We've noticed a phenomenon here where people ask us how much everything costs. It started with cell phones and cameras and things we had brought, and we would always give a lower number than what things actually cost because we were a little embarassed, especially after we found out what people made.

It became even more noticeable when the cook started working in our house. Everything new that would come in - the pillows, the table - she would ask how much it cost. Even a packet of litte rice things that you fry, which had the price tag on them - she asked. When we brought in our new refrigerator and were in front of the building, she asked, and then the neighbors came by and were asking the same.

Its not just how much things cost, its also salaries. Especially since for so long we didn't know that was a difficult topic. As Americans, that is an uncomfortable topic of conversation, as both number that are perceived as too high or two lead to different types of awkwardness.

Apparently all that is normal here, and I can give no reason for why.