Travel, living and working in Asia - Theme

 

Living, travel and working in Asia

    Asia

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    Backpacking in Asia?

    • Asia is the ultimate continent for backpackers and the birthplace of backpacking.
    • Features: the highest mountains, the most beautiful islands, the greatest cultural differences, the most varied cuisine, many traveling nationalities, many safe and inexpensive destinations.

    Travel in Asia?

    • A trip through Asia is a journey where you can alternate ancient cultures with paradise like beaches, and combine busy metropolises with tropical jungles.
    • Cities and island spotting: Bombay (Mumbai), Bali, Hong Kong, Singapore, Tokyo.
    • Animal spotting: Gibbons, Coral Fish, Elephants, Orang Utans, Tigers, Yaks.
    • Nature Spotting: Himalayas, jungles of southeast Asia, underwater world of Indian Ocean, sawas.

    Studying in Asia?

    • Studies: basically all subjects and forms of education can be found.
    • Study cities: Jakarta, Shanghai, Singapore.
    • Characteristics: education varies in quality from country to country and location to location.

    Internships in Asia?

    • Internships: internships can be found in all sectors of society. The tourism sector has the most supply.
    • Internship cities and islands: Bangkok, Jakarta, HongKong, Kuala Lumpur, Singapore.
    • Characteristics: The work culture in many Asian countries consists of fairly long and fairly hard work.

    Volunteer work in Asia?

    • Volunteer projects: especially in the social sectors, wildlife management and animal care.
    • Animal projects: protection of monkeys, elephants, birds, sea turtles and the tropical jungles.
    • Characteristics: volunteering possible from 1 or 2 weeks to several months.

    Working in Asia?

    • Jobs: temporary work can be found mainly in the sectors: hospitality, education and tourism.
    • Characteristics: the work culture can vary considerably per country and location.

    Working as a digital nomad in Asia?

    • Favorite cities and islands: Bali, Philippines, Katmandu, Kuala Lumpur and the Thai islands.
    • Characteristics: great places where the good life often combines well with the working life.

    Living in Asia?

    • Language: English is not spoken everywhere, increasingly in the remoter places.
    • However, in the many areas some knowledge of the local language is necessary.
    • Characteristics: The people in many Asian countries are friendly and at the same time not always easy to understand.
    • The influences of Hinduism or Buddhism are evident in locations. 

     

      What are typical Asian habits, food customs and Asian philosophies?

      What are typical Asian habits, food customs and Asian philosophies?

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      Why this blog about habits and philosophies in Asia

      I love Asia. I feel at home in Asia. I am half chinese and half dutch. I feel more at ease in filipino culture than chinese culture. I have a good friend from Japan. Throughout the years, I have tried to be open to everything Asia has to offer. To embrace Asia in my being, in my core and to understand and learn more of this continent in the world. Some of the things that really caught me...  Any Asian habits that particulary interest you? 

        Habits in China

        • Don't scoop food in your bowl for yourself, but wait for your host or hostess to do so.
        • It is impolite to eat everything in your bowl; leave a small amount as a sign of respect.
        • Slurping while eating is not rude in China, but rather a sign that you like the food. Let's slurp.
        • Never refuse an offer to have some food or drinks.
        • Red is the color of happiness, do not wear it at funerals.
        • When you have tea, make sure the teapot points at the other tables, not at a person on your table, that doesn't bring luck.
        • Squat toilets, yes they are still widely used all over China.
        • Public spitting is still a habit for some people. 
        • Drinking hot water is normal and considered healthy.
        • Early rising is a habit for many chinese people and to practice tai chi.

        Habits in Indonesia

        • Gotong royong is the spirit of communal cooperation and mutual assistance. It's a deeply ingrained value in Indonesian society and is often seen in neighborhood clean-up efforts or helping neighbors in need.
        • When having a meal together it is customary to wait for the host to start eating before you dig in. It is also considered impolite to refuse food that is offered to you. If you are full, you can take a small portion and say thank you.
        • Eating together is a time for families and friends to connect and socialize. Rice is a staple food in Indonesia and is usually eaten with every meal without rice it is not considered a meal. It's not uncommon for Indonesians to eat with their hands.
        • Life Cycle Ceremonies happen around various stages of life. Tedak Siten, a Javanese ceremony, celebrates a baby's first steps. Metatah, a Balinese ritual, involves the filing of a child's teeth to mark their passage into adulthood.
        • Batik - is an Indonesian fabric with cultural significance. Different patterns have different meanings and are worn for different occasions.

