I'm sorry about that, and it truly isn't because I'm not willing to help.
That's the difference between service culture in northern Europe and some other parts of the world.
i.e. you would not be in your job anymore in some places.
For the avoidance of doubt, I am not attacking you Glamgirl, just pointing out that cultural norms are different and so are working practices.
When I go to the far east, I can never make my mind up whether to be amazed at what people will accept to get a job/promotion or to be terrified.
If you get people from the east or who have become acustomed to living out there, this might explain their expectations.