What is a good gift? We were at an Asian market this morning and many people had carts filled with oranges by the case. We were too preoccupied to understand the meaning of their purchase.
I have since purchased two brass bells, coins and candy to give as a gift.
What is the best protocol in giving and being respectful?
Please help.
A Rickshaw....
RE: Chinese New Year 2020 - The Year of the Rat
Rats bring the plague.
box of N95 masks... and distance.
Red paper money ($2 in a red envelope) is always a hit with my Chinese friends!
This year I used these great copper coins instead...
https://www.providentmetals.com/2020-year-of-the-rat-1-oz-copper-round.html
Sweets and a nicely wrapped tin of loose tea.
Also this link: 21 Things You Didn’t Know About Chinese New Year
Celebrating Chinese Lunar New Year is a custom, not a religion.
Traditionally, the whole family gather together and make dumplings from scratch. That being dumpling shape looks like the gold nuggets used centuries (?) ago. So making/eating dumplings bring good luck for the coming new year. ===> Yes, I am from Taiwan and I consider myself Chinese.
I used to invite friends/co-workers for the tradition, and told them “Now you’ve been adopted to the Family”.
A good gift would be a Chinese New Year card, just like Christmas card (if you can find it in Chinese grocery stores or China Town). So the recipients won’t feel monetary burden to reciprocate the kind gesture.
Otherwise, you can Bing search online, there are free greetings/images you can download. ===> As the American saying goes, it is the thought that counts.
The only fun, clean, family event left in San Francisco, it is a wonderful parade.
... a wide berth.
I’d recommend a 12 pack of Corona.
If you are older than your neighbor, give him a red envelope with cash.
An appreciated present would be Wisconsin ginseng.
Well, I would not suggest a box set of Charlie Chan movies.
However, my neighbor seems to think that BBQ (homemade) is the best gift for every occasion.
I don’t think I’ll contradict him (it’s delicious)
Good luck in your quest!
I can always count on my Chinese Counterparts when they fly into the L.A. Office to bring certain things to the BBQ I host for them while they are here.
Cherry’s, Grapes, Watermelon, Oranges, Chinese Whiskey, and Green Peppers for me to cook on the Grille.
The real kick is the group picture at the the end of the Evening / Party in front of my Fireplace which hangs above my 3x5 Trump Banner. Nothing but big smiles! :)
Good Luck!
The year of the rat and a new ‘rat-like; snake-like caused virus to humans...
Chinese don’t expect non-chinese to understand or follow their customs exactly.
So, Any gesture or gift you give will be appreciated. Especially if these folks are >50 years old, a nicely decorated gift-box of something is common given in China by visitors - nuts/dried fruit, wine, fresh fruit, chocolates.
Try to make it RED color. RED is the color of luck and New Years (not communism!)
Lunar New Year Jan. 25th, 2020
How to say Happy New Year In Vietnamese, or Chinese (If they are not either of these nationalities - you will have to look it up). 8>)