Why will anyone in the right frame of mind move to the U.S. when they obviously do not know English? This is one big question that I often ask myself when I see the older Chinese […]
Category: Cultural Differences
(The Lack Of) Chinese New Year Mood in Chicago
It is just a few more days to Chinese New Year, and if not for the fact that I am aware that it is Chinese New Year, the day would have just passed me by […]
Understanding Different Countries’ Cultures Through Cab Drivers
I just came back from a Taiwan trip and I was seriously scorched to death. It was so hot that I even lost my appetite for the mouth-watering food I was so looking forward to, […]
Confident and Entrepreneurial Beggars in the U.S.
When I first came to Chicago, I was pretty shocked at the sheer number of beggars lining the streets. Basically there is one beggar every 10 metre away. (in the downtown area where I stay) […]
The Realities of A Non-White Expat Life
“I wasn’t asking you.” The customs officer’s blunt phrasing and cool expression directed at me after I helpfully provided extra information about my husband’s reason for coming to Chicago immediately woke me up from my […]
Observations of American Traits From A Foreigner’s Perspective
I haven’t been in Chicago long enough to befriend many Americans, and I am obviously not an expert on American behavior either (duh), but I have spotted a few common traits that seem to hold […]
Weather Differences: From Singapore to Chicago
One very obvious difference between Chicago and Singapore would be the huge disparity in the weather. In Singapore, the weather seldom comes up in conversations and we don’t have weather newscasters because what’s there to […]
Cultural Differences: From Singapore to Chicago
Both Singapore and Chicago are cosmopolitan cities that are melting pots of different cultures, but this is probably where the similarity end. There are a few really stark cultural differences that I still have difficulty […]
I can’t stand the tipping culture in USA
After nearly 6 months in USA, I still can’t get used to the tipping culture in USA. Or rather, the reason why I couldn’t get used to it is because I really do not agree […]
Accent is key to blending in
After living in USA for a few months, I have come to the conclusion that having the right accent is the key to adapting and being accepted in a foreign country. I had a great […]
Chasing Carefree 