        Habits in Japan

        • Bonsai - Japanese people recreate nature in miniature, this specific horticulture is called bonsai. 
        • Ikigai - What is worth living? What is it worth coming out of bed for? What drives you? What inspires you?
        • Kintsugi (golden joinery) - is the Japanese art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer dusted or mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum, As a philosophy, it treats breakage and repair as part of the history of an object, rather than something to disguise. You can buy Kintsugi kits in the Netherlands, it is in my opinion a very nice way to glue broken things, with golden glue. 
        • Kirei - is an activity. You look at all your possessions and decide what you want to keep and what can go away. It is an emotional literal clean-up and clean-up action. By cleaning up, you reflect on your past and future.
        • Kurashi - translates to “way of life” or “the ideal way of spending our time,” but like many words lost in translation, it means more than that. If you haven’t tidied using the KonMari Method, focusing on your kurashi will motivate you to start.
        • Mottainai - (もったいない or 勿体無い) It is a term of Japanese origin that has been used by environmentalists. The term in Japanese conveys a sense of regret over waste; the exclamation "Mottainai!" can translate as "What a waste!" Mottainai is the feeling of sadness you have when something hasn't reached its full potential. Recycle and repair. It's all about the love you have for your old stuff.
        • O-hanami - In april are the cherry blossom viewing parties.
        • Omikuji - These are slips of paper that tell your fortune, divided into kichi (good luck) and kyo (bad luck). Depending on the shrine there are various grades of good and bad luck in between. One theory says if you read it without showing anyone else and then tie it to the branch of a tree in the shrine grounds before going home, even bad luck is converted into good luck.
        • Omoiyari - Omoi is thinking, memories and emotion. Yaru is doing. It is empathy, freely translated, it is on the other hand more ordinary and special. It's just because it's part of everyday life in Japan, not just an empathetic reaction. It is special because it makes compassion a part of the community. How do you master omoi? Start with yourself, focus inwards. If you recognize and understand your own feelings, you can translate that into compassion for others. The essence of omoiyari is that you are aware, of other people in life. You behave in a way that is pleasant for others.
        • Shintoism - Shinto is the early religion of Japan. It is a combination of two chinese characters, which means: "The way of the gods." In Shintoism the Kami are being worshipped. Kami are gods of nature. Some kami are bound to be found in certain places, others are united with bigger objects and phenomena. Amaterasu is for example the god of the sun. Marie Kondo the "spark-joy guru of tidying" and her method, the KonMari method, is based on Shintoism. Keeping the house tidy is part of the practice.
        • Shinrin-yoku - I have sent my japanese friend once a photo of me snow bathing (in a bathing suit swimming in the snow) and asked her the japanese term for snow bathing. There is no japanese term for it. And I thought there was! The Japanese have a term for forest bathing: Shinrin-yoku. To be in the forest with the trees, will make sure you will be re-energized and that you can feel your own core.
        • Sumo, Judo and Karate
        • Tea ceremony - The aim of the tea ceremony (in a small space) is to reduce daily life to the barest essentials and idealize form. Behind this idea is to intensify the brief time spent together as a moment to be cherished. Tea utensils, the preparation of tea and the tea ceremony etiquette is all very important. When you will experience a true tea ceremony it is advised to prepare yourself to understand more beforehand of this Japanese ceremony.
        • Tenei- It is about patience and respect of the daily things. Try to find harmony in the day to day activities, to be correct and punctual towards others and to be persistent of the things which are important to you, even when it is not easy. 
        • Tokimeki - As explained by the latest Marie Kondo on Netflix or in her book, do what you like and what you think is important in your life…
        • Tsukumogami - According to Shinto animism, some inanimate objects could gain a soul after 100 years of service, a concept know as tsukumogami.
        • Omiyage and Temiyage - Omiyage and Temiyage are Japanese names for two kinds of gifts. Omiyage are souvenirs you bring home from a trip. Temiyage are thank-you gifts you bring when you visit someone. Japanese people have the habit of buying plenty of gifts for their friends. As a foreigner it is appreciated when you bring Omiyage and Temiyage.
        • Wabisabi 侘 寂 - A lot of things around me are Wabisabi, especially when you try to use things as long as possible. And when you are open to see things in the light they are, and not everything has to be perfect around you. Life in it's imperfection.
        • Zakka - is to be grateful for the normal, simple things that make life special. For example your favorite sweater of coffee cup.

        Habits in Laos

        • Cultural habits: Lao people generally prioritize balance and well-being over material possessions. Lao people are known for their patience and laid-back attitude. Stress in uncommon. This is reflected in their daily lives and business interactions.
        • Boh penyang means "never mind". It is a way of life and considers the slow pace the best. 
        • Social habits & communication: Wai - This is a traditional greeting where people press their palms together in front of their chest and slightly bow their head. The higher the hands, the more respect shown.
        • Sabai-dee- A common greeting that translates to "Are you well?" This reflects the Laotian emphasis on well-being and politeness.
        • Showing anger or disappointment in public is inappropriate. It causes everyone to lose face, better to keep smiling and keep your voice low, speak softly.
        • Pointing and gesturing with hands is frowned upon. 
        • Lao people are not big on waiting in line. They often push and shove to get to the head of the line.
        • Etiquettes & traditions: Spirit worship - Alongside Buddhism, many Lao people also believe in spirits and engage in traditional rituals to honor them.
        • Women should avoid touching a monk, the robes and not sit besides a monk. Almsgiving can be done directly in the bowl, not handed directly to the monk.
        • Never point your feet or soles towards people, a buddha, a temple or statues. That is considered disrespecfull.
        • Eating & drinking habits: Lao people eat with spoon and fork, not with chopsticks. It is common to sit on the floor while eating.

        Habits in Mongolia

        • There are certain habits in the ger, the yurt.
        • Sleep - Always sleep with your feet facing the door, never toward the altar.
        • Whistling - Whistling in a ger is considered rude.
        • Be aware that fire is sacred to Mongolians. Do not throw garbage into the fire.
        • Elders - Always let elders lead the way and do not sit with your back or feet to the altar.
        • Hospitality - When you are offered food or drink, accept it, even if it is just a little. Use your right hand, with your left hand for support. It is customary to give small gifts to your hosts, such as fruit, candy or alcohol.
        • Holding a cup - Hold a cup underneath, not by the rim.
        • Say no in an indirect way, that is polite.

