It was 1970 and 34 years ago, and China had been opening up to the West for some time.
I was part of a tour group.
Our first appointment took us to an institute in Beijing for a working dinner at a large round table. The era of spittoons wasn't quite over, and for us Westerners, it was a sight that took some getting used to.
There were very delicious dishes, including the famous Peking duck.
Since I was sitting next to the host, I was given the special honor of being served the duck head at the end of the meal. All eyes were on me, and I was invited to eat a portion. Out of respect for the host and the country, I took up my chopsticks again and, to loud applause, ate some of the innards.
By the way, we are still friends with his family today.
