Let me tell you a story that happened to me in Ireland.
These are true anecdotes that show you the roots of confusions that are absurd, not so absurd, and sometimes even dangerous.
Let me set the scene. Every time I lived there, I stayed with an Irish family. The Irish are usually very friendly, and you learn a lot if you build a relationship with them day to day.
One time I was on the east coast of Ireland. I arrived with good English, but I don't know what happened: this time the only thing I could understand the father of the family say was «Hello». The rest of his speech was a puzzle, and I thought it was probably Gaelic…
Anyway, I kept trying, and one Sunday over brunch (the big day for eating well), with baked beans, sausages, a dry omelette and a Guinness, the father was telling me a story about some ducks that did whatever he told them, that he took into the woods and that even defended him because they were very fierce.
And I was thinking: «What a tall tale! If he thinks I'm falling for this…»
But what really got to me was when he said they were great hunters. I nearly got up from the table. Instead, I stared at him and asked:
– Do you mean dogs with G, «woof woof»?
– For sure, what else could it be?
After that, I learnt how much pronunciation varies from one place to another, and that language coaching can save you a great deal of time and effort.
If you have to travel abroad for work or study, prepare thoroughly, spend time on the key points of the trip and, if you have a language coach by your side along the way, you'll see the difference and how easily you adapt.
We specialise in making those meetings and arrivals far more conscious, taking control through detailed, personalised preparation.
Our clients include large international companies, as well as individuals, freelancers and small businesses.
If you'd like to know more:
Send an email to contact@learndix.com or call us on +34 650 276 885.
P.S. Our clients tell us we're very quick and efficient. See for yourself; we'll be delighted to help :).
Have a great day.