After buying gifts for his family at the Silk Market, Leo wishes to post a parcel home to America. Dani accompanies Leo to the post office to assist him get his package posted. Leo learns Mandarin Chinese vocabulary and phrases to instruct the post office clerk on what he wants. Dani instructs Leo how to say in Chinese whether he wants to send the package by air or by sea. The post office staff weighs the package and advises him price in Mandarin Chinese.
Chinese government agencies, such as the post office, generally don't have many staff members who speak much English. Learning Mandarin words and phrases required to make yourself understood is advisable if you want to post a package or parcel while in China. Leo learns this key Mandarin vocabulary from Dani, and learns to understand the questions commonly heard when talking to Chinese post office clerks. For example, you will normally be asked if you want to buy extra insurance for your package, which may be a good idea if you are sending valuable items.
The postal system in China has its roots in the early Chinese dynasties and was vital to administering such a large and diverse country. Chinese people have a great interest in collecting postage stamps and these can trade for many multiples of their face value. At the post office, you're likely to see displays of newly issued commemorative stamps. International shipping companies such as FedEx also have a presence in the Chinese market and offer competition for international shipping.
About our Lessons
Dani, a native Mandarin Chinese speaker from Beijing, guides you through your trip in China. Dani will help you learn Chinese words and phrases that you need to know as you encounter real life situations while in China. You will also learn interesting and useful lessons about Chinese culture and values along the way. Our lessons are designed to help you learn Chinese online without the need to download or install any software. You can start to learn Chinese free by availing of our 10 free lessons.