An American Geography Lesson

The names in the following conversation have been changed to protect the participant's identity...and dignity.

Hilary: We're going to Hanoi first.
Shmemily: Oh cool!...Why is Hanoi popular?
H: It's the capital.
S: The capital of what?
H: Vietnam...
S: Really...What's Bangkok the capital of?
H: Thailand...
S: Really!

So, dearest reader, this will be my last post before my travels begin. I leave tomorrow for a brief three week journey to wonders outside the walls of China. Thank g-d. Before I depart, I'll leave you a few gems of insight.

-Apparently the only two things I learned during my 5 months in Australia were the proper use for "stubbies" and that the flag bears the Southern Cross. Literally, that's all I can remember.
-Most of us have heard that the water in China isn't exactly safe for drinking. Turns out, it isn't safe for goldfish either. Oops.
-There's nothing quite like the hodge podge of music that one hears in China. The Backstreet Boys is most popular, as always. But, just yesterday, I was lucky enough to enjoy a taxi ride serenaded by the gentle notes of House of Pain's 'Jump Around.' Not to be outdone, I also had the pleasure of hearing a student practice their harmonica in our dormitory.

Hilary: So, if you have any questions, please feel free to ask after class.
Student: Could you explain the grammatical significance of this passage in my book?
H: Hmmm...Not really.

-Without fail, the soundtrack to 'Forest Gump' is played on our school's broadcast system everyday at 4.
-It's obvious that China has taken its toll on my mental and physical well-being...Especially after I eat an entire bag of popcorn in one sitting...and then accidentally eat a chocolate bar. Have to look good for those Thai beaches!!
-Most food products in China don't have their expiration dates listed, only production dates...So, if anyone could please tell me the shelf life for peach yogurt, I'd really save myself some unsavory morning surprises.

One morning, Someone Else (I swear, it wasn't me!) was waiting for their chauffeured ride to their second job. However, this morning was different from all those other early Friday's because the driver was 10 minutes late...This would have been easily dismissed, but, the driver was then 20 minutes late to pick up Someone Else later that afternoon.
Ms. Liu: (via mobile phone) The driver will be there in 10 minutes. Please wait.
Someone Else: Okay.
ML: (in person) The driver wants me to tell you that he is sorry.
SE: It's okay.
ML: He was very drunk last night and this morning he was very tired. He hopes you will understand.
SE: Of course...

And with that, I'm off to my home for Cousin Bob's three week's of wedding festivities... Check back soon because I just may keep you informed of Someone Else's adventures in Vietnam and Thailand!