This is fascinating but I would be even more interested in actionable advice. Where is the ballance between being polite and ass kissing? Is the male / female difference in openness productive or contra? I understand that it greatly depends on the company culture, but as a non-native speaker and programmer (geek?) I usually struggle to decide how much information is appropriate in a sick day request and all my emails (up/dow/sideways) usually contain multiple "please" and "thanks". Do you know any "communication in office for geeks 101"?

Google Maps is the best for businesses, but the site is extremely slow (lite mode or no) and, at least in the Netherlands, they're behind with road data. When I want a map I use osm.org; when I want aerial I use bing.com/maps; and when I need opening hours or find the nearest restaurant I reluctantly open Google Maps.