You are on the street in New York and need to get to the nearest subway. Or you are in London and try to find the bus to take you to Hyde Park ... This should be easy. Here is some advice on how to ask for directions in a foreign country. Hope it helps.
Know your location
You can always communicate where you want to go by knowing the place that you're going to. Whatever it is, if you do a bit of homework before you leave on your trip, you can ask for directions much more easily.
Carry a map or picture
If you are uncertain about your pronunciation when asking for directions in a non-native language, it helps to carry a map or picture of where you want to go. People can see where exactly your destination (目的地) is and point you in the right direction. As the old saying goes, "A picture can say a thousand words."
Use body language
Often travelers have to be like silent film (无声电影) actors when asking for directions. For example, you can draw in the air a shape of the Eiffel Tower with your fingers to give people an idea of where you are going.
All in all, whatever difficulty you may face, don't get upset. Keep calm (镇静的) and be polite when asking for directions.
| A. Finally, you'll find your way. B. It may be a place of interest, a famous site, or an address. C. Carrying a pen to have them draw you a map is helpful, too. D. But if you aren't sure where you're going and don't speak the language, it can be a problem. E. It sounds silly, but being able to use your hands, fingers, and even facial expressions can make strangers understand where you want to go F.Wherever you go, you will have fun. |
