Be yourself in a foreign land

Editor,

I have some comments on the article "Let's face it, Chinese aren't that different" (May 31).

I am an American, and for the last year I have taught Chinese businessmen about the cultural differences between Chinese and "Westerners." I always tell them that there really aren't many differences and to simply behave naturally in social situations with Westerners.

In an increasingly globalized world, doing business in China isn't that different from doing business any place else in the world. The biggest mistake is assuming that all "Westerners" think and act alike. They don't.

James Gaylord, United States

Editor,

I agree with Ravi's viewpoint.

Be yourself wherever you are, as long as you don't break the local law you will be fine. You don't have to drink Guinness when you are in Ireland, you don't have to drink Maotai when you are in China, you don't have to kiss a woman on the cheek in France if you feel awkward about it. Sincerity is the basic requirement for mutual understanding, forget about all those silly and superficial cultural trappings.

Fangyong, via e-mail

Make tourism

more sustainable

Editor,

It was interesting to read your article regarding a very important issue sustainable tourism and the general need for an "environmentally conscious frame of mind" that goes beyond time-limited campaigns.

I too find such disposable items to be very wasteful. Signs urging residents to take care of the environment are found in many hotels around the world, urging people to reuse towels.

And when it comes to the millions of plastic bags that mar even the most beautiful landscapes, the situation would be markedly improved if every person picked up a couple of bags or even started using reusable baskets.

Sustainable tourism and the future of our little planet go hand in hand as tourism now is a major business activity all over the world.

I come from Norway the second country to sign the Geotourism charter. Geotourism is tourism that sustains and enhances the environment, culture, aesthetics and heritage of the location in question, along with the well-being of its residents.

I think there are many places in China that would benefit from a clearer long-term perspective of tourism development, one that can assure our children and their children will have a chance to enjoy the beauty our planet has to offer.

Rigmor, Norway

Parents must not pamper children

Editor,

The article "We must stop pampering children" (June 14) offered food for thought.

I think before parents learn that they should not pamper their children, they must learn that:

1. It is all right not to go to college. Bill Gates did not finish his degree, and he seems to be doing well. People can be plumbers, carpenters, oil-rig technicians. What children need is a skill. Furthermore, having a degree does not mean you will have a good future.

2. Children who are not able to live independently and make their own decisions will not survive when their parents are no longer able to help them. No matter how much money you leave to your child, it can be wasted very quickly. So, life skills to survive after the death of a parent and skills to earn a living are most important.

Pampered, via e-mail

Importance of one's name

Editor,

I am a student at Taishan College in Shandong Province. I am writing to comment on your May 30 article about the meaning and significance of names. I also think that a person's name has a great significance.

I used to complain that my name was far too common. I often told my father that my name, unlike many other girls' names, did not sound attractive. My father always told me that my own name was the best one for me and had lots of meaning.

Now I have accepted my name. When my friends call me, I feel happy because that name is mine. I believe in my name. It is full of good wishes from my parents.

Xu Yufang, Shandong Province

(China Daily 06/20/2006 page4)