As much as I try not to, I still have preconceived notions about what a place will be like before I go. Here are some of them.
In Thailand I was surprised by how many people spoke English, but how little signage was in English. In India it seemed to be just the opposite; Nearly all of the signage was in English, but it was very difficult to find people who spoke English.
Thailand has numerous modern structures most of which were in good repair. Thais put in a lot of effort in keeping everything clean. While the sidewalks did leave much to be desired, the roads seemed in better condition than in the US. In India, it seems most buildings have not been kept up since the British left. The decor hasn't changed either. The roads have potholes the size of cows, sidewalks are nonexistent.
Lane markings in India are nonexistent or treated as suggestions. Cars will drive down either side of the road. Where the US there would be 3 lanes of traffic going one way, in Kolkata they fit 4 cars wide in the correct direction plus 1 going the other way. Very scary. Horns are used to keep every one from crashing into each other. To fit so close together cars have their side mirrors folded in.
While I guessed this in theory, it was a shock (literally) to find out hotel wiring standards are not up to US code of even 40 years ago. In the US if a hot wire touches a pipe, it blows the breaker and everyone is safe. Not so here. Also it is good to be cautious of the structural integrity of what you are standing on.
If someone is trying to sell you something NO does not mean NO. I hate being rude, but it seems like the only way to enjoy being here is to ignore anyone who tries to talk to you. In India information tends not to be free. If you ask a person on the street for directions they will expect a tip and will tell you so.
You have to remove your shoes at every sacred space. Even when it is wet and muddy. Also, marble is slippery when wet.
Indians do not know how to queue. They love pushing their way to the front.
That is all for now.
This post is so Matthew. I love it.
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