Communication Breakdown

'Tis the season for travellers from Europe, and I am finding myself at a severe disadvantage.

Don't get me wrong. I thoroughly appreciate that English is my first language, and it makes life a heck of a lot easier. English is also the 'common denominator' language - so when we're in a group, I always have top language skills (yes!). 

But speaking English also means that I cannot tell secrets. And when you're in a room with multiple strangers, quite often you find yourself wanting to tell secrets. I've noticed others do and I am infinitely jealous of their unique language that they can be quite confident others won't know. For example, Norwegian. Lovely country, lovely people. But who, apart from a native Norwegian, would ever learn the language? They are safe in the knowledge that no one will know who or what they are complaining about. 

The Swiss (of whom there were several on my Kangaroo Island tour) also have a great advantage. They speak Swiss-German, which they consider its own language separate from German, with its own rules and accents. However, they can also speak German without any problem. Oh, and they also speak French, English, and sometimes Italian. Why wasn't I born in Switzerland?

My French is poor but manageable, but the girl I am travelling with does not speak French, so that's of no help to me. Besides, lots of Europeans learn some French anyway, so I wouldn't be getting away with anything there.

Must learn Swahili.