Its amazing how simplest of things result in big time arguments.

Cover or not to cover is an individual's choice. Now who disagrees with that? I am sure no one.

However, respecting the culture of a particular country matters. If you don't live according to the environment, you are the odd one out. It brings about all the negative attention to you.

Ok, think of it this way. Will you wear a bikini in the office? I am sure you won't. Why? Because there is an office decorum, or an office norm or an office culture. Of course you have the choice but you don't because you know you will be the odd one out. Same happens when you don't respect a country's culture. You're the odd one out.