It can’t be true that when in Rome do as the Romans do. So here’s some necessary information for you on what you can talk with the local people in France, Australia and Switzerland, and different customs of these countries.
In France
You’ll find that conversations often turn into heated debates. Give opinions on subjects that you are knowledgeable about. There is rarely a moment of silence, except when the topic under discussion has been exhausting, and nothing new has been introduced.
Food, art ,music and current events or history are welcome topics. The French believe in freedom. You can criticize anyone, but not Napoleon, who is a symbol of French spirit, and never use the standard U.S. opening remark “ What do you do?”
In Australia
Australians tend to be enthusiastic debaters. A wide range of topics may be open to discussion, including religion and politics. The best policy, however, is to wait for Australian companions to bring up subjects: be prepared to hear their arguments.
Sport is a common topic of conversation in Australian and Australians tend to use sporting comparison. Australian like to criticize themselves, but they can’t stand criticism from others.
Don’t talk big. Australians prefer to judge your competence and abilities through your actions. People who show off their education in conversation may be subject to tease.
In Switzerland
The Swiss may seem cold. Once you get close to them, however , you’ll find that they are honest and responsible people, who will be loyal to your interests.
They are good listeners and will remember practically everything you say to them. Sometimes they will even go so far as to take notes while you speak. The Swiss are very private people, so you should avoid asking personal questions. They can be rather serious, so it is advisable to avoid making jokes on them.
小题1:According to the passage, when talking you are advised_______.
A．to discuss the heated issue with the French
B．not to use sporting comparison with Australians
C．to have the Australians start a subject
D．not to ask people of the three countries personal questions小题2:We can learn from the passage that___________.
A．Australians may not show off their education before others
B．Australians like to criticize other people
C．you can express your ideas for everything you know little about to the French
D．you can criticize anyone in France because you have freedom小题3:What is the theme of the passage?
A．How to adapt to the life abroad.
B．What to argue about with foreigners.
C．How to find better topics.
D．What to talk about with foreigners.小题4:Following the passage, the author would most probably tell us_____
A．effective communication with foreigners
B．customs of the three countries
C．his or her own experiences
D．how to be a good listener
