Welcome back. Let's discuss hospitality and attitudes towards foreigners in India and Indonesia. I anticipate warm welcomes.
Warm smiles? I envision bustling streets and bargaining. Let's compare how each country makes strangers feel at home.
India has "Atithi Devo Bhava"—the guest is God—a strong emphasis on hospitality.
That's the ideal. However, crowded markets involve significant sales pitches alongside the welcome.
True. Yet, I've heard of families inviting strangers for meals—uncommon elsewhere.
In Indonesia, particularly Bali, there's a similar friendly, curious atmosphere towards foreigners, though commercial interests exist.
Indonesians' patience is a plus for tourists. Are they truly patient, or masters of concealing annoyance?
It's a blend of kindness and good business sense; happy tourists return. They are also genuinely interested in other cultures.
Beyond business, I saw a video of an Indonesian woman extensively helping a lost tourist.
That exemplifies the spirit, but cultural awareness is crucial. Don't expect immediate catering to every whim.
Absolutely. Avoid inappropriate attire in temples or aggressive haggling.
In India, be mindful of personal space; it's more communal than in some Western cultures.
Understood. Both countries offer great hospitality, but cultural sensitivity is key. Do you agree?
Precisely. A smile and respect open doors anywhere, especially in India and Indonesia. And perhaps carry hand sanitizer.