observations

A culture that mandates you tell anyone you greet “well done” starting around midday acknowledges the fact that people work hard here, no matter what they do. I like that.

I have to take a deep breath and re-center myself about 20 times a day. Completely worth it.

The sayings on the back of taxis produce endless amusement. ("safety is no accident"; "I support mothercare"; "patience pays"; etc.)

Chaos is an illusion of the uninitiated.

There will always be a jam. Always.

I will always be amazed at what people carry on motorcycles (Half of a manikin? A large pane of glass? Several dozen live chickens? Just another day.)

Access, in the broadest sense, is a fundamental human rights issue.

Sustainability is a high-order function.

Anything can be repaired or mended, from cellphones to shoes.

Power is centralized, but responsibility and accountability are diffuse. This is no accident.

Culture can be marketed and sold; entire peoples can be commodified. Be careful what you consume.