Occasionally Asked Questions
Why are you so thin?
Blame my genetics. I don't really do any regular exercise, though I walk a lot and my diet is pretty healthy, usually home-cooked Chinese food, but I can't seem to gain any weight, no matter what I eat. I get bugged about this a lot in China, where they assume that all Americans are lard-asses.
What's the best part about living in China?
The food, the relaxed pace of life, the beautiful girls (sorry guys, I've already snagged the best one :-), and the never-ending sightseeing opportunities.
What's the worst part?
The crowds, the ubiquitous smoking, the constant paranoia of being ripped off, and the laowai catcalls.
What's with all the ink, bro? You trying to be a gangsta or something?
I got my first tattoo during my last week of college and I liked it. I got a couple more before I left for China that year, and tattoos are so darn cheap in China that I kinda got carried away. I get some strange stares on the streets but I'm a nice guy so people let it slide. I like decoration and I see my skin as an empty wall, and I want to hang some pictures on it. Some tattoos are better than others, but as a whole, I'm happy with my collection.
How many do you have?
More than 20 separate designs.
What do the Chinese words on your back mean?
From top to bottom: peace, respect, kindness, sacrifice.
Is getting a tattoo in China different than getting one in the US?
Depends on where you go. Some shops are very professional and established, and they pretty much resemble a Western tattoo parlor. Others are little holes in the wall that could be described as a bit sketchy. Though every place that I've be inked in has been very professional about their equipment and cleanliness.
If I have a question about tattoos in China, could I hit you up?
Sure, send me an email with any questions: seeker4499 at hotmail.com
Will China ever become a force to reckon with in world football?
Doubtful.
How much wood can a woodchuck chuck if a woodchuck could chuck wood?
Come on, now you're just being silly.
What number am I thinking of?
Bite me.