I'm in Quito, Ecuador! It's my first time outside the country since 2020 and it's delightful. I scheduled my first day for just walking around and soaking up the scenery. Which primarily seems to be baroque churches, quite frankly. I didn't include any photos with this post, but if you can just imagine every wall, ceiling, and column covered with gold gilt intricate carving, you'll be reliving my day.
When I walked up to pay the entrance fee, one of the attendants heard my accented Spanish and told me he had a proposal. I was momentarily apprehensive, as proposals to single clueless women tourists have the potential to be a problem. But he wanted to offer me free entrance in return for proofreading their short brochure about the observatory for English speaking visitors. I mean, I'm a physicist and a former writing tutor, I was not going to say no. I got the chance to be useful and then geeked out on nineteenth century sextants and meteorological equipment for a few hours.
This evening my brain hurts from talking, reading, and thinking in Spanish so much. Several people have complimented my Spanish, but I think they says more about the kindness of Ecuadorians than my skills. I mean, sure, if you are willing to talk to me slowly and stick to the present tense, I can usually follow and respond. But throw in a jest or am unexpected conversational direction and I'm lost. So I am simultaneously encouraged and discouraged with my language skills today. But I know I'll get it eventually.
5 comments:
That was very cool to get that opportunity at the observatory.
I don't think the compliments are disingenuous. It is rare for English speakers to even try to speak another country's language. I get smiles just from using a few phrases or words of politeness when we are traveling for the same reason.
That's a really good point, Uncle de-I.
I complement people on their English sometimes. It is never out of kindness - always genuine appreciation of the talents of another.
That is the coolest thing in the entire world ever! I want to go there just to say I know the person who proofread the English pamphlet. And had no idea Ecuador was on your radar! Have a great time!
Three very contrasting visits - and being able to use your Spanish during your current visit. I am better at reading French than speaking the language, but I put that down to the language teaching methods when I was at school, many moons ago.
Post a Comment