        Habits in the Philippines

        • Use of 'face' in communication - Briefly raise eyebrows to confirm or to mean yes to a question and also used as a brief greeting (all silent).
        • Indicating direction by pursing lips and turning head in direction, all silent as well.
        • Baon - refers to the monetary allowance or food normally provided by the parent to a child who goes to school.
        • Bayanihan - When a house is broken, the whole community helps fixing the house. You might have seen the pictures of a group of people carrying a hut, when it needs to be transferred. It is a true community spirit. You talk, you help and protect the people around you. It is team effort, only possible when done with a group. It is truly a beautiful thing. 
        • Cockfighting is a popular national sport in big and small arenas all over the country. Goal is to gamble (win money) and eat the roosters who lost the game.
        • Finding your spot - Recently I was back in the Philippines, taking public transportation. When you would like to take your window seat, be reminded you have to climb over other peoples lap. Squeeze in between the seat in front of you and the seat with the passenger on it. Enough space, a little intimate but do-able, it has something about it.
        • Pacquiao - Filipinos adore boxer (and politician) Manny 'Pagman' Pacquiao.
        • Pagmamano - Children take your hand, put it on their forehead, as a way of greeting you. It is an act of respect. The child says mamo po, can I have your hand please? Most of the time, they say God bless (you), when put on their forehead.
        • Pasalubong -In the Philippines it is common when you have been on a trip, that you bring a token of love back to the people who stayed home. It is a filipino tradition of travellers bringing gifts from their destination to people back home. It can be anything, something to eat or to drink is always a welcoming gift, since filipinos love eating! It is actually not about what you bring, it is something that you have brought, so the other person knows you thought about them while away. The first time, I heard bring pasalubong, from multiple people, and didnt know how to act. When you see souvenir stores in the Philippines, it has the sign pasalubong. So now you are prepared.... just bring something back... 
        • Noise and music - Filipinos are crazy about high volumes and karaoke (called videoke) and music from the 70s like The Carpenters. There was one big world hit: Anak by Freddie Aguilar in 1978.
        • Remedio - Is fixing things, even though you dont know how to fix it. The filipinos use remedio. Remedio used to drive me crazy. It is fixing things with what you have, in a creative way, and if it works again... that will be clear in the near future. You have to be flexible to embrace remedio.
        • Squeeze - Squeeze your but, in the jeepney, also when you think it is already full. There will be place, when you squeeze. When you are for example sitting at the window in an airplane and you have two filipinos beside you, you squeeze your body in and out going to the aile. It is not a habit to stand up, when you can squeeze, when used to it, it works perfectly fine.
        • Volume - Pump up the jam, pump up the volume. Filipinos love loud music, loud talking, as long as it is lively. The high amounts of volume makes you feel festive and alive, even when there is not a party.
        • 'Whitening' products such as soap, make-up, deodorant are very popular, to stimulate white skin.

        Habits in South Korea

        • In South Korea, and other places I have seen it in Asia, they brush their teeth, three times a day after a meal. People bring portable toothbrushes and you often see people brushing their teeth in the washroom in their office.
        • Family is everything and the eldest son carries the responsibility of the family.
        • Kimchi is a national dish. People make kimchi at home. In the supermarkets a lot of dark bordeau red buckets can be found, so you don't see the stains of the herbs going to be fermented with the vegetables.
        • I personally love banchan. When you order Korean food it is likely you get a lot of different small bowls, (most of the time vegetarian) side dishes. For me as a dutch person, I can do without the maindish, since banchan is so delicious.

        Habits in Taiwan

        • Politeness - Taiwanese people are very polite and respectful. It is customary to bow when greeting someone and to say “thank you” and “please.”
        • Respectfulness - Taking off shoes when entering a house: In Taiwan, it is customary to take off your shoes before entering someone's house. This is done as a sign of respect and to keep the house clean.
        • Respect for elders is considered vital, as is loyalty toward the family.
        • Leave some food on your plate - It shows appreciation for the amount of food served and is considered polite.
        • Cleanliness - Using toilet paper with the right hand: In Taiwan, toilet paper is used with the right hand, while the left hand is considered unclean.
        • Bubble tea is a Taiwanese invention, same like stinky tofu. That stinks.
        • KTV – Karaoke is a popular waste of time or night.
        • Convenience stores – Open 24/7, with a variety of food, drinks and everyday items available.
        • Gifts – Knives and scissors are not appreciated and will be seen as severing a relationship. Clocks and handkerchiefs are best avoided, that will be connected to death and funerals. Check the label: made in Taiwan is not an interesting gift and the recipient from Taiwan already has (all) things made in Taiwan.

        Habits in Thailand

        • Thai people will talk about architecture, dance, festivals and food when you ask about their culture. 
        • Sanuk is a term to express that everything should have something sanuk. Something which is worth doing. The sense or approach with a little playfulness. Even work can be sanuk, singing while working, cracking jokes in combination with the thai smile. 
        • Saving face is important as is in many Asian countries. The habit is to avoid confrontation, and not to embarrass yourself or others.
        • Social rank plays an important part in society. It goes with obligations, obedience, caring for, respect, sharing of wealth. The "big person or senior" pays the bill when dining or entertaining. The person with the most social rank pays for everyone.

        Did you know that.... 

        Asia is the biggest continent in the world. It is huge, this is the list of most Asian countries (including the Middle East)

         

        SPOTLIGHT

        Recipes from Asia or with an Asian twist by WorldSupporters - Bundle

        Recipes from Asia or with an Asian twist by WorldSupporters - Bundle

        Asian food

        Asian food

         A natural plate for natural food (photo from the Philippines)

        • Rice
        • Octopus adobo (soya sauce and vinegar)
        • Gamba's with skin
        • Eggplant without skin

        Instead of poke bowls, I am making poke plates (so you can still use the banana leaf real fusion)

        • Sushi rice
        • Peas or edame
        • Cucumber with sesame oil
        • Omelette in slices or made with silk tofu
        • Seaweed for authentic taste
        • Avocado
        • Sesame seeds
        Recipe: Pad See Ew - Thai noodle dish

        Recipe: Pad See Ew - Thai noodle dish

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        In Thailand you can find the popular Pad Thai on every street corner. Pad See Ew is a bit less well-known, but evenly delicious. It is a simple noodle dish, recognisable by the wide and thin rice noodles that are being used. If you can't find the wide noodles, you can also use another type of noodles.

        Recipe:

        • Heat oil in a frying pan/wok and fry the garlic over low heat.
        • Add the chicken and stir for about one minute
        • Then add the kale, carrot, noodles, sugar and sauces and mix. Stir for about 2 minutes
        • Make room on one side of the wok and crack an egg on the empty side.
        • Sramble the egg and mix with the noodles. Then turn up the heat and fry for about 30 seconds.
        • To top off the noodles. Sprinkle a bit of ground pepper, chili flakes or lime on top. 
        • Enjoy!

        Ready In: 30 min.

