Mrnstar69:
Thank you for the kind reflections on the risks an older Westerner faces in Asia. These thoughts are never far from my mind. Not so much paranoid as habitually cautious, and bearing scars to prove the wisdom of perpetually watching one's "six," I try to monitor what I am offered to drink (or eat) and I keep my balance, hands and feet free, an officer's slight smile on my face, coupled with a disposition ready to deal with sudden, inexplicable violence explosively focused on ... me. It's just part of the attitude of being the Alpha, even though now grey, bent and bowed by time.
You are so, so right to warn others about the risks of "spilling one's guts!" I constantly deal with friends and acquaintances who want to save a girl, or are looking for someone on which to superimpose idealistic dreams, are looking to fall in love. Not a good idea! Don't fall for routines to feel sorry for them. Its manipulation and extortion, and it has to be nipped in the bud.
We are so lucky to live in America, but able to travel the world when the urge strikes. But you can never go wrong advising your friends to Check Six, stay sober, and constantly look for the "deal" going down. But while you're at it? Enjoy life to the fullest, because we only get to go around once!
Cheers!