Travelling around the world might be
one of the best ways to experience foreign cultures. Food can be a channel which
facilitates better understanding of a local culture. Hence, being a food-lover, I enjoy tasting
local delicacies in each country. Consequently, I have also observed food
cultures which are unique for certain countries. By far, Hong Kong has one of
the most distinct food cultures.
About three years ago, my best
friend, Vivian and I went on our graduation trip to Hong Kong. I learnt their distinctive
food culture from several embarrassing events.
On the first day, I had my first
food cultural lesson through a visit to the small eatery near to my hotel.
After a four hours flight on Jetstar (which does not provide any
food or beverage on board) from Singapore to Hong Kong, Vivian and I were famished. Hence, after
checking into our hotel room, we rushed out to the nearest eatery in our
vicinity. We were welcomed by a friendly lady who ushered us to our table. Soon
after we have placed our order, she served us two cups of tea. Due to the
extreme thirst, I hastily finished my cup of tea. However, after I put down my
cup, I realized that my surrounding tables were staring at me. I was puzzled and
so I returned a blank stare. Vivian tapped me and discreetly pointed to the
table on our left. I turned and I saw cups loaded with utensils. I was embarrassed
as I drank the the tea which was meant for utensil-washing and not for
drinking. After the silly act, we quickly finish our supper and head back to
our hotel.
For the following day, Vivian and I had
decided to try their famous dim sum for breakfast. We walked into a famous dim
sum restaurant, and a lady led us to a nicely-set table. After we have placed
our order, the lady served two pots of drinks and a big metal bowl. Not knowing
their culture, I stared at the bowl and thought for awhile. After which, I have
decided observe the surrounding before I do anything silly again. I turned and
saw an old-lady pouring the hot water over the bowl filled with cups, bowls,
plates and utensils. We followed her action. At that point of time, I was
really amazed by their high hygiene standard for dining. This shows how
particular Hong Kong citizens can be with regards to food and hygiene.
After whole day of shopping on the
third day, we were famished again. This time round, we have decided to try the egg
tarts in KFC before our proper dinner. To our surprise, people are eating KFC’s
chicken drumstick with gloves on. I have never see anyone using gloves in KFC,
not even in those countries, like Malaysia or India, where people commonly use
their hands to eat. I was truly impressed by their food culture consistency in
all food places, which includes their fast food restaurants.
After my Hong Kong trip, there is no
doubt that Hong Kong has the highest demands for quality dining. These fine
qualities can only be observed in person and not publicized by media. In fact,
through dining experiences, I have gained a deeper understanding of a local culture.
Hence, in time to come, I will really like to travel to more places to explore culture
from more aspects.
