Shocking Intrusion of Western Habit

The travel is long but uneventful. My connection in Seoul was lightning fast compared to other years, but having an hour between flights would be considered normal in the US. Thankfully there was a Starbucks right across the gate. I decided to play it safe and avoid some rather unusual Frappucino options. It was nice to sit and watch the rain in Korea. I haven't seen it rain in months.

Arriving in Siem Reap is like coming home in a way, familiar and comforting. No problems with my visa or customs (as usual). Pat, Mony, and Prem were there to greet me and wisk me away to the hotel. "You are big VIP" said Mony, referring to having a private car. I think that loses a bit of it's luster when you see the front seat passenger pay for the parking because the driver's wheel is on the wrong side.

I unpacked and realized that I left a couple items in a suitcase that I was shuffling around. Not a big deal, but an annoyance. Then it hit me that I was still wearing my shoes in my room. Oops! This morning I figured out why:

They are all wearing shoes in the building.

This is a massive change. I'm used to taking them off whenever I enter people's homes or some small shops. I'm certain they did this out of convenience. The large show rack was taking up a ton of space, and I don't think a lot of foreigners are consistent about it. It might be a small thing on the surface, but that's how culture change works.

Today I have a full list of activities. I'll start by dropping off the large box of suture at the hospital. The fun begins!