I'm preparing to go to SE Asia soon for a few months to work. I want to use OKC, Tinder, and maybe a few local dating sites to line up dates before I arrive. Of course I'll still approach during the day, but I have a few questions.

For the first time in my life, I have a beard. I've heard this can be a major detriment. Is this true? Would it be better to shave and have some clean-faced photos taken for dating profiles before arriving?

In the west, beards seem to work wonders, but I've heard cultural issues get in the way in Asia. Basically, I want to give myself the best chance possible before ever setting foot over there.

That said, how does the standard approach differ in countries where women are more conservative? The only information I've been able to find is from Roosh, and I'm hesitant to listen to anything that guy says.