About 'oriental'. I know numerous students from Korea and Japan who use the term 'oriental' to differentiate them from 'other asians', and conversely to what one poster said above, they'd rather be called 'oriental' than asians. They stoped liking the 'asian' term after they arrived in UK and saw that a lot of crimes in London are commited by 'asians' [since Met Police rarely gives out nationality].
Quite frankly to me the word 'asian' always meant China, Korea, Japan, mostly related to a particular set of facial features [say slit eyes], rather than geographical locations. I still cant get used to the fact that the term 'asians' is used to encompass all other nationalities from that continent.
It's true that 'orientals' are a rather closed community, but from my experience usually the barriers drop once you approach them. Perhaps in the kitchen, chat about food. Be respectful and humble though, and for christ sake, not too inquisitive. Many of the questions the 'westerners' ask casually are considered personal. It is possible to make really good friends and that tells you a person from Poland, rather unatractive conutry in 'orientals' eyes.
However i wouldnt expect orientals just to approach you on their own. It has to come from the 'westerner' side. Well... thats my experience.
Cheers!