I think you are probably right. And while I realize that shouting out a greeting or two should not be a prerequisite for good service in any culture - and that not every traveler has been blessed to have been an exchange student or engage in significant international travel as I do - I think it is almost a basic courtesy if traveling in somebody else's land to at least pick up a single phrase or two. If for no better reason than breaking the ice. Maybe this will get me flamed, but it just seems like basic politeness, no matter how quick your trip or harried you might feel. Even asking a bartender or taxi driver for a phrase or two can't possibly hurt (and that is by no means a slight against taxi drivers or bartenders...two groups of people I spend significant time with!!)