        Ingredients:

        • 200 g wide rice noodle
        • 1 egg
        • 2 pieces of chopped garlic
        • 1 stalks kale
        • 4-5 pieces of sliced carrots
        • 50 g chicken (or tofu)
        • 1 tsp sugar
        • 2 tsp fish sauce
        • 2 tsp dark soy sauce
        • 3 tsp oyster sauce
        Recipe: Pad Thai

        Recipe: Pad Thai

        making pad thai

        1. Heat the oil in the wok, add garlic, shallot, chicken, tofu.

        2. Add radish, follow with dried shrimp. Stir to combine.

        3. Put egg down let them cook then scramble it and mix it well with other ingredient.

        4. Pull everything up to one side of the wok, and then pour chicken stalk or water.

        5. Put rice noodle then stir well then add sauce to combine until it cook.

        6. Finally, add bean sprouts and chive down mix it well. Finish and ready to serve.

         

        Serve with:

        - Roasted peanuts
        - Chili powder
        - Lime
        - Sugar

        Succes!!

        Ready In: 30 min.

        Ingredients:

        • 70 g. rice noodle
        • 50 g. chicken breast sliced
        • 3 tbsp firm tofu (1cm thick dice)
        • 1 egg
        • 3-5 clove. garlic
        • 0.5 tbsp. shallot
        • 2 tbsp. dried shrimp
        • 1-2 stalks. garlic shave
        • 0.5 tbsp. minced pickle radish
        • 1 cup bean sprout
        • 1 cup chicken stalk or water
        • 1.5 tbsp. oyster sauce
        • 0.5 tbsp. fish sauce
        • 0.5 tbsp. palm sugar
        • 1 tbsp. tamarind sauce
        • 1 tbsp. oil
        Recipe: Spicy Korean ramen (vegan)

        Recipe: Spicy Korean ramen (vegan)

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        I absolutely LOVE ramen. It's one of my favorite dishes in Japan, and fortunately more and more vegan ramen places are popping up in the country. While ramen has its roots in China, because of the use of Chinese noodles, the Japanese have turned it into their own traditional dish. Originally the base of the dish consists of Chinese wheat noodles often in a meat or fish broth, but many variations exist throughout the country such as the famous Hakata ramen from Fukuoka, a milky ramen soup made from pork bones. Other popular, and vegetarian, variations of ramen are Shoyu (soy sauce), Shio (salt) and Miso ramen. As toppings, many ingredients can be used. Often used vegetarian toppings are green onions, boiled eggs, bean sprouts, fermented bamboo shoots, nori (dried seaweed), corn, shiitake and wakame. 

        Since I was craving spicy food while walking around in our local Asian supermarket, I decided to make my own spicy ramen noodles. I already made miso ramen a couple of weeks ago and while I love it, miso and japanese spicy don't go too well together in my opinion. So I had to think of something new. One thing I'm hooked on is the Korean Gochujang (red chili paste) which is great for bibimbap or spicy Korean rice cakes for example. Since I don't use it too often, one box of paste can last in my fridge for over 6 months, so why not create some more dishes with it!? It probably tastes great as a ramen broth too, right? So I got my veggies and wheat noodles and went home to cook some delicious ramen. I can tell you, it took me by surprise how amazingly tasty (and spicy!) it was :). 

        1. Cut the tofu into cubes and add the hoisin sauce, soy sauce, a bit of garlic (powder) and oil to it. Stir and let it sit for a while

        2. Cut onion and garlic into tiny pieces and fried the onions for a couple of minutes before I added the garlic. 

        3. Add half a can of diced tomatoes and let it simmer for about a minute. 

        4. Add the dried shiitake mushrooms and the vegetable stock (don't add too much water since you don't need a huge amount of soup)

        5. Combine the gochujang with the soysauce and hoisin (and some broth to make it easier to mix) and add to the broth. Add more soy sauce and/or salt if needed. And more gochujang if you want it more spicy! :)

        6. Let it simmer for a while, while you cut the toppings and fry the tofu. 

        7. Now add the noodles to the broth and cook until done (follow the instructions on the package). 

        8. Put the noodles into a both, cover it with some broth and top with all your amazing toppings! For garnishing you can use some sesame seeds. 

        Enjoy! :) 

        Ready In: 30 min.

        Ingredients:

        • 4 cups vegetable broth
        • 2 tablespoons gochujang
        • 2 tablespoons soy sauce for broth
        • 1 tablespoon hoisin for broth
        • 1 onion for broth
        • 3 cloves of garlic for broth
        • 150-200 grams of ramen noodles
        • 100 grams of tofu
        • 1 tablespoon soy sauce for tofu
        • 1 tablespoon hoising for tofu
        • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for tofu
        • green onions
        • corn
        • enoki mushrooms
        • 8 dried shiitake mushrooms, cut in half
        • bean sprouts
        • or any other topping of choice!
        Happiness quotes & statements from Asia

        Happiness quotes & statements from Asia

        Fold a thousand paper cranes, and you will be lucky - Japan
        Is there a cockerel hanging above the door? It will bring you luck. - Thailand
        Is your right eye twitching? You will receive a message of luck! - Indonesia
        Happiness quotes and statements from around the world - WorldSupporter Theme
        Travel, living and working in China and Hong Kong - Theme
        Travel, living and working in India - Theme
        Travel, living and working in The Philippines - Theme
        Travel, living and working in Vietnam - Theme
        Crossroad: region

        SPOTLIGHT NL

        10 aandachtspunten binnen de Thaise cultuur

        10 aandachtspunten binnen de Thaise cultuur

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        De Thai zijn erg vriendelijk; het land wordt dan ook vaak ‘het land van de glimlach’ genoemd. Hoewel de Thaise cultuur op het eerste gezicht misschien niet zo lijkt te verschillen van de westerse cultuur, is deze wezenlijk anders. Bepaald gedrag dat bijvoorbeeld in Nederland als ‘normaal’ wordt gezien, kan in Thailand juist ongepast of onbeleefd zijn. Je zal het niet snel zien wanneer een Thai zich beledigd of ongemakkelijk voelt, maar met onderstaande tips kun je dit in ieder geval proberen te voorkomen.

