China covers a large area and has a big population. So, the different living habits of people around the country has always been an interesting topic (话题). Now, one living habit is being talked about a lot: the way that northerners and southerners shop at food markets.

People from southern China say they always buy what they need for just one or two meals. It is normal for them to buy half of a Chinese cabbage, two potatoes and 250 grams of beef at a time.

However, one may be laughed at if he does this in the north. Instead, buying enough vegetables and meat for a week is normal, reported China Daily.

Also, you can buy a very small amount of fruit, such as a single apple or pear, each time in the south. Shop owners even help you peel (削皮) and cut the fruit.

But shop owners in the north rarely offer such service. And many fruits are sold in baskets and boxes.

The difference could be due to the different climates.

Food can be kept for a long time in the north, as it is usually cold and dry there. Many northerners have the habit of stocking up (囤货) on food, especially for the long winter.

But the hot and wet weather in the south makes southern Chinese people buy just enough food for one meal or one day, or else the food may go bad.

When you are on vacation, be careful not to break the local laws (法律), or you may be in trouble in foreign countries. Here are some examples:

1. In Venice, Italy, remember not to feed the pigeons. It is against the law. You may get a fine because of it.

2. In Barcelona, Spain, it’s against the law to wear a bikini or swimming shorts at the beach. You will also get a fine if you want to be cool in this way.

3. Chewing gum (嚼口香糖) on the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system (快速交通系统) is forbidden in Singapore. So don’t chew gum there even though you have the habit.

4. If you go to Nigeria, don’t take mineral water (矿物质水) into this country. The water will be taken away and you may get a fine.

5. Italy (Florence): It’s out of the laws to sit on steps and courtyards (庭院) or to eat and drink in the churches and public buildings in Florence.