It can’t be truer that when in Rome do as the Romans do. So it’s necessary for you to know 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 only on subjects that you are knowledgeable about. There is rarely a moment of silence, except when the topic under discussion has been exhausted, and nothing new has been introduced.
Food, art, music and current events or history are welcome topics. French believe in freedom, and you can criticize anyone, but not Napoleon, who is a symbol of French spirit and never use the standard. U.S. conversation opener “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 these two subjects; be prepared to hear their arguments.
Sport is a common topic of conversation in Australia and Australians tend to use sporting comparisons. Australians like to criticize themselves, but they can’t stand criticism from others. Don’t talk big；instead Australians prefer to judge your competence and abilities through your actions. People who show off their education in conversation may be subject to teasing.
In Switzerland
The Swiss may seem cold. Once you get close to them, however, you’ll find that they are honest, 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 a 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:Which of the following statements is TURE according to the passage?
A．There is no moment of silence when you talk with French.
B．French don’t like others asking their careers.
C．The Swiss may seem cold but humorous sometimes.
D．Australians tend to judge you by your words.小题2:It is suggested during talking that ______
A．you should tell the Australians what education you have received.
B．you should not use too much sporting comparisons with Australians.
C．you should not ask personal questions from people of the three countries.
D．you should have the Australians bring up subjects first.小题3:We can infer from the passage that ______
A．Australians don’t like to show off their success before others.
B．Australians like to criticize themselves and others.
C．you can talk with French about anything even if you know little.
D．you can criticize anyone in France because you have the right.小题4:What is the best title of the passage?
A．Talking in western countries
B．How to argue with foreigners
C．Things that can’t be talked with foreigners
D．How to adapt to the life in western countries小题5:What will the author talk about in the following paragraphs?
A．How to talk efficiently with foreigners.
B．Customs of the three countries.
C．How to choose topics in the western countries.
D．How to be a good listener.
