Using Local Language
While I was at a function the other night I had a chance to catch up with some old colleagues. One thing that came up again and again is how much of a difference it makes when you try to use a few local phrases whilst travelling. Light bulb! Perfect subject for one of my “Travel Tips”.
Travelling through Italy, we had a night free in Rome and decided to have dinner in a lovely little restaurant off Piazza Navona. There was another couple from our tour in the same restaurant who were sitting at a table opposite us.
The owner came over to show us the menu and presently came back for our orders. I asked for the Veal Saltimbocca, the local specialty, at which time Signora told me in excellent English, that she had a family recipe for Veal if I would like to try it. Although I really wanted the Saltimbocca, I agreed, thanking her in the little Italian I knew. She was overjoyed and took me to the kitchen to show off her chefs and made a fuss as she was so happy I was trying her Mamma’s veal.
The table opposite were asked for their order by Signora and they also wanted the Saltimbocca. She explained her special dish, but they both declined, with the husband poking his finger into the table pointedly, and loudly proclaiming in a very derogatory slow style “I-said-I-wanted-Veal-Saltimbocca!” To which Signora, sighed, and conceding defeat retreated into the kitchen.
Our dinner was presented shortly after, with an overflowing basket of freshly baked bread and a complimentary carafe of house wine. We were shown excellent service and it was a very memorable meal. We were fully satiated and happy.
Meanwhile, the table opposite were huffing and puffing, exclaiming loudly that they had been waiting so long and “Where” was their meal? When it did arrive out, quite a bit after ours, despite ordering merely minutes after us, there was no wine, and an obviously smaller quantity of bread. They ate in silence, made much noise at paying the bill and went out into the night.
We watched all of this trying not to laugh and sharing knowing looks between us. It was obvious to us that their attitude had certainly not done them any favours. When we came to settle the bill, Signora came and asked how the veal was. I thanked her in my best imitation Italian (well, I was trying), and gave her the customary two kisses, one for each cheek. We all walked away happy.
Moral of the story, even knowing a few phrases is better than knowing nothing at all. A few choice words and an open attitude is all it takes to make an experience exceptional. When travelling we are all there to immerse ourselves in a different culture. The locals will only be impressed that you are trying to speak the local lingo and don’t worry, if you are totally bastardising the language, they will be sure to answer in English to let you politely know that the effort was appreciated but no longer required.
Below are a few of the phrases that I think are mandatory when travelling, to know and use often. Most guide books will give a similar rundown with even more phrases to tackle once you get a handle on the pronunciation. Enjoy!
- Hello
- Goodbye
- Please
- Thank-you
- Good Morning
- Good Evening
- Excuse me!
- Do you speak English?
- Please repeat that.
- I understand
- I do not understand
- Where is the toilet?
- Please can you help me?
Just a few to get you started, but I am sure once you get into the swing of things, you will add many, many more!