qwe

in my opinion as someone who stays in s.e. asia and has traveled to most countries in the region, i think s.e. asia would be an eye opener but only if you're rather adventurous. guessing that you're from north america i think culture shock is probably expected once you come to this region. but yes once u get over a few things it can be quite accomodating for foreigners. as bundy said, as long as u respect people's customs and local traditions you're fine.

price wise, s.e. asia can be dirt cheap. just avoid the luxury hotels, scams etc. prices in most places like night markets and taxis in most s.e.a. nations are hiked up a few hundred percent once they can tell you're a foreigner. be smart. bargain as much as possible.

btw. we have plenty of starbucks here too. in urban centres in malaysia, especially singapore, thailand and the phillipines u can almost get everything thats available in the states/north america. but what fun would backpacking be if it wasnt different from your usual surroundings?

follow the crowd. be smart. and dont hesitate to ask. u should be alright.

btw. as for the bag. most backpackers use something with a metal frame. supposedly takes some strain off your back. -_-