Global village: Student talks of Chilean customs

(China Daily)
Updated: 2009-09-18 10:10

Country: Chile

National Day: September 18

Population: 16,601,707

Capital: Santiago

Official Language: Spanish

Currency: Chilean peso

Won its independence from Spain in 1810.

How to say Chile in Chinese: zhi li

Beijing METRO spoke to Jose Conejo, a student from Chile who has been living in Beijing for two years. He gives China Daily the scoop on Chilean customs and culture, where Chilean wines can be found, and laments the absence of good empanadas in the city.

METRO: Could you give us an example of a few traditional Chilean dishes?

Conejo: The two most famous traditional foods would have to be asado, or Chilean barbecue, and then empanadas of course, which look like a big baked dumplings that are filled with meat and are a bit salty.

METRO: Do Chilean restaurants in Beijing provide authentic Chilean food?

Conejo: As far as I know, there are no restaurants in Beijing featuring Chilean food. But you can find some good Chilean wines in Beijing.

METRO: How to say "Hello" in Chilean Spanish?

Conejo: There is no Chilean slang of saying "Hello." We just say "Hola."

METRO: What are some similarities that you've noticed between Chinese and Chilean culture? Major differences?

Conejo: The Chinese are big barbecue lovers, and so are we. So that's a huge thing that we have in common. I suppose when it comes to greetings, there is a major difference. Chileans are bit more open, more physically affectionate I guess you could say. When guys greet girls, they kiss them on the cheeks, whereas Chinese just shake hands.

METRO: When a foreigner visits Chile, where do you recommend they go?

Conejo: Chile is a very beautiful country and has many scenic spots. I'd have to say that Patagonia is the one with particular charm. It's located in the south part of Chile and offers such a dramatic variety of landscapes: islands, glaciers, icebergs and mountains are in humorous co-existence.

METRO: If a friend of yours came to Beijing, where would you take them?

Conejo: That's hard because there are so many great places to see in Beijing. I'd definitely show them around some hutongs, then probably take them to the Lama temple and Beihai Park.