Indirect culture? Yes... and no.

Indirect communication around here is all about being friendly, not offending anyone, and not imposing your own views on another person. It's great because you get that 'oooy goooy' feeling when everyone tells you exactly what you want to hear, but it gets frustrating sometimes too because it's hard to tell what the truth is.

Here's a recent example:

FRIEND: Meet me tomorrow around 8 am at the so-and-so bus stop.
ME: Deal. Will be leaving your house at 8 or arriving at so-and-so at 8?

FRIEND: I'll be there at 8, and don't be late, okay?

(the next morning at 8:30 am...)

ME: (on the phone) Hey! I'm at the so-and-so bus stop. Are you on your way?

FRIEND: Yes! I'm coming! I'm coming! Just wait. I'm coming!

(8:50 am...)

ME: Hey, it's me, Liz. Where are you?

FRIEND: I'm coming! I'm coming! Are you waiting? I'm coming!

(9:20 am...)

ME: Hey girl, I'm still here at the bus stop. Are you on your way?

FRIEND: Oh yes, yes! I'm coming!

ME: Are you 'coming' like you're on the bus, or are you 'coming' like you're still at home?

FRIEND: Well, I am still getting dressed, but I am coming. Please wait!

ME: Haha. Okay, I'll grab some tea at the little shop. Just call when you get on the bus and I'll meet you.

This also happens with directions. Even if someone is unsure, they'll point a certain way or even give details directions. I've learned to ask 3-5 people for directions when I need to get somewhere without a grand adventure.

In general, South Asia has an extremely indirect way of communicating, but they're SO direct about appearance and personality. I can't tell you how many times I've heard these phrases-- if not to me, then to the next guy. 

"Ohh.. you are looking so bad. Are you feeling sick?"

"You are looking too fat. Are you having extra calories?"

"You are looking too thin. Here-- eat this."

Just in case you were wondering, those are my thoughts on the communication that goes on around me everyday. Indirectly direct-- it's a crazy combination, but it's fun to figure out how to function well here. It's like a game.