Just can’t get hang of chopsticks; is it rude to...

[Anonymous]

Bring a fork when I travel in East Asia this summer?

I can eat much more neatly with Western utensils. Is it an insult if I decline chopsticks and supply my own fork?

[Anonymous]

Just learn. It really isn’t that hard.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Just learn. It really isn’t that hard.

I have tried for years and years. I think it might be related to minor nerve damage in my right arm. I have a very slight tremor and somewhat limited strength as a result. A firm grip on two items and appropriate pressure requires intense concentration and moving very slowly. I don’t think I can neatly eat a serving of rice within the time allotted for our group meals. A fork seems less offensive to me than flying food. I get that it might come across as culturally inflexible, but it will actually allow me to eat a wider variety of foods.

[Anonymous]

I always ask for a fork.

[Anonymous]

I’m not even great with the chopstick helper they give to kids. I have reall poor fine motor control and I would take some bamboo utensils if I was you. Have s nice trip

[Anonymous]

Take the chopsticks and use your utensil. No one cares

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Just learn. It really isn’t that hard.

For you.

[Anonymous]

My friend is using these to help her kids learn how to use chopsticks, but maybe this could work for you on your trip, OP? A little more portable and discreet than a fork, and you could practice to see if you can manage with them beforehand:

https://www.amazon.com/FUNCHOP-Chopstick-Helpers-50-Pack/dp/B00KY7UXFQ

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My friend is using these to help her kids learn how to use chopsticks, but maybe this could work for you on your trip, OP? A little more portable and discreet than a fork, and you could practice to see if you can manage with them beforehand:

https://www.amazon.com/FUNCHOP-Chopstick-Helpers-50-Pack/dp/B00KY7UXFQ

I keep theses in my purse for my kids when we go out. Or, get a pair of all and one chop sticks that teaches you the grip.

[Anonymous]

Southeast Asian restaurants will have utensils. Spoons for sure.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Just learn. It really isn’t that hard.

I have tried for years and years. I think it might be related to minor nerve damage in my right arm. I have a very slight tremor and somewhat limited strength as a result. A firm grip on two items and appropriate pressure requires intense concentration and moving very slowly. I don’t think I can neatly eat a serving of rice within the time allotted for our group meals. A fork seems less offensive to me than flying food. I get that it might come across as culturally inflexible, but it will actually allow me to eat a wider variety of foods.

If only you had another hand...

[Anonymous]

OP, I'm half-Chinese but grew up in a more culturally South-Asian household and ate using hands growing up. I don't know how to use chopsticks properly and like you, much prefer fork and spoon. My DH, who is white, uses chopsticks better than I can but who cares? I've travelled to China many times and never had a problem getting a fork. Don't worry.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Just learn. It really isn’t that hard.

I have tried for years and years. I think it might be related to minor nerve damage in my right arm. I have a very slight tremor and somewhat limited strength as a result. A firm grip on two items and appropriate pressure requires intense concentration and moving very slowly. I don’t think I can neatly eat a serving of rice within the time allotted for our group meals. A fork seems less offensive to me than flying food. I get that it might come across as culturally inflexible, but it will actually allow me to eat a wider variety of foods.

If only you had another hand...

NP. That's not as simple as you make it sound.

[Anonymous]

East Asian here - use your fork or ask for one. Seriously, no one will care, especially if you are not East Asian. If you are, you might get a little side eye, but it will be fine.

[Anonymous]

Thank you for the actually helpful posts about chopstick helpers and bringing a fork.