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Chinese Podcast EP211: Culture Shock: Why is Life in Europe So Slow Compared to Asia?
25 July 2026

Chinese Podcast EP211: Culture Shock: Why is Life in Europe So Slow Compared to Asia?

Dashu Mandarin Podcast

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Why is installing an air conditioner in Spain a month-long nightmare, while in Asia it only takes 24 hours? In this episode of Dashu Mandarin, Ben, Cha, and Can dish on the ultimate culture shock for Asian expats living in Europe: EFFICIENCY! From waiting weeks for an AC installation and banks closing at 2 PM, to multi-year roadworks and strict social rules—we compare the slow-paced European lifestyle with the ultra-convenient culture of China and Taiwan.Is Europe's slow pace a result of strong worker protections and monopolies, or just pure inefficiency? Let’s talk about it!🌏 In this episode, we cover:- Ben's crazy story of buying & installing an AC in Barcelona- Service efficiency comparison: Spain vs. Taiwan vs. Mainland China- Bank hours, road construction, and public infrastructure speed- Train security checks, train tickets, and social governance (drunk driving & strict laws)