        1. Toon geen affectie in het openbaar

        • Het is in Thailand niet gebruikelijk om affectie te tonen in het openbaar. Je zal Thaise geliefden niet zien zoenen of knuffelen. Ook hand in hand lopen is iets wat je vrijwel niet ziet.
        • Wanneer mensen elkaar begroeten raken ze elkaar niet aan. (Drie) kussen, een knuffel of een hand geven is dus niet nodig. In plaats daarvan begroeten mensen elkaar met de wai. Dit is een traditionele Thaise groet waarbij je de handen tegen elkaar legt en tegelijkertijd een lichte buiging maakt met je hoofd. De wai is ook een teken van respect; hoe hoger je de handen plaatst, hoe meer respect je toont voor de persoon die je begroet.

        2. Wijs niet

        • In Nederland zijn we gewend om te wijzen; we doen het de hele dag door en vaak onbewust. In Thailand wijzen mensen niet. Dit wordt namelijk als onbeleefd beschouwd. Wil je iets duidelijk maken en weet je niet hoe zonder te wijzen? Gebaar dan naar hetgeen dat je wilt laten zien door alle vier de vingers uitgestrekt te houden en de duim plat tegen de handpalm te plaatsen.

        3. Draag gepaste kleding

        • Thai dragen over het algemeen nette kleding en besteden aandacht aan hun uiterlijk. In toeristische gebieden en grote steden als Bangkok zijn Thai gewend dat buitenlanders (en soms ook Thai zelf) korte rokjes of broeken dragen en tanktops. In de meeste andere gebieden is dit echter minder gebruikelijk en wordt dit, vooral bij vrouwen, niet gewaardeerd. Draag daarom kleding die de knieën en schouders bedekt, vooral als je tempels of koninklijke gebouwen bezoekt. Je wordt hier namelijk geweigerd als je niet voldoet aan de kledingvoorschriften.

        4. Word niet boos

        • Confrontaties en ruzies worden in de Thaise cultuur als onbeschoft gezien en daarom over het algemeen vermeden. Als dingen niet gaan zoals je hoopt of verwacht, probeer dan vooral rustig te blijven en je stem niet te verheffen. Je bereikt hier namelijk weinig mee in Thailand en daarnaast breng je de ander in een vervelende positie. Zo is gezichtsverlies een van de ergste dingen die een Thai kan overkomen. In plaats van ruzie zal er doorgaans dan ook naar een compromis gezocht worden.

        5. Doe je schoenen uit

        • De voeten worden gezien als het laagste een vieste lichaamsdeel in Thailand. Logischerwijs worden daarom ook de schoenen die je draagt als vies beschouwd. Wanneer je bij iemand thuiskomt, of een tempel bezoekt, wordt verwacht dat je je schoenen uitdoet. In supermarkten, winkels en shopping malls kun je je schoenen overigens gewoon aanhouden.

        6. Houd je voeten op de grond

        • Gezien je voeten als vies worden gezien in Thailand, wordt het niet gewaardeerd als je je voeten op een stoel of tafel plaatst. Als je op de grond zit, probeer je voeten dan onder je benen of aan de zijkant van je lichaam te plaatsen en voorkom dat anderen de onderkant van je voeten zien. Als je je in een tempel bevindt, wijs dan nooit met je voeten naar een Boeddhabeeld. Alle Boeddhabeelden zijn namelijk heilig in Thailand. Stap daarnaast niet over de voeten of benen van andere mensen, maar loop er omheen. En nog een laatste aandachtspuntje voor je voeten: wijs of schop niet met je voeten. Dit wordt als erg onbeleefd gezien.

        7. Raak niemands hoofd aan

        • In tegenstelling tot de voeten, wordt het hoofd in Thailand als het hoogste en meest belangrijke lichaamsdeel beschouwd. Thai waarderen het daarom niet als je hun hoofd of haar aanraakt; dit geldt ook voor kinderen.

        8. Toon respect voor ouderen en monniken

        • Hiërarchie speelt een belangrijke rol binnen de Thaise cultuur. Zo hebben Thai onder andere veel respect voor ouderen en monniken. Hoe kun bijvoorbeeld respect tonen naar ouderen? Laat ouderen voorgaan, onderbreek ze niet wanneer ze praten en groet ouderen met een wai.
        • Monniken kun je ook begroeten met de wai. Plaats hierbij je handpalmen ter hoogte van je neus wanneer je een lichte buiging maakt. Deze wai gebruik je in principe alleen voor monniken; je toont er veel respect mee. Voor vrouwen is het verder belangrijk om te weten dat zij een monnik nooit aan mogen raken. Als je op straat een monnik passeert maak je als vrouw plaats om te voorkomen dat er per ongeluk fysiek contact kan plaatsvinden.

        9. Toon respect voor het koningshuis

        • Dit is misschien wel een van de belangrijkste aandachtspunten als je in Thailand bent. De koninklijke familie wordt vereerd door de Thaise bevolking. Kritiek leveren op het koningshuis is niet alleen beledigend naar Thai toe, maar kan zelfs leiden tot een gevangenisstraf. Laat je dus niet negatief uit over het koningshuis en behandel voorwerpen waar de koning op staat afgebeeld, zoals bankbiljetten en munten, met respect. Ga bijvoorbeeld nooit met je voet op een bankbiljet of munt staan.

        10. Sta stil voor het volkslied

        • Het volkslied is erg belangrijk in Thailand. Dagelijks wordt om 08.00 uur ’s ochtends en 18.00 uur ’s avonds het volkslied ten gehore gebracht in onder andere publieke parken, metrostations en op scholen. Als je het volkslied hoort, dien je stil te staan en te stoppen waar je mee bezig bent. Het volkslied duurt minder dan een minuut; een kleine moeite dus om even stil te staan die zeker gewaardeerd wordt.

         

        Maar onthoud vooral...

        Bovenstaande aandachtspunten zijn bedoeld als suggesties om rekening mee te houden als je in Thailand bent. Wat vooral belangrijk is om te onthouden is dat Thai het enorm waarderen als je je probeert aan te passen aan de lokale cultuur en gebruiken. Wees dus niet bang om fouten te maken. En vergeet vooral niet te lachen!

