... we would like to share with you some of the things we learned here. There are many cultural differences in daily life that, even as a tourist, we have come to a new undersanding.
- Cars have the right of way, not pedestrians
- It's sometimes best just to close your eyes while in a taxi
- Contrary to our State Fair, all things are NOT better on a stick. Especially if they still have their tail or tentacles.
- You learn to recognize (at restaraunts) what many whole animals look like without their fur or feathers (and with a golden glaze).
- People are generally very helpful even if you can't understand each other. Hand signals go a long way
- Either they're very attentive or there's a shortage of dishes. Don't linger over a finished dinner plate!
- A "small" city has 3-5 million people in it
- Never pay the asking price for anything at the street markets
- The first key to knowing when to negotiate is if items aren't labeled with prices
- We are no longer taking for granted heated buildings (even offices)
- It's difficult to venture far when you can't read ANY signs. At least in countries with Latin-based language we can attempt to pronounce them.
We feel blessed not only for our new child but to have been able to take a trip like this and experience another part of the world. Nonetheless, there's no place like home. We miss you all and are looking forward to seeing you again soon!
Joel and Alayne
