(Scene: Two friends, Emma and Liam, are sitting at a café in London. They have just ordered their drinks and are catching up on each other’s recent travels.)
Emma: So Liam, how was your trip to Japan? You mentioned you went there last month, right?
Liam: Yeah, it was incredible! I spent two weeks traveling around Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. The culture is so different from what we’re used to here in the UK.
Emma: That sounds amazing. What stood out to you the most about Japanese culture?
Liam: Definitely the politeness of people. Everyone is so respectful—it’s almost like an unspoken rule. Even when I didn’t speak much Japanese, locals would go out of their way to help me with directions or recommendations.
Emma: Wow, that must’ve made navigating easier for you. Did you try learning any phrases before going?
Liam: A bit, yeah. I learned some basics like “arigatou” (thank you) and “sumimasen” (excuse me). But honestly, sometimes gestures worked better than my broken pronunciation!
Emma: laughs I can imagine. When I visited France last year, I tried speaking French too, but they could tell immediately that I wasn’t fluent. Still, it felt good making an effort.
Liam: Exactly! People appreciate the effort. Speaking of which, how did you find Paris compared to London?
Emma: Oh, well, Paris has this romantic charm that’s hard to describe. Everything feels more artistic—the architecture, the streets, even the cafés. But one thing I noticed is how direct the French can be. It took me a while to get used to that.
Liam: Really? Like how?
Emma: Well, once I asked someone if a restaurant nearby was good, and instead of giving me a polite answer, they said, “No, the food there isn’t great.” At first, I thought they were rude, but later I realized it’s just their way of being honest.
Liam: Interesting. In Japan, honesty is often softened by politeness. For example, if something isn’t good, they might say, “It’s not bad,” rather than outright criticizing it.
Emma: That makes sense. It seems like every country has its own communication style. By the way, did you visit any temples or historical sites in Kyoto?
Liam: Yes, Fushimi Inari Shrine was breathtaking. Those endless red torii gates winding up the mountain—just surreal. And guess what? There were no trash bins anywhere!
Emma: Seriously? How do they manage waste then?
Liam: People take their trash home with them. It’s part of their environmental consciousness. Honestly, seeing how clean everything was made me realize how careless I am back home.
Emma: That’s impressive. Do you think living abroad changes the way you see your own country?
Liam: Absolutely. Being exposed to different lifestyles makes you reflect on your habits and values. For instance, after seeing Japan’s public transportation system, I wish ours was as efficient and punctual.
Emma: Same here. After visiting Switzerland, I couldn’t stop comparing their railways to ours. Their trains run like clockwork!
Liam: Haha, true. Okay, enough about me. Have you planned your next travel destination yet?
Emma: Actually, yes. I’m thinking of going to Morocco. I’ve heard the markets in Marrakech are vibrant, and the landscapes look stunning.
Liam: Nice choice! Just make sure to bargain when shopping. From what I’ve read, haggling is expected in Moroccan markets.
Emma: Good tip! Bargaining always makes me nervous, though. I never know where to start.
Liam: Start low, but not insultingly low. Let’s say if something costs £20, offer £10 and work your way up. Locals usually expect tourists to negotiate.
Emma: Thanks, Liam. You’ve been such a wealth of information. I’ll keep that in mind when I’m there.
Liam: Anytime, Emma. If you need more tips, let me know. Maybe one day we can plan a trip together.
Emma: I’d love that! Exploring new places with someone who enjoys traveling as much as I do sounds perfect.
Liam: Agreed. Alright, shall we order another coffee? My treat this time.
Emma: Deal! Let’s toast to future adventures.
(End of conversation)