        Chinese memes

        Chinese memes

        Image

        Wat mij altijd heeft geholpen bij het bestuderen van talen en culturen, was het leren van de straattaal, internettaal en memes van de betreffende cultuur. Een aantal jaar geleden studeerde ik Chinastudies, en hier schreef ik soms een luchtig, maar leerzaam stukje voor het krantje van de Studievereniging Sinologie.

        Het is inmiddels een verouderd stuk, en in de praktijk zul je misschien zo klinken: "YOLO, waddup fam, super on fleek am I right?!", maar dit soort dingen blijven leuk, als je Mandarijn leert. 加油!

         

        網絡俚語

        藍瘦香菇 (lán shòu xiānggū): ‘Blauwe slanke paddenstoel’. Storytime! Er was eens een jongeman uit Guangxi, op een dag had hij een date, maar die date verliep niet zo goed als hij had gehoopt. 於是他很難受,想哭, dus plaatste hij een video van zichzelf op Youtube waarin hij dit vertelt. Hij ging viral en leefde nog lang en gelukkig. Als je deze meme nog niet kent, kun je misschien toch wel raden waarom er opeens plaatjes met zijn gezicht op een blauwe paddenstoel verschenen. En zo niet, dan zoek je “藍瘦香菇” eens op en luister je eens goed naar zijn uitspraak. *Hinthint*

        洪荒之力 (hóng huāng zhī lì): ‘Prehistorische krachten’. Als je alles uit de kast hebt gehaald (of het nou gaat om iets wat daadwerkelijk veel moeite heeft gekost, of om iets super simpels waar je gewoon een grapje over wilt maken) kun je zeggen:“我已經用了洪荒之力啦!” Net zoals de zwemster Fu Yuanhui in 2016 op de Olympische Spelen zei toen een interviewster aan haar vroeg of ze zich niet had ingehouden. Mede dankzij haar fantastische gezichtsuitdrukkingen is ze een meme geworden. Als je “Fu Yuanhui’s greatest moments (English subs)” kijkt op Youtube, begrijp je waarom iedereen van haar houdt. Ze is echt hilarisch. En zo schattig.

        打醬油 (dǎ jiàngyóu): ‘Sojasaus kopen’. De betekenis hiervan ligt ergens tussen ‘dat zijn mijn zaken niet’ en ‘hier wil ik niet op reageren’. Het gaat er in ieder geval om dat je iets niet wilt bespreken omdat het ofwel een gevoelig onderwerp is, of omdat het je niet interesseert. De oorsprong van deze meme ligt in een tv-fragment van bijna 10 jaar geleden, maar hij wordt nog steeds vaak gebruikt. In dit fragment vroeg een journalist aan een voorbijganger wat hij vond van het seksschandaal van een of andere celebrity uit Hong Kong. De voorbijganger wilde hier niet op in gaan, dus hij antwoordde: “我只是來打醬油的”.

        不作不死 (bù zuō bù sǐ): Afkorting van 不作死就不會死 ( zsǐ jiù bù huì sǐ). In het Westen is deze uitspraak ook wel bekend als no zuo no die. Het betekent zoiets als: ‘als je geen problemen zoekt, krijg je ook geen problemen’ of: ‘als je je billen niet brandt, hoef je ook niet op de blaren te zitten’. Je kunt het als waarschuwing gebruiken, maar vaak zeggen mensen het ook nádat iemand iets doms heeft gedaan en klaagt over de consequenties.

        我也是醉了(wǒ yě shì zuì le): Dit lijkt heel erg op Engelse uitdrukkingen als “are you kidding me?”, “seriously?!” en “I can’t even…”. Hiermee druk je dus uit dat je iets niet kunt of wilt geloven omdat het bijvoorbeeld te dom of frustrerend voor woorden is. “Ik sta perplex” is misschien een goede Nederlandse vertaling, maar dat klinkt natuurlijk niet zo hip.

        你不知道毛澤東是誰?! 我也是醉了! (Je weet niet wie Mao Zedong is?! Niet te geloven!)

        不明覺厲 (bù míng jué lì): ‘Geen idee waar je het over hebt, maar ik vind het super’ omdat jij het super vindt, óf omdat ik geen zin heb om de rest van je verhaal aan te horen.

        你行你上(nǐ xíng nǐ shàng): ‘Als je het (beter) kunt, doe het dan’. En 不行别瞎逼逼* (bù xíng bié xiā bī bī), oftewel: ‘als je het niet kunt, houd dan gewoon je mond’.

        裝逼 (zhuāngbī): Pleco geeft de definitie “to act like a pretentious pricken dat dekt de lading eigenlijk wel. Iemand die 裝逼t noemen wij ook wel een poser.

        賣萌 (mài méng): ‘Schattigheid verkopen’. Hiermee wordt bedoeld dat je je op een bepaalde manier gedraagt om te laten zien hoe schattig je wel niet kunt zijn.

        菜鳥 (càiniǎo): ‘N00b, newbie, rookie’. Dit kan na een potje League of Legends naar je hoofd worden geslingerd maar in principe ook na een potje basketbal. Een 菜鳥 is in ieder geval iemand die overduidelijk een beginner is in wat dan ook. Of gewoon zo slecht is dat hij een beginner lijkt.

        吃貨 (chīhuò): ‘Foodie, foodlover’. Dit is iemand met een passie voor eten, iemand die constant over eten praat, de hele dag door aan het eten is en alleen maar foto’s van eten op social media plaatst. Ik weet zeker dat we allemaal wel een 吃貨 kennen.

        辣妹 (là mèi): ‘Lekker ding, hottie, aantrekkelijke jonge vrouw’.

        小鮮肉 (xiǎo xiān ròu): ‘Lekker ding, hottie, aantrekkelijke jonge man’.

        (jiǒng): Met een beetje fantasie kun je allerlei gezichtjes zien in dit karakter. 囧 wordt dan ook gebruikt als emoticon waarmee frustratie, verdriet, schaamte, verbazing of soms zelfs blijdschap kan worden uitgedrukt (>_<).

        個屁 (gè pì): Ah, de mogelijkheden die het woord屁 biedt zijn eindeloos. Voeg bijvoorbeeld een 個屁 om op cynische wijze uit te drukken dat je het ergens niet mee eens bent. Het werkt dan ongeveer hetzelfde als het Engelse my ass.

