Most of my recent travels were in French- or German-speaking areas of Europe. (Surprisingly, for me anyway, was the frequent use of English in Amsterdam.) I have limited French thanks mostly to Mrs. Marchiano (in 7th grade!) and limited German (thanks to Wolfgang and to Cory). The best was that I actually ordered our food the first night in Interlaken in German. Not very well, mind, but I tried. And the waiter was very nice about it. (Remind me later to tell you about the hostel there!) And I got to use the German slang good-bye that Cory taught me, much to the surprise of some shopkeepers.
I have a renewed appreciation for the ability to speak in multiple languages, even just a little. All the guide books I have seen recommend at least trying to speak the language (especially French) because the effort is an important gesture of humility and is usually appreciated. And I felt less rude when I tried to speak the other person's language rather than assume/insist on English.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment