Dear Angela,
In your last letter you said you’re coming to China next month. I’m really happy about this. There are plenty of places of interest in China. You are sure to have fun.
As to the Chinese dining culture you asked about, I think there is something you should know about. First, unlike people in western countries, we Chinese people prefer to share the food together. We think it is friendly and shows close relationship. I hope you can get used to it soon. Second, Chinese people like to order many dishes and have all of them on the table at once. I know that, in your country, there is a sequence(顺序) of ordering: appetizer(开胃菜) first, then the main course and finally the desert, one plate at a time. But in China, the order is not that clear. Third, if you’re invited to dinner by a Chinese friend, you should not eat up all the food in your bowl, since the host will think you are still not full and feel sorry that he didn’t prepare enough food. Fourth, when eat in restaurants, bills are generally paid by one person(usually man). That shows hospitability(热情好客) and generosity. 
I believe China to you will be a different but wonderful land. I’m looking forward to your coming!

Love,
Nathalie