I guess it really should come as no surprise that
most of the people posting on flyertalk would be more sensitive to local culture and customs than the average American tourist.
It just amazes me that so many Americans apparently (according to Mr. Reinhard's research) do not.
Originally Posted by drbond
A visitor to this country should not be expected to speak English and should be given all the help and hospitality possible. However, the immigrants should learn English and speak English.
Agree. I wonder if there are
any other developed countries in the world that accept immigrants who don't speak the "official" language? I doubt that any European countries would (unless said immigrant has mucho dinero or celebrity status).
Originally Posted by Fredd
There are so many nuances in different cultures, e.g. a greeting ("bon jour monsieur") even before asking a short question in France, that it's hard for us foreigners to understand.
No kidding! I learned yesterday (from Mr. Reinhard's guide) that in Belgium it's considered rude to talk with your hands in your pockets! Who knew?!
Originally Posted by xj47
I apologize, Captain, for getting into that here. Out of respect for you and the rules of FT, you'll hear no more on the topic from me.
That's OK xj, at least you're aware of/have an opinion of the subject, and that's saying more than many people can. Besides, you know how to speak/write Mandarin!
Originally Posted by Jamoldo
However, I have yet to see Italians gruffly ask in the Parisian style "what do you want" in response to my poor Italian. They're usually very proud of their language and love the fact that you are trying it out, even taking the time to correct your pronounciation. An example, "Straciatella, per favore," I tell the gelato guy. "stracia-telllla," says the nice gelato man, smiling and giving me a little extra.
For some reason that description of the "Parisian style" makes me laugh. Sure, sure, some consider it a stereotype, but it makes me think of David Sedaris' depicton of his life as an American living in Paris (from this "This American Life" NPR show a month or so ago). Also, you give a great example of the benefits of learning a little of the local language and trying to use it. PS - one of the "problems" that forced Walmart to shut down a few months ago in Germany, was that the VP of "Walmart Germany" (and I think some of the upper managers as well) didn't bother to learn German. No extra Straciatella for them!