Français What? – Breaking Through the Language Barrier

When traveling to France, I was not expecting to experience much of a culture shock. I knew that it would be different than the U.S., but I was not prepared for what I encountered the moment I stepped off that plane. After almost ten hours of traveling, I got off the plane tired, stressed, and confused about where to go or what to do. There I was in the CDG airport being herding along like cattle and I could not understand a word anyone was saying. It was not until that moment that I could comprehend what it felt like to be somewhere and not be able to speak the language.

I came to France not knowing a lick of French. Thankfully most people here speak a little English, so it has not really been a problem. However, I almost feel a little guilty that I cannot speak the language. I just hate when people have to go out of their way to speak a different language in order to help me. From this experience, I have a new found respect for people in America that cannot speak English. I did not realize what it felt like or how difficult it could be. It is probably even more difficult for non-English speakers in America because I feel like there are fewer bilingual people compared to France.

Another problem with not knowing French is I cannot read any signs; therefore, museum labels mean nothing to me. I usually do not read that many labels, but when something catches my eye, I am a little disappointed that I cannot read it. I have the google translate app that can translate text with the camera, but I have found that it is not super accurate and is not always helpful.

On the bright side, I have already picked up a little French. Most of it is simple phrases like bonjour, pardon, sortie, and parlez vous Anglais. I have also learned that in French you do not pronounce the last few letters in many of the words. I am sure there is a reason for this, but at the same time, I really hate silent letters.