A Few Thoughts on Traveling in Asia

This story doesn't really fit into the one-day-one-story format I've been using for the rest of this trip, but is rather a balloon of thoughts and feelings that has finally burst.

Traveling here has made me wary of anyone trying to strike up a conversation, and I'm sure to those few well intentioned people who really do just want to say Hi and practice their English, I come across as a royal ass. I've accepted that to 99% of the poeple here I'm a walking dollar sign, and I don't feel like I'm being unfair in that assessment. I've been made to feel this way by a never ending barrage of sales pitches and propositions, so my reaction, accordingly, has become the cold shoulder. My standard answers are "NO", or if I'm feeling nice, "NO, thank you." regardless of the question.

"Hello. Motorbike*?" (*insert 'postcards', 'hotel', 'buy something', 'eat something', or anything else that might be for sale.)
"No."
"Oh! Where are you from?"
"No."
"Where are you going?"
"No."

I've made several exceptions to my policy of ignoring (policy of ignorance?) and have spoken with quite a few people along the way. Some of these have been incredibly rewarding experiences and have offered a wonderful insight into life in these countries. Many, unfortunately, have been long winded attempts to lighten my wallet.

One thing I must say is that a majority of the people who have approached me, and especially in Vietnam, have offered goods or services in exchange for my money, be it for souveniers, motorbike rides, tour guide services, or something else for which I might agreeably pay. Begging for money is relatively rare, and I admire the determination of these people to go out and earn a living in some fashion instead of accepting handouts. It's the endless stream of people touting their services that's hard to swallow and eventually takes its toll. With so much poverty, though, and so much competition for the tourists' dollars, it's to be expected.

So the lesson hidden in the lines of my rant is this: when traveling in Asia, discard all blatant propositions for money with a firm (often friendly) "NO" or two. Occasionally, however, if you have the time and patience, sit and chat with some of the locals. They could be the most enlightening and enjoyable moments of your trip.