top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Speak and smile for best results

I was delighted to read the article in the May edition of The Connexion by Nick Inman entitled “Make life easy on yourself when learning a language”. Before I retired, my work took me all over the world and I often found myself the only English speaking person in a factory/office. 

After a few days I found important social words embedded in my vocabulary and these increased day by day until I was able to socialise with the locals in the works cafeteria or the local bar.

I have now retired and have lived in France since 2005. My wife and I have integrated and have many French friends. I find my approach to language has served me in good stead. My wife understands the laws of grammar and phrases her speech carefully, while I continue to address our friends and neighbours in a manner that would do credit to Officer Crabtree in Allo! Allo!. Between us, my wife and I communicate on all levels from the heights of French bureaucracy to social interaction with our friends.

So I would like to say a big thank you for the article, it has put into words in a far clearer way than I have been able to express,
that if you struggle with the laws of grammar, listen, smile and enjoy the opportunities. Good people will understand and appreciate your efforts.

Alex PRETTE, Seine-Maritime

ALEX PRETTE wins the Connexion letter of the month and a copy of the Connexion Puzzle Book. 

Please include your name and address in any correspondance; we can withhold it on request.
The Editor’s decision is final.
Write to: The Connexion, Patio Palace, 41 avenue Hector Otto, 98000 Monaco or email news@connexionfrance.com

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Income Tax in France 2023 (for 2022 income)*
Featured Help Guide
- Primarily aimed at Britons, covers pensions, rent, ISAs, shares, savings and interest - but also contains significant general information pertinent to readers of other nationalities - Overview of online declarations + step-by-step guide to the French printed forms - Includes updates given automatically after this year's site opened
Get news, views and information from France