- Joined
- Sep 6, 2008
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- 3,307
Soooo moving along - thought an interesting topic of conversation since this is a discussion board - is the different cultural and treatment in other countries versus America. First off, I am honestly truly in love with the concept of bowing. I’m sure @hawkmoon can speak to this too living in Japan. It’s such a great sign of respect and so universal here that it takes away any awkwardness of a handshake, fist bump, hug, etc. Also with Covid still being an issue I think it makes everyone feel more comfortable. I’m super into it - wish we did it in the states lol.
The other thing is how genuine the people are here. I know most of my interactions are with hotel staff but man they treat you so well and are so happy you’re here. Some would have a cynical attitude and say well you’re paying for that and otherwise they wouldn’t care about you. I disagree. And the proof is go stay at a hotel in Miami. Ask @pimpman about the service in South Florida. It’s fucking terrible. Most hotels now auto include a 20% plus service charge in everything so servers and bartenders give zero fucks about you.
Lol anyways - just an interesting observation after my trip to the Maldives and now Thailand.
First of all that you for sharing your trip with us. Your narrative makes it real and your pictures help us imagine ourselves being there. I'm sure we'd all be hitting poses when we could in such settings!
On bowing. Physical contact isn't a thing here in Japan (unless very drunk) and bowing conveys many messages with great efficiency. I bow to colleagues, neighbors, shop staff, and my delivery guys when I see the on the street. Add a smile and you communicate a lot. I smile easily, which makes Japanese think I am very 優しい, or warm/kind.
A good handshake is great with foreign colleagues and friends, but a good bow has tremendous utility for communication as well.