Dear James - My bi-cultural friend & Mastery Phase Man: In the four stages of culture shock you were obviously in n the mastery stage at the time you wrote that post. The mastery stage is one where ex-pats are able to participate fully and comfortably in the host culture. Mastery does not mean total conversion, and people are capable of not adopting some aspects of the host culture.

It is often referred to as the bi-cultural-ism stage. The individual now feels 'at home'.

. Enjoy being in the culture (as a washed up entertainer now playing Irish Folk music in bars)
. Functions well in the culture (which country did you say you were from?)
. Prefer certain cultural traits of the new culture rather than their own (such as Tsingtao Beer).
. Adopts certain behaviours from the new culture (It sure isn't an American Band now is it?)

Was it Australia, Ireland, America? Which country did you say you were from?

Well seeing how inflation has increased more than 100 percent in certain markets such as housing - More than 50 % on food, clothing and airfare, and based on my current salary after 10 years of experience teaching in China - I live on instant noodles and can't afford to go home. Some people integrate fully and take on all parts of the host culture while losing their original identity. They normally remain in the host country forever. Approximately 10% of expatriates belong to this group of Adopters. Is that you?

How's your Feng Bian Mian tasting? Got Milk?