Health and Hygiene

Posted by Admin on Jul 8, 2010 in Articles | 0 comments

As Virgil said, “The greatest wealth is health.”

We subscribe fully to this view and here are a few ways to keep yourself away from the doctor’s office or sprints to the bathroom.

Don’t drink the tap water!

Simple advice really and easy enough to follow. In China, everybody drinks either boiled tap water or bottled spring water. But, if you accidentally swallow some tap water whilst showering or brushing your teeth, don’t worry. Basically, avoid consuming it like you would back home and you’ll be okay.

Expect a bit of dicky tummy

Undoubtedly, in your first year in China, especially during the summer, you’ll experience the odd ‘stomach cramp’ and less than solid solids, but that’s part of the course as your body naturally gets used to the conditions and the food. That, of course, would happen anywhere you went that was new. You can avoid it by sticking regimentally to only eating what you know, e.g. Western snacks and fast food, but then, where’s the fun in that? You’re here to enjoy the culture and that includes the food. Just don’t fall into the trap of “Chinese food is dirty” the first time you get the runs, because, believe us, this happens to everyone. And besides not only does your body adjust, but also you will get to enjoy some incredible dishes.

Where to eat?

Rule of thumb – if the restaurant is busy, that’s a good sign. Eat where the locals eat, and you’ll be on the right tracks. Even try some of the same dishes they have to truly experience China.

Fruit and Veg

In the spring and summer you can buy freshly peeled and sliced melon or pineapple on a stick on the streets. If you’re wary of how long it’s been left out, just ask them to cut you a fresh slice. But, believe you me, one of the delights of China is to munch on a succulent, sweet quart of pineapple as you’re walking down the street.

The Climate

Okay, it’s hot in the summer and cold in the winter, simple as that. There is air conditioning and central heating in the homes to combat that, but if you’re a purely “need my temperatures tepid” kind of person, then think about teaching in London or the north of France. And when we say hot and cold, we’re not talking strip to your undies or dress like Michelin Man outside (and if you’re from Australia or Canada you’ll think the rest of us are soft at these times of year for complaining).

Medicine

Bring what you like, but as for the rest of the stuff you might need, you’ll find it pretty cheap here in China, e.g. headache tablets, diarrhea pills, and so on.