I was reminded recently of an incident, many years ago, while visiting Copenhagen. I was only there for a few days and uncharacteristically failed to learn some basic expressions. The area I stayed in was largely populated by immigrants. I entered a small shop and asked in English, for whatever I was looking for. The response was unexpected. The shopkeeper spoke to me, in Danish, clearly annoyed. I had no idea what he was saying but he was definitely not pleased with me. I continued in English with some effort to understand what I had done wrong and only then did his demeanor change. It was evident that I was a tourist and was using the only language I had at hand. I came to understand that he had assumed that I was a Dane but speaking English thinking that he, as an immigrant, did not speak the language of the land. His protest had been to insure me that he spoke Danish as well as any native.

Somehow I forgot that moment while back here in NY. Sometime later I began speaking Spanish with a shopkeeper in a largely Latino community and saw a familiar displeasure as he answered me in English.

Now if I wish to speak Spanish with native speakers, I begin by explaining my desire to learn more and ask if I can practice.  The reaction is often one of delight and encouragement as they patiently share their knowledge and tell me how well I am speaking, even while I am fairly certain of the mistakes I have made.

Thank you for taking the time to read my post! Welcome to the tales of a woman solo traveler and thoughts to make today the start of something new. I hope you find information and inspiration in the text and images and join me in my quest for growth, wonderment and self-improvement