An Asia primer

A few things I've noticed about Asia, for those not in the know:

• Most places seem to be jaywalk-for-your-life. If you're timid in your jaywalking, you'll learn confidence quick here, most likely in a sea of motorbikes 25 strong.
• You don't flush the toilet paper. It goes in a tiny bin, I suppose to prevent pipe blockage.
• Children and adults alike will hawk their wares to you and try to scam you. I know this from experience! Siem Reap, the site of the famous temple Angkor Wat, was a constant barrage of "Tuk-tuk!" "Hello lady would like some pant? Would you like some necklace?" And I got scammed for $50 in Saigon when I tried to catch a taxi from the bus station to my guesthouse. Not to mention my phone getting stolen. The scamming is mind-numbing.
• Thailand and Vietnam seem to "get" English politeness, and at least they call out to you with "miss" or "madam." Cambodia, on the other hand, has been sorely misinformed that calling "lady" is okay. It's not, Cambodia...
• Living cheap will soon make you a miser. I find myself feeling entitled to the cheapest meals possible, and turning away from places serving dinner at $3.
• It's polite to take something offered to you with both hands, and if you must take it with one hand, you're supposed to touch the elbow of that arm with your other hand, to show politeness. This goes along with the wai (Thai word for praying gesture) which you should use for greetings.
• Apparently people here shower twice a day, because you become so sweaty throughout the day that it's necessary.
• Britney Spears' ...Baby One More Time album is alive and well here. Unfortunately.