        A: 他好帥哦. (He’s very handsome.)

        B: 他帥個屁! (Handsome my ass!)

        Andere manieren om een douchebag te zijn:

        你笑個屁啊! (What the **** are you laughing at?)

        你懂個屁啊. (You don’t know shit.)

        我姓曾 (wǒ xìng zēng): Deze meme stamt ook alweer uit 2012, maar ik vond hem te mooi om niet te delen, want ik houd nu eenmaal van slechte woordgrapjes. Oké, dus het leek CCTV een leuk idee om de straat op te gaan en deze vraag aan voorbijgangers te stellen: 您幸福嗎?Hierop antwoordde meneer Zeng, bloedserieus: 我姓曾. Ha ha, get it? Goed, misschien rol je niet over de grond van het lachen, maar uit het feit dat dit een meme is geworden, blijkt maar weer dat netizens iedere kans aangrijpen om initiatieven vanuit de staat belachelijk te maken.

        查水表 (cháshuǐbiǎo): ‘De watermeter checken’. Kijk maar uit wanneer iemand dit tegen je zegt, voor je het weet staat de Partij op je stoep! Nee maar echt, zoals je weet kun je opgepakt worden wanneer je in China een bepaalde grens overschrijdt op het internet. In een scène uit een bekend tv-drama komt de politie bij iemand binnen door te zeggen: 開門! 查水表. Sindsdien wordt deze uitdrukking online gebruikt wanneer iemand iets post wat misschien te ver gaat in de ogen van de overheid. Het kan overigens natuurlijk ook als grapje worden gebruikt.

         

        *Op het Chinese web komt het karakter逼 in combinatie met veel verschillende woorden voor. Vaak worden 逼’s door een B vervangen, bijv. 牛B, 瞎BB. Ook is 逼 vaak een substituut voor屄. Want, nou ja, reasons.

        **Omdat dit bijzonder informeel taalgebruik is, en je het alleen bij je Mandarijn-sprekende vrienden kunt gebruiken, heb ik dit onder blogs i.p.v. teaching materials geplaatst. 

        EXPLAINED

        The Insurances Abroad Bundle

        The Insurances Abroad Bundle

        Emigration and living abroad checklist for legal and insurance matters

        Emigration and living abroad checklist for legal and insurance matters

        checklist legal matters

        1. Make use of a legal advisor

        • A scan of your juridical status and the possible risks abroad may be advisable.
        • Check the consequences for inheritance tax, family law, succession rights and matrimonial properties.
        • Possibly get a review of your new international contract (mind the differences in labour law).
        • Check our blog 'How do you assess the reliability of an international insurer?' (in Dutch)

        2. Look into the visa requirements & start the visa procedure

        • Expand the basic inventory that you made in the orientation phase.
        • Use online communities and forums, check recent experiences from people who requested the visa and have the same nationality as you do. Double check their advice.
        • Check for everyone if they need a work permit or residence permit, if they meet the requirements for that and which documents are necessary.
        • Some countries have extra requirements, such as medical clearances or police certificates.
        • Arrange a definitive contract or proof of employment with your future employer.
        • Contact the consulate or embassy before you emigrate and (double) check the current state of (visa) affairs.
        • Download all required documents and read the notices.
        • Plan way ahead, visa procedures can take long, up to several years (be flexible in purchasing/selling housing, finding temporary housing etc.).
        • Consider using a visa service company, especially for popular emigration countries.

        3. Check which documents you need to legalize

        • Find out if your new country has a treaty with your native country.
        • Find out which documents need translation and into which language.
        • Find out which documents you need to legalize.
        • Provide birth certificates, marriage certificates, evidence of (special) (work) skills, diplomas, recommendation letters.
        • Start on time.

        4. Check your insurance policies and ask for advice

        • Create an overview of your current policies, contract terms, contact information.
        • Ask about the consequences of your emigration with regards to current insurance policies and make sure that you terminate them in time.
        • Make sure that you terminate home insurances, property insurances, car insurances etc. at the correct time: not too early (not insured), not too late (double costs).
        • Read up on (international) health insurances. Find orientation on www.expatinsurances.org.
        • Get information from an insurance expert about:
          • Ending your current health insurance.
          • Whether your new country has treaties with your home country.
          • Whether to get local insurance or not.
          • Whether the insurance provided by your local employer provides enough coverage.
          • Getting international health insurance.
        • Start on time, mindful of  how long medical checks can take to complete.

        4. How to prepare documents?

        • Check the validity of all passports. Or arrange passports for family members with a different kind of ID.
        • Also bring: passport photos, drivers licenses (possibly a temporary international driver's license), birth certificates, marriage certificates, last wills, documents on euthanasia, police certificates, divorce papers, death certificates (if your previous partner died), recommendation letters, diplomas, resume/CV, medical files, evidences of being creditworthy, school files, insurance papers, student ID's, medicine recipes and proof of the vaccinations you had.
        • Make an easy-to-find archive for every family member with (copies of) personal documents.
        • Make sure you know about recent developments concerning double nationalities and find out how to extend your passport in your new home country.
        • Consider using an online/digital safe or cloud functionality and give access to your lawyer or someone you trust.
        • Gather receipts of the properties you take with you (proof you own them already, to avoid breaking import laws).
        FAQ - Health Insurance when studying in The Netherlands

        FAQ - Health Insurance when studying in The Netherlands

        Image

        When do you need to apply for a basic health insurance when studying in The Netherlands?

        • The Dutch Health Insurance is obligatory for residents of The Netherlands. Students who are temporarily visiting are an exemption, but the moment you're working or getting paid for an internship or voluntary work this might change.
        • If you're an International student and you are just here to study you usually don't need a basic health insurance.
        • The moment you take on a (part time) job you need to get a health insurance however. You can choose any insurer.
        • When you're doing your internship in The Netherlands, you only need to get a health insurance when you're getting paid more than the minimum wage (so it's usually not the case).
        • If you're an independent worker (zzp'er/freelancer) the rules are less clear, and you'll be asked to check with the SVB to do a WLZ check to know if you are obligated to get the basic health insurance.

