Countries
Now the part nobody tells you.
Practical answers to the questions guidebooks skip. Pick a country.
United States
The posted price is never the price, and the tip is not optional.
Japan
Cash still matters, and silence is a form of politeness.
China
A phone is the wallet, the ticket and the door — cash is the awkward option.
Thailand
QR codes everywhere, and a metered taxi is a negotiation.
Vietnam
Cash moves most of the country, and the notes have a lot of zeros.
South Korea
Almost everything is card, and side dishes keep coming.
Taiwan
One card pays for the metro, the bus, and the convenience store.
A few answers
The questions you end up asking on the spot.
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Japan
Is it rude to slurp noodles?
The opposite. Slurping is the expected way to eat noodles here, and eating them silently is the odd thing.
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China
Can a shop refuse my cash?
No — refusing renminbi cash is illegal, and the central bank fines merchants for it. In the world's most app-paid economy, your paper money is still legal tender.
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Thailand
Can I bring my vape to Thailand?
No. E-cigarettes have been illegal here since 2014 — importing one can mean up to ten years' imprisonment, and using one can mean arrest. Leave it at home entirely.
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Vietnam
Can I eat vegetarian or vegan here?
The tourism board calls Vietnam one of the most vegetarian-friendly countries in the world. One word finds you the restaurant — chay. A second phrase is the one that actually keeps fish sauce off the plate.
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South Korea
Can I take a phone call on the subway?
Yes, quietly. The operator's own etiquette list asks for vibrate mode and a lowered voice, not for silence.
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Taiwan
Can I eat or drink on the MRT?
No — and it is a national law, not a house rule. Eating, drinking, even chewing gum in the paid area draws a fine of NT$1,500 to 7,500.
Japan
China
Thailand
Vietnam
South Korea
Taiwan