Recently, the nickname (昵称) “southern spuds (马铃薯)” has been popular across the country, thanks to Harbin, the capital of Northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province which is creating a frenzy (掀起热潮) on social networking sites in China.
Harbin has been actively meeting tourists from southern China, and these visitors are warmly called “nanfang xiaotudou” or “southern spuds”. The nickname comes from a perception (感知; 认识). Many northern Chinese think the people from the South look shorter when they are dressed in thick jackets and hats. This nickname may create a sense of warmth and friendliness for southern tourists.
However, the use of this nickname “southern spuds” has led to heated discussion. Locals think that the nickname shows warmth and good will. Besides, other interesting nicknames like “potato princess” are also getting popularity.
Many people agree the humor behind such nicknames, but some netizens (网民) have been unhappy to being called “southern spuds”. They feel their height is being made fun of.
Despite (尽管) the warmth and friendliness showed by the people from the Northeast, it is important to accept that different people have different ideas in some parts of China. In such an age where anyone can be a visitor or host, being kind and warm is necessary because all like friendliness and dislike discrimination (歧视).
【小题1】Who are called “southern spuds”?【小题2】What do locals think of the nickname “southern spuds”?
【小题3】Do all netizens like the nickname “southern spuds”?
【小题4】Do you have a nickname? What do you think of nicknames?
It is common to experience culture shock(冲击) when living in a foreign country for a certain period of time. Culture shock is the uncomfortable feeling of uncertainty that many people experience when they live in other surroundings. It is a quite natural part of being used to a new environment.
Some good ways to successfully reduce and overcome(克服) culture shock are to read about the place where you will be staying and the things you will be doing, also, if possible, speak with someone who has already lived in the new environment.
Once you are there, keep in mind that people and customs may be very different from what you are used to. If you have realized the difficulties and misunderstandings that may happen to you, you will keep a cool head, and keeping an open mind will allow you to find ways of dealing with those problems that may appear.
If it is possible, try your best to talk with the local people and ask them questions. Don’t try to isolate(孤立) yourself, even if it is within a group of people from your own country. Local people will generally be pleased to introduce you to their culture and willing to answer questions. Don’t be afraid of making mistakes. When you want to learn something from local people, they are usually willing to share their culture with you and learn from you in turn.
Most importantly, keep a sense of humor! Don’t be too hard on yourself if you don’t know what to do in a social situation. Laugh at yourself and others will laugh with you. Most people will admire your wisdom and effort to understand their ways, especially if you have no idea of small cultural differences.
Title: | |
Introduction | People usually have an uncomfortable feeling of uncertainty when living |
Suggestions | Learn something about the local place by reading. Try to |
| Avoid isolating yourself and try to find chances to communicate with the local people. They are happy to | |
| Keep humorous if you don’t know | |
Wish you have a comfortable life or travel in a foreign country next time! | |
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