Howling at the Moon

The S.O.B. Letter Column

Dave Partridge

I haven't been to France for 20 years, but I never found that the people were rude. Like you I tried to use my high school French when I could but I found that English was prevalent and the people were just as friendly as any other country. I often wonder if the reputation for rudeness of various foreign countries stems more from the behaviour of the typical US tourist than from any societal trait of the people in the country. Don't act like you're the king of the world, or think that talking slowly and loudly will make someone who doesn't speak your language understand you and you'll get by just fine.

[I agree with your assessment about the behavior of the stereotypical American tourist. Courtesy is usually met with courtesy, and rudeness with rudeness. I don't know why the French, and Parisians in particular, have the reputation, however. ]

Chris Geggus

One message for your readers if I may. I am going to the World Boardgaming Championships this year for the first time since 1998. I will be travelling with an AHIKS colleague, Andy Cummins and will be sharing car plus room with him. He attends every year and is part of an AHIKS Europe team, so I'm a free agent. Would anyone like a fourth member to make up a team? My chosen game will probably be Kremlin which I did win on my last visit. Regardless of team make up I would be more than pleased to say hello to any S.O.B.'ers who I bump in to. I know Andy lewis and also did meet both Cousins brothers on my previous trips. We arrive on Sunday the 30th July and fly back on Sunday 6th August. Come and look me up.