@ Turnoi: An interesting response. But I felt far safer in Oman and the UAE, than I ever did in China. Granted, I have never been to the KSA so not sure of how it is there.

I just mean the Chinese are more defensive and sensitive to criticism than any other race of people I have ever met. When I mentioned Israel in Oman I got some hostility and ranting, but never outright violence was implied or threatened.

If I mention Taiwan even in passing in the PRC, ears close up, blinkers go on at the first time. If it's mentioned again things get more heated and you may be lucky to end up on two feet.