Learning French and Its food culture in Chiang Mai
By Austin, (BAHS' 65), Line ID 2580924630
As someone who has always been intrigued by different cultures and languages, I recently had the pleasure of participating in a short course that promised to equip me with the skills necessary to survive in France - the Survival French Workshop. Comprising two classes of French teaching and one class of practical application, this workshop not only provided a valuable linguistic experience but also delved into the rich tapestry of French culture.
The primary reason for my enrollment in the Survival French Workshop was my aspiration to travel to France. Knowing that a fundamental understanding of the French language would significantly enhance my travel experience, I signed up for the course. Little did I know that this workshop would offer much more than just basic language skills.
The first two classes focused on teaching the basics of the French language. We began with simple greetings, essential phrases, and pronunciation. The instructor, a knowledgeable and patient native French speaker, made sure we had a solid grasp of these essentials before moving on. What stood out was the emphasis on practicality; we were learning not just for the sake of it but with a clear goal of being able to communicate effectively in some situations. Grammar, a notoriously tricky aspect of the French language, was also covered comprehensively, making it less daunting for beginners like me.
Beyond language, the Survival French Workshop introduced us to the French culture. We learned about etiquette and the do's and don'ts when interacting with locals. It helped us understand the importance of politeness and respect in French society.
The highlight of the workshop was the third class, where we put our newfound knowledge to the test in a real-world setting. We were taken to an authentic French restaurant in Chiang Mai, where we were greeted by a French chef who is the owner of the restaurant. His warm welcome instantly put us at ease. To my surprise, he not only shared his baking expertise but also gave us insights into French baking, including the art of shaping bread and the use of yeast in baking. It was a delightful and unexpected bonus to our workshop, and it left me with an even greater appreciation for French cuisine.
As we sat down to dine, the moment arrived: we had to order our meals entirely in French. Thanks to the knowledge we learned, everyone in the group passed this test with flying colors. Ordering food fluently in French was not only satisfying but also a testament to the effectiveness of the course. Throughout the meal, we were guided on French dining etiquette, which proved to be an eye-opener. Learning about the customs and traditions surrounding French dining enriched our cultural experience.
In conclusion, the Survival French Workshop exceeded my expectations. What started as a quest to acquire basic language skills for travel transformed into a journey of cultural immersion. This workshop provided me with the essential tools to navigate France confidently, be it for travel or for deeper cultural exploration. I would highly recommend this workshop to anyone interested in not only learning French but also gaining a deeper understanding of the captivating world of French culture. It's more than just survival; it's an enriching experience that opens doors to a new way of life.
