speed of life contrasts

Yielding to pedestrians appears optional - it depends on how bold the pedestrian is.  If a pedestrian steps out into the crosswalk, the car will stop, but there's a moment there where you are not sure.  No one jay walks here.  Driving tends to be fairly fast.  Older buses = Crazy bus rides.  Jumpy acceleration and quick stops.  People tend to stand up whenever they are while taking public transportation.  At the bus stops there are benches that are totally unoccupied, except by occasional lazy Americans.   I've observed very few people with earbuds in while on public transportation - very stark contrast to EVERYONE being 'plugged in' in the US.  Cell phone communication appears to be preferred over emailing. -Carolyn