat gluten. From savory Mapo Tofu and Kung Pao Cauliflower to comforting Millet Congee and festive Vegan Mooncakes, this culinary journey offers a delicious and healthy experience. Learn how to enhance flavors with traditional seasonings,...Read More