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I tutor a French middle schooler, and he speaks almost perfect English. We’ll talk for 30 minutes and he’ll make one, two or sometimes zero mistakes. I also tutor a few French friends who are in their 20s. Some of…
When I was three years old my mom sent me to a Greek language preschool, and suddenly my dolls were ροζ (roh-z) not pink. My firetruck was κόκκινο (koh-kee-no) instead of red, and my sliced apple was now a μήλο…
Would you find it particularly cute if your boyfriend called you his flea? Or how about if your wife sent you a cute text calling you, the love of her life, her cabbage? How about if your partner addressed a…
Before you pull up a seat at the holiday table, study the rules of etiquette so you can avoid a faux pas (yes, that’s French for lack of tact, or rude foreigner, depending on who you ask). While taking cues from your host or hostess is never a bad idea, it’ll also impress them if you come equipped not just with a symbolic gift but with the kind of consideration for their cultural values that money can’t buy.
Before you get out there and start mingling merrily, it pays to know a little cultural etiquette. Our international guide to party protocol will help you raise a glass in the most common languages and understand how to rub elbows without committing a faux pas.
When you’re popping into a holiday party, it’s considerate to bring a gift for the host or hostess. Many people choose flowers since they’re a beautiful and gracious way to extend thanks, but different flowers can have different meanings across cultures. In South Africa for instance, it’s customary to give flowers during the holidays, but in Egypt, they are only appropriate as gifts when attending a funeral.
Thoughtfulness and a little cultural sensitivity translate well in any language.We may have different names for Santa Claus or Father Christmas, but the reason for our joy across the world remains the same. During the holiday season, we unite in…
Raise a glass We think celebratory phrases are like champagne: Always good to have on hand in case something happens worth toasting. Maybe you got a promotion. Maybe you’ve met The One. Or maybe you finally remembered to drink water…
What better time to get a jolt of motivation than now, when resolutions seem far less attractive than happy hour or catching up on Black Mirror? Below you’ll find loose translations for how to say, “You can do it” in…
When it comes to welcoming in the new year, the possibilities are endless. Below, find a celebration cheat sheet full of phrases and traditions from around the globe so you can say Happy New Year in 20 languages. Burn effigies…
Sustainable destinations are gaining momentum this year as travelers think about how to invest vacation dollars wisely to support communities. While ecotourism has been around for a while, you may not be as familiar with some of the basic tenets…
I experienced kefi before I even knew it was a word. Kefi accurately captures Greek culture as I’ve experienced it. The word roughly translates to: the spirit of joy, passion, euphoria, enthusiasm, exuberance, frenzy. It’s that overpowering emotion you have when…
