Notes on Southeast Asia

These are some observations I've made while travelling around this region:

(These are quick thoughts, definitely generalizations, and

probably stereotypes. I'm just putting them up here to

give a vague idea of how different life is here.)

Hinduism and Buddhism affect all aspects of life for many people,

• Behavioral norms are governed by religion, such as not patting a child on the head because it's the highest and therefore holiest part of his body.
• Saffron-robed monks are everywhere. They're on public transportation, in fast food restaurants, talking on cell phones, and scattered about your everyday life.
• Most Hindu homes and businesses will have a shrine with religious icons which they will "feed," wash, and pray to everyday.

Silk is for sale everywhere in every shape and form.

You see elephants walking down the side of the road on occasion (there's no other way to transport them!) and in all sorts of religious, historic, and cultural imagery


Feet are dirty and low. Don't point them at people, don't step over anyone on the ground, and don't put them up on anything.

Only in expat homes, upscale businesses, and tourist establishments do you see sit-down toilets. The normal custom is squatter toilets and no toilet paper, just the bidet hose. (remember the story about why we always shake with the right hand?)



Here are some differences solely taking place in Thailand:

• They are centuries ahead of the rest of us. Literally! According to their calendar, the current year is 2551!

• You must remove your shoes before entering any home, most businesses, and in temples. (We only saw this in Thailand while we were in Southeast Asia. Now we're seeing it in India as well, but you must remove shoes in temples in most countries.)