The New Danger

Though it may seem strange to say so, I have found that traveling in the developing world is safer and somehow easier than traveling in a developed one. This is to say that in places like China or India where language and cultural differences more closely resemble canyons than creeks the amount of time one spends looking out for their personal wellbeing is proportionately high. If I were to approach say... a sketchy dark alley, lanes of fast moving crazed motorists or a street stall selling meat, I will exercise practiced caution, ensuring awareness of all potential hazards and act accordingly.

Ironically enough, traveling in a first world country like the one I find myself in now I have on several occations found myself at the mercy of complacency. Though it may look like Canada, taste like Canada and occationally sound like Canada, I have to actively remind myself that this is a different place. Looking RIGHT before one steps onto the street will prove a useful tactic for example, as will picking up this new language - Kiwi - where FANNY PACK is something quite offensive in the wrong circles, there are no toques, and coffee is long black. I have on four occations found myself narrowly missed by speeding cars, but only twice insulted someone.

Same same but different.