Why Buddhism Made This Trip Better (and safer!)

Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos are countries with many Buddhists. This seems to have a wonderful effect on the people and many everyday attitudes in these countries.
Buddhism seems to emphasize trying to be a peaceful and better person. Not just as a lofty ideal, but in continual practice throughout the day.
As Greg pointed put, it seems to encourage cooperation rather than competition and conflict under crowded conditions--people work together trying to get through traffic on sidewalks or in the street. No horns, no passive aggressive behavior. No getting irritated at the things that can't be changed. People were always happy to spend time helping tourists, without worrying that we were slowing down their work.
As we left a hotel in Northern Thailand, the young lady at the front desk wished us good luck and happy travels as we continued our trip. She tied a good fortune bracelet on Joy and me. We both found that we had kept them on for the remainder of the trip because it have us a connection to the Buddhist practice of outgoing kindness.

Thanks for sharing our adventure!