        Can I apply for care allowance (zorgtoeslag) as an International Student?

        • If you are required to get the basic Dutch Health Insurance (basisverzekering) you can also apply for the care allowance.
        • Usually this will cover most of the costs of your monthly insurance payment.

        When to apply for private health insurance for your time in The Netherlands.?

        • When you are here for a temporary stay and not getting paid for a part time job, there are still situations when you would like to get a insurance.
        • This can be the case when your own health insurer doesn't cover (enough of) the costs in The Netherlands.
        • You can then apply for a Student Insurance, such as the OOM Studying in The Netherlands insurance.
        • This insurance is not a basic health insurance, so you can't apply for the care allowance. Usually the prices of these insurances are between 20 and 30 euros a month.

        Where can I find more information about this?

        Related content on WorldSupporter: 
        Insurances for abroad: blogs and contributions by WorldSupporters
        Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

        Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

        Why should you take out specialized travel insurance for a long trip abroad?

        • Regular travel or health insurances often only cover trips for a maximum number of days (for example 60, 90 or 180 days). This limits your flexibility!
        • Your health insurance from back home may not offer any coverage abroad or only in specific hospitals.
        • During a long trip you might undertake special activities like paid work or volunteering. Regular travel insurances usually don’t cover these kind of activities. The same goes for adventurous sports like skydiving, scuba diving and bungee jumping.

        Volunteer or intern abroad insurances

        • Working as a volunteer or intern offers a great learning experience. Meet new people and make a difference! You will develop your knowledge and skills, as well as that of others. You will gain international skills, contribute to a better world and gain useful experience for on your resume.
        • However, just like at home there is always a chance that something goes wrong during your time abroad. Such as sickness, accidents, stolen luggage and of course things that can go wrong back home that you may ned to return for. 
        • If you have the right travel insurance it will help you financially and offer help when you need it.  On this page you can read about how you can make sure you’re properly insured before, during and after your work as a volunteer.

        Why insure specifically as a volunteer or intern abroad?

        • Volunteer projects, foundations , NGOs & local companies typically don’t have suitable insurance. Even if they do, it might only be valid during your time at work and not during your daytrips.
        • Regular travel insurances often don’t cover volunteering abroad or your work as an intern
        • Volunteerwork & internships often involves doing work for which you are not trained or have little experience doing. This might result in a higher chance for accidents.

        Why insure medical expenses abroad with an emigration or expat insurance?

        • Being well insured while living or working abroad is important. Sometimes the new country of residence has a good national health care system, but this is certainly not always the case. As an alternative to the national health insurance, an international (expat) insurance is a frequently used replacement, with a number of advantages: international coverage, reimbursements and conditions, often according to high standards, worldwide coverage and flexibility. A number of good and affordable options are listed below.

        Check out more about

        Travel insurances and insurances for long term abroad - Theme
        Emigration and living abroad checklist for legal and insurance matters

        Emigration and living abroad checklist for legal and insurance matters

        checklist legal matters

        1. Make use of a legal advisor

        • A scan of your juridical status and the possible risks abroad may be advisable.
        • Check the consequences for inheritance tax, family law, succession rights and matrimonial properties.
        • Possibly get a review of your new international contract (mind the differences in labour law).
        • Check our blog 'How do you assess the reliability of an international insurer?' (in Dutch)

        2. Look into the visa requirements & start the visa procedure

        • Expand the basic inventory that you made in the orientation phase.
        • Use online communities and forums, check recent experiences from people who requested the visa and have the same nationality as you do. Double check their advice.
        • Check for everyone if they need a work permit or residence permit, if they meet the requirements for that and which documents are necessary.
        • Some countries have extra requirements, such as medical clearances or police certificates.
        • Arrange a definitive contract or proof of employment with your future employer.
        • Contact the consulate or embassy before you emigrate and (double) check the current state of (visa) affairs.
        • Download all required documents and read the notices.
        • Plan way ahead, visa procedures can take long, up to several years (be flexible in purchasing/selling housing, finding temporary housing etc.).
        • Consider using a visa service company, especially for popular emigration countries.

        3. Check which documents you need to legalize

        • Find out if your new country has a treaty with your native country.
        • Find out which documents need translation and into which language.
        • Find out which documents you need to legalize.
        • Provide birth certificates, marriage certificates, evidence of (special) (work) skills, diplomas, recommendation letters.
        • Start on time.

        4. Check your insurance policies and ask for advice

        • Create an overview of your current policies, contract terms, contact information.
        • Ask about the consequences of your emigration with regards to current insurance policies and make sure that you terminate them in time.
        • Make sure that you terminate home insurances, property insurances, car insurances etc. at the correct time: not too early (not insured), not too late (double costs).
        • Read up on (international) health insurances. Find orientation on www.expatinsurances.org.
        • Get information from an insurance expert about:
          • Ending your current health insurance.
          • Whether your new country has treaties with your home country.
          • Whether to get local insurance or not.
          • Whether the insurance provided by your local employer provides enough coverage.
          • Getting international health insurance.
        • Start on time, mindful of  how long medical checks can take to complete.

        4. How to prepare documents?

        • Check the validity of all passports. Or arrange passports for family members with a different kind of ID.
        • Also bring: passport photos, drivers licenses (possibly a temporary international driver's license), birth certificates, marriage certificates, last wills, documents on euthanasia, police certificates, divorce papers, death certificates (if your previous partner died), recommendation letters, diplomas, resume/CV, medical files, evidences of being creditworthy, school files, insurance papers, student ID's, medicine recipes and proof of the vaccinations you had.
        • Make an easy-to-find archive for every family member with (copies of) personal documents.
        • Make sure you know about recent developments concerning double nationalities and find out how to extend your passport in your new home country.
        • Consider using an online/digital safe or cloud functionality and give access to your lawyer or someone you trust.
        • Gather receipts of the properties you take with you (proof you own them already, to avoid breaking import laws).
        Crossroads: activities, countries, competences, study fields and goals
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