Originally Posted by Jenbel

I think the only thing I've been able to refuse was the drinking thing in Korea (whereby massive quantities of alcohol can be consumed), and I could do that because I was a woman. but if you are refusing, you have to be sure you won't be giving offence, and also to do so within the terms of the culture (in Korea, it's normal for women not to get involved in massive drinking competitions, so my refusal wouldn't have batted an eyelid. In China, I don't refuse. In Japan, I would never be asked!).