So my first cultural speaking attempt was obviously to be the word ‘Namasté’.

On my way up North with the guys, we stopped at a petrol station for water, crisps and a toilet trip.

Upon entering the ladies toilet, I was greeted by a random female who I can only assume to have been the toilet attendant.

She put her hands together and did the polite ‘Namasté’. I of course copied these actions and then went into my cubicle. I then had to do the classy thing of both feet apart balancing over a massive hole. (Beautiful!)

Moments later, I left and went to wash my hands (Like you normally do after a toilet trip). She then did the same as when I entered. Put her hands together and said ‘Namasté’.

And this point I’m still not entirely sure why I did this, but I put my hands together and said ‘Namasté’ (so far so good). But bizarrely I then continued to bow and I left the toilets…BACKWARDS. I didn’t even start bowing close to the door, so there must have been at least four or five bows till I had left and was then able to turn around like a normal person. I must have made her feel like the Queen!!

Though as this was happening I was completely aware that it was ridiculous but it probably would have been weirder if I had stopped mid-bow…?

Anyway, I’ve just stuck to the one since. Though I do it EVERYWHERE and to EVERYONE. Which either makes me a very polite tourist or an overly excited eccentric!

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