I find it puzzling that you refer to whitewashing when I mentioned non-white cultures (Japan and rural India) where conformity is necessary. I have both black and white friends who have worked in Japan who've described their experiences to me.

I find different cultures fascinating and love to travel. That does not mean I would choose to live in many of the places I've enjoyed visiting.

I would not choose to live in the Middle East as an independent woman. I would love to live in Scandinavia or Germany but I would advise my extroverted friends it might not be their cup of tea.

I personally could care less about how fat someone is or if their skin is dark or pale, but in some parts of SE Asia and S. America, these things are judged and often it's BRUTAL.