Wearing a Dust Mask in Beijing: Will it Offend Your Host?
Summary
In this article, we address the concern of wearing a dust mask while traveling to Beijing due to the city’s pollution. We assure readers that wearing a dust mask is a common practice among natives and will not offend the host. However, we caution against using a cheap surgical mask and recommend a higher quality mask with replaceable charcoal filters.
Table of Contents
- Wearing a Dust Mask in Beijing
- Common Practice
- Choosing the Right Mask
- Avoiding Permanent Marker Decorations
- Conclusion
Wearing a Dust Mask in Beijing
As a traveler to Beijing, you may be concerned about the city’s pollution and wonder if wearing a dust mask will offend your host. We want to assure you that wearing a mask is a common practice among natives and visitors alike. It is not considered rude or offensive and is even seen as a sign of being health-conscious.
Common Practice
Many people in Beijing have adopted the practice of wearing a dust mask to protect themselves from the city’s pollution. It is a common sight to see people wearing masks while commuting or walking around the city. Therefore, you do not have to worry about offending your host or looking out of place.
Choosing the Right Mask
While wearing a mask is a good idea, not all masks are created equal. Cheap surgical masks, while popular among Chinese urbanites, do not filter many harmful particles. Instead, a local anti-pollution organization recommends using a higher quality mask with replaceable filters made of charcoal. It is worth noting that the manufacturer of charcoal filters ironically contributes to air pollution.
Avoiding Permanent Marker Decorations
While it may be tempting to decorate your mask with permanent markers to make it look more interesting, we strongly advise against it. Not only does it look unprofessional, but it may also damage the mask and reduce its effectiveness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wearing a dust mask in Beijing is a common practice and will not offend your host. However, it is important to choose the right mask with replaceable charcoal filters for maximum protection. Additionally, it is best to avoid decorating your mask with permanent markers. By following these tips, you can protect yourself from the city’s pollution while still being respectful to your host.
